Baking has a way of bringing people together, and there’s nothing quite like indulging in a warm, fresh-baked treat straight from the oven. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice baker, having a repertoire of go-to recipes can elevate any gathering to the next level. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 irresistible baking recipes that are sure to satisfy even the sweetest tooth.
From classic chocolate chip cookies and flaky croissants to decadent red velvet cake and gooey caramel blondies, these mouthwatering treats are guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or looking to try something new and exciting, we’ve got you covered with a range of recipes that are sure to delight.
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy and delicious cookies are a timeless favorite, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. With just the right amount of crunch from the chocolate chips, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Start your day off right with these soft, gooey, and utterly delicious homemade cinnamon rolls. Made with simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you’ll be enjoying the sweet aroma of freshly baked goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
3. Add warm water and melted butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Spread with cinnamon mixture (1 tablespoon cinnamon + 2 tablespoons granulated sugar).
6. Roll up tightly, cut into 8-10 pieces, and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Perfectly Flaky Croissants
Experience the magic of homemade croissants with this simple recipe that yields flaky, buttery, and utterly delicious pastries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk (around 105°F to 115°F)
– 1/4 cup active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
4. Fold the dough in half lengthwise, then fold it in half again, creating three layers.
5. Cut into triangles and roll each triangle into a croissant shape. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each pastry.
6. Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rich Red Velvet Cake
Red velvet cake is a classic dessert known for its distinctive red color and subtle cocoa flavor. This recipe yields a moist and decadent cake that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cocoa powder, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Decadent Triple Chocolate Brownies
Sink your teeth into these rich, fudgy brownies that combine the deep flavors of dark, milk, and white chocolate for a truly indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups (250g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (60g) milk chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup (30g) white chocolate chips
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter.
2. Melt the butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in eggs one at a time, followed by cocoa powder and vanilla extract.
4. Add flour and stir until just combined.
5. Stir in semi-sweet, milk, and white chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Light and Airy Angel Food Cake
This classic dessert is a staple of any celebration, with its fluffy texture and subtle sweetness making it a crowd-pleaser. This recipe yields a moist and tender angel food cake that’s perfect for serving on its own or using as a base for your favorite desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites (about 12 large eggs)
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sift flour and sugar into a medium bowl.
2. In a separate, large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sifted flour mixture to the egg whites, beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Pour batter into an ungreased 10-inch (25cm) angel food cake pan.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until top is golden brown and springs back when touched.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 1 hour before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Buttery Shortbread Cookies
A classic Scottish favorite, these buttery shortbread cookies are a simple yet impressive treat to serve at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between cookies.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your dessert game with this classic combination of moist carrot cake and tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Cream cheese frosting ingredients: (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. Add sugar, eggs, carrots, and walnuts (if using); mix until combined.
4. Add softened butter; mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Combine softened cream cheese and butter; beat until smooth. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar; mix until combined.
Fluffy Japanese Cheesecake
Experience the tender crumb and creamy texture of this popular Japanese cheesecake, known as “Jiggly Cheesecake” or “” (Tofu Cheesecake). This recipe yields a deliciously light and airy cake that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
3. Melt butter and whisk into the egg mixture. Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and milk; mix until combined.
4. Pour in softened cream cheese and mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Golden Buttermilk Biscuits
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these tender, flaky, and buttery Golden Buttermilk Biscuits. A classic Southern favorite, this recipe yields a batch of irresistible biscuits that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, beaten egg, and sugar.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients; stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Turn dough out onto floured surface; knead gently 2-3 times.
7. Roll out to 1-inch thickness; cut into rounds or squares.
8. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each biscuit.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crumbly Apple Pie with Cinnamon
A warm, comforting slice of apple pie filled with tender apples, crunchy cinnamon sugar crust, and a hint of sweetness – perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (a mix of granulated sugar and cinnamon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out pie crust (homemade or store-bought) to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Fill the pie crust with apple mixture, mounding slightly in the center.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the apples.
6. Dot the top of the pie with cold butter pieces.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are a classic favorite, perfect for snacking or sharing with friends and family. With the warmth of oatmeal and sweetness of raisins, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in raisins.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Velvety Chocolate Mousse Cake
This decadent cake is a chocolate lover’s dream come true, with its rich, velvety mousse and moist chocolate cake. Perfect for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold melted chocolate into cake batter until smooth.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cake cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Banana Bread with Walnuts
Moist and flavorful, this sweet banana bread is perfect for breakfast or a snack. The addition of chopped walnuts adds a delightful texture and nutty flavor to this classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Crispy Almond Biscotti
Crispy Almond Biscotti: A Perfect Treat for Coffee or Wine Lovers
These crispy, crunchy biscotti are infused with the nutty flavor of almonds and perfect for dipping into your favorite coffee or wine.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Fold in sliced almonds.
5. Divide the dough into 2 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a log about 12 inches long.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
7. Slice into 1/2-inch thick slices. Bake again at 350°F (180°C) for an additional 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Pound Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful pound cake infused with the sweetness of blueberries and the tanginess of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in lemon zest and juice.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Gooey Salted Caramel Blondies
Rich, buttery blondies filled with gooey salted caramel and a touch of flaky sea salt – what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks (6.5 tablespoons) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped flaky sea salt (such as Maldon or Fleur de Sel)
– 1 cup gooey salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over the batter in a zig-zag pattern.
7. Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Soft Pretzels with Cheese Dip
Soft Pretzels with Cheese Dip Recipe
Warm up with a classic combination of soft pretzels and creamy cheese dip, perfect for snacking or entertaining.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (or your preferred variety)
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then stretch into pretzel shape. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. For the cheese dip, combine grated cheese and half-and-half in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until smooth and warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Maple Frosting
Celebrate the flavors of fall with these moist and aromatic pumpkin spice cupcakes topped with a sweet and tangy maple frosting. Perfect for a seasonal dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Maple frosting ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among liners.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with maple buttercream.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Delicate French Macarons
Discover the art of crafting delicate French macarons with this straightforward recipe. With a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to creating these chewy, meringue-based treats that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
• 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
• 3 large egg whites
• 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
• Food coloring (optional)
• Filling of your choice (e.g., buttercream, ganache)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until frothy. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Add food coloring (if using) to the egg mixture and gently fold to combine.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the almond flour mixture and gently fold until well combined.
6. Pipe small, round circles onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Tap the baking sheet gently to remove any air bubbles.
8. Let macarons sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before baking for 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 irresistible best baking recipes. From classic treats like chocolate chip cookies and cinnamon rolls to show-stopping cakes like red velvet and triple chocolate brownies, there’s something for every baking enthusiast. Discover the secrets to making perfectly flaky croissants, light and airy angel food cake, and moist carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. Or try your hand at more unique recipes like Japanese cheesecake, almond biscotti, and French macarons. Whatever your taste buds desire, this collection of decadent baking recipes is sure to satisfy.
