As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air, bringing warmth and joy to our homes.
There's something undeniably magical about the scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla wafting through your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites family and friends to gather.
This list of 12 easy holiday baking recipes is not only simple to follow but will also create delightful fragrances that will linger long after you've taken the treats out of the oven.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to fill your home with the enticing smells of the season while creating delicious memories that everyone will cherish.
1. Classic Sugar Cookies
Nothing says the holidays quite like classic sugar cookies! These delightful, buttery treats are not only simple to prepare but also ideal for decorating with festive icing and colorful sprinkles. To get started, gather your ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, gradually incorporating the dry ingredients until well combined.
Roll the dough into small balls, flatten them slightly, and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 8-10 minutes and allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating. Don’t forget to pick up a decorating icing set to make your cookies festive, a rolling pin for easy dough preparation, and a cookie cooling rack to ensure they cool perfectly. The sweet aroma of these cookies baking will envelop your home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that embodies the essence of the holiday season!
Product Recommendations:
• decorating icing set
• rolling pin
• cookie cooling rack
2. Gingerbread Men
The classic gingerbread men are an essential treat for any holiday baking extravaganza! Their delightful spicy scent and cheerful appearance make these cookies a joy to bake and decorate.
To create your own batch, first gather your ingredients: 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 egg, and 1 cup of molasses. Start by mixing the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Once combined, chill the dough for a couple of hours, then roll it out and use gingerbread cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes.
Bake the cookies for about 8-10 minutes, and then the real fun begins! Decorate your gingerbread men with icing and colorful candies, and don't forget to add some sparkle with edible glitter. For easy decorating, grab some piping bags to create intricate designs. The warm aroma of spices wafting through your home will surely transport you to a festive wonderland!
Product Recommendations:
• gingerbread cookie cutters
• edible glitter
• piping bags
3. Peppermint Bark
Peppermint bark is a delightful holiday treat that beautifully combines rich dark chocolate and creamy white chocolate, all topped with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies. This festive favorite is not only delicious but also fills your home with a sweet and minty aroma that everyone will adore!
To create this easy and impressive confection, you will need 8 ounces of dark chocolate, 8 ounces of white chocolate, and 1 cup of crushed peppermint candies. Start by melting the dark chocolate in a double boiler for a smooth consistency. Once melted, spread it evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. After the dark chocolate has set, melt the white chocolate and pour it over the dark layer. Don’t forget to sprinkle the crushed peppermint on top before it hardens to add that festive crunch!
Once cooled, break the peppermint bark into pieces and store it in an airtight container. If you want to add an extra touch, consider using a candy cane set to enhance the visual appeal. Enjoy this delightful treat and the joyful atmosphere it brings to your kitchen!
Product Recommendations:
• Double boiler
• parchment paper
• candy cane set
4. Chocolate Chip Cookies
You can never go wrong with classic chocolate chip cookies during the holiday season! These gooey, warm treats are not only a crowd-pleaser but also perfect for sharing with friends and family.
To whip up this simple recipe, gather your ingredients: 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, ¾ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 cups of chocolate chips. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. In one bowl, mix the dry ingredients together, while in another bowl, cream the butter with both sugars. Then, add the vanilla extract and gradually incorporate the dry mixture. Finally, fold in those delicious chocolate chips.
For an easier baking experience, consider using a silicone baking spatula to mix your dough thoroughly. Once combined, use a cookie scoop to portion the dough onto your baking sheet. Bake for 9-11 minutes, and soon enough, the delightful aroma of melting chocolate will have everyone flocking to your kitchen. For a lovely way to store your treats, consider placing them in a festive holiday-themed cookie jar, creating the perfect atmosphere for a joyful holiday gathering!
Product Recommendations:
• silicone baking spatula
• holiday-themed cookie jar
5. Eggnog Muffins
Start your holiday mornings off right with the delightful scent of eggnog muffins wafting through your home! These moist and spiced muffins are not only perfect for breakfast but also make a delicious snack throughout the day.
To whip up this easy recipe, gather your ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 cup of eggnog, ½ cup of sugar, ¼ cup of unsalted butter (melted), and 1 egg. Preheat your oven to 350°F and be sure to have a reliable muffin tin ready, lined with festive holiday-themed muffin liners.
In one bowl, mix together the dry ingredients, and in another, whisk the wet ingredients. Combine both mixtures and fill your muffin cups. Bake for 15-20 minutes, and enjoy the sweet, spiced fragrance that will make your home feel cozy and inviting. Don't forget to use your measuring cups for perfect measurements! Your loved ones will be enticed to gather around for a warm breakfast treat that embodies the spirit of the season.
Product Recommendations:
• Silicone muffin pan
• festive holiday sprinkles
• kitchen whisk set.
6. Cranberry Orange Bread (Get Ready for #6!)
As the holiday season approaches, the bright and tangy flavors of cranberry and orange become a must-have in your baking lineup. This delightful cranberry orange bread is not only simple to prepare but also encapsulates the festive spirit of the season.
To create this scrumptious bread, you'll need to gather a few ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of fresh cranberries, 1 teaspoon of orange zest, ½ cup of orange juice, and ½ cup of vegetable oil. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a loaf pan. In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients, and in another, whisk together the wet ingredients. Once mixed, gently fold in the cranberries and pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 60 minutes.
As the bread bakes, the sweet and tangy aroma will waft through your home, creating an irresistible festive atmosphere. For best results, use quality mixing bowls to ensure thorough mixing of your ingredients. Once baked, slice the bread while it's still warm and savor the delightful burst of cranberry flavor with a refreshing hint of citrus!
Product Recommendations:
• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Zester
7. Holiday Spice Cake
Embrace the festive spirit with a delectable holiday spice cake that fills your home with warm, inviting aromas! This rich cake is infused with a blend of spices and just the right amount of sweetness, making it an ideal treat for your holiday gatherings.
To whip up this delightful cake, start by gathering your ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1 cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of unsalted butter, 4 eggs, and 1 cup of buttermilk. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your baking essentials, like cake pans by greasing two round pans.
Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another before combining them. Pour the batter into your prepared pans and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Once baked, the delightful scent of spices will waft through your home, creating a festive atmosphere. For a beautiful presentation, serve your holiday spice cake on a charming holiday-themed cake stand and use an offset spatula to neatly slice and serve. This cake is sure to be the showstopper at your holiday dessert table!
Product Recommendations:
• Cake pans
• holiday-themed cake stand
• offset spatula
8. Pecan Pie Bars
Indulge in the delightful, rich flavor of pecan pie bars that are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings! These bars present a simplified version of the classic pecan pie, making them easy to transport and serve while also filling your home with a heavenly aroma.
To create these delicious treats, gather your ingredients: 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 cup of chopped pecans, ¾ cup of corn syrup, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. For the crust, mix the flour, butter, and brown sugar until the mixture is crumbly, then press it firmly into the bottom of the dish. Bake the crust for 10 minutes.
Next, combine the chopped pecans, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Pour this luscious mixture over the pre-baked crust and return it to the oven for an additional 25-30 minutes. The nutty aroma combined with the sweet notes will create an alluring scent throughout your home, making these pecan pie bars an absolute must-try this holiday season! Don't forget to use parchment paper for easy cleanup, and consider a pecan nut chopper to make chopping your nuts a breeze!
Product Recommendations:
• Parchment paper
• pecan nut chopper
• holiday baking spatula
9. Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Start your holiday mornings on a delightful note with warm, gooey apple cinnamon rolls that will envelop your home in an irresistible aroma! These rolls provide a delicious twist on a classic breakfast favorite, making them perfect for festive gatherings.
To get started, you’ll need some essential tools: a rolling pin for rolling out the dough, a reliable mixing bowl set to combine your ingredients, and a sturdy baking tray for the oven.
Begin by warming ½ cup of milk and dissolving 1 packet of active dry yeast in it. In your mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Then, add ¼ cup of unsalted butter, 1 egg, and the yeast mixture. Knead until smooth, cover, and let it rise. Once the dough has risen, roll it out with your rolling pin, spread it with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar, and add in 1 cup of chopped apples. Roll the dough up, cut it into pieces, and bake in your baking tray at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes.
The sweet and spicy fragrance of baked apples and cinnamon will fill your home, creating a warm, comforting, and festive atmosphere that’s perfect for the holiday season!
Product Recommendations:
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl set
• Baking tray
10. Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Elevate your holiday baking with delightful chocolate peppermint cookies that will fill your home with an irresistible aroma! These rich, chocolatey delights are enhanced with a refreshing hint of peppermint, making them an ideal treat for the festive season.
To get started, gather your ingredients: 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of unsalted butter, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In one bowl, thoroughly mix the dry ingredients, while in another, cream the butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and peppermint extract, then combine this mixture with the dry ingredients. Roll the dough into balls and place them on a cookie sheet before baking for about 10-12 minutes.
As they bake, the enchanting blend of chocolate and peppermint will create a warm and festive atmosphere in your home, perfect for celebrating the holiday season!
Product Recommendations:
• Silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop
• Holiday-themed cookie cutters
11. Nutella-Stuffed Cookies
Indulge in the ultimate holiday treat with nutella-stuffed cookies! These cookies are a chocolate lover’s dream, featuring a delightful combination of a soft and chewy texture enveloping a rich Nutella center.
To whip up this delicious recipe, you’ll need 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Don’t forget the star of the show—Nutella! You can grab a jar of it here. Additionally, gather 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients, while in another bowl, cream the butter with the sugars using measuring spoons for accuracy. After adding the eggs and vanilla, mix in the dry ingredients until well combined. Scoop a tablespoon of dough, place a dollop of Nutella in the center, and cover it with more dough. Using a cookie scoop can help you achieve uniform cookie sizes! Bake for about 10-12 minutes, and as they bake, the irresistible aroma of chocolate will fill your home, making these cookies the perfect holiday treat that everyone will adore!
Product Recommendations:
• Silicone baking mat
• Cookie sheet set
• Holiday-themed cookie cutters
12. Holiday Fruitcake
Wrap up your holiday baking with a classic fruitcake that embodies the spirit of the season! This rich and dense cake is brimming with a delightful mix of mixed dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, and apricots, along with a hearty blend of mixed nuts.
To create this festive treat, gather 2 cups of dried fruits, 1 cup of mixed nuts, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, 4 eggs, and a splash of rum or orange juice. Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F and greasing a loaf pan.
In one bowl, mix together your dry ingredients, while in another, cream the butter and sugar before incorporating the eggs. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the dried fruits and nuts. Bake the mixture for 60-70 minutes, and as it bakes, the warm, fruity aroma will envelop your home, creating a nostalgic and delightful holiday atmosphere that everyone will cherish. Once it's ready, present your beautiful fruitcake on a lovely cake stand for an impressive holiday display!
Product Recommendations:
• Mixed dried fruits
• Mixed nuts
• Loaf pan
Conclusion
These 12 easy holiday baking recipes are sure to fill your home with delicious aromas and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Whether it’s the classic sugar cookies or the delightful cranberry orange bread, each recipe brings a unique flavor and festive spirit to your holiday celebrations.
So don’t hesitate to try out these recipes, and let the joy of baking bring your family together this season!
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