5 Easy Holiday Baking Recipes: Quick & Delicious Homemade Treats

Easy Holiday Baking Recipes

The holiday season is the perfect time to gather with loved ones and indulge in delicious treats. Whether youre an experienced baker or just starting out, there are plenty of easy holiday baking recipes that will impress your friends and family. From classic cookies to festive cakes, these recipes are guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. In this article, we will explore some mouthwatering recipes that are simple, flavorful, and perfect for the holiday season.

1. Classic Sugar Cookies (H2)

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
2. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just incorporated.
4. Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape each into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to approximately ¼ inch (0.6 cm) thickness. Use cookie cutters to create desired shapes.
7. Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Decorate as desired.

2. Festive Gingerbread Cake (H2)

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup molasses
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup hot water

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the molasses and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the hot water. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar or frost with cream cheese frosting for an extra festive touch.

3. Decadent Peppermint Brownies (H2)

Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ cup crushed peppermint candies

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) square baking pan.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
5. Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the top of the batter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares.

Conclusion (H2)

These easy holiday baking recipes are sure to bring warmth and joy to your home this festive season. From classic sugar cookies to decadent peppermint brownies, these treats are simple to make yet incredibly delicious. Whether youre baking for a holiday gathering or just enjoying a cozy night by the fireplace, these recipes will impress your loved ones and create lasting memories. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the baking begin!

FAQs (H2)

1. Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour in these recipes?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour in these recipes. Just make sure to use a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.

2. Can I freeze the cookie dough before baking?

Absolutely! The cookie dough for the sugar cookies can be wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator and proceed with rolling, cutting, and baking as instructed.

3. Can I omit the crushed peppermint candies in the peppermint brownies?

If youre not a fan of peppermint flavor or dont have any candies on hand, you can certainly omit them from the recipe. The brownies will still be rich and chocolaty without the added minty crunch.

4. Can I use buttercream frosting on the gingerbread cake?

Yes, buttercream frosting would be a delightful addition to the gingerbread cake. It pairs beautifully with the warm spices and adds an extra layer of sweetness.

5. Are these recipes suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! These recipes are designed to be easy and accessible for bakers of all skill levels. They include simple ingredients and straightforward instructions to ensure success, even for beginners. So dont hesitate to give them a try and impress your loved ones with your holiday baking skills!