As the winter season approaches, so does the joy of baking! Festive holiday baked goods are a cherished tradition, bringing warmth and sweetness to gatherings with friends and family. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday party or simply want to indulge in some seasonal treats, these baked goods are sure to spread cheer and delight. Here are three delicious examples of festive holiday baked goods that you can easily whip up in your kitchen.
Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that not only taste great but also fill your home with a warm, spicy aroma. They are perfect for decorating and sharing with loved ones during the festive season.
To make gingerbread cookies, you will need:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar, then add the egg and molasses. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until a dough forms. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick, cut out shapes using cookie cutters, and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm. Let them cool before decorating with icing and sprinkles.
Notes: You can add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. These cookies can also be stored in an airtight container for several weeks.
Peppermint bark brownies are a decadent dessert that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the refreshing flavor of peppermint—perfect for holiday gatherings!
For this recipe, you will need:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8x8-inch baking dish. Melt the butter and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined. Then mix in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just combined. Fold in half of the crushed peppermint candies. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 20-25 minutes. Once cooled, melt the white chocolate chips and spread over the brownies. Sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint on top for added crunch and flavor.
Variations: You can use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for a richer taste. These brownies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in a sealed container for up to a week.
Eggnog cupcakes are a festive twist on traditional holiday flavors. They are fluffy, moist, and topped with a creamy eggnog frosting—perfect for any holiday celebration!
Ingredients you’ll need:
For the frosting:
To make the cupcakes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add the eggs, eggnog, and vanilla. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Pour the batter into the lined muffin tin and bake for 18-20 minutes. For the frosting, beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, eggnog, and nutmeg until smooth. Frost the cooled cupcakes and enjoy!
Notes: You can substitute the eggnog with a non-dairy alternative for a vegan version. These cupcakes are best served at room temperature and can be kept in an airtight container for up to three days.