The holidays are firmly upon us. You might need some baking inspiration, and we’re here to provide you with just these holiday sweets, just in time for breakfast, dinner, tea, or taking to parties and gatherings (Or giving as gifts!). These recipes are not complicated and can be made in stages or even just all at once. (Some can be made ahead and frozen, like these muffins, which can come in handy in the morning). We love variety, so you’ll find a little bit of everything here. Enjoy!
Cranberry Orange Muffins
Yes, we think these are the best in class. It calls for dried cranberries, but feel free to use fresh ones instead if you want. Just increase the sugar a bit, but a couple of tablespoons, as fresh cranberries are very tart! Make a couple of batches and freeze some to have on hand for muffin-related emergencies around the holidays.
Dark Chocolate Gingerbread Spice Pumpkin Bars
This festive recipe hits all the seasonal notes of chocolate with a depth of spice that doesn’t overwhelm but complements.
Easy No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake Slab
Now those are words we have not seen together before–cheesecake slab!–but check this out! It’s a no-bake cheesecake situation which means prep is a snap. And the top of it is just comprised of berries, orange slices, some sprigs of rosemary (cause it’s the season) and a dusting of sugar. So easy, but you could really customize this however you want. We’re thinking sugared cranberries would be gorgeous, too.
Vegan Double Chocolate Donuts
Donuts are a fun addition to a morning breakfast or afternoon brunch spread during the holidays and everyone can eat it, as this recipe is actually both gluten-free and vegan, shhhh! The decorations on top are limitless, but coconut, pumpkin seeds, and chopped nuts are great ways to start.
Peppermint Bark
We do love a good no-bake recipe around the holidays and these chunks of peppermint bark are the ultimate minty-chocolatey holiday sweets. Put this out on a pretty tray, break it into pieces and give it as gifts to friends and neighbors, or just dole it out like the little prize that it is! It’s easy to do and easy to adapt, too.
Gluten Free Gingerbread Cookies
Ok, these are just cuter than cute, right? Just because you can’t have gluten doesn’t mean you can’t have cute holiday cookies. These holiday sweets are snappy and adorable and can be decorated however you like.
Chocolate Pecan Pie
This is another keeper! If you’ve never made pie, now is your chance. This recipe is foolproof and is extra awesome thanks to the chocolate. It comes with a lot of gentle hand-holding and instructions to set you up for pie making success. Don’t be afraid of pie! It loves you!
Easy Carrot Cake
Make carrot cake, a beloved choice, but make it in a loaf pan, not as a layer cake. This holiday sweet comes together much faster. But never fear; there’s no loss of frosting! Cream cheese layer on top is in place, check!
Easiest Gluten Free Brownies
Brownies are good any time of year, but may we suggest a brief amendment to this recipe to make it even better? Follow as directed but add a bit of mint extract, and a 1/2 cup or so of peppermint chips. So, so, good!
Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes
Yes, a pineapple upside-down cake can be fun holiday sweet. After all, citrus fruits are in season in the winter. And the cherry makes it special.
Easy Pumpkin Muffins
It’s hard not to love a good pumpkin muffin, and they don’t have to be super sweet to be satisfying. Use canned pumpkin (or even canned sweet potatoes) or your own pumpkin puree if you have it. Truth!
Lemon Blueberry Scones
Sometimes you just need a scone with coffee or tea. Or just because. During the holidays, scones feel like an extra special way to pass the time with loved ones.
Morning Glory Muffins
If you’re feeling the need for something more healthy-ish, these muffins are it! With carrots and raisins, they’re hearty and filling. We love them toasted on a cast iron skillet, and then topped with a little bit of butter afterward, but they’re great warm, too, just out of the oven.
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