As the cold weather settles in and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite as comforting as the aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the kitchen.
Winter is the perfect season for baking, with its cozy ambiance and the allure of warming spices, rich chocolates, and festive flavors.
Whether you’re looking for holiday dessert ideas, wholesome breakfast options, or indulgent treats to share with loved ones, this collection of 50+ winter baking recipes will inspire you to make the most of the season.
From classics like spiced cookies and gingerbread to more unique offerings like chestnut cakes and cranberry-studded scones, these recipes are designed to bring joy and warmth to your winter kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking for easy-to-follow recipes, there’s something for everyone.
So, preheat your oven, gather your favorite ingredients, and let’s dive into the delicious world of winter baking!
50+ Irresistible Winter Baking Recipes to Try
Winter baking is more than just making delicious treats; it’s about creating warmth and comfort during the coldest months of the year.
Whether you’re preparing something special for a holiday gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat by the fire, these 50+ winter baking recipes offer a variety of options to suit every occasion.
With flavors that capture the essence of the season, from spiced fruits to rich chocolates, these recipes are sure to make your winter days a little cozier.
As you experiment with these recipes, remember that baking is a creative process that allows you to infuse your own personality into each dish.
Whether you’re trying new flavor combinations or perfecting a classic, winter baking brings endless possibilities.
So, grab your apron, embrace the season’s flavors, and let these recipes inspire your next winter bake!
Spiced Gingerbread Loaf
A perfect winter treat, the spiced gingerbread loaf combines warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and ginger with rich molasses to create a moist, flavorful bread. This recipe is ideal for cozying up on cold evenings with a cup of tea or coffee. The loaf’s aromatic spices not only fill your kitchen with a festive scent but also evoke the comforting flavors of the holiday season. It’s a simple yet impressive dessert to serve at gatherings or as a delightful homemade gift.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup molasses
- 1 egg
- ½ cup hot water
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and egg, and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with hot water, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
This spiced gingerbread loaf is the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it a staple winter bake. Serve it on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Its deep flavors develop even more over time, making it a great option for baking ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
Cranberry Orange Scones
Cranberry orange scones are a delightful winter breakfast option or afternoon snack. The tanginess of fresh cranberries pairs beautifully with the citrusy sweetness of orange zest. These scones are flaky, buttery, and filled with festive flavors that are perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet winter mornings at home. They’re easy to make and can be enjoyed warm from the oven or reheated for later enjoyment.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 orange
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, roughly chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar for sprinkling
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and orange zest.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the cranberries.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times. Shape into a 1-inch-thick circle.
- Cut the dough into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with a little extra cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
These cranberry orange scones are buttery with just the right amount of tartness from the cranberries and freshness from the orange zest. Serve them with clotted cream or a smear of butter for an indulgent winter treat. They freeze well too, making them a convenient option for busy mornings.
Hot Chocolate Brownies
Rich and indulgent, hot chocolate brownies are the ultimate winter comfort food. With a fudgy center and the flavors of classic hot cocoa, these brownies are made extra special with a marshmallow topping that melts slightly in the oven. Perfect for serving at holiday parties, cozy family gatherings, or a movie night by the fire, these brownies offer all the warmth and joy of a cup of hot chocolate in a dessert form.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until combined.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips if using, and spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the top. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows are puffy but not browned.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares.
These hot chocolate brownies are a decadent winter dessert that combines the flavors of rich chocolate and gooey marshmallows. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, they are sure to satisfy any sweet craving during the colder months. Pair them with a mug of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy indulgence.
Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns
Caramel pecan sticky buns are the epitome of indulgent winter baking. These soft, fluffy rolls are packed with a cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a luscious caramel pecan glaze. The combination of warm dough, rich caramel, and crunchy pecans makes for an irresistible treat that’s perfect for holiday mornings, brunches, or a special dessert. Though they take a bit of time to prepare, the result is well worth the effort.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
For the filling:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the topping:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, butter, salt, and egg. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- In the meantime, prepare the filling by mixing together softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
- For the topping, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and cream, bringing it to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in pecans.
- Pour the pecan mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the cut buns on top of the pecan mixture.
- Cover the dish and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
- Let the buns cool for 5 minutes before inverting them onto a serving plate, allowing the caramel and pecans to coat the buns.
These caramel pecan sticky buns are a decadent treat that’s perfect for winter mornings. The gooey caramel glaze and crunchy pecans make every bite incredibly satisfying, and they pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Serve them warm for the ultimate indulgence.
Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These festive peppermint chocolate crinkle cookies are a delightful winter treat, perfect for cookie swaps or gifting during the holiday season. The rich, fudgy chocolate base is enhanced with a hint of peppermint, while the crinkled powdered sugar coating adds a beautiful, snowy appearance. These cookies have a soft and chewy texture that’s sure to please anyone with a love for chocolate and mint.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat together sugar and oil until combined. Add eggs one at a time, followed by the peppermint extract, and mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop 1-tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies have crinkled and the edges are set.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
These peppermint chocolate crinkle cookies are as delicious as they are beautiful. The rich chocolate flavor paired with the coolness of peppermint makes them a perfect holiday treat. They are soft on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior, and the powdered sugar adds a festive touch that’s ideal for winter celebrations.
Apple Cinnamon Galette
A rustic apple cinnamon galette is a simple yet elegant winter dessert. With its buttery, flaky crust and warm, spiced apple filling, this galette brings all the cozy flavors of the season to the table. Easier to make than a traditional pie, this free-form pastry is perfect for last-minute baking or casual gatherings. The combination of tart apples, cinnamon, and a touch of sugar creates a comforting, delicious dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet.
- Arrange the apple slices in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges. Fold the edges of the dough over the apples, pleating as necessary.
- Brush the edges of the crust with melted butter and milk.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender.
- Let the galette cool slightly before serving.
This apple cinnamon galette is a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. Its rustic appearance adds charm, while the warm apples and flaky crust make it a comforting winter dessert. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added indulgence on cold evenings.
Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Gingerbread cupcakes are a warm, spiced treat that embodies the essence of winter baking. With flavors of molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, these cupcakes capture the cozy, festive spirit of the holiday season. Topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting, they are the perfect dessert for winter celebrations or just enjoying with a cup of tea by the fire.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the molasses and egg, beating until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until light and fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cupcakes and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a festive decoration if desired.
These gingerbread cupcakes are incredibly moist and bursting with holiday spices. The cream cheese frosting adds the perfect tangy sweetness, making each bite a delightful balance of flavors. Whether for a holiday party or a cozy night in, these cupcakes will bring warmth and cheer to any winter occasion.
Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake
Cranberry orange bundt cake is a classic winter dessert, combining the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright, citrusy flavor of oranges. This cake is moist, dense, and perfectly sweetened, with a festive flair that’s ideal for holiday gatherings. The addition of a simple orange glaze enhances the flavors, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for your winter dessert table.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (coarsely chopped)
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla and orange zest.
- Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the orange juice and sour cream, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
- Fold in the chopped cranberries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
This cranberry orange bundt cake is an elegant and delicious dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. The bright, zesty orange flavor pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries, while the orange glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness. It’s perfect for a holiday dessert table or a cozy winter afternoon tea.
Hot Cocoa Brownies
Hot cocoa brownies are the perfect winter dessert, combining the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the comforting flavors of hot chocolate. These brownies are loaded with marshmallows and a hint of cocoa, making them an indulgent treat for cold winter nights. They are easy to make and bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia to your holiday baking.
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
- ½ cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla, beating until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in 1 cup of mini marshmallows and chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly fudgy.
- Remove the brownies from the oven and immediately sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of marshmallows on top.
- Return the brownies to the oven for 2-3 minutes, until the marshmallows are just melted and slightly golden.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares.
These hot cocoa brownies are decadent, rich, and full of nostalgic winter flavors. The marshmallows melt into the fudgy brownie base, creating an indulgent and comforting treat that’s perfect for enjoying by the fire with a mug of hot cocoa. They’re a crowd-pleaser and a great addition to any winter dessert spread.
Spiced Pear and Walnut Cake
This spiced pear and walnut cake is the perfect winter dessert with its warm spices, tender pears, and crunchy walnuts. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger gives the cake a comforting and festive flavor. Moist and full of texture, this cake is excellent for holiday gatherings or a cozy winter evening treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 large ripe pears, peeled and diced
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with sour cream, until just combined.
- Fold in the diced pears and chopped walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before transferring to a serving plate.
This spiced pear and walnut cake is a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and nutty flavors. The juicy pears add moisture and sweetness, while the walnuts provide a pleasant crunch. It’s a versatile cake that pairs well with tea or coffee and is perfect for winter celebrations or quiet nights in.
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
These peppermint chocolate chip cookies are a fun and festive winter treat, combining the classic taste of chocolate chip cookies with a refreshing peppermint twist. With a crunchy exterior and chewy center, the cookies are speckled with chocolate chips and bits of crushed candy canes, making them ideal for holiday cookie exchanges or family get-togethers.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, and mix until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and crushed candy canes.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
These peppermint chocolate chip cookies are bursting with holiday spirit. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is both nostalgic and refreshing, making these cookies a must-bake during the winter season. They’re sure to bring joy and sweetness to any holiday gathering.
Cinnamon Roll Bread
Cinnamon roll bread is a rich, buttery, and spiced loaf that captures the essence of a cinnamon roll in a more convenient, sliceable form. This bread is soft and swirled with cinnamon and sugar, making it perfect for a winter breakfast or as an afternoon snack with a warm beverage. It’s an indulgent treat that brings warmth and comfort during the cold months.
Ingredients:
For the bread:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the filling:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, a little at a time, until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough into a 9×12-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the dough and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Let it rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread.
This cinnamon roll bread is soft, sweet, and filled with layers of cinnamon goodness. The aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is irresistible, and the final result is a comforting, indulgent loaf that’s perfect for winter mornings. It’s a wonderful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, offering all the flavor without the extra effort.
Maple Pecan Scones
Maple pecan scones are a delicious, rustic winter treat that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea. These scones are buttery and tender, with crunchy pecans and a rich maple glaze drizzled over the top. The warm, earthy flavor of maple syrup makes them an ideal bake for the colder months, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
For the scones:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cream, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it into a ball. Pat it into a 1-inch thick circle and cut it into 8 wedges.
- Place the wedges onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the scones cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk to make the glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled scones.
These maple pecan scones are a delightful combination of nutty, buttery, and sweet flavors. The pecans add a satisfying crunch, while the maple glaze brings a warm sweetness that’s perfect for winter mornings. Serve these scones warm for an extra cozy treat.
Caramel Apple Crumble Bars
Caramel apple crumble bars are a wonderful winter dessert that combines the flavors of a traditional apple pie with the convenience of a bar. With a buttery shortbread base, a layer of caramel apples, and a crumbly oat topping, these bars are perfect for any winter gathering or as a sweet snack to enjoy by the fire.
Ingredients:
For the crust and crumble:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 3 large apples, peeled and diced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup caramel sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, oats, softened butter, brown sugar, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press half of the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In another bowl, toss the diced apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon until well coated.
- Spread the apples evenly over the crust and drizzle the caramel sauce on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the apples.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
These caramel apple crumble bars are packed with cozy flavors and textures, from the sweet, tender apples to the buttery, crumbly topping. They’re the perfect dessert to serve at winter gatherings or to enjoy with a hot drink while curled up under a blanket.
Chestnut Chocolate Cake
Chestnut chocolate cake is a rich and luxurious dessert that’s perfect for winter. The combination of chestnuts and chocolate creates a deep, nutty sweetness, while the moist texture makes every bite indulgent. It’s an elegant cake that’s ideal for special occasions during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups roasted chestnuts, pureed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
For the ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until fully combined.
- Fold in the chestnut puree.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely in the pans before transferring them to a wire rack.
- For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Spread the ganache over the cooled cake layers and assemble.
This chestnut chocolate cake is an indulgent winter treat with rich, velvety flavors that are sure to impress. The chestnuts add a subtle sweetness that complements the bold chocolate, while the ganache gives the cake a decadent finish. This cake is perfect for winter celebrations or holiday parties, offering a sophisticated dessert option with seasonal flair.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!