Baking is a fun and rewarding activity that lets you create tasty treats at home. With so many recipes to choose from, you can find options for every skill level and taste preference.

These 31+ baking recipes offer a wide range of delicious options to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family.

Whether you’re in the mood for cookies, cakes, breads, or pastries, there’s a recipe here for you. You’ll find quick and easy weekday options as well as more involved weekend projects.

By trying out different recipes, you can improve your baking skills and discover new favorite desserts to enjoy.

1. Sourdough Bread

Sourdough bread is a classic favorite among bakers. It uses a fermented dough starter instead of commercial yeast. This gives the bread a tangy flavor and chewy texture.

To make sourdough, you’ll need an active starter. Feed it regularly with flour and water. When it’s bubbly and doubles in size, it’s ready to use.

Mix the starter with flour, water, and salt to make your dough. Let it rise slowly for the best flavor. This can take 4-24 hours depending on the recipe.

Shape the dough and bake it in a hot oven. A Dutch oven helps create a crispy crust.

The result is a rustic loaf with a complex taste that’s worth the extra effort.

2. Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

You can’t go wrong with classic chocolate chip cookies. They’re a crowd-pleaser and easy to make.

Start by creaming butter with white and brown sugars. This mix creates a perfect balance of flavors.

Next, add eggs and vanilla extract. The eggs help bind the dough while vanilla enhances the taste.

In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.

Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Fold in chocolate chips last.

Scoop the dough onto baking sheets and bake at 375°F.

The result? Soft, chewy cookies with gooey chocolate chips. They’re best enjoyed warm with a glass of cold milk.

3. Lemon Drizzle Cake

Lemon drizzle cake is a zesty treat you can easily make at home. You’ll need basic ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and lemons.

Mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine them.

Pour the batter into an 8×4 inch loaf pan and bake for about 40 minutes.

While the cake cools, poke holes in the top. Make a lemon syrup and pour it over the cake. This creates a moist, tangy flavor throughout.

For extra sweetness, add a crunchy lemon icing on top. This cake pairs well with fresh fruit like berries or stone fruits.

4. Molten Lava Cake

Molten lava cake is a decadent dessert that’s sure to impress. You can make this gooey treat with just a few simple ingredients.

To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four 6-ounce ramekins and dust them with cocoa powder.

Mix melted chocolate, butter, sugar, and eggs in a bowl. Add a pinch of salt and some flour, then stir until smooth.

Pour the batter into the ramekins.

Bake for about 12-14 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still be jiggly.

Let them cool for a minute, then invert onto plates.

Serve your molten lava cakes right away. The warm, gooey center will ooze out when you cut into them.

5. Buttermilk Biscuits

Buttermilk biscuits are a classic Southern treat. You can make them at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by freezing your butter. Grate it using the large holes of a box grater when you’re ready to bake.

Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Add the grated butter and work it into the flour mixture.

Pour in cold buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.

Cut the dough into circles or squares. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the biscuits in a hot oven until they’re golden brown. Serve them warm with butter or jam.

6. New York Cheesecake

New York cheesecake is a classic dessert known for its rich, creamy texture. To make it, you’ll need cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and heavy cream for the filling.

The crust is typically made with graham cracker crumbs, butter, and sugar. Mix these ingredients and press them into a springform pan.

For the filling, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, and cream. Pour this mixture over the crust.

Bake the cheesecake in a water bath at a low temperature, around 200°F, for about 2-3 hours. This slow baking method helps prevent cracks.

Once it’s done, let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven. Then refrigerate it for several hours before serving.

7. Macarons

Macarons are delicate French cookies with a crisp exterior and soft interior. You can make these elegant treats at home with a few key steps.

Start by sifting almond flour and powdered sugar together.

Whip egg whites to stiff peaks, then gently fold in the dry ingredients.

Pipe small circles onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Tap the sheets to remove air bubbles. Let the macarons rest for 30 minutes before baking.

Bake at a low temperature until the shells are set. Once cooled, sandwich two cookies together with filling like buttercream or ganache.

With practice, you’ll master these beautiful and tasty cookies. Experiment with different flavors and colors to create your own unique macarons.

8. Raspberry Almond Tart

You can make a tasty raspberry almond tart at home with simple ingredients. The crust uses flour, sugar, and butter. For the filling, you’ll need eggs, sugar, vanilla, and fresh raspberries.

Mix the crust ingredients and press into a tart pan. Spread raspberry jam on the crust.

Combine the filling ingredients and pour over the jam. Bake until set.

The tart has a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors. The almond and raspberry go well together. You can serve it warm or chilled for dessert.

If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge. Reheat individual slices in the oven or microwave before eating. This tart is great for special occasions or weekend baking.

9. Brioche

Brioche is a rich, buttery French bread that’s perfect for baking at home. You can make this versatile dough into loaves, buns, or even sweet treats.

To make brioche, you’ll need flour, eggs, butter, yeast, and milk. Mix these ingredients and knead the dough until smooth. Let it rise overnight in the fridge.

The next day, shape your brioche. For small buns, divide the dough into 12 pieces.

Roll each piece into a ball and place in greased molds or a muffin tin.

Let the shaped dough rise again before baking. Brush with egg wash for a golden crust.

Bake until the brioche is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

10. Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Pumpkin spice muffins are a tasty fall treat. You can make them easily at home with a few simple steps.

Mix flour, sugar, baking soda, and spices in a bowl. In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, and vanilla.

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ones. Stir until just mixed. Don’t overmix or your muffins might be tough.

Scoop the batter into a muffin tin.

Bake at 425°F for 5 minutes, then lower the heat to 350°F.

This high-heat start helps create tall, domed muffin tops. Your muffins will be ready in about 15-20 minutes total.

11. Focaccia Bread

Focaccia is a delicious Italian flatbread that’s easy to make at home.

You start by mixing yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let this sit until foamy.

Next, combine flour, salt, and olive oil with the yeast mixture to form a dough. Knead it well and let it rise until doubled in size.

Press the dough into a baking sheet and dimple the surface with your fingers. Drizzle with olive oil and add toppings like herbs, garlic, or cheese.

Bake the focaccia in a hot oven until golden brown.

The result is a crispy exterior with a soft, airy interior. Serve it warm as a side dish or use it to make sandwiches.

12. Pecan Pie

Pecan pie is a classic dessert that’s easy to make at home. You’ll need a pie crust, corn syrup, eggs, sugar, butter, vanilla, and pecans.

Mix the wet ingredients in a bowl. Pour chopped pecans into the pie crust, then add the syrup mixture on top.

Bake your pie at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes. The center should reach 200°F (95°C) when done.

If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil. Let the pie cool completely before serving.

You can make pecan pie a day ahead. Store it at room temperature, covered tightly. For longer storage, freeze the cooled pie wrapped in plastic wrap.

13. Red Velvet Cupcakes

Red velvet cupcakes are a beloved treat with a rich, velvety texture and striking red color. You’ll need key ingredients like cocoa powder, buttermilk, and red food coloring to achieve the classic taste and appearance.

Start by creaming butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda.

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture. Stir in red food coloring for that signature hue.

Bake the cupcakes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Top your red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting for the perfect finish. These cupcakes are sure to impress at any gathering or special occasion.

14. Lemon Bars

Lemon bars are a delightful treat that mix sweet and tangy flavors. You start by making a buttery shortbread crust. Press it into a lined 9×13 inch baking pan and pre-bake it.

Next, prepare the lemon filling. Whisk together lemon juice, sugar, eggs, and flour. Pour this mixture over the pre-baked crust.

Bake the lemon bars for about 20-25 minutes until the filling is set. Let them cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

When ready to serve, cut the chilled lemon bars into squares. You can dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

15. Baklava

Baklava is a sweet pastry that you can make at home. You’ll need phyllo dough, chopped nuts, butter, and a honey syrup.

Start by layering buttered phyllo sheets in a baking pan. Add a layer of chopped nuts, then more phyllo. Repeat until you use all the ingredients.

Cut the unbaked baklava into diamond shapes. Bake it until golden brown, usually about 45 minutes.

While it bakes, make a syrup with honey, sugar, and water. Pour the hot syrup over the baked baklava.

Let it cool before serving. The result is a crispy, sweet, and nutty dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.

16. Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée

Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée is a classic French dessert that’s sure to impress. To make it, you’ll need heavy cream, milk, egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla beans.

Start by heating the cream, milk, and split vanilla bean in a saucepan. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale yellow.

Slowly add the warm cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.

Pour the mixture into ramekins and bake in a water bath until set.

Chill the custards for several hours.

Before serving, sprinkle sugar on top and caramelize it with a kitchen torch. This creates a crispy, golden layer that cracks when you tap it with a spoon.

17. Brownies

Brownies are a classic dessert that never goes out of style. You can make them fudgy or cakey, depending on your preference.

To get started, melt chocolate and butter together. Mix in sugar, eggs, and vanilla.

Add flour, cocoa powder, and salt to create the batter. Pour it into a lined baking pan.

For extra flavor, try mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or swirls of peanut butter.

Bake until the edges are set but the center is still slightly gooey. Let them cool before cutting into squares.

You can top your brownies with frosting, ganache, or powdered sugar for added sweetness.

18. Croissants

Croissants are a beloved French pastry known for their flaky layers and buttery taste. You can make these delicious treats at home with some patience and practice.

The key to great croissants is laminated dough. This means folding butter into the dough multiple times to create thin layers.

Start by making a yeasted dough and chilling it. Then, wrap a block of butter in the dough and roll it out.

Fold the dough in thirds like a letter. Repeat the rolling and folding process several times, chilling between each step. This creates the signature flaky texture.

Shape the dough into crescents and let them rise before baking. The result is golden, crispy croissants perfect for breakfast or snacks.

19. Banana Bread

Banana bread is a classic baked treat that’s easy to make. You can whip up a loaf in just 10 minutes of prep time.

Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. Mash them with a fork before mixing with the other ingredients.

Most recipes call for simple items like flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. You can add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and taste.

Bake your bread at 325°F for about an hour. Your kitchen will smell amazing as it cooks.

Let the bread cool before slicing. Enjoy it plain or with a spread of butter for a comforting snack or breakfast.

20. Pavlova

Pavlova is a sweet meringue-based dessert named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. It has a crisp outer shell and a soft, marshmallow-like inside.

To make pavlova, you’ll beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Then gradually add sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.

Shape the meringue into a circle on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at a low temperature (around 150°C/300°F) for about 90 minutes.

Once baked, let the pavlova cool in the oven. This helps prevent cracking.

Before serving, top with whipped cream and fresh fruit like strawberries, kiwi, or passion fruit.

21. Butter Tarts

Butter tarts are a beloved Canadian dessert. You’ll love these sweet, gooey treats with a flaky pastry shell.

The filling is made with brown sugar, butter, eggs, and cream. Many recipes add raisins or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.

To make butter tarts, roll out pastry dough and cut circles to fit a muffin tin. Fill the shells with the sweet mixture and bake until golden brown.

These rich tarts are perfect for special occasions or anytime you want a decadent treat. Try them warm from the oven for an extra indulgent experience.

22. Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a festive treat perfect for the holiday season. To make them, mix wet ingredients first, then add dry ingredients until just combined.

Chill the dough for at least 3 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for easy handling and shaping.

Roll out the chilled dough and cut into desired shapes. Place cookies on a lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges brown slightly. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.

You can adjust the size of your cookies using different-sized scoops. A 2-inch scoop yields about 16 large cookies, while a 1-inch scoop makes around 32 smaller ones.

23. Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a beloved Italian dessert that combines creamy mascarpone, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and cocoa. You can make this no-bake treat at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by mixing strong espresso with coffee liqueur. Dip ladyfingers in this mixture for 2-3 seconds each. Layer them in a dish.

Whip egg yolks with sugar, then fold in mascarpone cheese. Some recipes use whipped egg whites for a lighter texture.

Spread the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat layers, ending with the cream on top.

Dust the tiramisu with cocoa powder before chilling. Let it set in the fridge for at least 4 hours. Serve cold and enjoy this classic Italian dessert.

24. Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls are a beloved breakfast treat that fill your home with an irresistible aroma. You can make these soft, pillowy pastries at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start by making a yeast dough and letting it rise. Roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread it with a mixture of butter, cinnamon, and sugar.

Roll up the dough tightly and slice it into individual rolls. Place them in a baking pan and let them rise again before baking.

While the rolls bake, whip up a sweet glaze to drizzle on top. In about 20 minutes, you’ll have warm, gooey cinnamon rolls ready to enjoy.

25. Black Forest Cake

Black Forest cake is a classic German dessert that’s perfect for special occasions. This rich chocolate cake has layers of whipped cream and cherries.

To make it, bake two or three chocolate cake layers. Let them cool completely.

Whip up some fresh cream and prepare a cherry filling.

Place one cake layer on a plate. Spread whipped cream on top and add some cherries. Repeat with the other layers. Cover the whole cake with more whipped cream.

Decorate the top with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries. For extra flavor, brush each cake layer with cherry syrup before assembling.

This impressive cake takes some time to make but is worth the effort. Your guests will love the mix of chocolate, cream, and fruit flavors.

26. Profiteroles

Profiteroles are delightful French pastries that combine light, airy choux pastry with creamy fillings. You can make these elegant treats at home with a few simple ingredients.

To create profiteroles, you’ll pipe small mounds of choux pastry onto a baking sheet. Bake them until golden brown and puffed up.

Once cooled, fill the pastry shells with whipped cream, custard, or ice cream.

You can serve profiteroles with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

These bite-sized desserts are perfect for special occasions or dinner parties. With some practice, you’ll master the art of making profiteroles and impress your guests.

27. Blueberry Scones

Blueberry scones are a delightful treat that you can easily make at home. You’ll need flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, butter, cream, and fresh blueberries.

Mix the dry ingredients first. Then cut in cold butter until the mixture is crumbly.

Gently fold in the blueberries and add cream to form a dough.

Shape the dough into a circle and cut it into wedges. Brush the tops with cream for a golden color when baked.

Bake the scones until lightly browned. They’re best served warm, but you can store them for a few days at room temperature.

For extra flavor, try adding lemon zest or vanilla extract to the dough. You can also top them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.

28. Éclairs

Éclairs are elegant French pastries made from choux dough. You pipe the dough into long, thin shapes and bake them until golden and crisp.

Once cooled, you fill the pastries with a creamy custard or pastry cream. The classic filling is vanilla, but you can experiment with other flavors too.

To finish, you top the éclairs with a glossy chocolate ganache. This gives them their signature look and adds rich flavor.

Making éclairs takes some practice, but the results are worth it. You’ll impress friends and family with these fancy treats.

29. Irish Soda Bread

Irish Soda Bread is a quick bread that uses baking soda instead of yeast. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients.

You’ll need flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. Some recipes add sugar and butter for extra flavor.

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Mix the dry ingredients, then add the buttermilk. Stir until just combined.

Shape the dough into a round loaf. Cut a cross on top. Bake for about 45 minutes until golden brown.

This bread has a crusty outside and soft inside. It’s best eaten fresh, warm from the oven.

30. Key Lime Pie

Key lime pie is a classic dessert that’s easy to make. You’ll need a graham cracker crust, key lime juice, and a few other simple ingredients.

To make the crust, crush graham crackers and mix with melted butter and sugar. Press this mixture into a pie dish.

For the filling, blend sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and egg yolks. Pour this into your crust and bake until set.

Let the pie cool, then chill it in the fridge. Before serving, top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

This tangy, sweet treat is perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want a taste of the tropics.

31. Zucchini Bread

Zucchini bread is a tasty way to use up extra garden zucchini. You don’t need to peel the zucchini before grating it for this recipe. The vegetable almost melts into the bread as it bakes.

To make zucchini bread, you’ll need basic ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and oil. Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and flavor.

Mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine them.

Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan. Bake at 350°F for about an hour. Let it cool before slicing.

This moist quick bread freezes well, so you can make extra loaves to enjoy later.

Baking Techniques

Mastering key baking techniques can take your creations from good to great. Learn to work with ingredients and control oven temperatures for the best results.

Understanding Baking Ingredients

Knowing your ingredients is key to baking success. Flour forms the base of most baked goods. All-purpose flour works for many recipes, while bread flour has more protein for chewier textures.

Sugar adds sweetness and helps with browning. Brown sugar gives a richer flavor than white.

Fats like butter, oil, and shortening add moisture and flavor. They also affect texture.

Eggs bind ingredients and add structure. Baking powder and baking soda are leaveners that help baked goods rise.

Measure dry ingredients by scooping into cups and leveling off. Use liquid measuring cups for wet items.

Let cold ingredients come to room temperature before mixing for better blending.

Mastering Oven Temperatures

Proper oven temperature is crucial for baking. Most ovens run a bit hot or cold, so use an oven thermometer to check.

Preheat your oven for at least 20 minutes before baking.

Higher temps (400°F+) work well for crusty breads and pies. Mid-range (350°F-375°F) suits cakes and cookies. Lower temps (300°F-325°F) are good for delicate items like custards.

Avoid opening the oven door while baking. This lets heat escape and can cause uneven baking. Use the oven light to check progress instead.

Rotate pans halfway through baking for even browning. Let baked goods cool in the pan for a few minutes before moving to a wire rack.

Tips for Perfect Textures

Getting the right texture in baked goods can make or break your creations. The key is using the right ingredients and techniques.

Achieving Flaky Pastries

To get flaky pastries, keep your ingredients cold. Use chilled butter and ice-cold water.

Cut the butter into small cubes and work it into the flour quickly. Don’t overmix – you want visible butter pieces.

Rest your dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before rolling. This lets the gluten relax and the butter firm up.

When rolling, use light, even pressure. Fold the dough to create layers. Chill again before baking.

Brush the pastry with egg wash for a golden sheen. Bake at a high temperature to create steam, which lifts the layers.

Creating Moist Cakes

For moist cakes, start with room temperature ingredients. This helps them mix evenly.

Don’t overmix the batter – stop when just combined.

Use oil instead of butter for extra moisture. Add sour cream or yogurt to the batter. These ingredients keep cakes soft and tender.

Measure flour carefully. Too much can dry out your cake.

Sift dry ingredients to remove lumps and add air.

Don’t overbake. Check your cake a few minutes before the recipe time. It’s done when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool cakes in the pan for 10 minutes, then on a wire rack. This stops them from drying out.