35 Easy Baking Desserts To Bake When You’re Bored

Hey there, fellow dessert lover! Are you ready to dive into a world of sugary goodness without breaking a sweat? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up the ultimate list of easy baking desserts that anyone, and we mean anyone, can master. Forget complicated recipes and long ingredient lists; we’re all about simple, delicious, and fun treats that will make your kitchen the happiest place on earth.

The Sweet Science of Baking

Before we jump into the recipes, let’s geek out for a second. Baking isn’t just about making tasty food; it’s a science and an art form that can genuinely make you feel better. The simple act of measuring, mixing, and creating something with your hands has been shown to have therapeutic benefits.

A study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that individuals who engage in small, creative projects like baking and cooking reported feeling more relaxed and happier in their day-to-day lives. It’s a concept known as “behavioral activation,” where engaging in positive activities can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. So, the next time you’re feeling a little down, preheating your oven might be just the pick-me-up you need.

Here’s a quick look at how common baking ingredients work their magic:

Ingredient	Role in Baking	Fun Fact
Flour	Provides structure	The protein in flour, gluten, forms an elastic network that traps air bubbles.
Sugar	Adds sweetness, moisture, and aids browning	Sugar is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and holds onto water molecules.
Eggs	Bind ingredients, add moisture, and help with leavening	An egg’s yolk provides fat and flavor, while the white provides protein and structure.
Fat (Butter/Oil)	Adds flavor, tenderness, and flakiness	Fat coats the flour particles, preventing too much gluten from developing.
Leaveners	Help baked goods rise	Baking soda needs an acid to react, while baking powder already contains one.

Now, let’s get our aprons on and start baking!

1. Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

You can’t have a baking list without the king of all cookies. This recipe is foolproof and yields soft, chewy cookies every single time. The key is to slightly underbake them!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in the chocolate chips. Don’t overmix!
6. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

2. Fudgy Brownies from a Box (But Better!)

We’re starting with a secret weapon: a boxed brownie mix. But we’re going to make it taste like it’s from a fancy bakery.

Ingredients:

• 1 box of your favorite fudgy brownie mix
• Ingredients listed on the box (usually oil, water, and eggs)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup chocolate chunks or chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven according to the box directions. Grease and flour an 8×8 inch pan.
2. Prepare the brownie batter as directed on the box.
3. Here’s the trick: stir in the vanilla extract and the extra chocolate chunks. This adds a richer flavor and a lovely texture.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for the time specified on the box.
5. Let it cool completely before cutting. Pro-Tip: For super clean cuts, use a plastic knife!

3. Three-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Yes, you read that right. Only three ingredients stand between you and peanut butter heaven. This recipe is a lifesaver when you need a sweet treat, fast.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix all three ingredients together until well combined.
3. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
4. Use the back of a fork to press a criss-cross pattern onto each cookie.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies will be soft but will firm up as they cool.

4. The Easiest Apple Crumble

This is the perfect dessert for a cozy evening. It’s warm, comforting, and smells absolutely divine while it’s baking.

Ingredients: For the Filling:

• 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice For the Topping:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Pour this mixture into a greased 9-inch pie plate or baking dish.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour, oats, and brown sugar for the topping.
4. Cut in the cold butter using your fingertips or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the fruit is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Serve warm, preferably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

5. No-Bake Chocolate Lasagna

Okay, “baking” might be a stretch here, but it’s a layered dessert that sets in the fridge and is too easy not to include. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of Oreo cookies (about 36)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 (8 ounce) container of whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
• 2 (3.9 ounce) packages of instant chocolate pudding
• 3 cups cold milk
• Mini chocolate chips for garnish

Instructions:

1. Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor or put them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
2. Mix the Oreo crumbs with the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan.
3. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread this layer over the Oreo crust.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
5. Spread the pudding layer over the cream cheese layer.
6. Top with the remaining whipped topping and sprinkle with mini chocolate chips.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

6. Snickerdoodle Blondies

All the cinnamon-sugar goodness of a snickerdoodle cookie, but in an easy-to-make bar form. What’s not to love?

Ingredients:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• For the Topping:
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this evenly over the batter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.

7. Lemon Blueberry Loaf

This loaf cake is bright, zesty, and bursting with juicy blueberries. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• For the Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the lemon zest.
4. Alternate adding the flour mixture and the milk to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the blueberries. If using frozen, don’t thaw them first.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Once cool, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice to make the glaze. Drizzle over the loaf.

8. Cake Mix Cookies

This is the ultimate baking hack. With a box of cake mix, you can make soft, chewy cookies in any flavor you can imagine.

Ingredients:

• 1 box of cake mix (any flavor!)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, oil, and eggs. The dough will be thick and sticky.
3. Drop rounded teaspoons of dough onto an ungreased baking sheet.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes. The edges will be set, but the centers will look soft.
5. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before moving them.

9. S’mores Bars

All the gooey, chocolatey, marshmallowy goodness of a campfire s’more, but you can make it in your oven. No campfire required!

Ingredients:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 (7 ounce) jar of marshmallow creme/fluff
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch pan with foil, leaving an overhang to easily lift the bars out later.
2. In a bowl, mix the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and powdered sugar. Press half of this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Bake the crust for 6-8 minutes, until lightly golden.
4. Carefully spread the marshmallow creme over the warm crust.
5. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the marshmallow creme.
6. Crumble the remaining graham cracker mixture over the top.
7. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the marshmallow is puffy and the top is golden. Let it cool completely before cutting.

10. Rice Krispie Treats (The Bakery Version)

Forget the recipe on the box. This version uses more butter and more marshmallows for the gooiest, most delicious Rice Krispie treats ever.

Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 (16 ounce) bag of mini marshmallows
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Grease a 9×13 inch pan.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add the entire bag of marshmallows and stir constantly until they are completely melted. Do not let the mixture get too hot.
4. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
5. Add the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until everything is coated.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Pro-Tip: Lightly grease your spatula or your hands with butter or cooking spray to press the mixture into the pan without it sticking. Don’t press too hard, or your treats will be dense.
7. Let them cool completely before cutting.

11. Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars

A hearty, chewy bar that’s part cookie, part granola bar, and all delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Add this to the wet ingredients and mix.
5. Stir in the oats and chocolate chips.
6. Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

12. Easy Cinnamon Roll Bites

Get the flavor of a cinnamon roll without the hassle of yeast and rising times. These are dangerously easy to pop in your mouth.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (8 count) of refrigerated biscuit dough (like Pillsbury Grands!)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• For the Icing:
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin.
2. Separate the biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into four pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon.
4. Dip each piece of biscuit dough into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
5. Place 3-4 coated pieces into each muffin cup.
6. Bake for 10-13 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. While they bake, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk for the icing. Drizzle over the warm bites before serving.

13. Magic Cookie Bars (7-Layer Bars)

These bars live up to their name—they are truly magical. Just layer the ingredients in a pan and let the oven do the work.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup butterscotch chips
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1 (14 ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pour the melted butter into a 9×13 inch baking pan. Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs evenly over the butter and press down firmly.
3. Layer the ingredients in this order: chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, coconut, and nuts.
4. Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire pan.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and golden brown.
6. Important: Let the bars cool completely (at least 2 hours) before cutting to ensure they hold together.

14. Chocolate Lava Cakes for Two

The perfect romantic dessert or a special treat just for you. The molten chocolate center is pure bliss.

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously grease and flour two ramekins.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, egg yolk, sugar, and salt until pale and slightly thickened.
4. Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture.
5. Fold in the flour until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared ramekins.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes. The edges should be firm, but the center will be soft.
8. Let them cool for just a minute, then carefully run a knife around the edge and invert them onto plates. Serve immediately.

15. Banana Bread Muffins

The classic comfort of banana bread, but in a portable, perfectly portioned muffin form. Great for using up those overripe bananas!

Ingredients:

• 3 very ripe bananas, mashed
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas and melted butter.
3. Stir in the brown sugar, egg, and vanilla.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just moist. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
6. Fill the muffin cups about ¾ full.
7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

16. Sugar Cookie Bars

Soft, chewy, and topped with creamy frosting and sprinkles. These are way easier than rolling and cutting out individual cookies.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• For the Frosting:
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Sprinkles!

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Beat in the egg and vanilla.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
6. Let the bars cool completely.
7. To make the frosting, beat the powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Spread over the cooled bars and top with sprinkles.

17. Two-Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins

It sounds too good to be true, but it’s not! These are moist, fluffy, and perfect for fall.

Ingredients:

• 1 box of spice cake mix
• 1 (15 ounce) can of pumpkin puree

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix the spice cake mix and pumpkin puree together. That’s it! The batter will be very thick.
3. Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin cups.
4. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

18. Funfetti Dip

Another “no-bake” bake, this dip tastes just like cake batter and is dangerously addictive. Serve with animal crackers, graham crackers, or pretzels.

Ingredients:

• 1 box of Funfetti cake mix
• 2 cups plain Greek yogurt or 1 (8 ounce) container of whipped topping
• ½ cup milk (if using yogurt)
• ½ cup sprinkles

Instructions:

1. Important: Heat-treat the flour in the cake mix to kill any potential bacteria. Spread the dry cake mix on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes. Let it cool completely.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled cake mix, Greek yogurt, and milk (if using). If using whipped topping, just combine the cake mix and whipped topping.
3. Stir until smooth.
4. Fold in the sprinkles.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

19. Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies

These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with warm spices. They make the house smell incredible.

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Granulated sugar, for rolling

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar. Beat in the molasses and egg.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
4. Chill the dough for at least 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and then roll them in granulated sugar to coat.
7. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes. The cookies will look puffy and cracked.

20. Chocolate Zucchini Bread

A brilliant way to sneak some veggies into your dessert. The zucchini makes this bread incredibly moist, and the chocolate flavor is the star.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 large zucchini)
• ½ cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
4. Stir in the grated zucchini. Do not squeeze the moisture out.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

21. Strawberry Shortcake Biscuits

The base of a perfect strawberry shortcake is a tender, slightly sweet biscuit. This recipe is simple and reliable.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• ¾ cup heavy cream, plus more for brushing

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the heavy cream until a soft dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times. Pat it out to about ½-inch thickness.
6. Cut out biscuits with a 2-inch round cutter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush the tops with a little heavy cream.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown. Serve with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.

22. Nutella-Stuffed Cookies

Take a delicious cookie and stuff it with a gooey Nutella center. Mind-blowingly good.

Ingredients:

• Your favorite chocolate chip cookie dough (our recipe from #1 works great!)
• ½ cup Nutella

Instructions:

1. Line a small plate or baking sheet with parchment paper. Drop teaspoon-sized dollops of Nutella onto the sheet. Freeze for at least 30 minutes, until solid.
2. Prepare your cookie dough.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Take a scoop of cookie dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a frozen Nutella dollop in the center.
5. Wrap the cookie dough around the Nutella, making sure it’s completely sealed.
6. Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.

23. Easy Chocolate Fudge

Creamy, rich chocolate fudge that doesn’t require a candy thermometer. This is a holiday staple that’s easy enough for any time of year.

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups (12 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Line an 8×8 inch pan with foil or parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter.
3. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla and salt.
5. Pour the fudge into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Cut into small squares to serve.

24. Lemon Crinkle Cookies

These cookies are soft, chewy, and have a beautiful crinkled top from being rolled in powdered sugar. The bright lemon flavor is so refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 1 box of lemon cake mix
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup powdered sugar, for rolling

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, eggs, and oil. The dough will be sticky.
3. Chill the dough for about 20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
4. Place the powdered sugar in a small bowl.
5. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and then roll them generously in the powdered sugar.
6. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes.

25. Apple Cinnamon Baked Donuts

Enjoy the flavor of a donut without the mess of deep-frying. These baked donuts are cakey, moist, and delicious. You will need a donut pan for this recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• For the Topping:
• ¼ cup melted butter
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, applesauce, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fill each donut cavity about ¾ full. Pro-Tip: Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off for easy filling.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
7. While the donuts are still warm, brush them with the melted butter for the topping and dip them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

26. M&M Cookie Bars

A colorful and fun treat that’s perfect for parties or just a Tuesday afternoon. These are chewy, buttery, and loaded with M&Ms.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups M&M candies, plus more for the top

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch pan.
2. Cream the butter and sugars together. Beat in the eggs and vanilla.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt. Add to the wet ingredients.
4. Stir in 2 cups of M&Ms.
5. Spread the dough into the prepared pan. Press a few extra M&Ms on top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Let cool completely before cutting.

27. Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

The only thing better than banana bread? Banana bread with chocolate chips. This recipe is a classic for a reason.

Ingredients:

• Use the same recipe as #15 (Banana Bread Muffins).
• Add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips when you add the dry ingredients.
• Pour into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan instead of a muffin tin.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55-65 minutes.

28. “Kitchen Sink” Cookies

These cookies are called “kitchen sink” because you can throw in everything but the kitchen sink! It’s a great way to use up leftover bits of chocolate chips, nuts, and pretzels.

Ingredients:

• Use the base dough from our Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies (#1).
• Instead of 2 cups of chocolate chips, use a combination of whatever you have on hand!
• Great additions include:
  • Chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk, white)
  • Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts)
  • Crushed pretzels
  • Crushed potato chips (trust us!)
  • Toffee bits
  • Rolled oats

Instructions:

1. Follow the instructions for the Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies, but get creative with your 2 cups of mix-ins.
2. Bake as directed.

29. Baked Pears with Cinnamon and Honey

An elegant, simple, and healthy-ish dessert. Baking pears brings out their natural sweetness, and the warm spices make them incredibly comforting.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe but firm pears (like Bosc or Anjou)
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the pears in half lengthwise and use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the core.
3. Place the pear halves cut-side up in a small baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix the honey, melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Drizzle this mixture over the pears.
6. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the pears are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Serve warm.

30. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels

The perfect combination of salty and sweet. This is a fun activity for kids and a super easy treat to make for gifts or parties.

Ingredients:

• 1 bag of pretzel rods or twists
• 1 (12 ounce) bag of melting wafers (chocolate, white chocolate, or colored)
• Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or toffee bits for decorating

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the wafers according to the package directions. A microwave is easiest.
3. Dip each pretzel about two-thirds of the way into the melted chocolate, using a spoon to help coat it.
4. Lay the dipped pretzels on the parchment paper.
5. Before the chocolate sets, add your desired toppings.
6. Let them sit at room temperature or in the fridge until the chocolate is completely firm.

31. Easy Peach Cobbler

Use canned or fresh peaches to make this classic Southern dessert. The cake-like topping is incredibly simple to whip up.

Ingredients:

• 1 (29 ounce) can of sliced peaches in heavy syrup, undrained (or 4 cups fresh sliced peaches)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pour the melted butter into an 8×8 inch baking dish.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk to create a smooth batter.
4. Pour the batter over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir.
5. Spoon the peaches (with their syrup) over the batter. Again, do not stir.
6. Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The batter will rise up and around the peaches to form the crust.

32. Oreo Truffles

Another three-ingredient wonder! These are rich, decadent, and look way more complicated than they are.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of Oreo cookies (about 36)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 (12 ounce) bag of white or semi-sweet chocolate melting wafers

Instructions:

1. Crush the entire package of Oreos into very fine crumbs using a food processor. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the crumbs for topping.
2. In a bowl, mix the remaining Oreo crumbs with the softened cream cheese until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Freeze the balls for about 15 minutes.
5. Melt the chocolate wafers.
6. Dip each frozen ball into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Place it back on the parchment paper.
7. Sprinkle with the reserved Oreo crumbs before the chocolate sets.
8. Refrigerate until firm.

33. Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies

Get the gorgeous color and classic flavor of red velvet cake in a soft, chewy cookie.

Ingredients:

• 1 box of red velvet cake mix
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional, but recommended!)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and oil.
3. Stir in the white chocolate chips, if using.
4. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes.

34. Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie (Pizookie)

A giant, warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie baked in a cast-iron skillet. It’s meant to be eaten straight from the pan with scoops of ice cream on top.

Ingredients:

• Use the dough from our Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies (#1).
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Generously grease a 10-inch cast-iron skillet.
3. Press the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set but still soft.
5. Let it cool for a few minutes, then top with several scoops of vanilla ice cream and dig in!

35. Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites

Salty, sweet, and crunchy. These are ridiculously addictive and take only a few minutes to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 (16 ounce) bag of small pretzel twists
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the oil, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Add the pretzels and toss gently until they are evenly coated.
4. Spread the pretzels in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
6. Let them cool completely. They will crisp up as they cool. Store in an airtight container.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What if I don’t have the right size pan? Don’t worry! You can often adapt. If your pan is slightly larger, your bars or cake will be thinner and may need less baking time. If it’s smaller, they will be thicker and likely need more time. Keep an eye on it and use the toothpick test to check for doneness.

2. Can I substitute oil for butter? In many recipes, yes, but it will change the flavor and texture. Butter provides a richer flavor, while oil tends to make cakes and breads moister. For cookies, using oil instead of butter can make them more cake-like or greasy, so it’s best to stick with butter if the recipe calls for it.

3. My cookies spread out too much. What did I do wrong? This is a common problem! It’s usually because your butter was too soft or melted. Another culprit is not using enough flour. For most cookie recipes, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can solve the problem.

4. How do I know when my brownies are perfectly baked? For fudgy brownies, you want to slightly underbake them. The classic toothpick test is a good guide: when you insert it into the center, it should come out with moist, fudgy crumbs attached, not wet batter. If it comes out completely clean, they might be overbaked and more cake-like.

5. How should I store my baked goods? Most cookies, bars, and breads can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days. Anything with a cream cheese or whipped topping frosting (like Chocolate Lasagna or Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars) should be stored in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Baking doesn’t have to be an intimidating, all-day affair. As you can see, some of the most delicious and satisfying desserts come from the simplest recipes. The real magic of baking isn’t just in the final product; it’s in the process. It’s about slowing down, focusing on a task, and creating something wonderful with your own two hands. So the next time you have a craving or just need a little boost, remember this list. Pick a recipe, turn on some music, and enjoy the sweet, simple pleasure of baking.

One final thought to leave you with: don’t be afraid to experiment! Once you’re comfortable with a base recipe, like the cake mix cookies or the magic bars, try swapping out flavors and mix-ins. Add a different extract, try a new kind of chip, or throw in some chopped candy bars. The kitchen is your playground, and the best recipes are often the ones you make your own.