Now that the sunshine has faded and the chill has set in, there’s nothing better than turning your home into a cosy haven. One of our favourite ways to embrace the colder months is by firing up the oven and filling the kitchen with the scent of freshly baked cookies, brownies and comforting treats. Not only will your home smell wonderful, but a sweet bake is the perfect pick-me-up for grey winter days.
Our easy chocolate chip cookies are the ultimate comfort bake. Golden at the edges, soft and chewy in the middle, and generously studded with chunks of melting chocolate. They strike that perfect balance between crisp and gooey, making them impossible to stop at just one.
It seems we’re not alone in this mindset. With The Great British Bake Off back on our screens, home baking is once again having a moment – inspiring many of us to try our hand at new recipes. If you’re looking for ideas, explore our guide to classic British bakes you need to try, and make sure your creations go smoothly with our top baking hacks. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, our essential baking equipment checklist will help you stay organised and avoid any mishaps along the way.
If you’re after a sweet treat that’s low effort but delivers big on flavour, these chocolate chip cookies are just the thing. They’re ready in just over half an hour – ideal for dunking in a cuppa or enjoying warm from the oven while still soft and oozy. Pair with a scoop of ice cream for an irresistible hot and cold dessert. They also freeze beautifully, allowing you to bake them to order and reduce waste.
If you’re looking to add a little flair to your classic bake, check out our guide to the top twists on chocolate chip cookies.
Carrot cake is a classic autumn baking treat. This recipe makes the most of seasonal root veg, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg and lifted with a hint of orange for a wonderfully warming flavour. With over 1,000 five-star reviews, it’s a tried-and-tested favourite you can count on to deliver every time.
If you can’t get enough of that classic carrot cake flavour, take a look at our guide to the top ways with carrot cake for delicious ideas to use it in all your bakes.
It’s hard to top reviews like “the best ever blueberry muffins” and “I’ve been using this recipe for years and always get great results!”. Follow our step-by-step video to bake along, then let us know if you agree – we love hearing how our Good Food community gets on.
Explore our collection of muffin recipes for both sweet and savoury bakes.
Combine a buttery shortbread base with a gooey caramel centre and a rich chocolate topping, and you’ve got millionaire’s shortbread. This recipe makes 24 squares, perfect for sharing at a coffee morning (though we wouldn’t blame you if they disappear a little sooner – they’re that moreish).
Browse our shortbread recipes to perfect the art of baking this classic buttery, crumbly biscuit.
These cinnamon rolls take a little extra effort, but they’re absolutely worth it. Soft, spiced and topped with rich cream cheese icing, they’re the definition of breakfast perfection. Prepare them the day before for an effortless morning treat, or try our air fryer cinnamon rolls for a beginner-friendly option – they still need proving time but bake in just 20 minutes.
The salted caramel layer adds a touch of sophistication to these fudgy brownies, but they’re surprisingly easy to make. Ready in under an hour with fewer than 10 ingredients, this budget-friendly bake boasts a luxurious twist.
If you’re a chocoholic, explore our best ever brownie recipes – the ultimate way to get your chocolate fix.
If you’re after a bake that feels a little more virtuous, banana bread is the way to go. It’s the perfect use for overripe bananas — consider it doing your bit to cut food waste, one slice at a time. Our chocolate chip version could also help you use up leftover chocolate… though, as many followers on our social media channels have pointed out, “leftover chocolate” isn’t really a thing.
For more simple, fun ideas to cut down on food waste, take a look at our handy guide on how to waste less food without trying.
Make the most of pears while they’re in season, from September to February, with this comforting crumble. The fruit is tossed in a silky caramel sauce and flavoured with vanilla bean paste, then topped with a nutty pecan crumble for extra crunch. Serve warm with custard or a scoop of ice cream – whichever team you’re on, it’s sure to hit the spot.
Just starting on your crumble-making journey? Begin with our guide to how to make a crumble, then explore our most popular crumble recipes and best crumble toppings for plenty of inspiration.
Ginger is known for its numerous health benefits — it can help ease colds, reduce sickness and even possess anti-inflammatory properties. While fresh ginger is most potent, you’ll still get a little boost from these spiced ginger biscuits, which include both fresh and ginger powder. Who knew fighting off the winter sniffles could taste this good?
Using shop-bought puff pastry means these hand pies can be ready in under an hour. They can also be frozen before baking, so you’ll always have a speedy, warming treat to hand on chilly autumn days.
Explore more of our apple dessert recipes for cosy, comforting bakes.
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