Baking is a wonderful way to relax and create delicious treats with your own hands. For those who are new to baking or looking for simple recipes, you might be asking, what is the easiest thing to bake? There are many straightforward recipes that even a novice can master, such as banana bread, chocolate chip cookies, and more. These recipes require minimal ingredients, have easy-to-follow instructions, and can be prepared in a short amount of time. Let’s explore some of the easiest things to bake that anyone can try at home!
What Makes a Recipe Easy to Bake?
To find the easiest baking recipes, it’s helpful to understand the characteristics that make a recipe truly simple. Generally, easy baking recipes share these qualities:
- Minimal Ingredients: Fewer ingredients mean less prep time and fewer chances for mistakes.
- Simple Instructions: Clear, step-by-step directions are crucial for success, especially for beginners.
- Short Preparation and Baking Time: Recipes that can be quickly prepared and baked are perfect for those who want a fast, satisfying experience.
If you’re looking for more beginner-friendly options, take a look at our easy dessert recipes that are designed to be simple yet delicious, perfect for those just starting their baking journey. You can also explore BBC Good Food’s easy baking recipes for additional ideas.
Top 10 Easiest Things to Bake
1. Banana Bread
Banana bread is a staple in easy baking recipes. It’s forgiving, versatile, and a great way to use up overripe bananas. With just a few ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and bananas, you can create a moist, delicious loaf that is perfect for any time of day.
Why it’s easy:
- Uses basic ingredients that are often already in your kitchen.
- Simple to prepare: mash bananas, mix with other ingredients, pour into a pan, and bake.
- Flexible with add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or spices.
Pro Tips:
- Use overripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread light and tender.
For a refreshing alternative to traditional baking, consider trying our banana popsicles recipe for a cool treat!
2. Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate chip cookies are a universal favorite and incredibly easy to make. They require just a few pantry staples like flour, sugar, butter, and chocolate chips. The dough can be prepared in minutes, and the cookies bake quickly, providing a sweet treat in no time.
Why it’s easy:
- Minimal ingredients that are inexpensive and readily available.
- Quick to prepare and bake.
- A versatile recipe that allows for creativity, such as adding nuts or using different types of chocolate.
Pro Tips:
- For softer cookies, use more brown sugar than white sugar.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
For more chocolate chip cookie variations, check out this guide from the New York Times for expert tips and recipes.
3. Muffins
Muffins are a fantastic choice for a beginner baker. Start with a basic muffin recipe and add your favorite mix-ins like blueberries, chocolate chips, or nuts. The batter is easy to make, and muffins bake quickly.
Why it’s easy:
- Simple ingredients and minimal steps.
- Quick baking time of 15-20 minutes.
- Easily customizable to suit different tastes.
Pro Tips:
- Fill muffin tins two-thirds full to allow for proper rising.
- Use paper liners or grease the muffin tin to prevent sticking.
Explore more simple baking options in our simplest type of dessert to find quick and easy recipes that anyone can enjoy. For additional muffin ideas, try Epicurious’ muffin recipes.
4. Brownies
Brownies are a beginner’s delight, offering rich, chocolatey goodness with minimal effort. Whether you like them fudgy or cakey, brownies require only a few ingredients: cocoa powder, sugar, butter, eggs, and a small amount of flour. Mix everything together, pour into a pan, and bake until just set.
Why it’s easy:
- Few ingredients and straightforward instructions.
- Quick preparation and baking time.
- Flexible recipe that can be adapted for different textures and flavors.
Pro Tips:
- For fudgy brownies, use less flour and more fat (like butter).
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for fudgy brownies.
Looking for the perfect brownie recipe? Visit Delish’s best brownie recipes for inspiration.
5. Scones
Scones are quick to prepare and delicious, whether sweet or savory. They are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. The key to good scones is handling the dough gently to keep them light and flaky.
Why it’s easy:
- Basic ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and milk or cream.
- Simple to mix and shape.
- Can be flavored with fruit, cheese, or spices to suit your taste.
Pro Tips:
- Use cold butter to achieve a flaky texture.
- Do not overmix the dough; it should be just combined.
For a classic recipe, check out Mary Berry’s scone recipe from BBC Food.
6. Shortbread Cookies
Shortbread cookies are among the easiest cookies to bake, requiring only three ingredients: flour, sugar, and butter. They are quick to prepare and bake, with a buttery, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth.
Why it’s easy:
- Only three ingredients needed.
- Minimal mixing required.
- Short baking time with easy-to-follow instructions.
Pro Tips:
- Chill the dough before baking to help the cookies keep their shape.
- Use a fork to create decorative marks on the surface of the cookies before baking.
Looking for variations? Try these shortbread recipes from Martha Stewart.
7. Cupcakes
Cupcakes are a delightful and easy option for any occasion. A basic vanilla or chocolate cupcake recipe requires only a few ingredients and can be decorated with frosting and sprinkles for a fun touch.
Why it’s easy:
- Straightforward batter that comes together quickly.
- Quick baking time.
- Versatile for decoration and flavoring.
Pro Tips:
- Do not overfill the cupcake liners; fill them about two-thirds full.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
For creative cupcake ideas, explore these cupcake recipes from Food Network.
8. Traybakes (Sheet Cakes)
Traybakes, also known as sheet cakes, are ideal for feeding a crowd with minimal effort. These cakes are baked in a single rectangular pan, making them easy to prepare and serve. Popular options include lemon bars, brownie trays, and gingerbread poke cake.
Why it’s easy:
- Simple one-bowl recipes.
- Large yield with minimal effort.
- Easy to customize with different flavors or toppings.
Pro Tips:
- Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
Find more traybake ideas in this collection from Olive Magazine.
9. Pound Cake
Pound cake is made from a simple formula using equal parts flour, butter, eggs, and sugar. It’s dense, moist, and perfect for any occasion, from everyday treats to special celebrations.
Why it’s easy:
- Simple ingredient list and method.
- Dense texture is forgiving of minor mistakes.
- Adaptable to different flavorings.
Pro Tips:
- Cream the butter and sugar well to incorporate air and ensure a tender texture.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when the cake is baked through.
Check out this pound cake recipe by Bon Appétit for a classic version.
10. Quick Breads (e.g., Cornbread, Zucchini Bread)
Quick breads like cornbread or zucchini bread are easy to make and don’t require yeast, meaning no waiting for the dough to rise. Simply mix the ingredients, pour into a pan, and bake.
Why it’s easy:
- No yeast or rising time needed.
- Simple mix-and-bake method.
- Great for using up extra fruits or vegetables.
Pro Tips:
- Do not overmix; stir until the ingredients are just combined.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
For more variations, try these quick bread recipes from King Arthur Baking.
Tips for Beginners to Start Baking
Baking can seem intimidating at first, but with a few helpful tips, you can set yourself up for success. Here are some practical tips for beginner bakers:
- Start with Simple Recipes: Choose recipes that require minimal ingredients and equipment. Focus on mastering the basics, such as measuring ingredients correctly, mixing dough or batter, and setting the right baking temperature.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients can make a big difference in the final product. Use fresh flour, real butter, and pure extracts for the best results.
- Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, and precise measurements are key. Use measuring cups and spoons for dry ingredients and a liquid measuring cup for wet ingredients. Level off dry ingredients with a flat edge to ensure you’re using the correct amount.
- Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature before you start baking. An oven that’s too cold or too hot can affect the texture and cooking time of your baked goods.
- Follow the Recipe Closely: Read through the entire recipe before you begin. Follow the steps in order, and don’t skip any instructions. This is especially important for beginner bakers to avoid common mistakes.
- Learn from Mistakes: Baking is a learning process. If a recipe doesn’t turn out perfectly the first time, try to figure out what went wrong and try again. Practice makes perfect!
FAQs
What is the simplest thing to bake from scratch?
Some of the simplest recipes to bake from scratch are banana bread and chocolate chip cookies. These recipes require minimal ingredients and simple steps, making them perfect for beginners.
Can I bake without an oven?
Yes, there are several no-bake desserts available, such as no-bake cookies, stovetop brownies, or even cheesecakes that set in the refrigerator. These recipes are ideal if you don’t have access to an oven or want to try something different.
What can I bake with limited ingredients?
If you have limited ingredients, you can try making shortbread cookies, pancakes, or a basic muffin. These recipes use minimal ingredients and are quick and easy to prepare.
How can I make my baked goods healthier?
You can make your baked goods healthier by using whole wheat flour instead of white flour, opting for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, and adding fruits or vegetables to boost the nutritional content.
What are some easy gluten-free baking recipes?
Almond flour cookies and coconut flour brownies are great gluten-free options that are simple to bake and delicious.
Conclusion
Baking is a delightful and rewarding experience that doesn’t have to be complicated. By starting with these easy recipes, you can enjoy the process of creating delicious homemade treats with minimal effort. Whether you’re whipping up a batch of chocolate chip cookies or experimenting with banana bread, remember to have fun and embrace the experience. With practice, you’ll find your confidence growing, and soon you might be ready to tackle more complex recipes.
So, preheat your oven, grab your mixing bowl, and get ready to enjoy the simple pleasures of baking. Happy baking!
By incorporating these easy and enjoyable recipes into your routine, you’ll not only satisfy your cravings but also enhance your culinary skills, one delicious bake at a time.