13 Delicious and Healthy Holiday Baking Recipes to Try

Healthy holiday baking doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor or fun! With these tasty recipes, you can whip up delightful treats that are both good for you and a joy to share. From wholesome ingredients to creative twists on traditional favorites, these recipes will help you make the most of your holiday baking while keeping it nutritious.

Wholesome Gingerbread Cookies To Spice Up Your Holidays

Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that brings warmth and cheer to any gathering. The image showcases a delightful platter filled with beautifully decorated gingerbread cookies, featuring cheerful gingerbread men and festive star shapes. Each cookie is adorned with colorful icing and sprinkles, making them not just tasty but also a feast for the eyes.

These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family or for enjoying during cozy nights by the fire. The aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg fills the air as they bake, creating a comforting atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the season. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just for fun, these wholesome gingerbread cookies will surely spice up your holidays.

Let’s get started on making these delicious cookies!

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Royal icing for decoration
• Colored sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Roll and Cut: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are firm. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
7. Decorate: Once cooled, use royal icing and colored sprinkles to decorate your cookies as desired.

Classic Pumpkin Spice Bread To Warm Your Home

Nothing says cozy like the smell of pumpkin spice bread baking in the oven. This classic recipe brings together the rich flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen. The golden loaf, with its soft texture and delightful aroma, is perfect for chilly days.

As you slice into the bread, you’ll find a moist interior that’s just right for spreading a little butter or enjoying plain. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s about creating memories with loved ones. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this pumpkin spice bread is sure to please.

Ingredients

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies For A Healthy Treat

Chewy oatmeal raisin cookies are a delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the natural sweetness of raisins. These cookies are perfect for anyone looking for a healthier dessert option during the holidays. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with flavor, making them a favorite for both kids and adults.

The image showcases a stack of these delicious cookies, highlighting their golden-brown color and chewy texture. A glass of milk sits nearby, ready to complement the cookies perfectly. This scene captures the cozy essence of holiday baking, inviting you to indulge without the guilt.

Making these cookies is simple and fun. You can enjoy the process of mixing ingredients and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake. Let’s get started on this tasty recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
4. Add Oats and Raisins: Fold in the rolled oats and raisins (and nuts if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
6. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Satisfying Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Cookies

These whole wheat chocolate chip cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. They bring together the rich taste of chocolate with the wholesome goodness of whole wheat flour. The cookies are golden brown, with a slightly crispy edge and a soft, chewy center. The chocolate chips melt beautifully, creating pockets of sweetness that make each bite irresistible.

Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, these cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk. The festive tablecloth adds a cheerful touch, making them a great addition to any holiday spread. Baking these cookies fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that brings everyone together.

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips.
7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Coconut Flour Sugar Cookies For A Delightful Crunch

These coconut flour sugar cookies are a delightful twist on a classic treat. The image showcases a colorful assortment of beautifully decorated cookies, perfect for any holiday gathering. With their festive shapes and vibrant icing, they bring a cheerful vibe to your dessert table.

Coconut flour is a fantastic alternative to traditional flour. It adds a subtle sweetness and a unique texture that makes these cookies stand out. Plus, they are gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Making these cookies is simple and fun. You can involve the whole family in decorating them, turning baking into a joyful activity. The combination of coconut flour and sugar creates a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the sweet icing.

Ingredients

• 1 cup coconut flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup colorful icing for decoration
• Sprinkles for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix coconut flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
6. Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
9. Once cooled, decorate with icing and sprinkles as desired.

Decadent Apple Cinnamon Crumble Bars To Savor

These Apple Cinnamon Crumble Bars are a delightful treat for the holiday season. They combine the sweet and tart flavors of fresh apples with warm cinnamon, all nestled in a buttery crumble. The bars are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cozy cup of tea.

The image showcases a tempting stack of these bars, beautifully arranged on a wooden platter. Surrounding the bars are vibrant red apples and cinnamon sticks, emphasizing the delicious ingredients that make this dessert special. The warm tones of the wood and the soft fabric in the background create a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for holiday baking.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups peeled and diced apples
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
4. In another bowl, combine diced apples, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust.
5. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the apples.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

Luscious Vegan Chocolate Cake For Every Celebration

Celebrations call for something special, and this vegan chocolate cake fits the bill perfectly! It’s rich, moist, and topped with a glossy chocolate ganache. The vibrant berries on top add a pop of color and a fresh taste that balances the sweetness of the cake.

This cake is not just for vegans; it’s a treat everyone will love. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any gathering. The combination of chocolate and berries makes it visually stunning and delicious.

Let’s get to the fun part—baking this delightful cake!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup vegan chocolate chips
• Fresh berries for topping (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix almond milk, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in the vegan chocolate chips.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Once cooled, frost with your favorite vegan chocolate frosting and top with fresh berries.

Delightful Maple Pecan Pie For A Sweet Finish

Maple pecan pie is a classic dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to any holiday gathering. The image showcases a beautifully baked pie, with a golden crust and a glossy filling topped with perfectly arranged pecans. The vibrant autumn leaves and scattered pecans around the pie add a festive touch, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday table.

This pie combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and toasted pecans, creating a delightful treat that everyone will love. It's not just about taste; the presentation is equally important. The way the pecans are arranged on top adds a decorative flair that makes this pie truly special.

Making this pie is a fun activity to enjoy with family or friends. The aroma of the pie baking will fill your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked pie crust
• 1 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
• Whole pecans for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped pecans, mixing well.
4. Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Arrange whole pecans on top for decoration.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
7. Allow the pie to cool before slicing. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

Wholesome Banana Bread With Walnuts For Cozy Moments

Banana bread is a classic comfort food that brings warmth to any kitchen. The image shows a freshly baked loaf, golden brown and inviting, with slices revealing its soft, moist interior. The walnuts add a delightful crunch, making each bite satisfying. This bread is perfect for cozy moments, whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a quick snack.

Using ripe bananas is key to achieving that sweet flavor and moist texture. The walnuts not only enhance the taste but also provide healthy fats and protein. This recipe is simple, making it easy to whip up on a chilly day. Plus, it fills your home with a wonderful aroma that makes everyone feel at ease.

Gather your ingredients and get ready to bake a loaf that will surely become a family favorite. It’s a great way to use up overripe bananas and create something delicious!

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup sugar (or honey)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted coconut oil. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Add baking soda and salt, mixing well. Then, add the sugar and beaten egg, stirring until combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing just until incorporated. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Scrumptious Vegan Snickerdoodle Cookies For A Twist

These vegan snickerdoodle cookies are a delightful twist on a classic treat. They are soft, chewy, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor. The image shows a plate of freshly baked cookies, dusted with a light sprinkle of sugar, perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. The cozy setting, complete with a candle and pinecones, adds to the holiday spirit.

Making these cookies is simple and fun. You can whip them up in no time, making them a great addition to your holiday baking list. They are not only delicious but also a healthier option for those looking to enjoy treats without the dairy or eggs.

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix almond flour, all-purpose flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, cream of tartar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
5. Flatten each ball slightly with your hand and sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Creative Holiday Spice Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting

This holiday season, treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful spice cake topped with creamy frosting. The image captures a beautiful three-layer cake, adorned with festive decorations like pine cones and berries. The warm tones of the cake contrast perfectly with the bright whites of the frosting, making it a stunning centerpiece for any holiday gathering.

The cake itself is packed with warm spices, creating a cozy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rich cream cheese frosting. This dessert is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a delicious way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cake is sure to bring joy to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
7. For the frosting, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
8. Once the cakes are cool, spread frosting between the layers and on top of the cake. Decorate with festive toppings like berries and pine cones.

Delicious Carrot Cake Muffins For A Nutritious Snack

Carrot cake muffins are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. They bring the warmth of spices and the sweetness of carrots into a handy snack form. Perfect for a nutritious treat, these muffins are moist, flavorful, and topped with a creamy frosting that adds just the right touch of indulgence.

In the image, you can see beautifully baked carrot cake muffins adorned with a swirl of cream cheese frosting. The vibrant orange carrot pieces and the decorative sprinkles on top make them visually appealing. Surrounding the muffins are fresh carrots and nuts, hinting at the wholesome ingredients packed inside.

These muffins are not just tasty; they also offer a great way to sneak in some veggies. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, they fit perfectly into any meal plan. Let’s get to the recipe so you can whip up a batch!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in the grated carrots, walnuts, and raisins if using.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Enjoy these carrot cake muffins warm or at room temperature. They make a wonderful snack or dessert that everyone will love!

Lemon Blueberry Scones For A Refreshing Treat

Lemon blueberry scones are a delightful way to brighten up any holiday gathering. These scones are bursting with fresh blueberries and zesty lemon flavor, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. The combination of sweet and tart creates a refreshing taste that everyone will love.

In the image, you can see beautifully baked scones drizzled with a sweet glaze, surrounded by fresh blueberries and slices of lemon. The vibrant colors make them look irresistible and inviting. These scones not only taste great but also add a cheerful touch to your holiday table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gently fold in the blueberries and lemon zest.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before drizzling with glaze.