15 Classic Dessert Recipes Every Baker Should Know

Every baker should have a collection of classic dessert recipes that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, mastering the basics is key to creating sweet treats that never fail. From fluffy cakes to gooey cookies, these timeless recipes have been passed down through generations, ensuring delicious results every time.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Classic chocolate chip cookies are a must for any baker. To make a batch, combine 2 ¼ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. In another bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, ¾ cup of sugar, and ¾ cup of brown sugar until fluffy. Add 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients. Stir in 2 cups of chocolate chips and drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

Vanilla Cupcakes

Vanilla cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser and easy to make. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a cupcake tin with paper liners. In a bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, cream ½ cup of softened butter with 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, followed by 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix in the dry ingredients alternately with ½ cup of milk until just combined. Fill the liners two-thirds full and bake for 18-20 minutes.

Fudgy Brownies

For rich and fudgy brownies, start by melting ½ cup of butter and ½ cup of chocolate together. Once melted, whisk in 1 cup of sugar and 2 eggs, beating until smooth. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold in ¾ cup of flour and ¼ cup of cocoa powder. Pour the batter into a greased 9×9 pan and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set. Let cool before slicing into squares for the ultimate chocolate treat.

Lemon Bars

Lemon bars are the perfect balance of tart and sweet. To make the crust, combine 1 cup of flour, ¼ cup of sugar, and ½ cup of butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8 baking dish and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. While the crust bakes, whisk together 1 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, 3 eggs, and ½ cup of lemon juice. Pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Cool completely before cutting into bars for a refreshing dessert.

Cheesecake

A creamy cheesecake is a staple for any baker. For the crust, mix 1 ½ cups of crushed graham crackers with ¼ cup of melted butter, pressing it into the bottom of a springform pan. In a large bowl, beat together 24 ounces of cream cheese, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Add 3 eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Pour the mixture over the crust and bake at 325°F for 55-60 minutes. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for a few hours before serving.

Apple Pie

Apple pie is a timeless dessert that everyone should master. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and preparing your pie crust. In a bowl, toss 6 peeled and sliced apples with ¾ cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Place one crust in a 9-inch pie pan, fill with the apple mixture, and dot with 2 tablespoons of butter. Cover with the second crust, crimping the edges together. Cut a few slits in the top for venting and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Tiramisu

Tiramisu brings a taste of Italy to your dessert menu. Start by whisking 6 egg yolks with ¾ cup of sugar in a double boiler until pale and thick. Remove from heat and mix in 16 ounces of mascarpone cheese until smooth. In another bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold it into the mascarpone mixture. Dip ladyfinger cookies into 1 cup of strong coffee and layer them in a dish. Spread the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers and repeat with another layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, then dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Red Velvet Cake

Red velvet cake is as stunning as it is delicious. Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F and greasing two 9-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of flour, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. In another bowl, cream 1 cup of butter with 2 cups of sugar until fluffy. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix in 1 cup of buttermilk and 2 tablespoons of red food coloring, then fold in the dry ingredients. Divide the batter between the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Banana Bread

Banana bread is a comforting classic, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Mash 3 ripe bananas in a large bowl, then mix in ⅓ cup of melted butter. Stir in ½ cup of sugar, 1 beaten egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of baking soda and a pinch of salt over the mixture, then fold in 1 ½ cups of flour. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Crème Brûlée

Crème brûlée is an elegant dessert that’s easier to make than it looks. Preheat your oven to 325°F and heat 2 cups of heavy cream with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a saucepan until warm. In a bowl, whisk together 5 egg yolks and ½ cup of sugar until pale and creamy. Slowly pour the warm cream into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Strain the mixture into ramekins, place them in a baking dish, and fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides. Bake for 40-45 minutes, then refrigerate. Before serving, sprinkle with sugar and torch until caramelized.

Chocolate Mousse

Chocolate mousse is rich and velvety, a must-know for any dessert lover. Melt 1 cup of dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Once melted, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and let it cool slightly. In a separate bowl, beat 3 egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold the egg whites into the cooled chocolate mixture. In another bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold it into the chocolate mixture. Spoon the mousse into serving dishes and chill for at least 2 hours before enjoying.

Pecan Pie

Pecan pie is a Southern classic, perfect for any occasion. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of corn syrup, ¾ cup of sugar, 3 eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ¼ cup of melted butter. Stir in 1 ½ cups of pecan halves and pour the mixture into the pie crust. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Let the pie cool before slicing for the best flavor and texture.

Chocolate Soufflé

A chocolate soufflé is impressive yet surprisingly simple to make. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease four ramekins with butter, then dust them with sugar. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 3 tablespoons of flour, whisking constantly. Slowly add 1 cup of milk and cook until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 6 ounces of melted chocolate and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool slightly before folding in 4 beaten egg whites. Pour the batter into the ramekins and bake for 18-20 minutes until puffed and set.

Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie is a holiday favorite that’s easy to perfect. Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare your pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan. In a large bowl, whisk together 15 ounces of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir in 2 eggs and 1 cup of evaporated milk until smooth. Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for another 40-50 minutes. Let the pie cool before serving with a dollop of whipped cream.

Pound Cake

Pound cake is a simple yet satisfying dessert. Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease a loaf pan. In a bowl, cream 1 cup of butter with 2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy. Add 4 eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gradually mix in 3 cups of flour, alternating with 1 cup of milk, until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cake in the pan before slicing and serving.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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