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25 Easy Holiday Baking Ideas Perfect for New Year Celebrations

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Introduction

New Year celebrations are the perfect excuse to fill your kitchen with comforting aromas and share something sweet with the people you love. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these holiday baking ideas are simple, festive, and full of flavor. From classic cookies to crowd-pleasing cakes, this list is packed with recipes that fit the season and feel joyful without being complicated.

1. Vanilla Confetti New Year Cupcakes

These cupcakes bring instant cheer with their soft crumb and colorful look, making them a favorite for New Year gatherings of all sizes. The vanilla base is light and comforting, while the sprinkles add a playful holiday touch. They’re easy to bake in batches and decorate with kids or friends. Perfect for countdown parties or afternoon treats. The balance of sweetness keeps them enjoyable even after a big meal.

Ingredients

  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan.
  2. Cream butter and sugar until light.
  3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
  4. Mix dry ingredients separately.
  5. Add dry ingredients and milk alternately to batter.
  6. Fill liners ⅔ full and bake 18–20 minutes.
  7. Cool completely before frosting.

How to Serve It
 Top with vanilla or cream cheese frosting and a generous sprinkle of confetti sprinkles. Add edible pearls or a light dusting of sugar for sparkle. Serve on a tiered stand for parties. Pair with hot chocolate or sparkling cider. These also pack well for gifting.

2. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Chocolate crinkle cookies are soft on the inside with a slightly crisp edge, making them a classic holiday favorite. Their snowy powdered sugar coating feels just right for winter celebrations. The deep chocolate flavor satisfies without being heavy. They’re great for cookie trays and casual gatherings alike. Each bite feels familiar and comforting.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cocoa powder
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix cocoa, sugar, and oil until smooth.
  3. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
  4. Stir in dry ingredients. Chill dough 30 minutes.
  5. Roll into balls, coat in powdered sugar.
  6. Bake 10–12 minutes. Cool on racks.

How to Serve It
 Arrange on a white platter to show off the cracked tops. Add a light extra dusting of powdered sugar before serving. Pair with coffee or milk. These cookies also freeze well. Serve slightly warm for softer centers.

3. Lemon Glazed Loaf Cake

This lemon loaf cake brings a fresh, citrusy note to balance richer holiday desserts. The crumb is tender and moist, while the glaze adds a sweet-tart finish. It works beautifully for brunches or afternoon tea. Simple ingredients make it approachable for any baker. The bright flavor feels refreshing after heavy meals.

Ingredients

  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ½ cup butter, melted
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1½ tsp baking powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease loaf pan.
  2. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
  3. Whisk wet ingredients separately.
  4. Combine gently until smooth.
  5. Bake 45–50 minutes. Cool before glazing.

How to Serve It
 Drizzle with lemon glaze and let it set. Garnish with thin lemon slices or zest curls. Slice thick for serving. Pair with tea or espresso. Keeps well wrapped for several days.

4. Cinnamon Sugar Puff Pastry Bites

These bite-sized pastries are flaky, sweet, and incredibly easy to prepare. Using store-bought puff pastry saves time while still feeling special. The cinnamon sugar coating adds warmth and comfort. They bake quickly, making them perfect for last-minute plans. Ideal for sharing straight from the oven.

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut pastry into small squares.
  3. Brush with butter.
  4. Toss with cinnamon sugar.
  5. Bake 15–18 minutes until golden.

How to Serve It
 Serve warm with a light dusting of sugar. Add a small bowl of chocolate or caramel sauce. Arrange on a wooden board for a casual feel. Best enjoyed fresh. Great alongside coffee.

5. Almond Shortbread Cookies

Almond shortbread cookies are buttery, tender, and lightly nutty. Their simple flavor makes them a calm contrast to richer sweets. They hold their shape well, making them ideal for gifting. The texture melts gently with each bite. A timeless holiday option.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup ground almonds
  • ½ tsp almond extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Cream butter and sugar.
  3. Mix in flour, almonds, extract.
  4. Shape into rounds.
  5. Bake 20–25 minutes until pale golden.

How to Serve It
 Serve with tea or light coffee. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired. Stack in small gift bags. Pair with fresh berries. Keep in an airtight tin.

6. Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Cookie bars offer all the comfort of classic cookies with less effort. They bake evenly and slice beautifully. The soft center and crisp edges make them popular with all ages. Perfect for feeding a crowd. Simple and familiar flavors shine here.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter, melted
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup white sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1½ cups chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix butter and sugars.
  3. Add eggs, then dry ingredients.
  4. Fold in chocolate chips.
  5. Bake in pan 25–30 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Cut into squares once cooled. Serve plain or with ice cream. Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Stack on a platter. Great slightly warm.

7. Orange Cranberry Muffins

These muffins combine tart cranberries with fragrant orange zest for a festive flavor mix. They’re moist, colorful, and great for breakfast or snacks. The citrus aroma fills the kitchen while baking. Easy to make ahead. A lighter option among holiday sweets.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • ⅓ cup oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup cranberries
  • 1 tbsp orange zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Mix dry ingredients.
  3. Whisk wet ingredients separately.
  4. Combine gently, fold in cranberries.
  5. Bake 18–22 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Serve warm with butter. Add a light orange glaze if desired. Arrange in a basket with napkins. Pair with tea. Store covered to keep moist.

8. Brownie Bites

Brownie bites pack rich chocolate flavor into small portions. They’re easy to share and feel indulgent without being too heavy. Crisp edges and soft centers make them irresistible. Perfect for dessert tables. Great for chocolate lovers.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • ⅓ cup cocoa powder
  • ½ cup flour
  • ¼ tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Melt butter and mix with sugar.
  3. Add eggs, then dry ingredients.
  4. Bake in mini pan 15–18 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Dust lightly with powdered sugar. Serve with berries. Add a dollop of whipped cream. Stack on a tiered tray. Enjoy warm or cooled.

9. Gingerbread Loaf

This gingerbread loaf is warmly spiced and softly textured. It brings classic holiday flavors without complex steps. The aroma alone feels comforting. Perfect for quiet evenings or sharing. Keeps well for days.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ginger
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp cloves
  • ½ cup molasses
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup oil
  • 1 cup hot water

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix dry spices and flour.
  3. Stir in wet ingredients.
  4. Pour into loaf pan.
  5. Bake 50–55 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Serve plain or with whipped cream. Add a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair with tea. Slice thick for cozy servings. Store wrapped.

10. Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

Thumbprint cookies combine buttery dough with fruity jam centers. The contrast of textures keeps them interesting. They look festive without extra decoration. Easy to customize with different jams. Great for holiday trays.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 cups flour
  • ½ cup raspberry jam

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cream butter and sugar.
  3. Add yolk and flour.
  4. Shape balls, press centers.
  5. Fill with jam and bake 12–15 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Let jam set before serving. Sprinkle with sugar if desired. Arrange in rows on a platter. Pair with tea. Store carefully to keep shape.

11. Coconut Macaroons

Coconut macaroons are chewy, lightly crisp, and naturally festive. They use simple ingredients and bake quickly. The coconut flavor is rich yet gentle. Perfect for gluten-free friendly tables. Easy to dip in chocolate if desired.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups shredded coconut
  • ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 egg whites

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Mix coconut, milk, vanilla.
  3. Beat egg whites to soft peaks.
  4. Fold together.
  5. Bake 20–25 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Serve plain or drizzle with chocolate. Arrange on parchment-lined trays. Pair with coffee. Let cool fully. Store airtight.

12. Blueberry Crumble Bars

These bars layer sweet berries with a buttery crumble. They slice neatly and travel well. The fruit adds brightness among holiday sweets. Great for casual gatherings. Enjoyable warm or cool.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup oats
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • ¾ cup butter
  • 2 cups blueberries

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix crumble ingredients.
  3. Press half into pan.
  4. Add berries, top with rest.
  5. Bake 35–40 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Serve with powdered sugar. Add whipped cream if desired. Cut into squares. Pair with tea. Keeps well refrigerated.

13. Chocolate Peppermint Bark Cookies

These cookies blend rich chocolate with cool peppermint crunch. The flavor combo feels seasonal and familiar. Easy to decorate and fun to share. Great for holiday cookie swaps. Bold yet balanced taste.

Ingredients

  • 1½ cups flour
  • ½ cup cocoa powder
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup crushed peppermint candy

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cream butter and sugar.
  3. Add egg and dry ingredients.
  4. Scoop dough, top with candy.
  5. Bake 10–12 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Serve cooled to set topping. Add extra candy bits. Pair with hot cocoa. Display on dark plates. Store airtight.

14. Honey Oatmeal Cookies

Honey oatmeal cookies are soft, lightly sweet, and comforting. The oats add texture without heaviness. Honey gives gentle sweetness. Great for all ages. Simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup oats
  • 1 cup flour
  • ½ cup honey
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 egg
  • ½ tsp baking soda

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cream butter and honey.
  3. Add egg, then dry ingredients.
  4. Scoop onto tray.
  5. Bake 12–15 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Serve with milk or tea. Add a light drizzle of honey. Stack neatly. Enjoy warm. Store covered.

15. Mini Banana Bread Loaves

Mini banana breads are moist, familiar, and easy to portion. They’re perfect for gifting or brunch spreads. Ripe bananas bring natural sweetness. Simple to customize with nuts or chocolate. Always a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • ½ cup butter
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 ripe bananas
  • 1 tsp baking soda

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mash bananas and mix wet ingredients.
  3. Add dry ingredients.
  4. Pour into mini pans.
  5. Bake 30–35 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Serve sliced with butter. Add nuts on top if desired. Wrap for gifting. Pair with coffee. Keeps moist when wrapped.

16. Sugar Cookie Cutouts

Sugar cookie cutouts are a holiday staple. They’re fun to decorate and easy to bake. The dough holds shape well. Perfect for family baking days. Light, sweet flavor.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup butter
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cream butter and sugar.
  3. Add egg and vanilla.
  4. Roll dough, cut shapes.
  5. Bake 8–10 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Decorate with icing. Add sprinkles. Serve on trays. Let icing set. Store between layers.

17. Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Apple cinnamon muffins bring warmth and fruit sweetness together. Soft crumb with tender apple pieces. Ideal for winter mornings. Easy to prepare. Cozy and familiar.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 cup diced apples
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 egg

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Mix dry ingredients.
  3. Add wet ingredients.
  4. Fold in apples.
  5. Bake 18–22 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Serve warm. Add cinnamon sugar topping. Pair with tea. Keep covered. Best same day.

18. Chocolate Marble Pound Cake

This cake blends vanilla and chocolate in a tender crumb. The swirl pattern makes each slice unique. Rich but balanced. Great centerpiece dessert. Keeps well for days.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1½ cups sugar
  • 1 cup butter
  • 4 eggs
  • ¼ cup cocoa powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cream butter and sugar.
  3. Add eggs, then flour.
  4. Divide batter, add cocoa to half.
  5. Swirl and bake 55–60 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Serve plain or with glaze. Add berries. Slice thick. Pair with coffee. Wrap leftovers.

19. Cranberry White Chocolate Cookies

These cookies combine tart cranberries with creamy chocolate. The contrast keeps them interesting. Soft centers with chewy bites. Festive colors. Great for sharing.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • ½ cup sugar
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup white chocolate
  • ¾ cup dried cranberries

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cream butter and sugar.
  3. Add egg and flour.
  4. Fold in mix-ins.
  5. Bake 10–12 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Serve cooled. Add extra chocolate drizzle. Stack on platters. Pair with tea. Store airtight.

20. Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake

This sheet cake is soft, fluffy, and easy to decorate. Perfect for feeding a crowd. Neutral flavor works with many toppings. Simple preparation. Great for parties.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup butter
  • 4 eggs
  • 1½ cups milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix wet and dry ingredients.
  3. Pour into sheet pan.
  4. Bake 30–35 minutes.
  5. Cool before frosting.

How to Serve It
 Frost generously. Add sprinkles. Slice evenly. Serve chilled or room temp. Keeps moist.

21. Peanut Butter Blossoms

These cookies pair nutty dough with chocolate centers. Soft and comforting. Popular at holiday tables. Easy to make. Familiar and loved.

Ingredients

  • 1¾ cups flour
  • ½ cup peanut butter
  • ½ cup sugar
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 egg
  • Chocolate kisses

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix dough ingredients.
  3. Roll balls and bake 10 minutes.
  4. Press chocolate on top.
  5. Cool to set.

How to Serve It
 Serve once chocolate firms. Arrange neatly. Pair with milk. Store cool. Great for trays.

22. Orange Glazed Scones

These scones are tender with citrus notes. Lightly sweet and perfect for mornings. The glaze adds shine. Simple dough. Great with tea.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • ½ cup butter
  • ¾ cup cream
  • 1 tbsp orange zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut butter into dry ingredients.
  3. Add cream and zest.
  4. Shape and cut.
  5. Bake 15–18 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Drizzle glaze once cooled. Serve warm. Add extra zest. Pair with tea. Best same day.

23. Chocolate Fudge Squares

Fudge squares are rich and smooth. Small portions go a long way. Simple ingredients. Great for chocolate fans. Easy to prepare.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups chocolate chips
  • 1 can condensed milk
  • 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

  1. Melt all ingredients together.
  2. Stir until smooth.
  3. Pour into lined pan.
  4. Chill 2 hours.
  5. Cut into squares.

How to Serve It
 Serve chilled or room temp. Add nuts if desired. Arrange in rows. Pair with coffee. Store refrigerated.

24. Maple Walnut Loaf

This loaf has gentle maple sweetness and crunchy walnuts. Soft interior with crisp edges. Cozy winter flavor. Simple to bake. Great for sharing.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • ¾ cup maple syrup
  • ½ cup butter
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup walnuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix wet ingredients.
  3. Add dry ingredients.
  4. Fold in walnuts.
  5. Bake 50 minutes.

How to Serve It
 Slice thick. Add butter. Serve warm. Pair with tea. Wrap leftovers.

25. Chocolate Dipped Shortbread

These cookies combine buttery shortbread with smooth chocolate. Crisp texture with rich finish. Easy yet festive. Perfect for gifting. Simple ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup melted chocolate

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Cream butter and sugar.
  3. Add flour.
  4. Bake 20–25 minutes.
  5. Dip cooled cookies in chocolate.

How to Serve It
 Let chocolate set fully. Arrange neatly. Add sprinkles if desired. Serve with coffee. Store cool.

Conclusion

These easy holiday baking ideas are perfect for welcoming the New Year with warmth, sweetness, and shared moments. Whether you bake one recipe or several, each treat brings comfort and joy to the table. Save your favorites, share them with loved ones, and enjoy every bite as you start the year on a sweet note.

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