Why Gift Baked Goods?

Nothing says "I care" like a box of handmade cookies or a beautifully wrapped loaf of bread. Baked goods are personal, delicious, and can be tailored to the tastes of the recipient. Plus, they offer a perfect balance between simplicity and thoughtfulness.

Key Ingredients to Stock Up On

Before we jump into the recipes, make sure your pantry is stocked with these essential ingredients:

• Flour (all-purpose and/or gluten-free)
• Sugar (granulated, brown, and powdered)
• Butter or Vegan Butter (unsalted is generally best)
• Eggs or Flax Seed
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda
• Salt
• Vanilla Extract
• Milk or Non-Dairy Alternatives
• Spices (like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)

With these basics on hand, you'll be ready to tackle any of the recipes below.

Recipe 1: Anything  Cookies

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs

Add in any mix-ins to switch it up. Here are some ideas:

• 2 cups chocolate chips
• 1 cup of peanut butter chips and 1 cup of chocolate chips
• Sprinkles and 1 tsp of cake batter flavor
• 1 cup of peanut butter
• 1 1/2 cups of chopped chocolate peanut butter cups

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy.
4. Add Eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients gradually.
6. Stir in Chocolate Chips or Mix-Ins.
7. Drop by Rounded Tablespoon onto an ungreased baking sheet.
8. Bake for 9-11 minutes or until golden brown.

Recipe 2: Lemon Bars

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 lemons, juiced

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the butter and 1/2 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add 2 cups flour and mix until combined.
4. Press into the bottom of an ungreased 9x13 inch pan.
5. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven, or until firm and golden.
6. In another bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar and flour. Add eggs and lemon juice, and mix until smooth.
7. Pour over the baked crust.
8. Bake for an additional 20 minutes. The bars will firm up as they cool.

Recipe 3: Banana Bread

Ingredients

• 2 to 3 very ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the butter into the mashed bananas in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add the baking soda and salt to the mixture.
4. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Mix in the flour.
6. Pour the mixture into a buttered 4x8 inch loaf pan.
7. Bake for 60 to 65 minutes. Cool on a rack. Remove from pan and slice to serve.

Packaging Tips

• Use baker boxes lined with parchment paper.
• Add a personal touch with handwritten labels or tags.
• Wrap cookies and bars individually in plastic wrap to keep them fresh.
• Include a card with the recipe so recipients can recreate the magic at home.

Baking gifts for loved ones is a rewarding experience that brings joy to both the giver and the receiver. These easy recipes can help you create delicious treats that are perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!