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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Colgate chapter.

Winter is the perfect time to indulge in the comfort of home-baked treats, filling your kitchen with the warm, inviting aromas of fresh cookies, cakes, and muffins. Whether you’re treating yourself on a quiet morning or sharing something sweet with friends and family, these winter baking recipes are sure to satisfy. From melt-in-your-mouth chocolate crinkle cookies to the cozy, rich flavors of homemade cinnamon rolls, each one brings a different flavor and a little extra joy to the season. Best of all, these bakes are quick and easy enough to prepare during a leisurely holiday break or a lazy afternoon. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the satisfying process of making something homemade this winter!

  1. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

These chocolate crinkle cookies are a favorite in our household during the winter months. They’re simple to make, yet incredibly satisfying, with a rich chocolate flavor and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. While they may take a bit longer to prepare, the results are absolutely worth it; every bite is a reminder of the time and care that went into making them. Perfect for enjoying with coffee in the morning, as a midday snack, or as a sweet dessert, these cookies are a must-try this winter. I guarantee you’ll keep coming back for more.

  1. Pumpkin Spice Olive Oil Cake  

Even though pumpkin season may seem over, this pumpkin spice olive oil cake is worth keeping in your baking rotation. The olive oil makes the cake exceptionally moist and tender, while the warm spices create a comforting, seasonal flavor. Topped with cinnamon cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The best part? It takes less than an hour to make, so you can enjoy a homemade cake without spending all day in the kitchen. It’s a great recipe to try when you’re looking to satisfy a sweet craving or try something new.

  1. Homemade Cinnamon Rolls 

Cinnamon rolls are always a hit, but homemade ones are a whole other level. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm, gooey cinnamon roll with a cup of coffee or tea, especially during the colder months. While many people think cinnamon rolls are too time-consuming, this recipe makes them quick and easy to prepare, taking just under two hours from start to finish. The aroma of cinnamon and sugar filling your home is enough to make them irresistible. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with others, these cinnamon rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

  1. Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins 

These chocolate chip banana muffins are the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, and they come together in about 30 minutes. The result is a batch of incredibly fluffy, moist muffins with just the right amount of gooey chocolate chips. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick breakfast, pairing them with afternoon coffee, or snacking on them throughout the day, they’re guaranteed to become a new favorite. The combination of ripe bananas and chocolate makes these muffins comforting and satisfying—definitely a recipe to keep on hand throughout the winter months.

  1. Cranberry Orange Scones  

For my final winter baking recommendation, I have cranberry orange scones. While scones may not always be everyone’s first choice, this recipe is worth trying. The balance of tart cranberries and bright, citrusy orange creates a refreshing yet cozy flavor profile that feels perfect for the season. These scones are great for pairing with a hot cup of coffee in the morning or enjoying as a snack throughout the day. Once you try them, you’ll see why they’re a great addition to your winter baking lineup.

Winter is the perfect time to slow down and enjoy the process of baking something from scratch. These recipes aren’t just about satisfying a sweet craving; they’re about taking time to create something comforting and shareable. From rich, fudgy chocolate crinkle cookies to the zesty brightness of cranberry orange scones, each of these bakes puts a seasonal twist on familiar flavors. They’re simple enough to make on a quiet afternoon but impressive enough to share with friends and family. If you’re looking for something to make your winter days a little sweeter, these recipes are a great place to start. Chances are, they’ll become your go-to bakes for the season.

Vivian Eckert

Colgate '28

Vivian Eckert is a current freshman at Colgate University, currently planning to major in biochemistry. She loves listening to music, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time with friends and family.