Even realtors know that there's nothing that makes a house feel like a home as much as the smell of freshly baked goods. That's why they always use cookie-scented candles or pop a pie in the oven right before showing a new listing! A plate of fancy, delicious chai cookies sitting on the counter is oh-so inviting, and who could ever resist an artsy cake? But just like we sometimes can't resist classic comfort foods like mashed potatoes or mac and cheese, nothing hits the spot like old-fashioned baked goods made from scratch. Learn how to make some of the best bakery favorites using classic baking recipes, and even your walk-up studio apartment will feel like the cozy home of your dreams.
Sourdough Bread
Everyone loves a good sourdough, and it's one of the most popular breads for making at home. This beginner-friendly recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to give homemade breadmaking a try. Use it for sammies or spreads – you won't regret it. (Brit + Co.)
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Nothing tastes or smells as good as a freshly baking batch of chocolate chip cookies. Master the recipe for yourself, and you’ll never suffer through mediocre grocery store cookies again. (via Brit + Co.)
Blueberry Muffins
Save money at the coffee shop by learning how to make blueberry muffins at home. Top them with a sweet glaze, and they’ll taste like the work of a pro. (viaBrit + Co.)
Chocolate Cake
We dare you to find someone who wouldn't have a difficult time resisting chocolate cake. This one looks fancy, but the recipe is actually an easy go-to for any baker who loves chocolate and wants to impress a crowd. Did we mention it's made with red wine and pears for an uber-romantic vibe? (via Brit + Co.)
Lemon Loaf
Loafs are so fun to bake. Start with this tart lemon loaf that gets a nice thick glaze! (via Brit + Co.)
Pumpkin Pie
You need to know how to make pumpkin pie so that each Thanksgiving comes to a sweet, sweet end. This recipe lays it out nice and simple, and even offers some fun additions and substitutes. (via Brit + Co.)
Croissants
For a challenging classic baking recipe, croissants really bring something fancy to the table. Bring on the butter! (via Brit + Co.)
Garlic Knots
Garlic knots perfectly complete every Italian night you host or attend. Having this classic baking recipe in your arsenal means you're one stop closer to mastering carbs. (via Brit + Co.)
Apple Pie
Homemade apple pie – with or without ice cream – is the best way to end a cozy meal. (via Takes Two Eggs)
Brownies
Clear your cupboards of those old boxed brownie mixes, because it’s all about brownies made from scratch here on out. This classic baking recipe makes it so easy to churn out batch after batch of some chewy, chocolaty brownies. (via Culinary Hill)
Coffee Cake
Perfect for when you have guests in town, this easy cinnamon coffee cake can be snacked on all day. Set it out at breakfast, but don’t be surprised if you end up eating some with your afternoon tea and as a midnight snack, too. (via Sugar Spun Run)
Lemon Bars
Tangy lemon curd nestled on a buttery shortbread crust will brighten up any dessert table. This blend of sweet and tart flavors and creamy and crispy textures makes it hard to stop snacking. (viaI Knead To Eat)
Blackout Chocolate Cake
This endlessly chocolate confection is one of those classic desserts that’s always better when it’s made from scratch. (via Pinch Of Yum)
Banana Bread
Banana bread is a good classic baking recipe to have up your sleeve. Not only does it make for an easy but impressive addition to brunch – it’s also the best way to use up any bananas that are past their prime. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)
Sticky Buns
Sweet enough to be dessert but full of breakfast flavors, sticky buns transform even the dullest mornings into a celebration! And, once you taste them made from scratch (no canned dough here, people), there’ll be no turning back. (via Sally’s Baking Recipes)
Funfetti Cake
Homemade baked goods don’t have to be a serious culinary affair. This colorful funfetti cake will bring back childhood memories, and remind you that eating the cake is just as fun as making it. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Bread Rolls
Make your meals better by serving them with a side of fluffy homemade rolls. Parker House Rolls have buttered tops that are sprinkled with salt, contrasting with their slightly sweet insides. (via Chef de Home)
Blondies
After you learn to make brownies, you’ve got to get a handle on their chocolate-free counterpart. Sweet like toffee, chewy blondies are best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. (via Munaty Cooking)
Snickerdoodles
These cookies are just one step above a plain sugar cookie. A sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar somehow renders them even more irresistible than the classic frosted Lofthouse cookie. (via Barley & Sage)
Homemade Soft Pretzels
Soft pretzels are the bomb, but when you get them at ballgames or carnivals, they’re often dried out and stale. Not so much when you make them at home — every bite is moist, soft, and chewy, and best served with plenty of mustard. (via Half Baked Harvest)
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This article has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
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Justina Huddleston
Justina Huddleston is a food writer living in Los Angeles. When she's not busy writing, she spends her time in the kitchen creating both virtuous and decidedly junky vegan food. Buffalo chickpea pizza, anyone? She's also been known to eat a plain block of tofu or beans straight out of the can for lunch, but somehow those culinary adventures don't make it to her Instagram. You can follow Justina on Twitter or see what's cooking in her kitchen on her blog, A Life of Little Pleasures.
