Freshly Baked Treats: Simple Homemade Desserts
Fresh Out of the Oven Treats
These fresh out of the oven treats are warm, soft, and simple to make. They come out golden and smell like home. If you want a rich and bold flavor idea to try next time, read our best flavorful recipe that knocks it out of the park for more inspiration.
Why make this recipe
This recipe is quick, uses common ingredients, and works for snacks, parties, or a sweet finish to a meal. Kids can help stir and shape the dough. The oven does most of the work, and the result is a warm treat everyone will like.
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Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, soft
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light. Add the egg and vanilla, and mix well.
- In another bowl, stir the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the dry mix to the wet mix a little at a time, then add milk until the dough is soft but not sticky.
- Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if you like.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are light golden. Let cool a few minutes on the sheet, then move to a rack.
If you need a hearty main to go with these treats, try our idea for ribs in the easy fall-off-the-bone oven baked ribs.
Serving
Serve warm on a plate or in a basket lined with a napkin. A small scoop of ice cream or a cup of hot tea pairs well with these treats. For more serving ideas and party layouts, see our bake off treats guide.
Storage
- At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- In the fridge: Keep in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
- To reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes or microwave one treat for 10–15 seconds.
Tips
- Measure flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling with a knife for best texture.
- Do not overmix the dough; mix just until parts come together.
- For even baking, make all dough drops about the same size.
- For extra crisp edges, bake one minute longer. For softer centers, take them out a little earlier. For more baking tips, check this knock it out of the park recipe for ideas you can use here.
Variations
- Add orange zest and white chocolate for a bright flavor.
- Swap half the flour for whole wheat for a nuttier taste.
- Make mini versions by using a small spoon and baking 7–9 minutes.
- Try other add-ins like dried fruit or coconut. For more flavor ideas, see more bake-off treats.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze these treats?
A: Yes. Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead?
A: Yes. Store the dough in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: You can, but butter gives better flavor and texture.
Q: How do I make them vegan?
A: Use plant-based butter, a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water), and plant milk.