As Easter approaches, many of us are looking for ways to make the holiday even more special. What better way than with a delicious array of sweet and savory treats? From classic baked goods to creative twists on traditional recipes, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 Easter treat recipes that are sure to delight both kids and adults.
Whether you’re planning an Easter egg hunt or just want to add some festive flair to your holiday celebrations, these mouthwatering recipes will inspire you to get baking. From classic hot cross buns and simnel cake to creative takes on cookies, cakes, and candies, there’s something for every taste and skill level among our selection.
So why not start planning your Easter celebration with a bang – or should we say, a bunny hop? Dive into our collection of Easter treat recipes below and get ready to indulge in a holiday season that’s sure to be egg-stra special.
Classic Hot Cross Buns
These sweet buns are a staple of Easter tradition, filled with spices and dried fruit. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as currants or raisins)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Combine warm milk and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt; mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead for 10 minutes; place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm place for 1 hour.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Roll out dough; cut into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly.
6. Place buns on baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bun.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easter Egg Nest Cookies
Create a sweet and adorable treat to celebrate Easter with these Easter Egg Nest Cookies! Crunchy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and topped with chocolate eggs, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
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
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Colored chocolate chips or chopped candy eggs for decoration
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before decorating with chocolate chips or chopped candy eggs.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This classic carrot cake recipe is a staple for any occasion, featuring a moist and flavorful cake paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for springtime celebrations or as a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, eggs, and melted butter. Beat until smooth.
4. Add grated carrots, chopped walnuts (if using), and vanilla extract. Mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cakes cool completely before frosting.
Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Assemble the cake by spreading frosting on top of one cake layer and topping with the second layer.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Homemade Chocolate Easter Eggs
Create a sweet and memorable Easter tradition by making your own chocolate Easter eggs at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create adorable and delicious treats that are sure to delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco)
– Easter egg molds (silicone or plastic)
Instructions:
1. Line the Easter egg molds with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the confectioners’ sugar and salt until well combined.
4. Add the shortening and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared molds, filling to the top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
7. Unmold the eggs and serve.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including cooling time)
Lemon Coconut Easter Cupcakes
Lemon Coconut Easter Cupcakes: Brighten up your Easter celebration with these refreshing and flavorful cupcakes that combine the sweetness of coconut and the tanginess of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Beat in lemon juice and coconut.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Simnel Cake with Marzipan
This classic British cake is a staple of Easter celebrations, filled with sweet marzipan and decorated with intricate layers. Our recipe yields a moist and flavorful Simnel Cake that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) mixed dried fruit
– 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups (250g) plain flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Marzipan (homemade or store-bought), colored pink and yellow
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) deep cake pan.
2. Mix dried fruit, sugar, and softened butter in a large bowl.
3. Beat eggs until light, then add flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
4. Add the egg mixture to the fruit mixture and mix until combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before assembling with marzipan layers.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
Easter Bunny Sugar Cookies
Bring a springtime smile to your Easter celebration with these adorable sugar cookies shaped like the Easter Bunny! These classic treats are perfect for decorating and sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating until combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters or a glass to create bunny shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: About 2 dozen sugar cookies
Pastel-Colored Macarons
Elevate your baking game with these delicate, pastel-hued macarons that are perfect for spring or any special occasion. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you’ll be creating stunning treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– Food coloring (pastel shades)
– Flavorings of your choice (e.g., vanilla, strawberry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue whipping until smooth.
4. Add food coloring to the meringue mixture and mix until evenly colored.
5. Fold the meringue mixture into the almond flour mixture until combined.
6. Spoon batter onto prepared baking sheet in desired shapes.
7. Tap baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until tops are firm and lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Easter Bunnies
Cinnamon Roll Easter Bunnies Recipe
Start your Easter celebration with these adorable and delicious cinnamon roll bunnies, perfect for a springtime treat or as a fun breakfast idea.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (or 2 cups all-purpose flour)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Sprinkle mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Dot the top of the dough with softened butter.
5. Fold the 1-inch edges over the butter to create a bunny ear shape.
6. Place bunnies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow cooling before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Chicks
Transform plain ol’ strawberries into adorable, bite-sized treats perfect for snacking or impressing guests at your next gathering. These chocolate-dipped strawberry chicks are ridiculously easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (like Crisco)
– Pink gel or frosting for beak and legs
– Black gel or frosting for eyes
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the strawberries.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Dip the tip of each strawberry into the melted white chocolate, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top. Place on parchment paper.
4. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to set the chocolate.
5. Use pink gel or frosting to draw a beak and legs on each strawberry chick.
6. Use black gel or frosting to draw eyes on each chick.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are best served chilled, so store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Easter Basket Cake Pops
Create adorable Easter basket-inspired cake pops perfect for springtime celebrations. These bite-sized treats are easy to make and fun to decorate with colorful candies and edible markers.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cake mix (white or yellow)
– 1 can of frosting (white or pastel colors)
– 1 cup of crushed Oreo cookies
– Candy melts or white chocolate chips
– Easter basket-themed candies (e.g., jelly beans, sprinkles) and edible markers
Instructions:
1. Bake the cake mix according to package instructions.
2. Crumb the cooled cake into a bowl and add about half of the can of frosting. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Melt candy melts or white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Dip the end of a lollipop stick or cake pop stick into the melted candy and insert it into each cake ball.
6. Dip the cake ball into the melted candy, coating about half of the ball.
7. Roll the coated cake ball in crushed Oreo cookies to resemble grass.
8. Decorate with Easter basket-themed candies and edible markers.
9. Let the pops set before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on baking time for the cake)
Mini Egg Blondies
These bite-sized blondies are a perfect combination of gooey caramel and crunchy Mini Eggs. With only 7 ingredients, they’re quick to make and ideal for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) Mini Eggs, chopped
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Stir in chopped Mini Eggs.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bird’s Nest Rice Krispie Treats
Get ready to nestle into the adorable world of Bird’s Nest Rice Krispie Treats! These whimsical treats are perfect for springtime parties, Easter celebrations, or simply a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter or margarine
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Green food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Add the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well coated.
5. Press the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan lined with parchment paper.
6. Allow to cool and harden for about 30 minutes.
7. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., nests, eggs).
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes, including cooling time.
Enjoy your adorable Bird’s Nest Rice Krispie Treats!
Easter-Themed Chocolate Bark
Celebrate Easter with this adorable and delicious chocolate bark recipe. This sweet treat is perfect for springtime gatherings, parties, or as a fun Easter gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or candy pieces (e.g., M&M’s, chopped peanut butter cups)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Edible Easter decorations (e.g., sprinkles, colored sugar, mini eggs)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Immediately sprinkle the chopped dark chocolate or candy pieces and shredded coconut on top of the white chocolate.
5. Drizzle with honey.
6. Allow to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
7. Once set, melt the milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl as above.
8. Pour the melted milk chocolate over the top layer, spreading evenly.
9. Decorate with edible Easter decorations.
10. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus setting time)
Vanilla Bean Easter Bread
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this sweet and buttery Vanilla Bean Easter Bread, perfect for a festive brunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste or extract
– Colored sprinkles or Easter-themed decorations (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into desired form.
6. Brush melted butter on top, then sprinkle with colored sprinkles or decorations (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peeps S’mores Dip
Sweet Treat Alert: Peeps S’mores Dip!
Transform the classic campfire treat into a delicious dip that’s perfect for parties and gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying ooey-gooey marshmallow goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
• 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup marshmallow creme
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
• 12-15 Peeps, chopped (any flavor)
• Optional: whipped cream and additional graham cracker crumbs for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and marshmallow creme. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
3. Fold in the crushed graham crackers.
4. Stir in the chopped Peeps.
5. Chill the dip in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve with graham crackers, whipped cream, or your favorite dippers.
Cooking Time: None! This sweet treat is ready when you are.
Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Experience the soothing charm of lavender with these buttery shortbread cookies infused with the calming essence of dried lavender buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened (12 tablespoons)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, salt, and baking powder; mix until just combined.
4. Stir in dried lavender buds.
5. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
White Chocolate Raspberry Truffles
These bite-sized treats combine the creamy richness of white chocolate with the tartness of fresh raspberries, perfect for a sweet indulgence or a thoughtful gift. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delicious truffles in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup fresh raspberries, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Fold in the chopped raspberries.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow mixture to firm up.
5. Use a melon baller or spoon to form into small balls.
6. Roll each truffle in confectioners’ sugar to coat.
7. Serve chilled, dusted with additional confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Easter Egg Cheesecake Bars
Celebrate Easter with these adorable cheesecake bars that resemble mini eggs! With a graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a burst of colorful jelly bean toppings, these treats are sure to delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Jelly beans (assorted colors)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients; press into a 9×9-inch pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add sugars, eggs, and vanilla. Pour over crust.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Let cool completely before topping with jelly beans.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tips: Use a variety of jelly bean colors to create a festive Easter egg effect. These bars freeze well, so feel free to make ahead and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Carrot-Shaped Cake Balls
Create adorable carrot-shaped treats that are perfect for Easter or spring-themed celebrations! These cake balls are moist, flavorful, and easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of yellow cake mix
– 1 cup of powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Food coloring (orange and green)
– Confectioners’ coating or white chocolate for dipping
– Chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled cake, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix.
4. Divide the mixture into two portions. Add orange food coloring to one portion and green food coloring to the other.
5. Shape each color into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Dip the carrot-shaped cake balls into confectioners’ coating or white chocolate. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prepare time: 15 minutes
– Bake time: 20-25 minutes (depending on cake mix instructions)
– Total time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in some festive fun this Easter with these 20 scrumptious recipe ideas! From classic hot cross buns and carrot cake with cream cheese frosting, to homemade chocolate Easter eggs and pastel-colored macarons, there’s something for everyone. Other treats include Simnel cake with marzipan, Easter bunny sugar cookies, cinnamon roll Easter bunnies, and even Peeps s’mores dip! Whether you’re looking for sweet or savory, these recipes are sure to bring a smile to your face and make your Easter celebration one to remember.
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