Grandma’s secret weapons: 15 old-fashioned desserts that’ll win any bake-off

Photo of author

| Published:

These classic desserts are a secret weapon for any baking enthusiast. With 15 tried-and-true recipes, you’ll have a variety of sweet treats to choose from. Grandma’s old-fashioned desserts that will win any bake-off are not only easy to make but also a hit with everyone who tries them. These recipes capture the essence of home baking, offering comfort and joy with every piece.

Three pieces of pecan pie brownies on slate coasters.
Pecan Pie Brownies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Lemon Goldies

Three square pieces of lemon goldies on a white plate.
Lemon Goldies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

When you want something tangy and sweet that reminds you of sunny days, this is your go-to. Lemon Goldies are that secret trick up Grandma’s sleeve to win any bake-off with their own charm. They have a way of bringing a bit of sunshine onto your plate, making them perfect for picnics or just a simple afternoon treat. It’s like summer and happiness packed into one bite.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Goldies

Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

Two bowls of salted caramel snickerdoodle cookies on a plate with lavender flowers on the table.
Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine a cookie that’s soft, a bit chewy, and has a sweet yet slightly salty taste. Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles take the classic snickerdoodle and turn it up a notch with a twist that no one can resist. They’re a crowd-pleaser at any bake sale or family gathering, and for good reason. With a perfect combo of salted caramel and brown butter, they’re hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

Molly Bars

Four pieces of molly bars on a white plate.
Molly Bars. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Now, if you’re craving chocolate but want something more unique, here are Molly Bars. They combine layers of flavor that are rich yet surprisingly light, making them a favorite at any event. It’s that dessert Grandma makes when she wants to show off a bit but in the most humble way possible. You’ll find them disappearing from the dessert table faster than anything else.
Get the Recipe: Molly Bars

Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans

Zucchini Cookies on a parchment-lined tray.
Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a sneaky way to add veggies into something irresistibly good, Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans are the answer. They’re moist, chock-full of nuts and chocolate, and yes, they make eating veggies a treat. It’s that genius move to make everyone eat their greens without knowing it. Plus, the mix of textures and flavors is just unbeatable.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans

Apple Fritter Bread

Three slices of apple fritter bread on a white plate.
Apple Fritter Bread. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

When apples are in season, Apple Fritter Bread is what you want to be baking. It fills the kitchen with an aroma that’s warm and inviting, making it feel like autumn all year round. This bread is moist, packed with apples, and has a cinnamon kick that wakes up your senses. It’s a comforting classic that never fails to please.
Get the Recipe: Apple Fritter Bread

Chocolate Overload Cookies

Chocolate overload cookies on a white plate.
Chocolate Overload Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

For those who believe there’s no such thing as too much chocolate, Chocolate Overload Cookies are just what you need. They’re rich, they’re decadent, and they make you wonder how something so simple can be so good. Grandma whips these out when she really wants to spoil you. Anyone with a sweet tooth can’t help but fall in love with them.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Overload Cookies

Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits

Four glasses of raspberry cheesecake parfait.
Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

When you’re looking for something elegant yet simple, Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits come to the rescue. They layer creaminess with the tartness of raspberries in a way that’s refreshing. It’s a no-bake wonder that looks as good as it tastes, making it a hit for any occasion. You get the richness of cheesecake without any of the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits

White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A jar of White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies next to lavender flowers.
White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a twist on the traditional, White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies steal the show. They’re soft, they have a crackly top, and the white chocolate makes them irresistibly good. Perfect for those who like a bit of elegance in their treats, these cookies have a way of making any coffee break special. It’s a simple pleasure that speaks volumes.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Mini Biscoff Cheesecake

A white plate with strawberries and mini biscoff cheesecakes.
Mini Biscoff Cheesecake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Mini Biscoff Cheesecake brings together that beloved cookie flavor with creamy cheesecake in a bite-sized form. They’re cute, they’re delicious, and they have a knack for making any dessert spread look fancy. It’s one of those treats that makes you appreciate the little things in life. Plus, they’re so easy to pop into your mouth, one after another.
Get the Recipe: Mini Biscoff Cheesecake

Cookie Butter Cake Balls

Six Cookie Butter Cake Balls on a slate tray.
Cookie Butter Cake Balls. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

For an indulgent treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, Cookie Butter Cake Balls are the way to go. They encapsulate the rich taste of cookie butter in a form that’s perfect for parties or gifting. It’s that playful dessert Grandma keeps in her arsenal for special treats. They’re creamy, they’re dreamy, and they’re utterly addictive.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Butter Cake Balls

Pecan Pie Brownies

Three pieces of pecan pie brownies on slate coasters.
Pecan Pie Brownies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Combining the nuttiness of pecans with the rich, chocolatey goodness of brownies, Pecan Pie Brownies are a match made in heaven. They strike that perfect balance between nutty and sweet, with a texture that’s to die for. It’s a sophisticated twist on two beloved classics. And honestly, who can resist a good brownie, especially when it has that little something extra?
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies

Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies

Two Salted Dark Chocolate cookies on a plate next to flowers.
Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies are the answer when you need something sophisticated yet simple. The contrast between the dark chocolate and a hint of salt elevates these cookies to a whole new level. They’re the kind of treat that makes an ordinary day feel a bit special. It’s a grown-up cookie that still knows how to have fun.
Get the Recipe: Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies

Mango Curd

A jar of mango curd next to a mango and a mint leaf.
Mango Curd. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re after something tropical and bright, Mango Curd is like sunshine in a jar. It’s smooth, it’s fruity, and it adds a burst of flavor to anything from toast to desserts. Grandma knows this is the secret to making any simple treat feel a bit more luxurious. It’s a reminder of warm, sunny days, no matter the weather outside.
Get the Recipe: Mango Curd

Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

A top-down shot of Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies on a white plate.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

For a citrusy twist on a classic cookie, Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies are a bright spot in any dessert lineup. They’re crisp, they’re refreshing, and they bring a bit of lightness to your palate. It’s that little pop of lemon and the crunch of poppy seeds that make them stand out. These cookies are like a little hint of spring, no matter the season.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

Butter Scones

Two butter scones on a plate with a cup of tea on a marble surface.
Butter Scones. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Butter Scones are perhaps the most versatile baked good you can have in your repertoire. They’re light, they’re fluffy, and they go with anything from jam to clotted cream or just a slab of butter. It’s an understated classic that’s always a hit, whether it’s tea time or breakfast. The best part? They make the kitchen smell like a cozy bakery.
Get the Recipe: Butter Scones

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.