Baking can seem intimidating at first, especially if you’re new to the kitchen. But with the right recipes and a little guidance, anyone can create delicious homemade treats. At Craigard Bakery, Master Baker Melanie Andrews believes that great baking starts with simple, foolproof recipes that build confidence and teach essential skills.
Here are five easy recipes perfect for beginner bakers — each designed to be straightforward, use basic ingredients, and produce impressive results. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these classics are sure to delight!
Classic Scottish Shortbread
Why it’s great: Shortbread is a buttery, crumbly biscuit that requires just three ingredients and minimal equipment. It’s perfect for learning how to mix dough and control baking time.
Ingredients:
- 200g unsalted butter (softened)
- 100g caster sugar
- 300g plain flour
Basic steps:
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually fold in flour until dough forms.
- Press dough into a baking tin and prick with a fork.
- Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 25-30 minutes until pale golden.
Simple Victoria Sponge Cake
Why it’s great: This iconic British cake teaches you how to cream, fold, and bake a soft, airy sponge — essential techniques for many cakes.
Ingredients:
- 200g unsalted butter (softened)
- 200g caster sugar
- 4 eggs
- 200g self-raising flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
Basic steps:
- Cream butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Sift flour and baking powder, fold gently into the mixture.
- Divide batter between two greased tins and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes.
- Sandwich with jam and whipped cream once cooled.
Easy Flapjacks
Why it’s great: Flapjacks are chewy oat bars that don’t require any complex baking techniques, perfect for beginners to try out mixing and setting.
Ingredients:
- 150g unsalted butter
- 150g golden syrup
- 150g rolled oats
- 75g brown sugar
Basic steps:
- Melt butter and golden syrup together.
- Stir in oats and sugar until combined.
- Press mixture into a lined tin and bake at 170°C (340°F) for 20-25 minutes.
- Cool before cutting into bars.
Simple Scones
Why it’s great: Scones introduce you to working with dough and quick baking, producing a delicious treat perfect for teatime.
Ingredients:
- 225g self-raising flour
- 55g cold butter (cubed)
- 25g caster sugar
- 150ml milk
- 1 egg (for glazing)
Basic steps:
- Rub butter into flour until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Stir in sugar, then add milk to form a soft dough.
- Roll out dough, cut into rounds, and glaze with beaten egg.
- Bake at 220°C (430°F) for 10-12 minutes until risen and golden.
Basic Chocolate Brownies
Why it’s great: Brownies are rich, fudgy, and simple to make, teaching beginners about melting chocolate and baking to the perfect consistency.
Ingredients:
- 175g dark chocolate
- 175g unsalted butter
- 325g caster sugar
- 130g plain flour
- 3 eggs
Basic steps:
- Melt chocolate and butter together gently.
- Stir in sugar, then beat in eggs one at a time.
- Fold in flour until combined.
- Pour into a lined tin and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool completely before cutting.
Final Tips for Beginner Bakers
- Always read the recipe thoroughly before starting.
- Use accurate measurements — baking is a science!
- Don’t rush; take your time with each step.
- Practice makes perfect — mistakes are part of learning.
- Have fun and enjoy the process!
At Craigard Bakery, Melanie Andrews encourages bakers of all levels to start simple and build their skills with recipes like these. Soon, you’ll be experimenting with more complex bakes and impressing everyone with your homemade delights.
Happy baking!