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The best easy Christmas baking recipes

by Francesca Sleet

published on 2 November 2024, last updated on 12 November 2024

A good festive baking session is undoubtedly one of our favourite ways to get into the Christmas spirit but try as we might, it’s not always easy to find the time in amongst all the other demands of the season. So, if you are looking for a bake to bring festive joy without all the usual time and effort, we have put together a collection of the best easy Christmas baking recipes. From simple mince pies and a cheat’s Christmas pudding to an ultra-easy three-ingredient Christmas cake, read on to find the tips, tricks and shortcuts to make Christmas baking as simple as possible. Gather up your little helpers too as these bakes are also perfect for making with the kids. Looking for more Christmas cooking and baking inspiration? Discover everything from centrepieces and sides to cocktails and canapés here.

Jane’s Patisserie’s Cheat’s Christmas Pudding

An easier take on the ultimate classic, Jane’s recipe makes it simple to whip up a Christmas pudding without excessive time and effort. Serve with copious helpings of brandy butter or cream and enjoy.

From the book

Three-ingredient Christmas Cake

Three-ingredient Christmas Cake

by Sarah Rainey

With a moist sponge packed full of dried fruit and orange peel, this three-ingredient (yes really) Christmas cake can be baked ahead of Christmas Day or ready to serve when it emerges from the oven.

Easy Christmas Mince Pies with Chocolate Pastry

Easy Christmas Mince Pies with Chocolate Pastry

by Marika Gauci

Making pastry doesn’t need to be difficult and with this easy mince pie recipe from Marika Gauci the whole family can get involved making these classic Christmas treats.

chocolate orange wreath cake recipe

Chocolate Orange Wreath Cake

by Jessie Marsden-Urquhart

Though it may look ornate with its intricate wreath design, this chocolate cake is deceptively simple to make. The rich and moist sponge is flavoured with orange for the perfect cake for anyone who loves a Terry’s Chocolate Orange.

Six-Minute Mince Pie Mug Cake

Six-Minute Mince Pie Mug Cake

by Sarah Rainey

For all the Christmassy flavour and cosiness of mince pies without any of the effort these mug cakes are perfect for pairing with a Christmas film on a cold night. Eat straight out of the mug with a spoon.

Gingerbread Biscuits

Rochelle Humes’ Gingerbread Biscuits

by Rochelle Humes

Rochelle’s easy gingerbread people are the perfect bake to make with the kids, who can get creative with the icing and decorating. For an extra festive touch, why not try using reindeer cookie cutters?

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