Ohhh December… the month where my inner golden-retriever energy says cuddle up, light a candle, and absolutely eat something sugary without apology. It’s giving cozy, it’s giving comfort, it’s giving girl, you’ve earned a cookie just for existing today.
And because I firmly believe joy comes in many forms — including butter, berries, and chocolate — I wanted to share some of my favorite sweet treats I’ve been making on repeat. Nothing fancy, nothing fussy… just the kind of goodness that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
If you want to jot these down for your next baking day, grab one of my Good Things notebooks so you have a cute place to keep your treat-of-the-week list. You know I’m always pro keeping the sweet things close.
Alright, apron on… here are my faves.
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Golden Rice Krispies Treats by Once Upon A Chef
These are not your childhood Rice Krispies squares… these are the leveled-up, grown-woman version that feel both nostalgic and luxurious. Browned butter, a little extra salt… honestly, they slap. Perfect for gifting, snacking, or hiding from your family because you “need them for content.” (Note: I don't add the extra marshmallows, but you do you!)
Summer Strawberry Cake by Once Upon A Chef
I know what you’re thinking… strawberry cake in December? Yes. Absolutely yes. Because we deserve sunshine flavors all year long. This cake is soft, juicy, and just sweet enough. It tastes like a happy memory. Bake it for a potluck, or bake it for yourself and eat it with a blanket around your shoulders like the queen you are.
Shortbread Cookies by Once Upon A Chef
Shortbread in December is a requirement… I don’t make the rules, but I do follow them religiously. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are simple, buttery, and perfect with tea, coffee, or standing in your kitchen at 11 p.m. contemplating life. I always double the recipe when I'm making these and I also like to bake them until they are golden on the edges!
If you know me, you know I love blueberries. These muffins are soft, fluffy, and borderline ridiculous. They puff up beautifully, they taste like a bakery moment, and they’re dangerously easy to make. I love making these especially during the summer blueberry seasons, but muffins for breakfast are always welcomed!
Blueberry Basque Cheesecake by Half Baked Harvest
Okay listen… this cheesecake is drama in the best way. Serve it warm. Serve it chilled. Serve it on a random Tuesday. No wrong choices here. Don't hate me, but I love this puff pastry crust more than a traditional buttery graham cracker one.
Nestlé Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies
How could I NOT include Phoebe Buffay’s grandma’s classic recipe? These cookies are everything: chewy, soft, perfectly sweet, and absolutely timeless. They’re the kind of cookie that turns an ordinary night into a cozy memory. If I ever open a Good Things bakery (don’t tempt me), these are going on the menu. (Note: Whenever I'm craving cookies, I half this recipe for a quick bake sesh and I'm set for the week! I also cut a bit of sugar as well!)
The Treats Truck Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies
These come with a special memory for me. Years ago, Mom and I were visiting New York in the winter and spotted a long line on the street. Curiosity won, so we joined it… only to discover the cutest little Treats Truck at the front.
We ordered a mix of cookies, but the one that changed my life was their peanut butter sandwich cookie. One bite and I was done for. I loved them so much I used to order a couple dozen from NYC and have them shipped to Hawaii every few months. Totally worth it.
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Your Turn
What’s your go-to sweet treat? Do you have a family recipe? A comfort cookie? A secret dessert you don’t share with anyone? Tell me in the comments… I genuinely want to know.
And if you end up baking any of these, tag me on IG so I can cheer you on like the dessert-loving hype woman I am.
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