Bake sales are a staple of school events, bringing together families, friends, and the community. They evoke fond memories of bright tables filled with colorful treats and the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the air. This time of year always reminds me of those afternoons spent huddled around a table, eagerly choosing from an array of sweet options. If you want to make your next bake sale a hit, you’re in the right place.
Whether you’re a parent looking to contribute to your child’s school event or a student aiming to impress classmates, this list of 15 best bake sale desserts is perfect for you. Each recipe is kid-approved, easy to make, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. I pulled together ideas that are simple, fun, and delicious, so you can focus less on the baking and more on enjoying the event.
These desserts offer a mix of flavors, textures, and creativity that will make your bake sale table stand out. From gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars to refreshing Lemonade Stand Cookies, you’re bound to find something that everyone will love. Get ready to impress with these easy, minimal cleanup recipes that will leave both kids and parents smiling!
Key Takeaways
– You’ll discover 15 kid-approved bake sale dessert recipes that are easy to prepare and perfect for school events.
– Each recipe is designed with minimal cleanup in mind, making them a practical choice for busy parents and students.
– The list features a variety of flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
– These desserts are not only delicious but also visually appealing, enhancing your bake sale display.
– With step-by-step instructions, you’ll find it simple to create delightful treats that will impress your community.
Contents
- 1. Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- 2. Funfetti Cupcakes
- 3. No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars
- 4. Lemonade Stand Cookies
- 5. Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
- 6. Snickerdoodle Cookies
- 7. Strawberry Shortcake Bars
- 8. Brownie Bites
- 9. Cookies and Cream Brownies
- 10. Apple Cinnamon Muffins
- 11. Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies
- 12. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels
- 13. Coconut Macaroons
- 14. S’mores Bars
- 15. Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies
1. Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Got a sweet tooth craving? Chocolate chip cookie bars are here to satisfy! With their chewy texture and rich chocolate, these bars are a guaranteed hit at any bake sale. They’re super simple to whip up, requiring just one bowl for minimal cleanup, making them a favorite for both kids and adults alike.
Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors while getting a boost of energy from the chocolate and a dose of nostalgia from the cookie goodness. These bars are perfect for on-the-go snacking and are sure to disappear fast at your event.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the melted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla, stirring until fully combined.
4. Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
8. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
– Feel free to add nuts or different types of chocolate for a fun twist!
FAQs:
– Can I freeze these? Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.
2. Funfetti Cupcakes
Looking for a cheerful treat that sparks joy? Funfetti cupcakes are like a party in every bite! With vibrant sprinkles mixed into a fluffy batter, they are sure to brighten up any bake sale. Easy to make and fun to decorate, these cupcakes are perfect for kids and novice bakers alike.
Each cupcake offers a delightful crunch from the sprinkles and a sweet taste that’s simply irresistible. They’re a great way to bring some color and excitement to your dessert table!
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until well-combined.
4. Mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt, alternating with the milk until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cool before frosting with your favorite buttercream.
– Top with extra sprinkles for a festive look!
FAQs:
– Can I use a box mix? Yes, just add the sprinkles for that fun touch!
3. No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars
In the mood for a quick and satisfying treat? No-bake chocolate oat bars are the perfect answer! These bars come together in minutes and are loaded with wholesome ingredients, offering a delicious combination of chocolate and oats that kids will love.
Not only are they a healthier option, but they also provide a delightful chewiness that makes every bite a joy. Perfect for hot days when you want something sweet without turning on the oven!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix the oats, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla until well combined.
2. Add in the chocolate chips and mix again.
3. Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly into the pan.
4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until set.
5. Cut into bars and serve.
– For added flavor, sprinkle some sea salt on top before chilling.
FAQs:
– Can I use almond butter? Absolutely! Any nut butter works great.
4. Lemonade Stand Cookies
Want to bring a burst of sunshine to your bake sale? Lemonade stand cookies are the perfect choice! Soft, chewy, and packed with zesty lemon flavor, these cookies offer a refreshing alternative to traditional chocolate treats.
They’re incredibly easy to make, making them a fantastic project for kids helping in the kitchen. With their bright taste, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any sunny school event!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest until combined.
4. Mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt until the dough forms.
5. Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
7. Let cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
– Drizzle with a lemon glaze for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQs:
– Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor.
5. Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
Craving a nostalgic treat? Peanut butter rice Krispie treats are a childhood favorite that’s as easy as pie to make! These chewy squares come together quickly and are perfect for peanut butter lovers looking for a no-bake option.
With just a few simple ingredients, they are a fun and quick project that everyone will enjoy. These treats are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your bake sale!
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the peanut butter and honey over low heat, stirring until melted and smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
3. Add the Rice Krispies and mix until fully coated.
4. Press the mixture into a greased 8×8 inch pan.
5. If desired, sprinkle chocolate chips on top and let cool.
6. Cut into squares.
– Use a spatula sprayed with non-stick spray to help press the mixture evenly.
FAQs:
– Can I use crunchy peanut butter? Yes, it will add a delightful texture!
6. Snickerdoodle Cookies
Craving something comforting and sweet? Snickerdoodle cookies hit the spot with their soft, chewy texture and delightful cinnamon-sugar coating. They are a nostalgic favorite for many, making them perfect for any bake sale!
With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, these cookies are sure to turn any gathering into a sweet success. Just the smell of them baking is enough to bring back fond memories!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon cinnamon for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the softened butter and sugar in a bowl until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a dough forms.
6. Roll the dough into balls and coat in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow to cool before serving.
– For added flavor, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months.
7. Strawberry Shortcake Bars
Looking for a dessert that captures summer’s essence? Strawberry shortcake bars are the answer! With buttery cake layers, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream, they’re a delightful treat that’s easy to eat and sure to impress.
These bars are perfect for bake sales, bringing together vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation that everyone will love. They’re a sweet way to celebrate any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
– 1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. Cream the butter and sugar together in a bowl until fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla, then add the milk.
4. Gradually mix in the flour and baking powder until smooth.
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, add a layer of sliced strawberries, then top with the remaining batter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow to cool, then cut into bars and top with whipped cream before serving.
– For a fun twist, add a splash of lemon juice to the whipped cream for extra flavor.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen strawberries? Fresh strawberries are best, but you can use thawed if necessary.
8. Brownie Bites
Need a chocolate fix that’s easy to handle? Brownie bites are mini indulgences that pack a rich, fudgy flavor into delightful bite-sized treats. Perfect for bake sales, they’re a quick and easy way to satisfy chocolate cravings without the fuss.
These little bites can be made ahead of time and served in cute cupcake liners, making them visually appealing and easy to grab. Everyone will love these treats!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/3 cup cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar until well combined.
3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla, mixing until combined.
4. Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined.
5. Fill each mini muffin cup about 2/3 full with the brownie batter.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
7. Let cool before serving.
– Top with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel for an extra special touch.
FAQs:
– Can I add nuts or chocolate chips? Absolutely! Feel free to customize these with your favorite add-ins.
9. Cookies and Cream Brownies
Craving something decadent and unique? Cookies and cream brownies combine two classic desserts into one delicious treat! Rich, fudgy brownies are swirled with crushed cookies, creating a satisfying dessert that’s sure to stand out at any bake sale.
These brownies are simple to prepare and perfect for both kids and adults, offering a delightful twist on traditional brownies that everyone will love!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/3 cup cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups crushed cookies (like Oreos)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, combine melted butter and sugar until well mixed.
3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until combined.
4. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt until just mixed.
5. Fold in the crushed cookies.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until set and a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
– Serve with a scoop of ice cream for an extra special treat!
FAQs:
– Can I use gluten-free flour? Yes, gluten-free flour works as a substitute.
10. Apple Cinnamon Muffins
Want to bring the flavors of fall to your bake sale? Apple cinnamon muffins are a delightful choice! Moist and fluffy, these muffins are filled with fresh apple chunks and a hint of cinnamon, making them a comforting treat any time of year.
They’re easy to make and perfect for kids to get involved in the kitchen, adding to the fun of baking and sharing deliciousness with friends!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup peeled and diced apples
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugars, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, and egg.
4. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until just mixed.
5. Fold in the diced apples.
6. Fill the muffin cups about 2/3 full with batter.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow to cool before serving.
– Consider adding nuts or raisins for extra goodness!
FAQs:
– Can I use different fruit? Yes, you can substitute with other fruits like blueberries or bananas.
11. Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies
In the mood for a nutty, chewy delight? Brown sugar pecan cookies are a fantastic choice! Their rich flavor comes from the combination of brown sugar and toasted pecans, creating a comforting treat that’s hard to resist.
Easy to make, these cookies are perfect for introducing kids to baking, and they’ll surely be a hit at your bake sale, making everyone come back for more!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until well combined.
4. Mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt until combined.
5. Fold in the chopped pecans.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are golden.
8. Cool on a wire rack.
– Toast the pecans beforehand for extra flavor.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute other nuts? Yes, walnuts or almonds work well too.
12. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels
Craving a sweet and salty snack? Chocolate dipped pretzels are the perfect treat! They are incredibly easy to make and always a crowd favorite at bake sales. Kids can help dip the pretzels and decorate them with colorful sprinkles for added fun!
With their crunchy texture and sweet chocolate coating, these pretzels are irresistible and perfect for sharing!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag pretzel rods or twists
– 2 cups chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup colorful sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
2. Dip each pretzel halfway into the melted chocolate, letting excess chocolate drip off.
3. Place the dipped pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle colorful sprinkles on the chocolate before it hardens.
5. Allow the pretzels to cool and let the chocolate set before serving.
– Use white chocolate or colored candy melts for a festive twist.
FAQs:
– Can I store these? Yes, they’ll last in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
13. Coconut Macaroons
Looking for a sweet, chewy delight? Coconut macaroons are just the treat! Packed with coconut flavor, these little bites are easy to make and perfect for gluten-free bake sales. The sweetened shredded coconut and egg whites create a delightful texture that’s simply irresistible!
These treats are perfect for coconut lovers and can even be dipped in chocolate for an extra special touch. They’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
– 2/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine shredded coconut, sugar, flour, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk the egg whites and vanilla until frothy.
4. Add the egg whites to the coconut mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Use a cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool before serving.
– Dip the bottoms in melted chocolate for an extra treat!
FAQs:
– Can I use unsweetened coconut? Sweetened coconut is best for this recipe.
14. S’mores Bars
Want to capture the essence of camping in a treat? S’mores bars are the perfect solution! Combining graham cracker crust, gooey chocolate, and marshmallows, these bars are a delightful twist on the classic s’mores.
They’re easy to prepare and will surely be a favorite at bake sales, bringing a taste of cozy campfire nights to any event!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– 1 cup marshmallows (mini or regular)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch pan.
2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
4. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top, followed by marshmallows.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the marshmallows are toasted and golden.
6. Allow to cool, then cut into bars before serving.
– For a more intense chocolate flavor, add chocolate ganache on top!
FAQs:
– Can I use different types of chocolate? Yes, feel free to mix in milk, dark, or even white chocolate.
15. Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies
Looking for a timeless treat that brings joy? Classic vanilla sugar cookies are the answer! Soft, chewy, and bursting with vanilla flavor, these cookies are perfect for decorating or serving plain.
They’re incredibly easy to make, making them a great option for bake sales where kids can join in on the fun of decorating!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla until well combined.
4. Mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until a dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into balls and place on the prepared baking sheet, flattening them slightly.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow to cool before serving, and feel free to decorate with icing.
– Add food coloring to the dough for festive cookies!
FAQs:
– Can I use different extracts? Yes, almond or lemon extracts can add a nice twist.
Conclusion
These 15 bake sale desserts are not just easy to make but also sure to entice everyone at your next school event! From the rich flavors of chocolate to the refreshing taste of lemon, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Easy preparation is the name of the game, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festivities with your kids.
So grab your aprons and let the baking adventure begin! Whether you choose to whip up chocolate chip cookie bars or zesty lemonade stand cookies, these treats will undoubtedly create sweet memories for everyone involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some kid-approved bake sale desserts that are easy to make and travel well for school events?
For school bake sales, you want bake sale desserts that hold up on the go and please picky kids. Think chocolate chip cookies, simple brownies, lemon bars, muffins, or no-bake bars—these are crowd-pleasers that travel well.
Look for kid-approved options that can be baked in batches and require minimal cleanup, such as one-pot recipes or easy one-pan bakes.
Sticking to reliable favorites helps them slice neatly, stay fresh, and look appealing at the display.
How can I maximize appeal and profits of bake sale desserts without making tons of extra dishes?
Maximize appeal and profits by choosing bake sale desserts that you can make with minimal cookware and cleanup.
Seek one-pot recipes or one-pan bakes to keep dishes to a minimum.
Prep in large batches, portion into ready-to-sell sizes, and package in simple, kid-friendly wrappers. Price with a small margin and mix classic favorites with a few clever, easy twists to boost sales while keeping minimal cleanup in mind.
Are there bake sale desserts that can be made ahead and stay fresh for the event?
Yes! Many bake sale desserts stay best when you bake ahead. Cool completely, then store in airtight containers or bags.
Some items are best at room temperature, while others can be refrigerated or lightly frozen and thawed just before selling.
Choose recipes that maintain texture and flavor on display, so your bake sale desserts stay kid-friendly and delicious all day.
What packaging and labeling tips help bake sale desserts look appealing to kids and parents?
Packaging makes or breaks a sale. Use clear, colorful labels with the dessert name, price, and a short ingredient list.
Include allergen information to reassure parents, and choose easy-to-open, disposal-friendly packaging that keeps minimal cleanup after the sale.
Add a pop of color with stickers or ribbons to catch kids’ eyes and drive impulse buys.
How can I adapt these bake sale desserts for dietary restrictions (gluten-free, nut-free) while still being kid-friendly?
You can adapt many bake sale desserts with gluten-free flour blends and dairy-free options, while keeping flavor and texture tasty.
Use nut-free ingredients and strict cross-contamination controls, and clearly label any substitutions.
Offer at least one gluten-free and one nut-free option that still feels familiar to kids, and always check ingredient labels to keep your school bake sale desserts safe.
