In Washington, where majestic mountains meet vibrant culture, there's a world bursting with fresh, local ingredients. And as the holidays draw near, there's no better way to spread warmth than by baking with some of the state's standout produce.
Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, these holiday baking recipes are tailored for you. Whip up not just mouthwatering treats, but memories that will stay with you long after the last crumb has been savored.
*Ingredients listed in bold are available at Bartell’s! Stock levels may vary by store.
Rainier Cherry Scones
When you taste a Rainier cherry, doesn't it transport you straight to Washington's sunlit orchards? Every bite evokes sweetness and a touch of tartness, reminiscent of the state's stunning landscape.
Now, imagine these cherries in a warm, buttery scone crowned with a silky vanilla glaze. It's more than food — it's a tribute to this treasured fruit. Looking to bake and savor this piece of Washington?
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8 scones
- Calories Per Serving: 320
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 6 tbsp cold butter, cubed
- ¾ cup Rainier cherries, pitted and chopped (If Rainier cherries aren't available, consider using Maury Island Jam as a year-round alternative. Strawberry or marionberry are local favorites!)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
Vanilla Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in a bowl.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the chopped cherries.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. Add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Turn out onto a floured surface and shape into a circle. Cut into eight wedges.
- Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- For the glaze: In a small mixing bowl, sift the powdered sugar. Mix in 1 tbsp of milk and the vanilla extract. Add more milk if needed, one teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Apple Cider Donuts
It's widely known that Washington produces some of the nation's finest apples. Our apple cider doughnuts, dotted with juicy apple pieces, salute the sharp and invigorating flavors of this rich legacy. With every bite, you're experiencing a piece of our state's treasured heritage. Ready for this delectable expedition?
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 12 donuts
- Calories Per Serving: 250
Ingredients:
- 2 cups apple cider
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 cup finely grated apples (about 2 medium-sized apples)
Instructions:
- Reduce the apple cider over medium heat until it's 1/2 cup. Allow it to cool.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs, melted butter and reduced apple cider.
- Gradually blend the wet and dry mixtures, stirring until just combined.
- Fold the finely grated apples into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Form the batter into doughnuts, and fry each until they are golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels. While still warm, sprinkle the donuts with a cinnamon-sugar mixture for added flavor.
Coffee-Infused Brownies
Ever felt the heartbeat of Washington's lively coffee scene? As fellow lovers of that rich aroma and bold flavor, we've infused our passion into these exceptional coffee-flavored brownies. Topped with a velvety espresso ganache, they're every bit reminiscent of those snug Seattle coffee shops we all cherish. Why not indulge in a piece of our shared enthusiasm?
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 12 brownies
- Calories Per Serving: 260
Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup strong brewed coffee
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
Espresso Ganache:
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp coffee powder
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan.
- Combine the butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla and coffee.
- Blend in the cocoa, flour and salt until just combined.
- Transfer to the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick emerges with minimal crumbs.
- For the ganache: Boil the cream and pour it over the chocolate chips and coffee powder. Wait two minutes, then mix until even.
- Spread the ganache over the cooled brownies. Allow them to set before cutting.
Huckleberry Cheesecake Bars
Ever explored Washington's expansive wilds? If so, you might've stumbled upon the treasured huckleberries that dot our landscapes. Delve into our creamy cheesecake squares, packed with these brilliant berries, and savor a taste of Washington's raw splendor. Can we tempt you with a slice of the wild?
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 16 bars
- Calories Per Serving: 220
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh huckleberries (If huckleberries aren't seasonally available, try using blueberries instead!)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Firmly press into the dish's bottom.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold in huckleberries.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until firm.
- Cool, then refrigerate for at least two hours before serving.
Each of these holiday baking recipes highlights a unique aspect of our cherished state, from its lush orchards to its inviting cafes. After all, baking isn't just about flavors; it's about cherishing memories, stories and shared moments. So, as you mix, whip and bake, remember that each morsel you savor is a warm embrace from Washington.
Let's bring the spirit of the state into our homes this festive season — one of these easy holiday cookie recipes at a time!