Start Baking in 2025: Recipes, Tools & Tips for Beginners

Baking is one of the most rewarding hobbies you can pick up. Whether you're baking for fun, family, or friends, starting with the right recipes and equipment can make all the difference. If you're venturing into baking this year, here's a detailed guide to help you get started with confidence.

Best Bakes for Beginners

When you're new to baking, it's important to start with recipes that are forgiving and build your confidence. Here are some great bakes to begin with:

1. Cookies & Biscuits
Cookies are an excellent starting point for any new baker. They require minimal equipment and ingredients, and the process is straightforward. Start with classic chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal raisin, or shortbread.  Try my shortbread biscuit recipe here - scroll to the bottom of the blog page for the recipe.

2. Sponge Cakes
A simple sponge cake is a staple in any baker’s repertoire. Focus on simple recipes such as a Victoria sponge - try my recipe. You'll learn about aeration and the importance of mixing techniques.

3. Scones
Scones are great for practicing techniques like rubbing butter into flour. They’re a crowd-pleaser and an excellent addition to any breakfast or tea table.  Try my favourite recipe. 

4. Tarts
Once you feel comfortable with simpler recipes, try your hand at tarts. A classic fruit tart or a lemon tart can help you learn about pastry-making and blind baking.

5. Mini Loaf Cakes
Mini loaf cakes are a fantastic option for beginners. They are simple to prepare and bake, and their small size makes them less intimidating than full-sized cakes. Using my tried-and-tested 3-step framework—mastering sponges, frostings, and garnishes—you can create delightful mini loaf cakes for any occasion. These cakes also allow you to experiment with seasonal flavours and decorations while keeping things manageable.  Learn more about Mini Loaf Cakes Made Easy - click here

Essential Baking Equipment

Before diving into your baking adventures, it’s important to have the right tools. Here’s a list of basic equipment every new baker should consider:

1. Mixing Bowls
Invest in a set of high-quality mixing bowls in various sizes. Stainless steel or glass bowls are durable and versatile.

2. Whisk
A sturdy whisk is indispensable for mixing batters, whipping cream, and emulsifying sauces.

3. Rolling Pin
A wooden or marble rolling pin is ideal for rolling out dough for biscuits, cookies, and pastries.  I personally prefer a wooden rolling pin.

4. Measuring Tools
Accurate measuring spoons, and a digital scale are essential for consistent results.

5. Baking Trays, Tins and Cookie Cutters.
Start with a couple of baking trays, a round cake tin, a tart tin, a set of round cookie cutters (you can cut biscuits, cookies and pastry in different sizes) and mini loaf pans. These basics will cover most beginner recipes.

6. Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
A stand mixer is a dream for any baker, but if it’s not in your budget, a good-quality hand mixer will do just fine. I’ve been loyal to my KitchenAid stand mixer since I bought it years ago. In fact, when I was studying at Le Cordon Bleu, we used KitchenAid mixers there as well. They’re durable, reliable, and designed for heavy-duty tasks.

Pro Tip: While KitchenAid mixers are excellent, don’t push them too far—like trying to mix pasta dough. I learned this the hard way when I broke the motor and had to pay for an expensive repair! Use them wisely, and they’ll last a lifetime.

7. Baking Parchment or Silicone Mats
These are perfect for lining baking trays and ensuring your bakes don’t stick.

8. Spatulas and Wooden Spoons
Silicone spatulas are heat-resistant and ideal for scraping bowls, while wooden spoons are perfect for mixing thick batters.

9. Cooling Rack
A cooling rack allows air to circulate around your baked goods, ensuring they cool evenly.

10. Pastry Brush
Useful for glazing pastries, brushing butter onto scones, or adding an egg wash to bread.

Tips for Success

• Start Simple: Choose one recipe to master before moving on to the next. Perfecting basics like cookies or sponge cakes will give you a solid foundation.

• Follow the Recipe: Baking is a science, and precise measurements and techniques are key to success.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure ingredients like butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.

• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven for consistent baking temperatures.

• Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be discouraged by mistakes. Every baker has had a batch or two go wrong!

Ready to dive into the world of baking? Subscribe to my newsletter for exclusive tips and recipes straight to your inbox. Join my Facebook group, Faye's Baking Circle, where you can ask questions, share your bakes, and be part of a supportive baking community. Let’s make 2025 the year you master baking—happy baking!