1. Simple Christmas Cakes to Bake at Home

Classic Vanilla Sponge Cake

Perfect for beginners, this cake is soft, fluffy and pairs well with buttercream or chocolate icing.

Why it works:

• Uses basic ingredients: flour, sugar, eggs, milk

• Customisable with fruit or cocoa

• Great as a Christmas dessert centerpiece

Add a bit of nutmeg for a Ghanaian twist.

Easy Chocolate Cake

Chocolate cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s great for children and adults.

Tips for success:

• Use cocoa powder available in Ghanaian supermarkets

• Add coffee for richer flavour

• Top with chocolate ganache or sprinkles

It’s perfect for holiday celebrations and house parties.

Ghana-Style Fruit Cake

A lighter version of the heavy British fruitcake, using soaked raisins, mixed fruit and warm spices.

Festive additions:

• Nutmeg

• Cinnamon

• Vanilla

• Orange zest

Fruitcake is a traditional choice for gifting during Christmas.

2. Easy Christmas Cookies

Shortbread Butter Cookies

Simple, buttery and crumbly, these cookies are great for gifting.

Why Ghanaians love them:

• Only 3–4 ingredients

• Perfect for tea time

• Stores well in airtight containers

You can shape them into stars or Christmas trees.

Ginger Cookies (Ghana Harmattan favourite)

Warm, spicy and ideal for the season.

Ingredients typically used:

• Ginger powder

• Cinnamon

• Brown sugar

• Butter

These pair beautifully with hot chocolate or tea.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

A worldwide classic, easily made in Ghana.

Make them festive by adding:

• White chocolate chips

• Dried fruit

• Crushed candy canes (optional)

Kids especially enjoy these.

3. Simple Pastries for the Christmas Season

Homemade Meat Pies

One of Ghana’s favourite pastries — and a must-have during the holidays.

Why they’re perfect:

• Affordable ingredients

• Feed many people

• Make-ahead friendly

You can fill them with minced meat, chicken, tuna or vegetables.

Jam-Filled Puff Pastry Bites

Great for parties, especially when using ready-made puff pastry.

How to make:

• Cut pastry sheets into squares

• Add a spoon of jam

• Seal and bake until golden

They look fancy but are very easy.

Cinnamon Rolls (with simple Ghana kitchen ingredients)

Fluffy, warm and perfect for Christmas morning breakfasts.

Tips:

• Use margarine or butter

• Add nutmeg for local flavour

• Drizzle with icing sugar glaze

This pastry brings a cozy holiday aroma to your home.

4. Tips for Successful Holiday Baking in Ghana

Use room temperature ingredients

Helps with smooth mixing and even baking.

Don’t overmix your batter

Overmixing makes cakes dense.

Use baking powder and baking soda correctly

Check expiry dates for good rising.

Prep ingredients before you start

This makes baking smoother and faster.

Store baked goods properly

Use airtight containers to keep pastries fresh during the festive rush.

5. Fun Ways to Enjoy Your Holiday Bakes

Gift boxes

Package cookies, brownies or cupcakes in cute boxes for loved ones.

Family baking day

Turn baking into a fun December activity with kids.

Church and office celebrations

Bring homemade treats as your contribution.

Christmas morning breakfast

Serve cinnamon rolls or cupcakes with tea, coffee or hot chocolate.

Conclusion

Holiday baking doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With simple ingredients and easy techniques, you can fill your home with sweet aromas and festive spirit. Whether you prefer cakes, cookies or pastries, these Ghana-friendly recipes make December gatherings more joyful. Baking brings families together — and Christmas is the perfect time to make memories in the kitchen.