We've finally hit the inflection point in the seasons when a 9pm ice cream trip to our nearest favoured gelato haunt just isn't as magical as it used to be. It goes without saying that there's something unappealing about shivering in line for icy treats while frigid sleet-rain threatens to dampen our coats (and spirits).
But in fact, winter doesn't mean giving up on your favourite desserts – rather, it's a time to broaden our horizons and remember just how good our favourite winter warming sweet treats really are. Hot cinnamon donuts? Molten chocolate lave cakes? An oozing sticky date pudding? We won't be saying no to that.
Below, check out our list of winter warmer desserts to add to your next dinner party menu (or to simply eat by yourself, wrapped up in a blanket on the couch).
1. Banana Bread by Brooke Kelly
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There's nothing more heart-warming in winter than a slice of toasted banana bread – and Sydney-based nutritionist Brooke Kelly has crafted a version on her Substack, Kitchen Rituals, that is both gluten-free and dairy-free (meaning you can share it with all your favourite friends). Her suggestion is to pan toast your slice in butter, with a dusting of cinnamon and flaked salt.
2. Zingy Lemon Soufflé by Paris Starn
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Yes, this dessert is infamous for being difficult, but it's nothing Paris Starn can't teach you how to do. Her 'baking blocks' series on her Substack Playing with Food will run you through all the basics (with photos and even a conversion tip sheet). She's also got a few other variations to try on her website – from Orange to Banana Bread flavoured soufflé – in case you're leaning toward a different flavour.
3. Rhubarb Clafoutis by Jess Shadbolt
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Shadbolt is the brains behind the menus at both King and Jupiter in NYC, so we trust just about any recipe she hands down. This one in particular was created in collaboration with Natoora and Ffern to celebrate the launch of their rhubarb-scented perfume, Spring 24 – and it's simply divine. Served straight from the oven and eaten on the table in its cast iron pan, the gentle custard is the perfect companion to tangy rhubarb.
4. Apple Galette by Carter Were
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A perfect dessert for using up all those late-spring apples we've been enjoying – a galette is the perfect beginner recipe for those looking to branch out from their usual comfort zone of brownies and cake batters. While it's always nice to make your own shortcrust pastry from scratch – who always has the time? This one is easily adaptable to using store-bought.
5. Breakfast Crumble by Clem Day
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Sometimes we want dessert for breakfast? And is there something wrong with that? Clem Day thinks not – and shared her recipes for a perfect breakfast crumble best served still warm with fresh cream or yoghurt (or even ice cream) amongst friends.
6. Cherry Shiso Galette by BRINS Jame
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Yes, another galette. But truly this one is a game-changer. BRINS Jame knew what was up when they paired its Cherry Shiso jam with an almond frangipane base and served with brown sugar ice cream.
7. Brûléed Honeynut Squash with Ice Cream by Pierce Abernathy
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Always the contrarian, Pierce Abernathy is constanstly serving up dishes that feel a little unorthodox (in the best way possible). Here, he caramelises a halved segment of honeynut squash, brûlées it with sugar and nestles a scoop of ice cream into its pocket.
8. Sticky Toffee Pudding by Meredith Hayden
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The British-born dessert takes on a new life in the cook book of Meredith Hayden (aka TikTok's @wishbonekitchen). The recipe developer and former private chef in New York City and the Hamptons reimagines the cake soaked in toffee sauce – perfect for a cosy night in.
