We love cooking as a way to turn around a damper day. (Check out our #wecook hashtag if you need some recipe inspiration!) The simplest of treats can make a world of difference when it comes to making every day feel like a good one. From bright flavors to nostalgic rituals, here’s a list of sweet recipes we’re positive will put a smile on your face.

Earl Grey Blondies

If you love the floral flavor of earl grey tea, Lasheeda Perry’s elevated take on blondies won’t disappoint. Lasheeda uses loose earl grey leaves – she adds them straight into the batter! – so these indulgent squares don’t skimp on any of the tea’s signature taste.

Citrus Sunshine Pound Cake

Dan Langan (aka @bakedbydan) has practically put pure sunshine in a cake with fresh lemons and oranges. But you can use whatever citrus fruits you have on hand — grapefruit or meyer lemons will definitely work here. This is the kind of cake that’s even better the second or even third day you slice into it.

Blueberry-Lemon Whoopie Pies

You can’t help but giggle when you say the name of these sandwiches out loud. The light and fluffy pies, studded with juicy blueberries, are a modern take on a childhood favorite.

Cinnamon Bun Pancakes

Skip the tough choice between these two breakfast staples, and just make one glorious mash-up. Cozy spices and sweet swirls of gooey icing make Cinnamon Bun Panackes the ultimate stack.

Best-Ever Chocolate Swirl Banana Bread

Get on the banana bread train and whip up Jet Tila’s chocolate-blessed rendition of the classic comfort food. The loaf comes out tangy all thanks to the sour cream in the batter.

Holiday Cookies

You don’t have to wait until December to bring holiday joy into your kitchen. This sugar cookie recipe is simple enough to work as a blank canvas for whatever cookie cutters, frosting and sprinkles you have on-hand.

Quick Rainbow Cookies

Rainbows are coming sooner than you think! Samantha Seneviratne shares her shortcut version of the indulgent, tri-colored cookie. Get the same delightful flavor in just a fraction of the time.

Can’t wait to get started on one – or all! – of these smile-inducing treats? Learn how to make each one with step-by-step classes on the Food Network Kitchen app!

Use #wecook when you post your creations on Instagram and you might find your pics on our page.

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