As 2020 draws to a close, I like to pause and look back at the recipes you turned to most over the past year. This roundup ranks the top 10 posts on Eight Forest Lane based on pageviews from January through now. It’s always enlightening to see which dishes resonated most — familiar favourites often return, while new recipes sometimes rise quickly.
This year’s list includes six returning favourites and four newcomers, the same mix as last year. There’s one notable change at the top: a long-time number one has slipped to second place, while a savory newcomer claimed the top spot. Below are the ten recipes readers loved most in 2020, from comforting cakes and cupcakes to satisfying savory pies.
You can also revisit the top lists from previous years to compare trends: top 10 recipes of 2019 and top 10 recipes of 2018.
10. Vegan Chocolate Buttercream
This rich, dairy-free chocolate frosting remains a popular choice even after slipping from its number three position last year. It’s a reliable, creamy option for cakes and cupcakes and continues to get high engagement from readers. Get the recipe.
9. Homemade Vegan Tim Tams
Published early in 2020, these homemade vegan Tim Tams made a strong debut and secured a spot in the top ten in their first year. Readers shared many photos of their creations, which is always such a joy to see. The recipe captures the nostalgic chocolatey sandwich cookie with a vegan twist. Get the recipe.
8. Turmeric Fried Rice
This simple savory rice dish continues to be a favourite, making its third consecutive appearance in the yearly top ten. Bright, fragrant and easy to prepare, turmeric fried rice is a versatile weeknight meal that readers keep coming back to. Get the recipe.
7. Coffee & Walnut Loaf Cake
This classic loaf cake is steadily climbing the list. Its nostalgic flavours make it perfect for afternoon tea, weekend baking or gifting to friends. The coffee and walnut pairing is timeless and clearly a crowd-pleaser. Get the recipe.
6. The BEST Vanilla Cupcakes
One of the oldest posts on the site, this vanilla cupcake recipe has been a reliable staple in many kitchens for years. Its consistent popularity shows it’s a go-to for celebrations and everyday baking alike. Get the recipe.
5. Vegan Vanilla Cupcakes
For readers who need or prefer plant-based options, these vegan vanilla cupcakes deliver classic taste and texture without dairy or eggs. Simple, reliable and delicious, they fill an important spot for allergy-friendly baking. Get the recipe.
4. Vegan Vanilla Buttercream
No cake is complete without great frosting, and this vegan vanilla buttercream is my go-to. It’s creamy, smooth and pairs beautifully with the site’s cupcake and cake recipes. Judging by the photos you shared this year, it has become a favourite for many of you too. Get the recipe.
3. Cookies & Cream Cupcakes (Vegan)
These Oreo-style vegan cupcakes moved up the list this year. Cookies and cream is a universally loved flavour combination, and this recipe offers a plant-based version that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. Get the recipe.
2. Vegan Sticky Date Pudding with Caramel Sauce
After holding the top spot for two years, this sticky date pudding slipped to number two but remains a family favourite. The post received updated photos this year, which refreshed the presentation of this comforting, saucy dessert. Get the recipe.
1. Vegetable Curry Pies
New to the top spot this year, vegetable curry pies were published in February and quickly won readers over. It’s refreshing to see a savory recipe top the list — flaky pastry filled with creamy curried vegetables is hard to resist. Thank you to everyone who made and shared these pies; I’m thrilled they’ve become a favourite. Get the recipe.
Thank you to everyone who visited the site this year and tried these recipes. I love seeing your baking and cooking photos, and I’m grateful you share them with friends and family. Please tell me in the comments what recipes you’d like to see on the blog in 2021 — whether it’s more vegan baking, savory mains, or quick weeknight meals, I’d love your suggestions.
Sally x