This month, we’re all about fun, whimsical bakes, from bright green brownies to carrot cake pancakes to a sunny lemon-filled bread. With spring fruit on the horizon, outdoor gatherings starting up, and holidays like Easter and Passover on the calendar, it’s a great time to hit the kitchen — here are 14 exciting spring recipes to make when you do.

Photography by Patrick Marinello; Food Styling by Yekaterina Boytsova

With their bright green swirl, these brownies are a treat for both your eyes and your sweet tooth.

1) Peppermint Swirl Brownies

Chocolate and mint prove they truly are meant to go together in these eye-catching brownies. The brownie batter uses melted butter (so no guessing whether or not it’s actually “room temperature”) and no leavening, resulting in a supremely fudgy texture.…