It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas! And what better way to celebrate than with a table full of delicious and festive desserts? Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to treat your family and friends, these 18 irresistible Christmas dessert recipes are sure to impress. From classic gingerbread and peppermint treats to creative twists on traditional favorites, we’ve got you covered.
Get ready to indulge in the sweetest of seasons with our collection of festive desserts that are sure to become new holiday traditions. So grab your mixing bowls, baking sheets, and favorite holiday tunes – it’s time to get cooking!
Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these refreshing Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gingerbread Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle
This rich and decadent dessert combines the warmth of gingerbread with the creamy texture of cheesecake, finished with a sweet and sticky caramel drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and additional crystallized ginger for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, ground ginger, and crystallized ginger; mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Allow cheesecake to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce.
7. Garnish with whipped cream and additional crystallized ginger, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes – 1 hour 15 minutes
Eggnog Bread Pudding
Warm up with a sweet and indulgent treat this holiday season: Eggnog Bread Pudding! This creamy dessert is made with the richness of eggnog, the comfort of bread, and a hint of spices to get you in the mood for the holidays.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggnog, milk, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Stir in melted butter and beaten eggs.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Enjoy your Eggnog Bread Pudding, warm from the oven, with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra-special treat!
Cranberry White Chocolate Blondies
These chewy blondies combine the tartness of cranberries with the creamy richness of white chocolate, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. With only 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes in the oven, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in white chocolate chips and cranberries.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spiced Apple Cinnamon Roll Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of apples, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add chopped apple, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the wet ingredients; mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Snowball Coconut Macaroons
These Snowball Coconut Macaroons are a delicious twist on the classic macaroon, with a sweet and chewy center coated in shredded coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup egg whites
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sweetened condensed milk, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and egg whites until smooth.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each macaroon.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown on the bottom.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Roll in shredded coconut to coat.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Bark Fudge
Get ready to delight your senses with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the richness of chocolate, the crunch of peppermint bark, and the creaminess of fudge.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
– 8 ounces (225g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup (60g) crushed candy canes or peppermint bark
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and peppermint extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
4. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
5. Once set, sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint bark on top of the fudge.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu Trifle
A creative twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Pumpkin Spice Tiramisu Trifle combines the warm spices of fall with the creamy richness of tiramisu. Layers of pumpkin-infused ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese mixture, and whipped cream come together to create a show-stopping dessert perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Whipped cream and chopped pecans for garnish
Instructions:
1. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, about 3-5 seconds per side.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together heavy cream, sugar, pumpkin puree, mascarpone cheese, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
3. Begin assembling the trifle by placing a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a large serving dish.
4. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 to create another layer.
6. Top with whipped cream and chopped pecans for garnish.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Candy Cane Brownie Bites
These bite-sized brownies are infused with the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate, perfect for a holiday party or a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (about 4-6 canes)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a mini muffin tin with butter.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. Melt butter and chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Add crushed candy canes to the melted chocolate mixture; stir to combine.
5. Pour the batter into prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Pecan Pie Bars
These Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a creative take on the traditional pecan pie, with the added bonus of maple syrup for an extra layer of flavor. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a dessert to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup maple syrup
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in melted butter and stir until combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Stir in pecan halves and salt.
4. Pour filling over crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
5. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Eggnog Crème Brûlée
This rich and creamy dessert combines the warm spices of eggnog with the caramelized sweetness of crème brûlée, perfect for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120 g) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) eggnog
– Unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add heavy cream and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in eggnog and melted butter.
5. Pour into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
10. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the top of each ramekin and caramelize with a kitchen torch.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies
Treat yourself to a sweet and buttery shortbread cookie infused with the flavors of cherry and almond. These tender cookies are perfect for snacking or as a dessert accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped dried cherries
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in granulated sugar, cherries, almond extract, and salt.
4. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Hot Chocolate Pudding Cake
This rich and decadent dessert combines the comfort of hot chocolate with the indulgence of a moist cake, topped with a creamy pudding. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup hot chocolate mix (or to taste)
– Whipped cream or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour in hot chocolate mix and stir until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool slightly before serving with whipped cream or chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gingerbread Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Moist and spicy gingerbread layers are paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting, creating a show-stopping dessert perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before assembling and frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
White Chocolate Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the sweetness of white chocolate with the tartness of cranberries and the warmth of oatmeal, making them a perfect treat for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in cranberries and white chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Peppermint Mocha Cupcakes
Brighten up your day with these moist and flavorful Peppermint Mocha Cupcakes, perfect for any occasion. With a hint of peppermint and a rich mocha flavor, these cupcakes are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and milk until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in peppermint extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramel Apple Bread Pudding
Combine the warm spices of bread pudding with the sweetness of caramel and crisp apple, perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large apples, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour mixture over bread mixture and toss until bread is evenly moistened.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles
Transform ordinary truffles into extraordinary treats by infusing them with the richness of dark chocolate and the brightness of orange.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier or Cointreau)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
– Chopped pecans or hazelnuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and salt.
3. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Stir the orange liqueur and orange juice into the melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until a dough forms.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
7. Roll the truffle dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Chill for an additional 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including chilling time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a festive holiday season with these 18 irresistible Christmas dessert recipes! From classic treats like peppermint chocolate crinkle cookies and gingerbread cheesecake, to creative twists like eggnog bread pudding and cranberry white chocolate blondies, there’s something for everyone on this merry list. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to treat yourself, these sweet and savory desserts are sure to be a hit.
