The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than with a plate full of delicious Christmas treats? From classic candies like peppermint bark and gingerbread truffles, to unique twists on old favorites, we’ve got you covered with our 20 irresistible Christmas candy recipes. Whether you’re looking for a sweet gift to give to friends and family, or just want to indulge in some holiday cheer yourself, these tasty treats are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the most mouthwatering Christmas candies out there, from rich and creamy fudges to crunchy and chewy toffees. We’ll show you how to make classic divinity candy, easy Christmas toffee, and even share some creative recipes for white chocolate cranberry clusters and spiced pecan brittle. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, put on your favorite holiday tunes, and get ready to indulge in the sweetest part of the season.
Peppermint Bark Chocolate Squares
Create a festive and refreshing treat with these Peppermint Bark Chocolate Squares, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (about 20-25 pieces)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract and salt.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies evenly over the top of the white chocolate layer.
6. Melt the semisweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Pour the melted semisweet chocolate mixture over the peppermint topping.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to set.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe!
Homemade Candy Cane Fudge
Add a festive touch to your holiday gatherings with this easy-to-make candy cane fudge recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious and colorful treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 12-15 candy canes, crushed
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and salt.
3. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir until the mixture is smooth and melted.
4. Remove from heat and stir in crushed candy canes and butter until well combined.
5. Pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
6. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)
Classic Divinity Candy
Experience the sweet and chewy delight of classic divinity candy with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chopped nuts or sprinkles for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a large cutting board or surface with parchment paper.
2. Combine corn syrup, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in salt and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared surface and let cool slightly, about 5 minutes.
6. Use a spatula or spoon to shape into desired shapes (e.g., logs, bars, or small balls).
7. Let set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Easy Christmas Toffee
Make this classic holiday treat with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. Perfect for gift-giving or snacking on, this easy-to-make toffee is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) chopped almonds or pecans (optional)
– 1 sheet of parchment paper
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine brown sugar, water, and butter in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 290°F (145°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
6. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the top immediately.
7. Allow to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
8. Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
White Chocolate Cranberry Clusters
Sweet and tangy, these bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the dried cranberries and chopped pecans (if using).
4. Drop small spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Drizzle with honey and use a spatula or fork to gently spread it out slightly.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Gingerbread Truffles
A sweet and spicy treat perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. These bite-sized truffles combine the warmth of gingerbread with the richness of chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 12 ounces white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and butter until well mixed.
2. Add chopped ginger, powdered sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
5. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Dip each gingerbread ball into melted white chocolate, using a fork to coat evenly.
7. Place coated truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (refrigeration only)
Eggnog Fudge with Nutmeg
Eggnog Fudge with Nutmeg Recipe
Summary: Rich eggnog-infused fudge with the warmth of nutmeg is a perfect treat for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (115g) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup (120ml) eggnog
– 1 cup (200g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Place over low heat, stirring until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract and nutmeg.
4. Stir in eggnog until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. If using nuts, sprinkle on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Peanut Butter Balls
These bite-sized treats combine creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanuts, coated in rich chocolate for a indulgent snack or dessert. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet craving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Optional: sprinkles or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in chopped peanuts.
3. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Dip peanut butter balls into melted chocolate, coating completely. If desired, add sprinkles or chopped nuts before chocolate hardens.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set chocolate.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just chill and enjoy.
Spiced Pecan Brittle
This Spiced Pecan Brittle recipe combines the warmth of spices with the crunch of pecans to create a delicious and addictive snack. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine corn syrup, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Let cool slightly.
4. Stir in melted butter and pecan halves until well coated.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer.
6. Allow to cool and set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cherry Almond Christmas Bark
Brighten up your holiday season with this sweet and crunchy Cherry Almond Christmas Bark recipe, featuring the perfect combination of chewy cherries and nutty almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped cherries and sliced almonds.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into a thin layer.
5. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes refrigeration time)
Yield: 1 large piece of Christmas bark
Maple Walnut Caramels
Sweet and nutty, these maple walnut caramels are a delicious treat. Made with just a few ingredients, they’re easy to make and perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, cream, and butter in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until caramel reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup and vanilla extract.
5. Pour caramel into prepared baking dish and sprinkle with walnuts.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Snowball Coconut Haystacks
A sweet and crunchy treat that’s perfect for parties or snacks on-the-go! These Snowball Coconut Haystacks are easy to make and require just a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, pecans, and shredded coconut.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required, as this recipe doesn’t involve cooking.
Orange Creamsicle Fudge
This sweet treat captures the essence of a classic creamsicle, with the bright citrus flavor of orange and the richness of creamy fudge.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1 can (14 oz/397g) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon orange extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 12 ounces (340g) semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, orange extract, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth.
3. Remove from heat; stir in semisweet chocolate chips until melted and combined.
4. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: 1 (8-inch) square of fudge
Dark Chocolate Espresso Truffles
Experience the perfect blend of rich dark chocolate and bold espresso in these bite-sized truffles. Perfect as a gift or for a special treat, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and butter until smooth.
3. Add the espresso powder and vanilla extract to the cream mixture; whisk until combined.
4. Pour the cream mixture into the melted chocolate; stir until smooth.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5cm) in diameter.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply chill and serve.
Vanilla Bean Caramels
Create a batch of rich and creamy vanilla bean caramels with this simple recipe. These indulgent treats are perfect for gifting or enjoying on their own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and sea salt. Place the vanilla bean in the mixture.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the caramel reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
6. Pour the caramel onto the prepared baking sheet and let cool slightly.
7. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Christmas Popcorn Candy Mix
Get into the holiday spirit with this sweet and salty treat that’s perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 6-8 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– Red and green sprinkles or nonpareils for decorating
Instructions:
1. Line a large surface with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, sugar, water, butter, vanilla extract, salt, and baking soda. Place over medium heat and stir until the mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and pour the hot caramel mixture over the popped popcorn in a large bowl. Stir until the popcorn is evenly coated.
4. Spread the popcorn mixture onto the prepared surface to cool and set.
5. Once set, use your hands or a spoon to break up any clusters and separate the popcorn pieces.
6. Decorate with red and green sprinkles or nonpareils before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rum-Soaked Fruitcake Bites
Elevate your holiday party with these bite-sized rum-soaked fruitcake treats. Moist and flavorful, they’re perfect for serving as an appetizer or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (or to taste)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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 egg.
4. Add dried fruit, rum, and flour mixture; mix until combined.
5. Drop tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each bite.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Peanut Butter Cup Reindeer Treats
Add some holiday cheer to your party with these adorable and delicious Peanut Butter Cup Reindeer Treats! These no-bake bites are easy to make and perfect for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cup shredded coconut (white or brown)
– Edible eyes and antlers for decoration
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Stir in crushed graham crackers and chocolate chips until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Just before serving, drizzle with honey and sprinkle with shredded coconut.
6. Use edible eyes and antlers to create reindeer faces.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are no-bake.
Pistachio Cranberry White Chocolate Bark
Pistachio Cranberry White Chocolate Bark Recipe
Treat your taste buds to a sweet and tangy combination of flavors with this easy-to-make Pistachio Cranberry White Chocolate Bark. This recipe is perfect for the holiday season, or any time you want to add some festive flair to your snack routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped pistachios, dried cranberries, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to desired thickness.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
6. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Caramel Apple Candy Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the crunch of apples with the gooey sweetness of caramel, making them a perfect snack for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these delicious morsels in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Granny Smith apples, diced
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and baking soda. Place over medium heat and cook until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla extract, and salt until melted. Let cool slightly.
4. Add diced apples to the caramel mixture and stir until coated.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the apple-caramel mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) between each bite.
6. Allow to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! These bites are best served fresh.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetest part of the season! This collection of 20 irresistible Christmas candy recipes will satisfy your holiday cravings. From classic treats like peppermint bark and fudge, to creative twists like gingerbread truffles and spiced pecan brittle, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a show-stopping centerpiece, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday gatherings.
