The holiday season is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to get baking! Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just want to treat your family to some sweet treats, we’ve got you covered with these 20 easy and delicious Christmas dessert recipes. From classic cookies and cakes to creative truffles and tarts, our collection has something for every taste and skill level.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the most wonderful time of the year, sharing recipes that are sure to become new holiday traditions in your household. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, put on your favorite festive playlist, and get ready to indulge in some seriously sweet treats!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Get ready for a refreshing twist on classic chocolate chip cookies! These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies combine the sweetness of white chocolate chips with the invigorating flavor of peppermint extract.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
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, then stir in white chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Eggnog Cheesecake
Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this creamy and velvety cheesecake, infused with the warm spices of eggnog.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in eggnog, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt.
6. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the center is set.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes
Christmas Tree Brownies
These festive brownies are perfect for your holiday gatherings or as a special treat for the kids. With their bright green and red colors, they’re sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups of sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Green and red frosting for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter.
2. Melt the butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cocoa powder until combined.
4. Add flour and salt; stir until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow to cool completely before decorating with green and red frosting.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your holiday baking game with these moist and flavorful gingerbread cupcakes, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gift-giving or satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar; beat until combined.
No-Bake Cranberry White Chocolate Tart
This no-bake tart is a sweet and tangy treat perfect for the holiday season. A crunchy crust, a creamy white chocolate filling, and a pop of cranberry flavor come together in this easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces white chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Pour in the melted butter and stir until well combined.
3. Press the crust mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Stir in the heavy cream until smooth.
6. Fold in the cranberries and orange zest (if using).
7. Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This no-bake tart is ready when you are.
Festive Red Velvet Trifle
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this show-stopping Festive Red Velvet Trifle. Layers of moist red velvet cake, creamy cheesecake, and sweet whipped cream come together to create a dessert that’s as impressive as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9-inch) red velvet cake
– 1 cup creamy cheesecake filling
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh raspberries and whipped cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the red velvet cake into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Layer the cake cubes, cheesecake filling, and whipped cream in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
4. Top with fresh raspberries and a dollop of whipped cream.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required! This trifle is best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
Snowball Cookie Bites
Snowball Cookie Bites Recipe
These bite-sized treats are a twist on classic Russian tea cakes, with a delicious combination of buttery dough, powdered sugar, and chopped pecans. Perfect for a quick snack or holiday party treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into small squares or shapes. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and immediately roll in powdered sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Peanut Butter Fudge
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and creamy peanut butter fudge that’s ready in just a few minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine confectioners’ sugar, peanut butter, and butter. Place over low heat, stirring until smooth and melted.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
Cooking Time: None! This fudge is ready to eat as soon as it’s chilled.
Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Stars
Add a touch of whimsy to your celebrations with these delicate shortbread stars dipped in rich chocolate. Perfect for holiday parties, special occasions, or as a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add softened butter; mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into star shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife.
4. Place stars on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Dip cooled shortbread stars into melted chocolate; place on parchment paper to set.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Easy Fruitcake Bars
Easy Fruitcake Bars
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These sweet and tangy bars are perfect for a snack or dessert. With a shortbread crust, a layer of spiced fruit, and a drizzle of glaze, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups mixed dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, and cherries)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add butter and mix until crumbly. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir in dried fruit and nuts (if using).
4. Pour fruit mixture over crust and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before drizzling with confectioners’ sugar glaze.
Confectioners’ Sugar Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
Mix powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Candy Cane Oreo Truffles
Combine the flavors of Oreos, peppermint, and candy canes to create these bite-sized truffles perfect for holiday gatherings. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying these festive treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Oreo cookies
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (about 6-8 candies)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, crush the Oreos until they’re finely ground.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the crushed candy canes to the cream cheese mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These truffles are best served chilled, so no cooking required.
Hot Chocolate Pudding Cups
These rich and creamy pudding cups are perfect for a cold winter’s day or any time you need a chocolatey pick-me-up. Made with dark cocoa powder, milk, and sweetened condensed milk, they’re an easy and indulgent treat to whip up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
2. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Pour into 4-6 small cups or ramekins.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until chilled.
6. If desired, top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings before serving.
Cooking Time: None (prepare in advance)
Christmas Spice Cake with Vanilla Glaze
Warm up your holiday season with this moist and aromatic Christmas Spice Cake, topped with a rich and creamy Vanilla Glaze.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
For the glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2-4 tablespoons whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Alternate adding flour mixture and milk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before glazing.
Glaze:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Add milk, starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more as needed, until desired consistency is reached.
3. Drizzle glaze over cooled cake.
Mini Pecan Pies
These bite-sized pecan pies are a perfect treat for any occasion. With their gooey filling and crunchy pecans, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12 mini muffin tin liners
– Whipped cream or ice cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Stir in pecan halves, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour mixture into mini muffin tin liners, filling each about 3/4 full.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
6. Allow pies to cool completely before serving. Optional: top with whipped cream or ice cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rudolph Rice Krispie Treats
Bring some festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with these adorable Rudolph-inspired Rice Krispie treats!
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
– 2 cups marshmallows
– Red and yellow gel or paste food coloring
– White chocolate chips or candy melts for antlers
– Edible markers or frosting for eyes and nose
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
4. Grease an 8-inch square pan with butter. Press the Rice Krispie mixture into the pan.
5. Let cool and harden. Cut into desired shapes, such as Rudolph’s face or antlers.
6. Melt white chocolate chips or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Use melted white chocolate to attach antlers to the treats.
8. Add eyes and nose with edible markers or frosting.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies
These chewy blondies combine the sweetness of white chocolate with the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful and easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 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, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
4. Stir in white chocolate chips and dried cranberries.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Gingerbread Loaf
A classic wintertime treat that’s perfect for snacking or gifting. This moist and flavorful gingerbread loaf is made with simple ingredients and requires minimal effort, making it a great option for busy bakers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Bark
A classic holiday treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint. This easy-to-make bark is perfect for gift-giving or satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– 1 teaspoon peppermint oil
– 1 cup crushed candy canes (about 6-8 canes)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
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 peppermint extract and oil.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes and chopped fresh mint leaves (if using) over the white chocolate.
6. Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Pour the melted semi-sweet chocolate over the peppermint mixture, spreading evenly to cover the entire surface.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
9. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including melting time)
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
These festive bars combine the classic flavors of sugar cookies with the convenience of a single-cut dessert. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup red and green sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add softened butter; mix until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
5. Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this delicious apple cinnamon bread pudding, perfect for a cozy evening treat or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
• 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugars, heavy cream, milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add bread cubes, stirring until well coated.
4. Fold in diced apples and melted butter.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 delicious and easy Christmas dessert recipes! From classic cookies like peppermint chocolate chip and snowball cookie bites, to festive treats like gingerbread cupcakes and candy cane Oreo truffles. You’ll also find sweet surprises like no-bake cranberry white chocolate tart, quick peanut butter fudge, and hot chocolate pudding cups. Plus, indulgent delights like Christmas tree brownies, easy fruitcake bars, and mini pecan pies. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday gatherings.
