As the holiday season approaches, many of us are scrambling to find the perfect sweet treats to serve at our gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, these 18 delicious and easy Christmas dessert recipes are sure to impress your friends and family.
From classic sugar cookies to rich and creamy cheesecakes, we’ve got something for everyone on this list. And don’t worry if you’re short on time – many of these recipes can be prepared in under 30 minutes! Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert or something more elaborate, our holiday dessert recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday celebrations.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most delicious and easy-to-make Christmas desserts out there. From festive treats like snowman Rice Krispie treats and Santa hat brownie bites, to classic desserts like gingerbread and peppermint bark, there’s something for everyone on this list. So why wait? Let’s get baking!
Peppermint Chocolate Bark
Brighten up your day with this delightful combination of rich chocolate and invigorating peppermint, perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup (30g) crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the white chocolate chips until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the melted chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies and drizzle with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes melting time)
Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Chocolate Bark!
Easy Christmas Sugar Cookies
Get ready to spread holiday cheer with these classic sugar cookies, perfect for decorating and sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or decorations of your choice
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 baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
No-Bake Eggnog Cheesecake
Celebrate the season with this creamy and indulgent no-bake eggnog cheesecake, perfect for warm winter nights and holiday gatherings.
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 eggnog
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
2. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggnog, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Top with whipped cream and nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Gingerbread Mug Cake
Warm up with a cozy treat that’s ready in just minutes – our Gingerbread Mug Cake recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon molasses
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Butter or whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add milk, egg, molasses, sugar, and vanilla extract to the mug. Whisk until smooth.
3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until cake is cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Remove from microwave and let cool for a minute. Top with butter or whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Festive Chocolate Dipped Shortbread
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and buttery shortbread recipe, dipped in rich and creamy chocolate for an added layer of indulgence. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
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 white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- Optional: holiday sprinkles or edible glitter for garnish
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
- Place shortbread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth. Dip cooled shortbread into melted white chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
3-Ingredient Christmas Fudge
Make this delightful 3-Ingredient Christmas Fudge recipe in no time! With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying creamy, sweet treats with the family.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can of sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup of chocolate chips (semi-sweet or white)
– 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth and melted.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract, if using.
4. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is a no-bake affair.
Snowman Rice Krispie Treats
Create adorable snowmen treats using just a few simple ingredients! Perfect for winter-themed parties or holiday snacks, these marshmallow-y goodness are easy to make and fun to customize.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup melted butter or margarine
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– White frosting (for snowman’s face)
– Black gel or frosting (for eyes and mouth)
– Orange and black fondant or candy melts (for hat and scarf)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter or margarine over low heat.
2. Add marshmallows and stir until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour in Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well coated.
5. Press mixture into a greased 9×13-inch pan.
6. Let cool, then cut into desired shapes (snowmen).
7. Use white frosting to draw on the snowman’s face.
8. Add black gel or frosting for eyes and mouth.
9. Create hats and scarves using orange and black fondant or candy melts.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Quick Cranberry Orange Trifle
A sweet and tangy dessert perfect for the holiday season! Layers of moist cake, creamy whipped cream, and tart cranberries create a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9-inch) package orange-flavored sponge cake
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
Instructions:
1. Cut the cake into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in the orange zest.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the cranberries and orange marmalade.
5. Begin building the trifle by layering half of the cake cubes, followed by half of the whipped cream mixture, and finally half of the cranberry mixture.
6. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (prepping ingredients)
Total Time: 45 minutes
Mini Christmas Tree Cupcakes
Bring a touch of festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with these adorable Mini Christmas Tree Cupcakes. Moist vanilla cupcakes are topped with a fluffy buttercream frosting and decorated with edible greenery to resemble mini Christmas trees.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Green frosting (store-bought or homemade)
– Edible greenery (such as holly leaves or ferns)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among mini muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with green buttercream.
8. Decorate with edible greenery to resemble a mini Christmas tree.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Pudding Cake
This Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Pudding Cake is a perfect treat for chilly days or cozy gatherings. With its velvety hot chocolate flavor and gooey pudding texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup hot chocolate mix (powdered or packet)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. In the slow cooker, combine milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and hot chocolate mix. Stir until smooth.
3. Add dry ingredients to the slow cooker mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Cook on Low for 2-3 hours or High for 1-2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-3 hours
Rudolph Chocolate Pretzel Treats
Get ready to make your holiday party a hit with these adorable and delicious Rudolph-themed treats! These soft-baked pretzels are smothered in rich chocolate and topped with red and green sprinkles to resemble Rudolph’s shiny nose.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pretzel rods
– 1/2 cup melted milk chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening
– Red and green sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place pretzel rods on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each pretzel.
3. Melt milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Drizzle melted milk chocolate over the pretzels, spreading evenly to coat.
5. Place white chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 10-15 seconds or until smooth. Drizzle over the milk chocolate layer.
6. Immediately sprinkle red and green sprinkles on top of the white chocolate layer.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
8. Serve and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Easy Yule Log Cake Roll
This classic French dessert gets a modern makeover with a simple recipe that’s perfect for the holiday season. With just a few ingredients and steps, you’ll be impressing your guests in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cake is golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before spreading with melted chocolate chips.
7. Roll up tightly and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Christmas Pudding Parfait
Elevate your holiday celebrations with this show-stopping Christmas pudding parfait. Layers of moist pudding, creamy whipped cream, and crunchy nuts create a festive dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Christmas pudding
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Cut the Christmas pudding into small cubes.
3. Layer the pudding, whipped cream, and nuts in small glasses or parfait dishes.
4. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Drizzle the softened butter over the whipped cream to give it a golden glow.
Cooking Time:
– None! This dessert is ready in just a few minutes.
White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn
Get ready to delight your senses with this sweet and refreshing twist on classic popcorn! This recipe combines the creaminess of white chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint, perfect for a festive treat or a fun snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Pop the corn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add the white chocolate chips and stir until smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract and salt.
5. Pour the melted mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until coated evenly.
6. Spread on parchment paper to cool and harden completely.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Santa Hat Brownie Bites
Get into the holiday spirit with these adorable Santa hat-shaped brownies, perfect for a festive gathering or as a special treat for your loved ones. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be whipping up these merry morsels in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Red and white frosting or icing, for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
5. Fold flour mixture into butter mixture, then stir in melted chocolate.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow brownies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar and decorating with red and white frosting (if desired).
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Cherry Pie Filling Dump Cake
This cherry pie filling dump cake is a simple and delicious dessert that requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor. Perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or just satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of cherry pie filling (21 oz)
– 1 box of yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup of water
– 1/2 cup of melted butter
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry pie filling and cake mix.
3. Add the water, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. If using nuts, sprinkle them on top of the cake mixture.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 12-15
Christmas Spiced Apple Crumble
Christmas Spiced Apple Crumble Recipe
This warm and comforting dessert combines tender apples with a crunchy spiced topping, perfect for the holiday season. With its inviting aroma and sweet-tart flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix flour and cold butter until crumbly. Stir in rolled oats.
5. Top apple mixture with crumble topping, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Chocolate Dipped Marshmallow Snowflakes
Create a winter wonderland on a plate with these easy-to-make, adorable treats. Perfect for holiday parties or as a sweet surprise for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of mini marshmallows
– 1 cup of white chocolate chips
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of shortening (like Crisco)
– Edible glitter or snowflake decorations (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
2. Dip each marshmallow into the melted white chocolate, coating about half of the marshmallow.
3. Place the dipped marshmallows on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a silicone mat.
4. Sprinkle with edible glitter or decorate with snowflake designs if desired.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetest holiday season with these 18 delicious and easy Christmas dessert recipes perfect for beginners! From classic sugar cookies to creative treats like snowman Rice Krispie treats and Santa hat brownie bites, there’s something for everyone. Impress your loved ones with festive flavors like peppermint, gingerbread, and eggnog, or keep things simple with no-bake cheesecakes and slow cooker puddings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday celebrations.
Leave a Reply