It’s the most wonderful time of the year – holiday season! As we deck the halls and trim the tree, our thoughts turn to sweet treats that bring joy and cheer to our loved ones. And what better way to spread the holiday spirit than with a platter full of delicious desserts? In this article, we’ll share 18 mouthwatering and easy-to-make holiday dessert recipes that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
From classic cookies and cakes to creative twists on old favorites, our collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes are designed to be quick, easy, and utterly irresistible. So go ahead, get baking, and make this holiday season one to remember!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Get ready to treat your taste buds with these delightful Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies, perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in peppermint extract and eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Eggnog Cheesecake
Add a touch of festive flair to your holiday gathering with this simple and delicious eggnog cheesecake. With its creamy texture, sweet flavor, and hint of nutmeg, it’s sure to become a new tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in eggnog, vanilla extract, and nutmeg.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before topping with additional granulated sugar.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Gingerbread Mug Cake
Gingerbread Mug Cake Recipe
Warm up with this delightful gingerbread mug cake that’s ready in just a few minutes! This sweet treat combines the comforting flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses for a cozy pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon molasses
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter, molasses, egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until the cake is cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Let cool for 30 seconds before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook Time: 1-2 minutes
Festive Cranberry White Chocolate Blondies
These sweet and tangy blondies are perfect for the holiday season, featuring white chocolate chips and dried cranberries. A delicious dessert to serve at your next gathering or gift to friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 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, sugar, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in white chocolate chips and cranberries.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Truffles
Get ready to indulge your senses with these creamy, bite-sized treats that capture the essence of fall. These no-bake truffles combine the warmth of pumpkin spice with the richness of white chocolate for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, pumpkin puree, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in pumpkin pie spice.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow mixture to firm up.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the oat mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Dip each ball into melted white chocolate, coating completely.
7. Place truffles on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! No baking required.
Quick Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding
A warm and comforting dessert that combines the flavors of apple and cinnamon in a rich, buttery bread pudding. Perfect for a cozy evening treat!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 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
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add bread cubes and toss until evenly coated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, and melted butter. Pour mixture over bread mixture; stir until combined.
5. Fold in diced apples.
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
Holiday Sugar Cookie Bars
These bars combine the classic flavors of sugar cookies with the convenience of a bar cookie, perfect for holiday gatherings and parties. With a shortbread crust, chewy sugar cookie filling, and festive sprinkles, these bars are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup festive sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. While crust is baking, prepare sugar cookie filling by mixing vanilla extract with white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth and melted.
5. Remove crust from oven and pour sugar cookie filling over the top. Sprinkle with festive sprinkles if desired.
6. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 32-35 minutes
Simple Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
In just a few minutes, you can create this rich and creamy treat that combines the flavors of chocolate and peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12 ounces (340g) white granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and corn syrup. Place over low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sugar until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (cooking time is minimal, as this fudge is cooked through the melting of the chocolate chips)
Snowman Hot Chocolate Cupcakes
These moist and delicious cupcakes are infused with the warmth of hot chocolate and topped with a fluffy snowman-inspired marshmallow meringue. Perfect for a winter wonderland party or a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup hot chocolate mix
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Marshmallow creme, for meringue topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add hot chocolate mix to the wet ingredients and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before topping with marshmallow meringue.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Easy Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies
Get ready for a sweet treat that combines the flavors of pecan pie and classic thumbprint cookies! These bite-sized goodies are perfect for snack time or as a dessert.
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 vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in chopped pecans.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to create an indentation in each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Crisp
Warm up with a deliciously spiced apple crisp cooked to perfection in your slow cooker!
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
2. In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.
3. Top the apple mixture with the oat mixture.
4. Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half, ensuring the apples are covered.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies have a unique red velvet flavor and a crinkly surface, perfect for any occasion. With the addition of cocoa powder and buttermilk, these cookies are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red velvet emulsion (or 1 teaspoon red food coloring)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add red velvet emulsion (or food coloring), buttermilk, and cocoa powder. Mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
3-Ingredient Coconut Snowballs
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a hot summer day or as a sweet surprise any time of the year. With just three ingredients, you can have a delicious and refreshing dessert in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded coconut and confectioners’ sugar.
2. Add the peanut butter to the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the snowballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required! These treats are best served straight from the refrigerator.
Festive Cherry Almond Shortbread
Brighten up your holiday season with this sweet and buttery shortbread infused with the warmth of cherries and almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped dried cherries
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
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.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in granulated sugar, cherries, almond extract, and sliced almonds.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 2-3 times.
6. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Chocolate Dipped Orange Biscotti
Elevate your snack game with these crunchy, flavorful biscotti that combine the brightness of orange zest with the richness of chocolate. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup white chocolate chips or chopped semisweet chocolate
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add orange zest, salt, and softened butter. Mix until combined.
4. Beat in the egg.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into strips or shapes.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Melt white chocolate chips or chopped semisweet chocolate.
8. Dip cooled biscotti into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
9. Place on a wire rack to set.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Easy Peppermint Bark Pretzel Bites
Add a festive touch to your holiday gatherings with these sweet and salty treats. Crunchy pretzels, rich chocolate, and refreshing peppermint come together in a perfect combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of pretzel rods (about 12-15 inches long)
– 1 cup of white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup of milk chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon of crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the pretzel rods on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving about 1 inch of space between each pretzel.
3. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Dip each pretzel rod into the melted white chocolate, coating about half of the pretzel.
5. Place the dipped pretzels back on the baking sheet and sprinkle with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies.
6. Melt the milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Drizzle the melted milk chocolate over the pretzels and sprinkle with salt.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on the melting of the chocolate)
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Tarts
These bite-sized treats are perfect for fall gatherings or as a sweet snack any time of the year. Moist pumpkin filling and creamy cheesecake come together in a deliciously easy-to-make tart.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into mini muffin tin cups.
3. Bake crusts for 5 minutes. Let cool completely.
4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture into cooled tart crusts. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until set.
6. Allow tarts to cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Bowl Eggnog Snickerdoodles
These soft and chewy snickerdoodles are infused with the warm, spicy flavors of eggnog, making them perfect for the holiday season. With only one bowl to clean, this recipe is a quick and easy treat to make for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons eggnog
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a single bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and sugar; beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs, eggnog, and vanilla extract.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between cookies.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetest holiday season yet with these 18 delicious and easy dessert recipes! From classic cookies like Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies and Gingerbread Mug Cake, to creative treats like No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Truffles and Snowman Hot Chocolate Cupcakes, there’s something for everyone on this list. Impress your friends and family with Easy Eggnog Cheesecake, Festive Cranberry White Chocolate Blondies, or Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Tarts. And don’t forget about the no-bake options like Simple Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge and 3-Ingredient Coconut Snowballs. Whatever your sweet tooth craves, these irresistible desserts are sure to satisfy!
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