The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the joy of sharing delicious treats with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to keep your family and friends satisfied throughout the year, having a stash of irresistible snacks on hand is key. To help you in this quest for snack greatness, we’ve rounded up 20 festive holiday snack recipes that are sure to be a hit. From classic cookie exchange treats like gingerbread truffles and peppermint bark popcorn, to savory options like spiced nuts with rosemary and caramel apple nachos, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these tasty holiday snacks, sharing recipes, tips, and ideas for making your gathering a little more merry and bright. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy, and let’s get started!
Peppermint Bark Popcorn
Get ready to add a refreshing twist to your popcorn game with this easy-to-make Peppermint Bark Popcorn recipe! Crunchy, sweet, and peppermint-y, it’s the perfect treat for any movie night or party.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 6 cups popped popcorn
– 1 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint bark (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Line a large bowl with parchment paper.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter and peppermint extract until melted and smooth.
6. Pour the popcorn into the prepared bowl and pour the peppermint mixture evenly over the top.
7. If using crushed candy canes or peppermint bark, sprinkle over the popcorn immediately after pouring.
8. Let cool and harden for at least 30 minutes before breaking apart.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes cooling time)
Cranberry Brie Bites
These bite-sized appetizers combine the creamy richness of brie cheese with the tangy sweetness of cranberries, perfect for a holiday party or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 package of mini puff pastry cups (about 20-24 cups)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries and honey until well combined.
3. Roll out the puff pastry cups into a flat sheet. Place a tablespoon of softened brie cheese in each cup, followed by a spoonful of the cranberry mixture.
4. Top each cup with a sprinkle of thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gingerbread Cookie Truffles
These bite-sized treats combine the warm spices of gingerbread with a rich, creamy filling, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup crushed gingerbread cookies (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crushed cookies and melted butter until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add the cookie mixture to the cream cheese mixture and stir until a dough forms.
4. Roll into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time:
– None, as these truffles are no-bake!
Holiday Chex Mix
Holiday Chex Mix Recipe
Gather ’round with friends and family this holiday season with a delicious and easy-to-make Holiday Chex Mix. This sweet and salty snack is perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a tasty treat to enjoy while wrapping presents.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups assorted Chex cereals (Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, etc.)
– 1 cup mixed nuts (peanuts, almonds, cashews)
– 1/2 cup pretzels
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together Chex cereals, nuts, pretzels, and golden raisins.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Drizzle with melted butter and mix until cereal is evenly coated.
6. Spread mixture onto prepared baking sheet and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Snowman Cheese Ball
Bring a smile to your guests’ faces with this adorable Snowman Cheese Ball, perfect for holiday gatherings and parties!
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon white chocolate chips (for eyes)
– 1 red cherry, halved (for nose)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, nuts, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Shape mixture into a ball, about 6 inches in diameter.
4. Place the cheese ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned around edges.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
7. Use white chocolate chips to create eyes and a red cherry half for the nose.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Nuts with Rosemary
Elevate your snacking game with this aromatic and crunchy treat, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cinnamon, cumin, and black pepper.
3. Add the mixed nuts and toss until evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the nuts and toss again to combine.
5. Spread the nut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted, stirring occasionally.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Reindeer Chow Snack Mix
Get ready for a festive treat that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike! This sweet and salty snack mix is perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Chex cereal (any variety)
– 1 cup pretzels
– 1/2 cup mixed nuts (peanuts, almonds, cashews)
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together Chex cereal, pretzels, and mixed nuts.
3. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Stir in brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Pour melted mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
6. Spread mixture onto prepared baking sheet and bake for 1 hour, or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Yield: Approximately 4 cups of Reindeer Chow Snack Mix
Enjoy your delicious and addictive Reindeer Chow Snack Mix!
Eggnog Dip with Cinnamon Sugar Chips
Warm up your holiday gatherings with this creamy Eggnog Dip, perfectly paired with crunchy Cinnamon Sugar Chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
– 1 package of cinnamon sugar chips (about 20-25 chips)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add eggnog, honey, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the dip to a small baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until warm and slightly puffed.
6. While the dip is baking, prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Chips by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Sprinkle with additional cinnamon and sugar (if desired).
8. Serve the warm Eggnog Dip with Cinnamon Sugar Chips for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Candy Cane Fudge
A sweet and festive treat perfect for holiday gatherings! This candy cane fudge recipe combines the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate with a fun and easy-to-make twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1 can (14 oz/397g) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) crushed candy canes
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract and vanilla extract.
4. Fold in crushed candy canes and semi-sweet chocolate chips until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
6. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (refrigeration time)
Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls, packed with wholesome ingredients and a hint of autumnal flavor. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy addition to your morning routine.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried dates, pitted
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, dates, and pumpkin puree.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm honey and almond butter until smooth.
3. Add the warmed mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
4. Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls, about 12-15 total.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Simply prepare and store in an airtight container.
Enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls as a satisfying snack or on-the-go treat.
Hot Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are infused with the rich flavors of hot chocolate and topped with a fluffy marshmallow treat. Perfect for a cozy afternoon or a sweet surprise for friends.
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 hot chocolate mix
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups marshmallow creme
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
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 sugar until light and fluffy. Add hot chocolate mix and mix until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Top cooled cookies with marshmallow creme and dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Festive Cheese and Crackers Platter
Add a touch of festive flair to your gatherings with this easy-to-assemble platter featuring a selection of artisanal cheeses, crackers, and accompaniments.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of cheddar cheese
– 1 block of brie cheese
– 1 box of assorted crackers (e.g. wheat thins, water crackers)
– 1 cup of grapes, halved
– 1/2 cup of fig jam
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cheeses on a large platter or board.
2. Place the crackers around the cheese, leaving a small border.
3. Halve the grapes and scatter them across the platter.
4. Drizzle the fig jam over the cheese and crackers.
5. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for garnish.
Cooking Time: None! This platter is ready to serve straight away.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods
Elevate your snack game with this easy and addictive recipe that combines the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Crunchy pretzels smothered in rich chocolate make for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of pretzel rods
– 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon of shortening (like Crisco or vegetable oil)
– Optional toppings: chopped nuts, sprinkles, sea salt
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the shortening until well combined.
4. Dip each pretzel rod into the melted chocolate, coating about 75% of the pretzel.
5. Place the dipped pretzels on the prepared baking sheet.
6. If desired, sprinkle with toppings before the chocolate hardens.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a no-bake treat!
Pecan Pie Popcorn Balls
Transform your popcorn into a sweet and savory treat by infusing it with the flavors of pecan pie. These bite-sized balls are perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a tasty snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup popped popcorn
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine popcorn, corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until the popcorn is evenly coated.
3. Stir in chopped pecans and salt until well combined.
4. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape the mixture into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Christmas Tree Veggie Tray
A colorful and healthy snack perfect for your holiday gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 large carrot, peeled and cut into thin strips (for the tree trunk)
– 2-3 cups mixed colored bell peppers, cut into triangles
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Arrange the carrot strips on a large serving platter to form the tree trunk.
2. Place the bell pepper triangles around the carrot, creating the tree’s branches.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices, distributing them evenly throughout the arrangement.
4. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the tray for a pop of color and flavor.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme to resemble the Christmas tree’s star-shaped topper.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in minutes!
Caramel Apple Nachos
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory twist on traditional nachos. Crunchy tortilla chips smothered in a gooey caramel sauce, topped with crisp apple slices and melted cheddar cheese – it’s a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1/2 cup of caramel sauce
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, sliced into thin wedges
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: chopped nuts, cinnamon, or whipped cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Drizzle caramel sauce over the chips, spreading evenly.
4. Top with sliced apples and shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with optional toppings (if using).
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies
Get into the holiday spirit with these adorable Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies, perfect for Santa’s helpers or a festive treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Red and black gel icing for eyes and nose
– Pretzel rods for antlers
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 soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar; beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg. Gradually mix in flour mixture until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool before decorating with gel icing and pretzel rods.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
White Chocolate Cranberry Clusters
Transform ordinary snacks into a decadent treat with these easy-to-make White Chocolate Cranberry Clusters. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a thoughtful gift, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
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 honey and salt until combined.
4. Add the chopped cranberries and stir until they’re evenly coated.
5. Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small clusters (about 1 inch apart).
6. Sprinkle the rolled oats over the top of each cluster.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Savory Herb Roasted Almonds
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and crunchy recipe! Savory Herb Roasted Almonds are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a topping for salads, yogurt, or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw almonds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.
3. Add the almonds to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the herb mixture.
4. Spread the almond mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Gingerbread Houses
Mini Gingerbread Houses Recipe
Create adorable mini gingerbread houses perfect for holiday parties or gifts. These bite-sized treats are surprisingly easy to make and require minimal baking time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
– Royal icing (recipe below)
– Decorations of your choice (e.g., candies, sprinkles)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, ginger, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters or a glass to create shapes for the house’s walls and roof.
4. Place shapes on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Bake for 6-8 minutes or until firm to the touch.
5. Allow gingerbread to cool completely before assembling the houses.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Royal Icing Recipe (optional):
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
Mix powdered sugar and meringue powder in a bowl. Gradually add water, whisking until smooth. Use to assemble the houses.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in these 20 festive holiday snack recipes that are sure to impress! From sweet treats like peppermint bark popcorn and candy cane fudge to savory delights like spiced nuts with rosemary and caramel apple nachos, there’s something for everyone. Impress your guests with festive cheese and crackers platters or hot chocolate marshmallow cookies. Make it a season to remember with these irresistible holiday snacks!
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