It’s the most wonderful time of the year! As the holiday season approaches, our kitchens become filled with the sweet aromas and flavors of festive treats. There’s nothing like gathering around the table with loved ones to enjoy a delicious dessert or snack that’s been carefully crafted with love.
In this article, we’re excited to share 18 scrumptious Christmas goodies recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends. From classic cookies and fudge to creative twists on holiday favorites, there’s something for everyone in this merry mix of sweet treats. So grab a cup of hot cocoa and get cozy as you explore these festive recipe ideas that will make your holiday season even more joyful!
Peppermint Bark Chocolate Squares
Elevate your holiday celebrations with these rich, crunchy, and refreshing peppermint bark chocolate squares. Perfect for a party or gift-giving, this easy-to-make treat combines the classic flavors of chocolate, peppermint, and crushed candy canes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) crushed candy canes (optional)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (like Crisco or coconut oil)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Melt the milk chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in peppermint and vanilla extracts.
4. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. If using crushed candy canes, sprinkle on top of the chocolate layer.
6. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Drizzle the white chocolate over the top of the milk chocolate layer.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Gingerbread Cookie Dough Truffles
Gingerbread Cookie Dough Truffles Recipe: A Sweet Treat with a Spicy Twist
These bite-sized treats combine the flavors of gingerbread and cookie dough, wrapped up in a rich chocolate coating. Perfect for holiday parties or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gingerbread cookie dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Chopped nuts or sprinkles for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the gingerbread cookie dough, confectioners’ sugar, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
2. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Dip each gingerbread ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
6. Place the truffles on a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat. If desired, garnish with chopped nuts or sprinkles.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These truffles are best served chilled.
Eggnog Fudge with Nutmeg
Warm up with a rich and creamy Eggnog Fudge infused with the warmth of nutmeg. This festive treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) eggnog
– 1/4 cup (60g) light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 12 ounces (340g) white chocolate chips
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, eggnog, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C), or the soft-ball stage.
3. Remove from heat and stir in white chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
4. Stir in nutmeg and butter until well combined.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Cranberry White Chocolate Shortbread
This recipe combines the sweetness of white chocolate with the tartness of cranberries, perfect for a holiday dessert or snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious shortbread that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add the softened butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in sugar, white chocolate chips, and cranberries.
4. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until it comes together.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Salted Caramel Christmas Crack
Salted Caramel Christmas Crack Recipe
A sweet and salty treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. This Salted Caramel Christmas Crack is an easy-to-make dessert that combines the flavors of caramel, toffee, and sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch x 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and sea salt. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped nuts and crushed candy canes (if using).
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth out with a spatula.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Snowball Cookies with Powdered Sugar
Snowball Cookies with Powdered Sugar Recipe
These classic snowball cookies are a staple of the holiday season, and adding a dusting of powdered sugar takes them to the next level. Perfect for cookie exchanges or as a sweet treat for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar for dusting
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.
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 just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Spiced Molasses Crinkle Cookies
Spiced Molasses Crinkle Cookies: A Warm and Inviting Treat
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the warmth of molasses, spices, and a hint of crinkliness. Perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dark molasses
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon water
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (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, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hot Chocolate Marshmallow Brownies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these decadent brownies that combine the warmth of hot chocolate with the fluffiness of marshmallows. Perfect for a special treat or dessert to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 ounces best-quality dark chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon instant hot cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Melt butter and chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
3. Whisk together flour, sugar, hot cocoa powder, and salt.
4. Pour melted chocolate mixture into dry ingredients; stir until combined.
5. Fold in marshmallows.
6. Beat in eggs.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan; smooth top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies
Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies Recipe
These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for the holiday season, with a peanut butter flavor that’s sure to delight both kids and adults. With a simple recipe and adorable reindeer design, you’ll be spreading cheer in no time!
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• Red and black gel icing for decorating (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, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugar and mix until combined.
4. Beat in the egg.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter (or use a glass).
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Note: Allow cookies to cool completely before decorating with red and black gel icing for the reindeer antlers and eyes (optional).
Christmas Tree Rice Krispie Treats
Add a festive touch to your holiday gathering with these adorable Christmas tree-shaped Rice Krispie treats! Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re perfect for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 12 tablespoons marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Green food coloring
– Red and white frosting or candy melts
– Sprinkles or edible glitter (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until they’re completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Add the green food coloring to tint the mixture.
4. Pour the marshmallow mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal in a large bowl. Stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch pan or a Christmas tree-shaped silicone mold.
6. Allow to cool and harden completely (about 30-45 minutes).
7. Once set, use red and white frosting or candy melts to create a tree trunk and decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter.
Cooking Time: About 30-45 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Christmas Wreaths
Cinnamon Roll Christmas Wreaths: A Sweet and Festive Treat
Bring the warmth of cinnamon rolls to your holiday celebrations with these adorable wreath-shaped treats. Perfect for gift-giving, decorating, or just snacking on.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Cut the dough into strips, about 1 inch wide and 12 inches long.
4. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle mixture evenly onto the dough strips.
5. Roll each strip into a tight spiral shape, tucking the ends under to secure.
6. Place the wreaths on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cherry Almond Thumbprint Cookies
These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of cherries and the nutty flavor of almonds, perfect for a holiday party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
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 salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and almond extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Use a thumbprint cookie cutter or the tip of your thumb to create an indentation in each cookie.
7. Place a few chopped cherries into each cookie and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Peppermint Meringues
These crispy meringue cookies get a refreshing and indulgent makeover with a dip in rich chocolate and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional)
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Add peppermint extract and softened butter; mix until combined.
4. Drop rounded spoonfuls of meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Dip cooled meringues into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
8. Roll in crushed peppermint candies (if using) before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Maple Pecan Praline Clusters
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these bite-sized treats, perfect for snacking or gift-giving. Crunchy pecans, sticky maple syrup, and a hint of sea salt come together in a rich and indulgent cluster.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup. Place over medium heat and stir until melted.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in pecans and sea salt.
5. Let cool slightly, then use a spoon to drop clusters onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
7. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None, as these treats are refrigerated and not baked.
Orange Cranberry Biscotti
Orange Cranberry Biscotti Recipe
These sweet and crunchy biscotti are infused with the brightness of orange zest and the tartness of cranberries, making them perfect for a holiday treat or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter and orange zest. Beat until smooth.
4. Add egg and mix until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cranberries. Divide dough in half and shape into logs.
6. Place logs on prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing into biscotti.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Toffee Pretzel Bark with Sea Salt
Transform ordinary pretzels into a sweet and salty masterpiece with this easy-to-make Toffee Pretzel Bark recipe. Crunchy pretzels, gooey toffee, and flaky sea salt come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of soft pretzels (about 20-25 pretzels)
– 1 cup (200g) milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles for added color and texture
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in corn syrup, brown sugar, and butter until well combined.
4. Dip pretzels into the toffee mixture, coating about half of each pretzel.
5. Place pretzels on prepared baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle with sea salt.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
8. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required!)
Rum Balls with Coconut Flakes
Take your favorite rum balls to the next level with the added crunch and flavor of coconut flakes. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday parties, gatherings, or as a sweet gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons dark rum
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut flakes
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and butter; mix until well combined.
2. Stir in powdered sugar, rum, and vanilla extract until a dough forms.
3. Fold in coconut flakes.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
5. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for an additional 15-20 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Pistachio Cranberry Dark Chocolate Bark
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the crunch of pistachios, the tartness of cranberries, and the richness of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (60g) pistachio meal
– 1/4 cup (30g) dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon (15g) honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
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 pistachio meal, dried cranberries, honey, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to form a thin layer.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
6. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (chilling time)
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 festive Christmas goodies recipes! From classic treats like gingerbread cookie dough truffles and snowball cookies to creative concoctions like hot chocolate marshmallow brownies and maple pecan praline clusters, there’s something for everyone on this list. Indulge in sweet and salty treats like salted caramel Christmas crack and toffee pretzel bark with sea salt, or go for more traditional fare like peppermint bark chocolate squares and cinnamon roll Christmas wreaths. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday season.
