As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to get baking and fill your home with the sweet aroma of freshly baked treats. There’s nothing like a warm, gooey cookie or a decadent slice of cake to bring joy and cheer to your loved ones. This year, why not try something new and exciting? We’ve gathered 20 festive Christmas dessert recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends.
From classic peppermint bark to show-stopping gingerbread houses, these sweet treats are perfect for snacking on while decorating the tree or serving at your holiday party. Whether you’re a fan of chocolatey goodness, fruity flavors, or spicy spices, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the holidays with our top 20 festive Christmas dessert recipes. From cookies and cakes to pies and truffles, these treats are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday season.
Stay tuned for some serious foodie inspiration and get ready to indulge in the sweetest time of the year!
Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
A refreshing twist on classic chocolate cookies, these peppermint crinkles are perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 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 powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour mixture, then chocolate chips.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Gingerbread Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle
Escape to a sweet and spicy world with this unique combination of gingerbread and cheesecake, finished with a rich caramel drizzle.
Ingredients:
For the Gingerbread Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake:
– 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare the Gingerbread Crust according to package instructions.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and chopped ginger; mix until combined.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
6. Allow to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce (see below).
Caramel Drizzle:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Combine ingredients in a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Let cool before drizzling.
Eggnog Tiramisu
Experience the creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors of eggnog in this unique tiramisu recipe.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup eggnog (chilled)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine coffee and granulated sugar; stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side; they should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
4. Fold in chilled eggnog until well combined.
5. To assemble the tiramisu, start with a layer of ladyfingers; top with half of the eggnog mixture.
6. Repeat layers one more time; dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cranberry White Chocolate Blondies
Cranberry White Chocolate Blondies: A sweet and tangy treat that combines the flavors of white chocolate, cranberries, and a hint of orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tsp orange zest
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Add melted white chocolate to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
6. Fold in cranberries and orange zest.
7. Gradually add flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
8. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
10. Let cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Apple Cinnamon Roll Cake
Warm up your senses with this moist and aromatic cake, infused with the cozy flavors of fall. Tender apple chunks and cinnamon swirls will transport you to a crisp autumn morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2 medium-sized)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with apples, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Christmas Tree Brownie Bites
Get into the holiday spirit with these adorable and delicious brownie bites, perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) brown sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (60g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– Green and red sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and chocolate chips; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and the flour-chocolate mixture until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped nuts (if using).
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Let cool completely before decorating with sprinkles (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Snowball Coconut Macaroons
These chewy coconut macaroons are rolled in powdered sugar to create a sweet and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in egg whites and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
8. Roll warm macaroons in powdered sugar to coat.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yule Log Cake with Mocha Filling
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with this show-stopping Yule Log Cake, filled with a rich and decadent mocha flavor.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the mocha filling:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan.
2. Whisk together cake ingredients until smooth. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
4. To make the mocha filling, whisk together heavy cream, butter, confectioners’ sugar, coffee powder, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
5. Place the cooled cake on a serving plate. Spread the mocha filling over the top of the cake, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Roll the cake into a log shape, starting from one long side. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies
These buttery cookies combine the flavors of pecan pie with a sweet and gooey thumbprint center, perfect for a holiday treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar (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 powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, then stir in chopped pecans.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Immediately press a thumbprint into each cookie and fill with melted butter (about 1/4 tsp per cookie).
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Eggnog Panna Cotta with Nutmeg
A creamy and rich dessert that combines the warm spices of eggnog with the silky smoothness of panna cotta, topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup eggnog
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved and mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle with ground nutmeg and drizzle with eggnog.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Red Velvet Peppermint Trifle
Red Velvet Peppermint Trifle Recipe
Experience the sweet fusion of red velvet cake, creamy peppermint mousse, and crunchy chocolate wafers in this show-stopping trifle.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 8 ounces red velvet cake, crumbled
– 1 cup crushed chocolate wafers
– 1 cup chilled whipped cream
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Add peppermint extract and mix until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, combine crumbled red velvet cake and crushed chocolate wafers.
4. Begin trifle assembly by spreading half the whipped cream mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
5. Top with half the cake-wafer mixture, followed by half the remaining whipped cream.
6. Repeat layers, finishing with whipped cream on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (whipping cream)
Total Time: 4-5 hours (including refrigeration time)
Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Stars
A sweet and elegant treat perfect for any occasion, these chocolate-dipped shortbread stars are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour, salt, and baking powder; mix until just combined.
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into stars using a cookie cutter.
4. Place stars on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each star.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Dip cooled shortbread stars into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place on parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spiced Pear and Almond Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the warmth of spices with the natural sweetness of pears, all wrapped up in a buttery almond crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2-3 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add almonds and butter; mix until crumbly.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and vanilla extract. Arrange pear slices on top of crust, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon stick pieces, ginger, and cloves evenly over pears.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until pears are tender and crust is golden.
Candy Cane Oreo Truffles
Candy Cane Oreo Truffles Recipe
Bring festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with these sweet and festive Candy Cane Oreo Truffles!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Oreo cookies (any flavor)
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (about 6-8 canes)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Oreo cookies and cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and peppermint extract, mixing until smooth.
3. Fold in the crushed candy canes.
4. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. Dust the truffles with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Note: You can also roll the truffles in crushed candy canes or chopped nuts for extra festivity!
Hot Chocolate Fudge Pudding
Warm up with a decadent treat that combines the comfort of hot chocolate with the indulgence of fudge pudding.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, chocolate chips, and coffee granules (if using).
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Christmas Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Warm up your holiday season with the irresistible aroma and flavor of these Christmas Spice Cupcakes, topped with a tangy Cream Cheese Frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before frosting with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cherry Almond Christmas Bark
Transform your holiday season with this sweet and crunchy Cherry Almond Christmas Bark, perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped dried cherries
– 1/4 cup (30g) sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped dried cherries, sliced almonds, honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to desired thickness.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
6. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including refrigeration)
Caramel Apple Bread Pudding
Warm up with a comforting dessert that combines the sweetness of caramel and apples with the comfort of bread pudding.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs.
4. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Fold in caramel sauce and 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
Peppermint Mocha Crème Brûlée
A refreshing twist on the classic crème brûlée, this peppermint mocha version combines the richness of chocolate and coffee with the invigorating zing of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and peppermint extract.
3. Add heavy cream and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped chocolate until melted.
5. Pour into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
10. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top and caramelize with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gingerbread Whoopie Pies with Maple Frosting
Sweeten your holiday season with these moist and flavorful gingerbread whoopie pies, topped with a tangy maple frosting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons 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
– Maple frosting (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs until smooth.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Allow to cool completely before filling with maple frosting.
Maple Frosting:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Beat all ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 festive Christmas dessert recipes that are sure to impress. From classic cookies like Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies and Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies, to creative cheesecakes like Gingerbread Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle and decadent brownies like Christmas Tree Brownie Bites, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a quick dessert to bring to a holiday party, these irresistible treats are sure to spread cheer.
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