20 Delicious Christmas Candy Recipes Everyone Loves

20 Delicious Christmas Candy Recipes Everyone Loves

As the holiday season approaches, many of us are filled with excitement and anticipation. One of the most enjoyable aspects of this time of year is indulging in sweet treats that evoke a sense of nostalgia and joy. Whether you’re looking to create thoughtful gifts for friends and family or simply want to satisfy your own cravings, making Christmas candy at home is a fun and rewarding experience.

From classic recipes like peppermint bark and gingerbread caramels to more unique creations like vanilla bean caramels and cinnamon red hot candies, there’s something for everyone on this list. In the following pages, we’ll explore 20 delicious Christmas candy recipes that are sure to become new holiday traditions in your household.

Peppermint Bark Candy

Create a refreshing and delicious treat with this simple recipe for Peppermint Bark Candy.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– 1 teaspoon shortening
– Crushed candy canes or chopped peppermint candies (optional, for garnish)

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 peppermint extract and shortening.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle the dark chocolate chips over the top of the white chocolate layer.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate is set.
7. Break the bark into pieces and garnish with crushed candy canes or chopped peppermint candies, if desired.

Cooking Time: None (melting and cooling)

Homemade Chocolate Truffles

Create indulgent treats with this simple recipe that yields smooth and creamy truffles.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar. Beat until smooth.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Let cool slightly.
6. Roll the chocolate mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, then roll in chopped walnuts (if using).
8. Place the truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Cooking Time: None required

Enjoy your rich and decadent homemade chocolate truffles!

Christmas Divinity Candy

A classic holiday treat that’s easy to make and deliciously sweet, Christmas Divinity Candy is a must-have for any festive gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– Confectioners’ glaze (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine corn syrup, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Let cool slightly.
4. If using nuts, fold them into the mixture.
5. Pour onto a greased surface or a silicone mat. Let cool and harden completely (about 30-40 minutes).
6. Once hardened, break into pieces. If desired, drizzle with confectioners’ glaze.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Yield: About 1 pound of candy

Eggnog Fudge

Warm up with a rich and creamy Eggnog Fudge that’s perfect for the holiday season. This classic treat is infused with the sweetness of eggnog, nuts, and spices.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 cup (240ml) eggnog
– White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup (60ml) of the heavy cream. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract, salt, and chopped nuts.
5. Gradually add eggnog, stirring until smooth.
6. Pour into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Cut into squares and top with white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Gingerbread Caramels

Transform your holiday season with these bite-sized treats that combine the warmth of gingerbread with the richness of caramel.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/2 cup crushed gingerbread cookies (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, honey, butter, ginger, vanilla extract, and salt. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in crushed gingerbread cookies.
4. Pour the caramel mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and let cool to room temperature.
5. Once set, break into pieces and dust with confectioners’ sugar.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Candy Cane Marshmallows

Add a festive touch to your holiday treats with these sweet and fluffy Candy Cane Marshmallows.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup marshmallow creme
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed candy canes (about 2-3 whole canes)
– 1 tablespoon corn syrup

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine marshmallow creme and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add peppermint extract and mix well.
3. Add red food coloring and mix until the desired pink color is achieved.
4. Fold in crushed candy canes until evenly distributed.
5. Gradually add corn syrup while whipping with an electric mixer on high speed, until stiff peaks form.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Cooking Time: None required – these marshmallows are ready to use straight away!

White Chocolate Peppermint Bark

A refreshing and elegant holiday treat that combines the sweetness of white chocolate with the invigorating flavor of peppermint.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (peppermint)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco or vegetable oil)
– Optional: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or edible glitter for garnish

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the shortening until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes evenly over the top of the white chocolate.
6. Allow the mixture to set and harden at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until firm to the touch.
7. Break into pieces and serve.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Spiced Pecan Brittle

Spiced Pecan Brittle Recipe
A classic American candy, spiced pecan brittle is a delightful treat that combines the warmth of spices with the crunch of pecans.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 cup pecan halves

Instructions:

1. Line a large, flat surface with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, sugar, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper.
5. Pour the hot syrup over the pecan halves on the prepared surface.
6. Allow the brittle to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
7. Break into pieces and serve.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Cherry Almond Bark

This rich and fruity treat combines the sweetness of cherries with the nutty flavor of almonds, all wrapped up in a velvety chocolate coating. Perfect for gift-giving or satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) chopped dried cherries
– 1/4 cup (30g) sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped cherries and sliced almonds.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
6. Break into pieces and serve.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)

Christmas Rock Candy

Add a festive touch to your holiday gatherings with this sweet and sparkly treat! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful Christmas rock candy that’s perfect for gifting or snacking.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– Food coloring (red and green)
– Flavorings (optional): peppermint extract, wintergreen extract, or citrus zest

Instructions:

1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Add red and green food coloring to tint the candy. Stir well.
6. Pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or a silicone mat-lined baking sheet.
7. Let it set at room temperature for 24-48 hours, or until it has reached the desired hardness.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Hot Chocolate Fudge

Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Rich, creamy hot chocolate fudge that’s perfect for cold winter nights.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter
– 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 12 ounces (340g) semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, heavy cream, and cocoa powder. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter has melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
5. Pour in the chocolate chips and let them sit for 1 minute.
6. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
7. Pour into the prepared baking dish and refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)

Snowball Coconut Truffles

These bite-sized treats are a delightful combination of creamy coconut and sweet snowball cookies, perfect for snacking or gifting.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup snowball cookie crumbs (or any vanilla wafers)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix together cookie crumbs and confectioners’ sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, combine coconut, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry mixture, mixing until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 inch) and shape into balls.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for an additional 15-20 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: None required, these truffles are best served chilled!

Maple Walnut Fudge

A classic combination of rich maple syrup and crunchy walnuts creates a decadent treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and maple syrup in a medium saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and walnuts.
4. Let cool slightly, then gradually add the heavy cream while whisking until smooth.
5. Pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
6. Cut into small squares and serve.

Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes to reach the desired temperature

Orange Creamsicle Candy

Capture the sweet and tangy essence of a childhood favorite with this easy-to-make Orange Creamsicle Candy recipe. Perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding a burst of citrus flavor to your holiday treats.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1 tablespoon orange extract
– 1 teaspoon orange zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-ball stage).
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in orange extract and zest.
5. Pour onto prepared baking sheet and let set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
6. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to shape into desired forms.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

These bite-sized treats combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the deep flavor of dark chocolate, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Optional: chopped peanuts or sea salt for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in the softened butter until well combined.
3. Gradually add the rolled oats, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until melted and smooth.
6. Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
7. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet or tray. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Cooking Time: None needed! These bite-sized treats are ready in no time.

Vanilla Bean Caramels

Create rich and creamy vanilla bean caramels with this easy recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or seeds from 1/2 vanilla bean
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cream, and salt. Place the saucepan 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 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste, and butter until melted and smooth.
5. Pour the caramel onto the prepared baking sheet and let cool to room temperature.
6. Once set, break into small pieces and store in an airtight container.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Cinnamon Red Hot Candies

Transform your candy-making experience with this scrumptious recipe for Cinnamon Red Hot Candies. These chewy treats combine the warmth of cinnamon with the fiery kick of red pepper flakes, perfect for snacking or gifting.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to desired heat level)
– Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Stir in butter, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as parchment paper or a silicone mat.
7. Let set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until firm.

Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes to make the candy, then an additional 30 minutes to let it set.

Pecan Pralines

A classic Southern treat, pecan pralines are a sweet and nutty delight that’s perfect for snacking or gifting.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pecan halves
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until melted.
5. Add pecan halves and stir until coated with syrup.
6. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Let cool and set completely before breaking into pieces.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Toffee Almond Bark

A sweet and salty treat that combines the richness of toffee with the crunch of almonds, perfect for a quick dessert or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup (30g) light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
– Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, corn syrup, and sugar. Place over medium heat and cook until sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and let cool slightly.
6. Melt white chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Pour melted white chocolate over toffee mixture and sprinkle with sliced almonds and sea salt.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes (for toffee mixture) + refrigeration time

Christmas Gumdrop Fudge

Get into the holiday spirit with this festive treat! This sweet and tangy fudge is infused with the flavors of Christmas gumdrops, making it a perfect addition to your holiday gift list or party spread.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups white chocolate chips
– 1 can (14.4 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped Christmas gumdrops
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Place over low heat, stirring occasionally, until smooth and melted.
3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped gumdrops, butter, and salt.
4. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
5. Cut into squares and serve.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (melting time)

Summary

Get ready to indulge in a sweet Christmas treat with these 20 mouthwatering candy recipes. From classic peppermint bark and homemade truffles to festive gingerbread caramels and spiced pecan brittle, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try making your own hot chocolate fudge or vanilla bean caramels for a holiday treat that’s sure to please. With flavors like eggnog, orange creamsicle, and cinnamon red hot, you’ll find the perfect candy to add some cheer to your Christmas celebrations.