It’s the most wonderful time of the year – holiday season! And with it, comes a plethora of delicious and fun snack ideas to share with friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for some tasty treats to munch on while decorating the tree, these 20 festive holiday snack recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From sweet treats like peppermint bark popcorn and candy cane Oreo truffles, to savory delights like spiced pecans with rosemary and garlic herb parmesan crackers, there’s something for everyone on this list. And don’t worry if you’re short on time – many of these recipes can be made in under 30 minutes!
Peppermint Bark Popcorn
Transform your movie nights or holiday gatherings with this easy and addictive Peppermint Bark Popcorn recipe. Crunchy, flavorful popcorn infused with the invigorating essence of peppermint bark – what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (or peppermint candies)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the corn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker until fluffy.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Add the peppermint extract and stir well.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate mixture over the popped corn, tossing to coat evenly.
5. Sprinkle crushed candy canes (or peppermint candies) over the popcorn, followed by a pinch of salt.
6. Spread the popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Bark Popcorn!
Cranberry White Chocolate Chex Mix
This flavorful mix combines the sweetness of white chocolate with the tartness of cranberries, perfect for a quick snack or party treat.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups assorted Chex cereals (Rice Chex, Corn Chex, etc.)
– 1 cup mixed nuts (peanuts, almonds, pecans)
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
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 and nuts.
3. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour melted white chocolate over the cereal mixture and stir until coated.
5. Add dried cranberries, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
6. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Gingerbread Spiced Nuts
Transform ordinary nuts into a fragrant and flavorful treat by infusing them with the warmth of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Perfect for snacking or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together nuts, brown sugar, honey, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Holiday Cheese Ball Wreath
Holiday Cheese Ball Wreath Recipe
Add a touch of festive flair to your holiday gatherings with this easy-to-make cheese ball wreath. Perfect for parties, gifts, or snacks, it’s sure to be a hit!
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
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines)
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese until smooth. Add shredded cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
3. Stir in chopped nuts and crushed crackers.
4. Shape mixture into a ball, then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before shaping into a wreath form (e.g., using a wire hanger).
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Snowman Pretzel Rods
Snowman Pretzel Rods: A Fun Twist on Classic Pretzels!
Create adorable snowmen-shaped pretzels perfect for snacking, gift-giving, or decorating your holiday table. This simple recipe yields a delicious and visually appealing treat that’s sure to delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of pretzel rods
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup black gel icing (for coal eyes)
– 1/4 cup orange or yellow gel icing (for carrot noses)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut (for snowman bodies)
– Edible markers or small candies (for buttons and scarves)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Dip each pretzel rod into the white chocolate chips, coating about 2/3 of the rod.
4. Place dipped pretzels on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Use gel icings to create coal eyes and carrot noses on each snowman.
6. Roll shredded coconut between your hands to shape into small balls for snowman bodies.
7. Attach coconut bodies to the white chocolate-covered pretzel rods using a dab of melted white chocolate or edible glue.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no baking required)
Reindeer Chow Snack Mix
Get ready to spread some holiday cheer with this tasty and easy-to-make snack mix!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of Chex cereal (any variety)
– 1 cup of pretzels, broken into pieces
– 1/2 cup of mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and pecans)
– 1/2 cup of dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup of chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the Chex cereal, pretzels, and mixed nuts.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate chips over low heat.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the honey until smooth.
4. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle with dried cranberries and salt.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly hands-off time)
Eggnog Puppy Chow
Get into the holiday spirit with this festive twist on classic puppy chow! This sweet and crunchy snack is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a fun treat to enjoy while watching your favorite holiday movies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Chex cereal
– 1/2 cup Eggnog-flavored instant pudding mix
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine Chex cereal and Eggnog-flavored pudding mix.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour over Chex mixture and stir until coated.
3. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Pour over Chex mixture and stir until well combined.
4. If using crushed candy canes, fold them into the puppy chow mixture.
5. Spread on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! This treat is ready to go as soon as it sets in the fridge.
Christmas Tree Puff Pastry Bites
Brighten up your holiday party with these adorable and delicious Christmas tree puff pastry bites. Flaky pastry, savory filling, and a touch of greenery make for the perfect festive treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 3-inch squares.
3. In the center of each square, place a small spoonful of grated cheese and sprinkle with parsley and scallions.
4. Fold the pastry over the filling, forming a triangle or tree shape. Brush edges with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each bite.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spiced Pecans with Rosemary
Elevate your snacking game with this aromatic and addictive recipe, perfect for a quick snack or as a topping for salads and cheeses. The earthy flavor of rosemary pairs beautifully with the rich sweetness of pecans, while a blend of warm spices adds depth and complexity.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
3. Add pecan halves and toss until evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle chopped rosemary and brown sugar over the pecans; toss to combine.
5. Spread pecans on prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Festive Holiday Trail Mix
Get into the holiday spirit with this delicious and easy-to-make trail mix recipe, perfect for snacking on while decorating the tree or wrapping gifts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed nuts (peanuts, almonds, cashews)
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (white, milk, or dark)
– 1/4 cup pretzel rods, broken into pieces
– 1/4 cup candy canes, crushed
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts and dried cranberries.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Pour the melted chocolate over the nut mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Add the pretzel rods and crushed candy canes; toss to distribute evenly.
5. Drizzle with honey and mix until sticky goodness is evenly coated.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of mixing.
Yield: 2-3 cups, depending on how much you want to snack on!
Enjoy your Festive Holiday Trail Mix throughout the holiday season!
Candy Cane Oreo Truffles
Get ready to make a holiday classic with these Candy Cane Oreo Truffles. Crunchy candy canes add a festive touch to creamy Oreo truffles, perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Oreos
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
– Confectioners’ sugar (for coating)
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, crush the Oreos until they resemble fine crumbs.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the Oreo crumbs, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Dip each ball into melted white chocolate (or candy coating) to coat.
5. Roll the truffles in crushed candy canes to add a festive touch.
6. Place coated truffles on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Serve chilled, or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None needed! These treats are quick and easy to make.
Pumpkin Spice Roasted Chickpeas
Get ready to fall in love with the flavors of autumn! These Pumpkin Spice Roasted Chickpeas are a perfect snack for cozying up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chickpeas and remove any loose skins.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the spice mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread out the chickpeas in a single layer.
6. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with brown sugar. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Hot Cocoa Dip with Marshmallows
Warm Up with a Sip of Hot Cocoa Dip!
This rich and creamy hot cocoa dip is perfect for dipping marshmallows, graham crackers, or even fruit. It’s an easy and delicious treat that’s sure to become a winter favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Marshmallows, graham crackers, or fruit for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until warm.
2. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour into a serving dish and let cool slightly to room temperature.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature with marshmallows, graham crackers, or fruit for dipping.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Peppermint Mocha Energy Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the invigorating flavors of peppermint and mocha to provide a boost of energy and a sweet escape. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a healthy snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Chopped crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Add coffee powder, peppermint extract, and salt. Mix well.
3. Stir in chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Roll into small balls (about 1 inch each). Garnish with crushed candy canes or sprinkles if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are ready straight from the fridge.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Peppermint Mocha Energy Bites!
Santa Hat Strawberries
Add a touch of holiday cheer to your gatherings with these adorable Santa hat strawberries! Fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and chocolate come together to create a sweet and playful treat that’s sure to delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Red gel or jam for the hat band
Instructions:
1. Wash and hull the strawberries.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Add the granulated sugar and mix until combined.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, leaving a small portion at the top unpainted for the hat band.
5. Place a dollop of whipped cream on the uncoated part of the strawberry to create the Santa hat shape.
6. Use red gel or jam to draw a band around the base of the whipped cream “hat.”
7. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Garlic Herb Parmesan Crackers
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful crackers infused with the richness of garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick bite or as a accompaniment to your favorite soups or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Add olive oil and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or strips). Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crackers are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Almonds
Elevate your snack game with this easy recipe that combines the natural sweetness of almonds with a hint of warm cinnamon and crunchy sugar. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or just because!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw almonds
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add almonds to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the almonds and toss again to combine.
5. Spread the almonds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant, lightly toasted, and crunchy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Almonds!
Snowflake-shaped Cheese Crisps
Add a touch of whimsy to your snack time with these delicate Snowflake-shaped Cheese Crisps. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a fun addition to your favorite soup or salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together cheese, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Use a snowflake-shaped cookie cutter or a knife to cut out shapes from the cheese mixture. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the cracker shapes.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies
These classic shortbread cookies are elevated to new heights with a rich and creamy chocolate dip. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these bite-sized treats are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
3. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each cookie.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Allow cookies to cool completely before dipping the top half of each cookie into melted chocolate chips.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramel Apple Nachos
Elevate your snack game with this unique twist on classic nachos! Crunchy tortilla chips, tender apples, and gooey caramel come together for a sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 2-3 medium-sized apples, sliced into wedges
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle caramel sauce over the chips, leaving some areas uncovered.
4. Top with apple slices and sprinkle with chopped nuts (if using).
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the apples are tender.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with brown sugar and salt to taste.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a festive feast with these 20 irresistible holiday snack recipes! From sweet treats like Peppermint Bark Popcorn and Candy Cane Oreo Truffles, to savory delights such as Gingerbread Spiced Nuts and Garlic Herb Parmesan Crackers, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty treat to enjoy with friends and family, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday season.
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