As the holiday season approaches, many of us are eager to get into the festive spirit and fill our homes with sweet treats for friends and family. But let’s be real – cooking a fancy, multi-course meal can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to juggle work, social events, and other responsibilities.
That’s why we’ve compiled 20 delicious and easy holiday dessert recipes that are sure to bring festive cheer to your gatherings. From classic cookies and bars to creative twists on traditional desserts, these treats are perfect for anyone looking to simplify their holiday baking without sacrificing flavor or fun.
In this article, we’ll take you through a variety of sweet treats that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So grab your favorite mixing bowl, preheat your oven, and get ready to spread some holiday joy with these easy and delicious dessert recipes!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the cooling flavor of peppermint and paired with dark chocolate chips for a delightful treat. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (or peppermint extract)
– 1 large egg
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. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and chocolate chips.
5. Stir in crushed peppermint candies or extract.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars: A creamy and indulgent holiday treat that combines the flavors of eggnog and cheesecake in a convenient bar form.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggnog, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Sprinkle with granulated sugar.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gingerbread Mug Cake
Warm up with a cozy Gingerbread Mug Cake!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon molasses
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: whipped cream and chopped nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, ginger, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter, egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the mug.
3. Stir until smooth and well combined.
4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until cake is cooked through.
5. Let it cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust cooking time based on your microwave’s power level.
– Top with whipped cream and chopped nuts for an extra-special treat!
No-Bake Cranberry White Chocolate Tart
A sweet and tangy dessert perfect for the holiday season, this no-bake tart combines the flavors of white chocolate, cranberries, and creamy mascarpone cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Add melted butter and stir until crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
6. Fold mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract into whipped cream.
7. Spoon cranberries over crust, then top with whipped cream mixture.
8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! This no-bake tart is perfect for the busy holiday season.
Festive Red Velvet Trifle
Festive Red Velvet Trifle Recipe
Celebrate the holiday season with this show-stopping trifle, featuring layers of moist red velvet cake, creamy whipped cream, and sweet cranberry compote. This festive dessert is sure to impress your guests at any holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red velvet cake crumbs
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the red velvet cake crumbs and 2 tablespoons of the heavy whipping cream to form a thick paste.
2. Spread half of the whipped cream mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch serving dish.
3. Top with half of the cranberry compote (see below).
4. Repeat steps 1-3, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cranberry Compote:
– Combine 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, 1/2 cup orange juice, and 1 tablespoon grated orange zest in a saucepan.
– Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer until the cranberries pop, about 10 minutes.
– Stir in 1/4 teaspoon salt. Let cool before using.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Quick Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding
Warm up with this deliciously quick and easy bread pudding recipe, infused with the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cubed (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add bread cubes, heavy cream, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract; stir until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Holiday Rice Krispie Treats with Sprinkles
Get into the holiday spirit with these festive Rice Krispie treats decked out in colorful sprinkles! Perfect for parties, gift exchanges, or just a fun treat to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 12 tablespoons marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sprinkles (holy or festive colors)
– Optional: food coloring to tint the treats
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
2. Add marshmallows and stir until they’re completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Quickly add Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well coated.
5. Press mixture into a greased 9×13-inch pan or a silicone treat mold.
6. Allow to cool and harden for about 30 minutes.
7. Once set, remove from pan or mold and cut into desired shapes.
8. Roll in sprinkles to coat, pressing gently to adhere.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour (including cooling time)
Simple Apple Cinnamon Turnovers
A classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, these turnovers are filled with tender apples and a hint of cinnamon. They’re easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them a great option for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon apple mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling and press edges together with a fork.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Place on baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies
These adorable cookies are a perfect treat for your holiday gatherings. The combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and oats creates a deliciously chewy and crunchy texture that’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
– Red and black gel or icing for reindeer features (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, peanut butter, and butter until well combined.
3. Gradually add sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are 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: 10-12 minutes per batch
Easy Pecan Pie Bites
These bite-sized treats are a twist on the classic pecan pie recipe. Perfect for parties or snacks, they’re easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecans
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Mini muffin tin liners (about 24-30)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line mini muffin tin with liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Stir in pecans until they’re evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Divide the pecan mixture among the mini muffin liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Snowman Hot Chocolate Cookies
Warm up with a festive treat that’s perfect for the winter season! These Snowman Hot Chocolate Cookies combine rich hot chocolate flavor with soft, chewy texture and adorable snowman designs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup hot cocoa mix
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– White chocolate chips and black gel icing for decorations (optional)
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. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add hot cocoa mix and stir until combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
3-Ingredient Fudge with Walnuts
This decadent fudge recipe requires only three ingredients: sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and chopped walnuts. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying creamy, nutty goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips. Place over low heat, stirring occasionally, until smooth and melted.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped walnuts.
4. Pour into the prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
5. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (plus chilling time)
Festive Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread
Get into the holiday spirit with these buttery shortbread cookies dipped in rich, velvety chocolate. Perfect for snacking or gifting to friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Optional: holiday sprinkles or chopped nuts for garnish
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 confectioners’ sugar. Add butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press dough onto prepared baking sheet, forming a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip cooled shortbread into melted chocolate, letting excess chocolate drip off.
7. Place dipped cookies on parchment paper to set.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cobbler
Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cobbler Recipe Summary:
Warm up with this deliciously comforting slow cooker cobbler that combines tender apples, aromatic spices, and a crumbly crust. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup biscuit or cobbler topping (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
- In a slow cooker, combine sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
- Pour in melted butter and stir until the apples are coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, top the apple mixture with biscuit or cobbler topping. Mix in milk.
- Continue cooking for the remaining time. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy your comforting Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cobbler!
Mini Cherry Cheesecake Tarts
These bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of sweet and tangy, featuring a graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a burst of cherry flavor. They’re easy to make and ideal for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup cherry filling (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh cherries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into mini muffin tin cups.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
5. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
6. Pour cheesecake batter into crust-lined muffin cups.
7. Top each tart with a spoonful of cherry filling.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are set.
9. Let cool completely before garnishing with fresh cherries.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Peppermint Bark Brownies
These rich, fudgy brownies are infused with the invigorating flavors of peppermint and topped with a layer of crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup crushed candy canes (about 12-15 canes)
– White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, eggs, and peppermint extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Melt butter and cocoa powder in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Add the melted chocolate mixture to the sugar mixture and whisk until combined.
6. Fold in flour mixture until just combined.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
8. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
10. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Gingerbread Loaf with Glaze
Warm up your holiday season with this simple and delicious gingerbread loaf recipe. Moist and flavorful, it’s perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool before drizzling with glaze (mix powdered sugar and milk in a bowl until smooth).
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies
Add a touch of festive cheer to your holiday baking with these adorable Christmas tree sugar cookies. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a batch of sweet treats perfect for decorating or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Green frosting and sprinkles 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 and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into tree shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Chocolate Orange Truffles
Quick Chocolate Orange Truffles Recipe
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these decadent treats that combine the richness of chocolate and the brightness of orange.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon orange extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Stir the orange extract and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate.
5. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until well combined.
6. Stir in the rolled oats.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (as it’s a no-bake recipe!)
Yield: Approximately 20-25 truffles
Simple Cinnamon Roll Christmas Wreath
Get into the holiday spirit by transforming classic cinnamon rolls into a beautiful, edible wreath perfect for gift-giving or decorating your own home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Fresh or artificial holly leaves and red berries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, sugar, and salt. Add warm water and melted butter; mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Spread with cinnamon sugar mixture.
5. Roll the dough into a tight log; cut into 12 equal pieces.
6. Arrange the pieces in a wreath shape on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each piece.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these delicious and easy dessert recipes! From classic treats like peppermint chocolate chip cookies and gingerbread mug cake, to innovative twists like no-bake cranberry white chocolate tart and festive red velvet trifle. These sweet and savory recipes are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy treat or a show-stopping centerpiece, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get baking, and spread some holiday cheer!
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