The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by indulging in some delicious homemade Christmas candies? Whether you’re a fan of classic treats like peppermint bark or looking to try something new like caramel popcorn balls, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes for homemade Christmas candy that are sure to become your new holiday traditions.
From sweet and salty to creamy and crunchy, our recipe roundup is filled with a variety of flavors and textures to satisfy any sweet tooth. So why wait? Get cozy by the fire, put on some holiday tunes, and start whipping up these tasty treats to share with friends and family. Your taste buds – and your loved ones – will thank you!
Peppermint Bark
Get ready to delight your senses with this refreshing and easy-to-make Peppermint Bark!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
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.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Immediately sprinkle the dark chocolate chips on top of the white chocolate layer.
6. If desired, add crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Tips:
– For a more intense peppermint flavor, use 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract.
– Store leftover bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Peppermint Bark!
Chocolate Fudge
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic recipe that yields a creamy, chocolatey treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups (250g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and butter. Place over medium heat; cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat; stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
5. Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream.
6. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Cooking Time: About 10 minutes
Caramel Popcorn Balls
Sweet and Salty Caramel Popcorn Balls
Transform plain popcorn into bite-sized treats with a caramel coating and a crunchy texture. These sweet and salty bites are perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1 cup white granulated sugar
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, water, butter, and vanilla extract. Place the saucepan over medium heat until the mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and slowly pour in the sugar while whisking constantly. The mixture will bubble vigorously, but do not stir.
4. Let the caramel cool slightly, then drizzle it evenly onto the popcorn while folding to combine.
5. Press the coated popcorn into balls using wet hands or a spatula. Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time:
– 10-15 minutes from start to finish
Peanut Brittle
A classic American treat, peanut brittle is a sweet and salty delight that’s perfect for snacking or gifting. This simple recipe yields a deliciously crunchy and flavorful candy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanuts
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine peanuts, corn syrup, sugar, water, baking soda, and salt. Place over medium heat.
3. Bring mixture 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 stir in vanilla extract. Pour onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Allow to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
6. Break into pieces and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Marshmallows
Transform your s’mores game with these fluffy, homemade marshmallows! Made with just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup gelatin
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine gelatin and water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water. Place over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove saucepan from heat. Add softened gelatin and vanilla extract. Stir until gelatin is fully dissolved.
5. Pour mixture into a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Beat on high speed for 7-8 minutes, or until mixture becomes thick and fluffy.
6. Dust marshmallows with powdered sugar (if desired). Let them sit at room temperature to dry completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rocky Road Candy
Rocky Road Candy Recipe
Summary: This classic treat combines rich chocolate with marshmallows, nuts, and a hint of vanilla for a sweet and satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) marshmallow creme
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
Instructions:
1. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish 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 marshmallow creme and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Fold in the chopped nuts.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking time, just chill and serve.
Divinity Candy
A classic Southern treat, Divinity Candy is a simple yet indulgent confection that’s perfect for sweet tooths of all ages.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and 1/2 cup of water in a medium saucepan. 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 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the softened gelatin until it’s fully dissolved.
5. Add the vanilla extract and stir well.
6. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or a piece of parchment paper. Let it cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
7. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut the Divinity into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Pecan Pralines
A classic Southern treat, pecan pralines are a sweet and nutty delight that’s perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. 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 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the butter and vanilla extract until melted.
5. Pour the praline mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle pecan halves over the top.
6. Allow the pralines to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
7. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut the pralines into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Chocolate Cranberry Clusters
Sweet and tangy, these White Chocolate Cranberry Clusters are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips, stirring occasionally.
3. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until combined.
4. Fold in the dried cranberries.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cluster.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional) before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Gingerbread Truffles
Gingerbread Truffles Recipe
These bite-sized treats combine the warm spices of gingerbread with a creamy filling, perfect for holiday parties or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup crushed gingerbread cookies (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed gingerbread cookies and confectioners’ sugar.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add the butter mixture to the gingerbread mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the heavy cream, mixing until the dough forms a ball.
5. Roll the dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place the truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Roll each truffle in powdered sugar to coat.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Toffee Almond Bark
Create a rich and indulgent treat with this simple recipe for Toffee Almond Bark.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup (60g) toffee bits
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
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 chopped almonds, toffee bits, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including chilling time)
Eggnog Fudge
Warm up with a rich and creamy Eggnog Fudge that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (400g) white chocolate chips
– 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) eggnog
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 12 ounces (340g) sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, brown sugar, eggnog, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
4. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
5. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: 64 pieces of fudge
Cherry Cordial Chocolate Balls
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the flavors of cherry cordial with rich chocolate, these bite-sized balls are perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed cherries (such as Maraschino)
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon cherry cordial syrup
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and crushed cherries. Mix until well combined.
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 the cherry cordial syrup into the melted chocolate until fully incorporated.
4. Add the chocolate mixture to the oat mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Enjoy your Cherry Cordial Chocolate Balls!
Cooking Time: None required – these bite-sized treats are best served fresh or refrigerated until ready.
Maple Walnut Candy
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and indulgent maple walnut candy recipe. These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of maple syrup with the earthiness of walnuts, perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (30g) chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the corn syrup, sugar, and maple syrup in a medium saucepan.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-ball stage).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until melted.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and let cool slightly.
6. Stir in the chopped walnuts.
7. Allow the candy to cool and set completely, about 30 minutes.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes (including cooling time)
Peanut Butter Buckeyes
These bite-sized peanut butter and chocolate treats are a favorite among both kids and adults. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these deliciously addictive buckeyes that make perfect snacks or gifts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco)
– Chopped peanuts or sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, corn syrup, and water until smooth.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow mixture to firm up.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded balls of peanut butter mixture into melted chocolate, leaving a small border around each ball.
6. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Garnish with chopped peanuts or sea salt, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These buckeyes are no-bake treats that require only chilling time.
Spiced Pecan Caramels
Spiced Pecan Caramels Recipe
These rich and chewy caramels are infused with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pecans. Perfect for gift-giving or satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 350°F (175°C).
3. Remove from heat and slowly pour in heavy cream. The mixture will bubble vigorously; be careful not to splash.
4. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt. Stir until dissolved.
5. Pour in melted butter and chopped pecans. Stir until combined.
6. Pour the caramel mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Let cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes.
7. Cut into desired shapes and sizes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Orange Creamsicle Fudge
This creamy and dreamy fudge is infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of orange creamsicles, perfect for a warm weather treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon orange extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 12 ounces (340g) white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– Orange zest, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Place over medium heat; cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C).
3. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract, orange extract, and salt.
4. Let cool slightly, then pour in white chocolate chips. Stir until melted and smooth.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish; smooth top.
6. If desired, sprinkle with nuts or orange zest.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting and serving.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Christmas Gumdrops
A sweet and festive treat to add to your holiday celebrations! These classic gumdrops are flavored with peppermint and clove, giving them a unique and delightful taste.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups sugar
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• Food coloring (red and green)
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and 1 cup water in a medium saucepan. 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 add the softened gelatin, peppermint extract, and ground cloves. Stir until well combined.
5. Add a few drops of red and green food coloring to tint the gumdrops. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool slightly, then dust with confectioners’ sugar. Cut into desired shapes or leave whole.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Almond Joy Candy Bars
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these creamy, crunchy treats!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 12-15 graham cracker squares (about 3 ounces)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine butter, confectioners’ sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Stir almonds into the melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Press half of the graham cracker squares into the prepared baking dish.
6. Pour the chocolate-almond mixture over the crackers.
7. Top with remaining graham cracker squares.
8. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cinnamon Red Hot Candies
Create a sweet and spicy treat with these easy-to-make candies. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving, this recipe yields a delicious combination of cinnamon and red hot flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (red hot)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. 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 butter, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper until melted and well combined.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and let cool to room temperature.
6. Once set, break into small pieces and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 delicious homemade Christmas candy recipes! From classic treats like peppermint bark and chocolate fudge to creative concoctions like caramel popcorn balls and gingerbread truffles, there’s something for everyone. Discover sweet surprises like peanut brittle, marshmallows, and rocky road candy. Enjoy festive flavors like eggnog fudge, cherry cordial chocolate balls, and maple walnut candy. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a fun holiday activity, these recipes will help you create delicious treats to share with friends and family.
Leave a Reply