It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas! The air is crisp, the lights are twinkling, and the aroma of freshly baked treats wafts through the air. As we deck the halls with festive cheer, our taste buds start to tingle with excitement for the holiday season’s sweetest traditions. In this article, we’re decking the plates with 18 irresistible Christmas goodies recipes that will make your holiday season merry and bright! From classic cookies and cakes to innovative treats and truffles, these mouthwatering morsels are sure to spread joy and cheer to friends and family alike.
Peppermint Bark Chocolate Cookies
Sweeten up your holiday season with these festive cookies that combine the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint bark for topping (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 soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gingerbread House with Royal Icing
Create a whimsical winter wonderland with this tried-and-true recipe for gingerbread houses, paired with a sweet and tangy royal icing.
Ingredients:
For the Gingerbread:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
For the Royal Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix gingerbread ingredients until a dough forms. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes for the house and decorations.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch. Let cool completely.
4. Whisk together royal icing ingredients until smooth. Add food coloring if desired.
5. Assemble the gingerbread pieces with royal icing, starting with the base and working your way up.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including baking time)
Classic Shortbread Christmas Trees
Classic Shortbread Christmas Trees Recipe
Transform your holiday gatherings with these charming and delicious shortbread Christmas trees. Perfect for a festive dessert or a thoughtful gift, this recipe is sure to bring joy to all who taste them.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, butter, and salt until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add flour, mixing until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Use a tree-shaped cookie cutter or a knife to cut out Christmas trees.
7. Place trees on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
Get ready to experience the creamy, dreamy goodness of cheesecake bars infused with the warm spices and rich flavor of eggnog. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
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 granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and eggnog. Beat until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if using.
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
White Chocolate Cranberry Fudge
This recipe combines the richness of white chocolate with the tartness of cranberries to create a delicious and unique fudge. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving, this sweet treat is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, heavy cream, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and cranberries.
4. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
6. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Christmas Wreaths
Create a sweet and festive holiday centerpiece with these Cinnamon Roll Christmas Wreaths. Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls shaped into wreath forms, topped with cream cheese frosting and decorated with red and green sprinkles.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (16-20 rolls)
– Cream cheese frosting
– Red and green sprinkles
– Fresh holly or eucalyptus leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll out the cinnamon roll dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Cut into circles, approximately 3-4 inches in diameter.
3. Place each circle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow the rolls to cool completely.
6. Spread cream cheese frosting over each cooled roll.
7. Decorate with red and green sprinkles.
8. Arrange the cinnamon rolls in a wreath shape, overlapping slightly to form a circular design.
9. Garnish with fresh holly or eucalyptus leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips: Make ahead: Prepare the cinnamon rolls and frosting up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Snowball Cookies with Powdered Sugar
These soft and chewy snowball cookies are rolled in powdered sugar, making them a sweet and elegant treat perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delicious cookies that will be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for rolling
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 soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll tablespoon-sized balls of dough into confectioners’ sugar-coated balls.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Molasses Crinkle Cookies
Spiced Molasses Crinkle Cookies Recipe
These chewy cookies are infused with the warmth of molasses and spices, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup blackstrap molasses
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (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 soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
9. 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
Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for a festive holiday treat. With the combination of peanut butter, oats, and chocolate chips, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Red and green M&M’s or holly-shaped sprinkles for decoration (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, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
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.
8. 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
Hot Cocoa Truffles with Marshmallows
Cozy up with these Hot Cocoa Truffles with Marshmallows, a sweet treat that combines the warmth of hot cocoa and the fun of truffles!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup hot cocoa mix
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12 ounces white chocolate chips
– Mini marshmallows for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and butter until stiff peaks form.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, hot cocoa mix, and vanilla extract to the whipped cream mixture. Mix until combined.
3. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Fold the melted white chocolate into the whipped cream mixture until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to set.
6. Roll the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Garnish with mini marshmallows.
Cooking Time: None needed! These truffles are best served chilled and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce
A traditional Christmas treat that’s sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients:
For the pudding:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (currants, raisins, cranberries)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 cup brandy (optional)
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
For the brandy sauce:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brandy
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. Add egg, milk, and brandy (if using), mixing until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 1-pint pudding basin or individual ramekins.
5. Cover with parchment paper and tie with string.
6. Steam pudding for 2-3 hours, or bake for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
7. For the brandy sauce, combine heavy cream, butter, brandy, sugar, and vanilla extract in a saucepan.
8. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat and let cook for 5-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (steaming) or 30 minutes to 1 hour (baking)
Almond Joy Stuffed Dates
Elevate your snack game with this unique combination of sweet and salty flavors, featuring crunchy almonds and creamy coconut wrapped in a juicy date.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Stuff each date with about 1-2 teaspoons of the almond-coconut mixture.
3. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the dates are tender and the filling is toasted.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
Caramel Pecan Thumbprint Cookies: A Sweet Treat with a Delicious Twist
These chewy cookies are filled with a gooey caramel center and topped with crunchy pecans, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Caramel filling (homemade or store-bought)
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 soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
7. Fill the indentation with caramel filling and top with chopped pecans.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Chocolate Dipped Pretzel Rods
Perfect for a snack or as a gift, these chocolate-dipped pretzel rods combine the salty flavor of pretzels with the richness of melted chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 pretzel rods
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco)
– Optional: sprinkles or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Dip each pretzel rod into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the rod.
4. Place the dipped pretzels on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
6. If desired, garnish with sprinkles or chopped nuts before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed – just dip and chill!
Rum Balls with Walnuts
These chewy rum balls are packed with the rich flavor of dark rum, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) dark rum
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
2. Stir in dark rum until mixture forms a ball.
3. Fold in chopped walnuts and vanilla extract.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape mixture into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Roll each ball in confectioners’ sugar to coat.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Fruitcake Loaf with Candied Citrus
This moist and flavorful fruitcake loaf is elevated by the addition of candied citrus, adding a burst of bright and tangy flavor to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) candied citrus peel (orange, lemon, and lime)
– 1 cup (100g) mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in candied citrus peel and dried fruit.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Peppermint Mocha Brownies
Elevate your brownie game with the refreshing flavor of peppermint and the richness of mocha. These fudgy, chewy treats are perfect for a holiday gathering or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup brewed coffee or espresso
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract, cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
5. Stir in coffee or espresso and chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into squares and dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Pistachio and Cranberry Biscotti
Brighten up your breakfast or snack time with these crunchy, flavorful biscotti infused with the warmth of pistachios and the tartness of cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– Optional: confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until smooth. Add pistachios and cranberries; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Divide dough in half; shape each half into a 12-inch log.
6. Place logs onto prepared baking sheet; bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Reduce temperature to 325°F (165°C); slice logs into 1/2-inch thick slices.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 festive Christmas goodies recipes! From classic shortbread trees to decadent chocolate truffles, there’s something for everyone on this list. Impress your friends and family with show-stopping gingerbread houses or make it a cozy night in with warm hot cocoa truffles. Treat yourself to sweet treats like peppermint bark cookies or white chocolate cranberry fudge, or get creative with festive cookie decorations. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or an elaborate dessert, these irresistible recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday season.