It’s that time of year again – the holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a plate full of sweet treats? Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a culinary newbie, we’ve got you covered with these 20 delicious easy Christmas dessert recipes perfect for beginners.
From classic cookies and brownies to creative cheesecakes and trifles, our collection of holiday desserts is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. And the best part? Each recipe is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be whipped up in no time – leaving you more time to enjoy the season with loved ones.
So go ahead, get baking, and let the holiday magic begin!
Peppermint Bark Fudge
Elevate your fudge game with this easy-to-make Peppermint Bark Fudge recipe, perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (200g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (about 6-8 pieces)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
3. Stir in butter, peppermint extract, and salt.
4. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
5. Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in the same bowl as before, stirring until smooth.
6. Spread melted chocolate over white fudge layer.
7. Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top.
8. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour (including chilling time)
Christmas Tree Brownies
Add some holiday cheer to your cookie platter with these adorable Christmas tree brownies. With their green and red colors, they’re sure to be a hit at any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
– 2 cups of sugar
– 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– Green and red food coloring (for the trees)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
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 butter, sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Divide the batter into two portions. Color one portion green and the other red.
6. Pour the green batter into the prepared pan, followed by dollops of red batter to resemble Christmas trees.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Gingerbread Cookie Bars
Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy and spicy gingerbread cookie bars!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chopped crystallized ginger
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, then stir in ginger, baking soda, and salt.
3. Gradually mix in flour, then stir in chopped crystallized ginger.
4. Press dough evenly into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggnog Cheesecake Dip
This creamy dip combines the flavors of eggnog with a rich cheesecake texture, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Serve it with crackers, fruit, or graham crackers for a sweet and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup eggnog
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
3. Gradually add sugar, eggnog, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt; mix until combined.
4. Pour mixture into a small baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Snowball Cookies
Snowball Cookies Recipe
These classic snowball cookies are a holiday season staple, with their crunchy exterior giving way to a soft and chewy center. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re perfect for gift-giving or snacking.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in chopped pecans, if using.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes
These moist and decadent cupcakes combine the richness of chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint. Perfect for a holiday treat or special occasion, these bite-sized delights are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine cocoa powder, milk, eggs, and peppermint extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before topping with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cranberry White Chocolate Blondies
Cranberry White Chocolate Blondies: A Delicious Twist on Classic Blondies
These moist and flavorful blondies combine the tartness of cranberries with the richness of white chocolate, creating a unique dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Fold in cranberries and white chocolate chips.
6. Press batter into prepared baking pan.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Yule Log Cake
Create a stunning centerpiece for your holiday gathering with this simple yet impressive Yule log cake. This classic French dessert is reimagined for the modern baker, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture over the flour mixture; whisk until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Christmas Crinkle Cookies
Get into the holiday spirit with these soft, chewy, and deliciously crinkled cookies that are perfect for snacking or gift-giving. With a hint of vanilla and a dash of nutmeg, these classic treats are sure to become a new tradition.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
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 powder, baking soda, and salt.
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. Stir in nutmeg.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between cookies.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Hot Chocolate Pudding Cups
Cozy up with a warm and rich Hot Chocolate Pudding Cup!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour mixture into 6-8 ramekins or small cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Festive Rice Krispie Treats
Get ready to spread holiday cheer with these colorful and delicious treats! Perfect for parties or as a sweet gift, Festive Rice Krispie Treats are an easy and fun way to get into the holiday spirit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Food coloring (red, green, blue)
– Holiday sprinkles or edible glitter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until they’re fully melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
4. Divide the mixture into 3 portions. Add a few drops of red, green, and blue food coloring to each portion to create festive colors.
5. Press each colored mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into squares or shapes.
7. Top with holiday sprinkles or edible glitter for an extra touch of festivity.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are ready in about 10 minutes after the marshmallow mixture cools.
Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies have a delightful surprise – a hidden thumbprint filled with creamy frosting! Perfect for a sweet treat or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red velvet extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe not included)
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 eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in red velvet extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding
This comforting dessert is a perfect blend of tender bread, sweet apples, and warm cinnamon. Perfect as a snack or dessert, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine bread, chopped apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs. Pour the mixture over the bread mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and dot with melted butter.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Cookies
These classic Scottish shortbread cookies are elevated to new heights with a rich, dark chocolate dip. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sea salt for garnish
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 combined.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Dip cooled shortbread cookies into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
7. Place dipped cookies on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies
Get into the holiday spirit with these adorable and delicious peanut butter cookies shaped like reindeer! Made with simple ingredients and a special touch of peanut butter, these treats are perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Red and black gel or icing 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, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar; mix well.
4. Beat in the egg.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters or a knife to create reindeer shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely before decorating (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cherry Almond Tart
A sweet and tangy tart that combines the flavors of juicy cherries and toasted almonds. Perfect for a summer dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch tart crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the tart crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, mix together cherries, sugar, and cornstarch. Let it sit for 15 minutes to allow cherries to release their juice.
4. Arrange the cherry mixture on the tart crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the cherry filling.
6. Drizzle almond extract evenly over the almonds.
7. Brush the egg wash over the edges of the crust to create a golden brown finish.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cherries are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Truffles
Warm up with these bite-sized treats that capture the essence of fall – rich, creamy pumpkin spice goodness wrapped in a velvety chocolate coating.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream cheese, sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
3. Roll out the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until firm to the touch. Let cool completely.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip each truffle into melted chocolate, coating evenly.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Pecan Pies
Mini Pecan Pies: Bite-Sized Delights of Rich Flavor and Texture
These mini pecan pies are the perfect treat for any occasion, offering a concentrated dose of nutty goodness in every bite. With their gooey fillings and crumbly crusts, they’re sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups pie crust crumbs (homemade or store-bought)
– 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 corn syrup, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Stir in pecans, egg, and vanilla extract.
3. Roll out pie crust crumbs on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles or squares, depending on desired shape.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling onto each crust circle/square. Fold crust over filling to form a triangle or square, pressing edges to seal.
5. Place pies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Allow pies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: About 24 mini pies
Caramel Apple Crisp
Caramel Apple Crisp Recipe
Warm up with a delicious dessert that combines tender apples with a crunchy caramel topping! This simple recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using). Pour caramel topping over the apples.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and caramel is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Christmas Magic Bars
Get ready to spread some holiday cheer with these festive bars that combine the perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– Red and green M&M’s, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and corn syrup until well combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. If using nuts, sprinkle over the crust.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
7. Melt white chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
8. Pour melted white chocolate over cooled bars and top with Red and green M&M’s.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetest part of Christmas with these easy and delicious dessert recipes perfect for beginners! From classic treats like peppermint bark fudge and gingerbread cookie bars, to unique creations like eggnog cheesecake dip and chocolate-dipped shortbread cookies, there’s something for everyone on this list. Impress your friends and family with festive treats that are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. With 20 recipes to choose from, you’ll find the perfect dessert to add some magic to your Christmas celebration!
