As the holiday season approaches, our minds turn to sweet treats and cozy traditions. There’s nothing like a platter of festive candies to spread cheer and delight your loved ones. This year, why not try something new and exciting? We’ve gathered 20 irresistible holiday candy recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic peppermint bark to creative twists on traditional treats, our list has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate, nuts, or spices, we’ve got a recipe that will satisfy your sweet tooth. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in the spirit of the season with these 20 festive holiday candy recipes!
Peppermint Bark Chocolate Squares
These bite-sized squares combine the richness of chocolate with the invigorating flavor of peppermint, perfect for a quick dessert or snack. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delightful treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Melt the semisweet chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in peppermint extract and salt.
4. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top.
6. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the candy cane layer.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
10. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including cooling time)
Homemade Eggnog Fudge
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this creamy and indulgent homemade eggnog fudge recipe, perfect for the holiday season. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying rich, velvety fudge in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 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, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in egg yolks, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until smooth.
4. Pour into prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
5. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: None
Candy Cane White Chocolate Truffles
These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of candy canes with creamy white chocolate, perfect for a festive holiday dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) crushed candy canes
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the white chocolate chips.
2. Stir in the crushed candy canes and butter until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form into balls.
6. Dip the tops of each ball into melted white chocolate and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set, then dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None required, as this recipe is for truffles that are refrigerated until served.
Gingerbread Caramel Clusters
These chewy gingerbread clusters smothered in gooey caramel and crunchy chopped nuts are the perfect snack or gift for friends and family. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delicious treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped crystallized ginger
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, ginger, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until well combined.
3. Add corn syrup, water, butter, and cinnamon. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or circles).
5. Place shapes on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow clusters to cool completely before dipping in caramel sauce. If using nuts, sprinkle immediately after dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Pecan Brittle
This classic American candy gets a warm and aromatic twist with the addition of spices, perfect for the holiday season or as a unique snack any time of year. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal equipment, you can create a batch of Spiced Pecan Brittle that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup pecan halves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, corn syrup, sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in pecan halves and salt to taste.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until caramel is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Christmas Tree Marshmallow Pops
Get ready to deck the halls with these adorable Christmas tree marshmallow pops! These sweet treats are perfect for a holiday party or as a fun activity to do with kids.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of mini marshmallows
– 1 bag of white chocolate chips
– 1 cup of green candy melts (for the tree shape)
– 1/2 cup of red and yellow candy melts (for the ornaments)
– Lollipop sticks or skewers
– Holiday sprinkles or edible glitter (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Dip each marshmallow into the melted white chocolate, coating about half of the marshmallow.
3. Place the green candy melts on a parchment-lined surface and shape into small trees.
4. Attach a lollipop stick or skewer to the top of each tree.
5. Dip the remaining uncovered portion of the marshmallow into the melted white chocolate and attach it to the tree using a dab of melted chocolate.
6. Melt the red and yellow candy melts separately and use to create ornaments by piping small dots onto the trees.
7. Add holiday sprinkles or edible glitter for extra festivity, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are ready to devour immediately.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Pretzel Bites
Satisfy your sweet and salty cravings with these bite-sized treats that combine the flavors of pretzels, caramel, and chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup soft pretzels, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Pinch of flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place pretzel pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the pretzels, making sure they’re all coated.
4. Melt milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Dip a fork into the melted chocolate and then drizzle it over the pretzel bites in a zigzag pattern.
6. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no baking required)
Hot Cocoa Peanut Butter Balls
Elevate your holiday gatherings or cozy nights in with these rich and indulgent treats that combine the flavors of hot cocoa, peanut butter, and chocolate. These bite-sized balls are perfect for snacking on while enjoying a cup of hot cocoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon instant hot cocoa mix
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, butter, confectioners’ sugar, and hot cocoa mix. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in vanilla extract and rolled oats.
3. Roll the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Dip each peanut butter ball into melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool. Tap off excess chocolate by gently tapping the fork against the side of the bowl.
6. Place dipped balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None, as these are no-bake treats!
Snowman Oreo Truffles
Create adorable snowman-inspired treats using Oreos and cream cheese. These bite-sized truffles are perfect for holiday parties or as a special treat for your family.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Oreos
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– White chocolate chips or candy coating (optional)
– Coconut flakes or edible glitter (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, crush the Oreos into fine crumbs.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreos and cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Melt white chocolate chips or candy coating in a microwave-safe bowl in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Dip the Oreo balls into the melted white chocolate, using a fork to coat evenly.
7. If desired, sprinkle with coconut flakes or edible glitter for a snowy effect.
Cooking Time: None! These truffles are ready to serve once the white chocolate sets.
Maple Walnut Divinity
Maple Walnut Divinity Recipe
Experience the sweet and nutty combination of maple syrup and walnuts with this classic divinity recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, sugar, and eggs. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, walnuts, maple syrup, and salt. Let cool slightly.
4. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Allow to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Note: If desired, break divinity into pieces after it has cooled and hardened. Store in an airtight container.
Chocolate Dipped Orange Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies infused with the brightness of orange zest and dipped in rich chocolate are perfect for a sweet treat or gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 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 sugars until light and fluffy. Stir in orange zest.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Roll out dough on floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
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! With a crunchy oat and peanut butter exterior, and a soft chewy center, these treats are sure to be a hit at any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 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 large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, peanut butter, and sugar until well combined.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using reindeer cookie cutters or other festive shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggnog Cream Cheese Mints
Experience the warmth of the holiday season with these creamy and refreshing Eggnog Cream Cheese Mints. Perfect for gift-giving or enjoying yourself, this recipe is a delightful twist on traditional peppermint mints.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup eggnog
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and eggnog, beating until combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and nutmeg.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
7. Place mints on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each mint.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as these mints are chilled and not baked.
Cranberry Almond Dark Chocolate Bark
A sweet and tangy combination of dark chocolate, crunchy almonds, and tart cranberries, this bark is perfect for a festive treat or a special occasion. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup (30g) dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet 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 sliced almonds and dried cranberries.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Caramel Apples
Pumpkin Spice Caramel Apples: A sweet and tangy treat that combines the flavors of fall with the classic combination of apples and caramel.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Granny Smith apples, washed and dried
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– Caramel topping (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pumpkin puree, corn syrup, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
2. Remove from heat and slowly add water while whisking constantly to prevent scorching. The caramel should thicken slightly.
3. Dip each apple into the warm caramel, coating about 3/4 of the apple.
4. Place coated apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until caramel sets.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Chocolate Raspberry Truffles
Elevate your taste buds with these rich and creamy White Chocolate Raspberry Truffles. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these bite-sized treats are perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Fold in fresh raspberries until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out small portions of the mixture.
6. Roll each portion into a ball between your hands, then roll in confectioners’ sugar to coat.
7. Refrigerate for an additional 15-20 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and enjoy!
Ginger Molasses Candy
These chewy treats combine the spicy warmth of ginger with the rich sweetness of molasses, perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugars, molasses, and ginger in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in baking soda and water.
5. Pour onto prepared baking sheet and let cool to room temperature.
6. Once set, break into pieces.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Christmas Popcorn Crunch
Get into the holiday spirit with this sweet and salty popcorn recipe, perfect for snacking or as a fun addition to your Christmas party.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 6 cups popped popcorn
– 1 cup crushed candy canes (or peppermint candies)
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Place over medium heat and stir until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and pour the mixture over the popcorn, tossing until evenly coated.
5. Spread the popcorn mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Pour the melted white chocolate over the popcorn and sprinkle with crushed candy canes (or peppermint candies).
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before breaking into chunks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Toasted Coconut Haystacks
Toasted Coconut Haystacks: A Sweet Treat with a Tropical Twist
These bite-sized treats combine the crunch of toasted coconut flakes with the chewiness of marshmallows and the sweetness of chocolate. Perfect for snacking or as a dessert, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup marshmallows
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, coconut, and sugar.
3. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the marshmallows in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Add the melted marshmallows to the oat mixture and stir until combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each haystack.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
7. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
8. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the toasted haystacks and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Caramels
Cinnamon Roll Caramels Recipe
Sweet and gooey caramel meets the warmth of cinnamon roll goodness in this indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup heavy cream in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until caramel reaches 350°F (175°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in remaining heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sea salt.
5. Pour caramel into prepared baking sheet and let cool slightly.
6. Melt butter and drizzle over caramel.
7. Allow to set before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 irresistible candy recipes! From classic treats like peppermint bark and gingerbread caramel clusters to creative twists like snowman Oreo truffles and Christmas tree marshmallow pops, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in sweet and salty combinations, like salted caramel chocolate pretzel bites and hot cocoa peanut butter balls. Or, try your hand at homemade fudge, caramels, and bark recipes featuring festive flavors like eggnog, gingerbread, and cranberry almond. Whatever you choose, these treats are sure to be a hit on your holiday gift list or at your next festive gathering!
