As the holiday season approaches, many of us are thinking about how to add a little extra joy and cheer to our gatherings with friends and family. One way to do this is by whipping up some delicious and festive desserts that will be sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a big Christmas party or just want to treat your loved ones to something special, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll share 20 of the best Christmas dessert recipes that are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. From classic yule logs to creative twists on traditional treats, we’ve included a little bit of everything in our list. So grab your mixing bowl and your favorite holiday tunes, and let’s get started on making some merry memories!
Classic Christmas Yule Log
Bring a touch of festive magic to your holiday gathering with this classic yule log recipe. A show-stopping centerpiece for any Christmas party, this decadent dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 4 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a 10×12-inch rectangle.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow the log to cool completely before filling with chocolate ganache (recipe not included).
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and decorate as desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Cheesecake
This Peppermint Chocolate Cheesecake is a unique and delicious dessert that combines the coolness of peppermint with the richness of chocolate. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (about 20-25 candies)
– 1/4 cup melted semisweet chocolate chips
– Whipped cream and additional peppermint candies for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.
4. Stir in sour cream and crushed peppermint candies.
5. Pour batter into prepared crust. Drizzle with melted chocolate chips.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gingerbread Cookie Trifle
This show-stopping dessert combines the warmth of gingerbread with the creaminess of whipped cream and the crunch of cookies, perfect for the holiday season. A trifle is a great way to impress your guests without too much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gingersnap crumbs
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup crumbled gingerbread cookies (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, combine gingersnap crumbs, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Begin building the trifle by spreading half of the crumbled gingerbread cookies in the bottom of a 9×13-inch serving dish.
4. Top with half of the whipped cream, followed by half of the mixed berries.
5. Repeat layers: spread remaining gingerbread crumbs, top with remaining whipped cream, and finish with remaining berries.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required! This trifle is best served chilled.
Eggnog Crème Brûlée
Celebrate the festive season with this decadent Eggnog Crème Brûlée, a creamy dessert infused with the warm spices of eggnog. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and eggnog. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or custard cups. Place in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry White Chocolate Tart
This tart combines the sweetness of white chocolate with the tanginess of fresh cranberries, perfect for a festive dessert or special occasion. With its flaky crust and velvety filling, this tart is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon orange juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add butter; use a pastry blender or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and orange juice (if using). Stir in cranberries.
6. Pour melted white chocolate into prepared crust. Top with cranberry mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Apple Cranberry Crisp
This spiced apple cranberry crisp is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors, topped with a crunchy oat mixture. It’s an ideal dessert for fall gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, cranberries, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until fruit is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top the apple mixture with the oat mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until topping is golden brown and fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Snowball Cookies with Powdered Sugar
These classic cookies are rolled in powdered sugar for a sweet and tender treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered 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 cream of tartar.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
9. Roll warm cookies in powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Add a refreshing twist to traditional chocolate bark with this simple recipe that combines the sweetness of dark chocolate, the crunch of peppermint candies, and the cooling zing of peppermint extract.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup (30g) crushed peppermint candies (such as Andes Mints)
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract.
4. Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer.
5. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer in a zigzag pattern.
7. Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the top of the bark.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before breaking into pieces and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: None (no baking required)
Festive Red Velvet Cake
Add a touch of holiday cheer to your gatherings with this moist and flavorful red velvet cake. Perfect for Christmas parties, New Year’s celebrations, or any festive occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add red food coloring and mix well.
5. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add flour mixture and buttermilk, alternating between the two.
6. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Caramel Pecan Pie Bars
These gooey bars combine the rich flavors of caramel and pecans with a buttery shortbread crust, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter; mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Press dough evenly into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. While crust is baking, prepare caramel topping by melting caramel sauce in the microwave (30-second intervals, stirring between each interval).
6. Remove crust from oven and drizzle with melted caramel. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over top.
7. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until caramel is bubbly.
8. Allow bars to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-27 minutes
Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce
A classic British dessert, Christmas pudding is a rich and fruity cake made with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, served warm with a boozy brandy sauce. This recipe makes 6-8 servings.
Ingredients:
For the pudding:
– 1 cup dried fruit (raisins, currants, cranberries)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup suet or vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup brandy or other liquor (optional)
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon mixed spice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the brandy sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brandy or other liquor (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, sugar, suet or shortening, and brandy (if using). Mix well.
3. Beat in egg and mix until combined.
4. Stir in mixed spice and salt.
5. Grease a 1-pint pudding basin or individual ramekins.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared basin or ramekins.
7. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the top is golden brown.
8. For the brandy sauce, combine cream, butter, and brandy (if using). Heat until warm and smooth.
9. Serve the pudding warm with the brandy sauce spooned over.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Rudolph’s Hot Chocolate Brownies
Get cozy with these rich and fudgy brownies infused with the warmth of hot chocolate. Perfect for a chilly winter evening or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (200g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120ml) hot chocolate mix (or homemade)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Whisk together sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add flour and salt; whisk until combined.
4. Pour melted chocolate mixture into the dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in hot chocolate mix.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peppermint Mocha Tiramisu
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and flavorful Peppermint Mocha Tiramisu. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese mixture, and crushed candy canes come together to create a show-stopping treat perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together espresso and sugar until dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, cocoa powder, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. To assemble, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a large serving dish. Top with half the mascarpone mixture, followed by half the crushed candy canes. Repeat the layers.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None required. Assembly and refrigeration only.
Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
These moist and flavorful gingerbread cupcakes are topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, perfect for a holiday treat or special occasion. With just the right amount of spice and sweetness, these cupcakes will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
Eggnog Panna Cotta
Celebrate the festive season with this creamy Eggnog Panna Cotta, a rich and velvety dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. This Italian-inspired treat combines the warmth of eggnog with the smoothness of panna cotta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup unflavored gelatin
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the softened gelatin until dissolved.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and eggnog.
5. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
White Chocolate Raspberry Tart
This elegant dessert combines the creaminess of white chocolate with the tartness of fresh raspberries, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Arrange raspberries on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges. Sprinkle with sugar and honey.
3. Fold other half of pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal.
4. Brush egg wash over pastry and make a few small slits in top to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Melt white chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Drizzle melted white chocolate over tart before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Christmas Spice Cake with Rum Glaze
Warm up your holiday gatherings with this moist and aromatic Christmas Spice Cake, topped with a rich Rum Glaze. Perfect for serving at parties or as a festive dessert for family and friends.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Rum Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons rum (or to taste)
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
3. Beat in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Let cool completely before drizzling with Rum Glaze.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fruitcake Cookies with Candied Fruits
These chewy cookies combine the warm spices and dried fruits of traditional fruitcake with the sweet and tangy flavors of candied citrus. Perfect for a holiday treat or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped candied orange and citron
– 1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Add the dry ingredients and candied fruits to the wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your snacking game with these buttery shortbread cookies dipped in rich, velvety chocolate. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles 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 granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour, salt, and baking powder; 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 lightly golden.
5. Allow cookies to cool completely before dipping in melted chocolate.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding
Elevate your fall celebrations with this scrumptious Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding, infused with the warm aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Perfect for a cozy night in or a holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
3. Add bread cubes, heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish; bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
5. Let cool slightly before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in some festive and delicious Christmas desserts! This collection of 20 recipes features classic treats like Yule Log and Gingerbread Cookie Trifle, as well as modern twists like Peppermint Chocolate Cheesecake and White Chocolate Raspberry Tart. From sweet and indulgent to tangy and fruity, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try your hand at making Rudolph’s Hot Chocolate Brownies or Caramel Pecan Pie Bars, and don’t forget the festive touches with Snowball Cookies and Fruitcake Cookies with Candied Fruits.
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