Get ready to indulge in a sweet celebration with these delicious and easy-to-make holiday candy recipes! The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the spirit than by whipping up a batch (or three) of your favorite candies? From classic treats like peppermint bark and gingerbread caramel clusters to unique creations like hot cocoa marshmallow bites and spiced pecan pralines, we’ve got you covered with 20 festive holiday candy recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned candy maker or a newcomer to the world of sweet treats, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to add some extra joy and cheer to their holiday celebrations.
Peppermint Bark Chocolate Squares
Crunchy peppermint bark on top of rich, velvety chocolate – a perfect combination for the holiday season!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (60g) white chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Melt the semisweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract and salt.
4. Pour the melted chocolate into the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies evenly over the top of the chocolate layer.
6. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the peppermint candies.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including setting time)
Homemade Candy Cane Fudge
Get into the holiday spirit with this sweet and festive fudge recipe, featuring the classic combination of peppermint and chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1 can (14 oz/397g) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring
– 1/2 cup (60g) crushed candy canes
– 1 cup (120g) semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Place over low heat and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract and red food coloring until combined.
4. Stir in crushed candy canes.
5. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and refrigerate for 2 hours or until set.
6. Melt semisweet chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Spread melted chocolate over fudge layer and refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including chilling time)
Eggnog Truffles with White Chocolate
A creamy and indulgent treat that combines the richness of eggnog with the smoothness of white chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons eggnog extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 12 ounces white chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, butter, and confectioners’ sugar. Beat until smooth.
2. Add eggnog extract and salt; mix well.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Once melted, let cool slightly to prevent melting the eggnog mixture.
6. Roll chilled eggnog mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Dip each ball into the cooled white chocolate, using a fork to coat evenly.
7. Place truffles on parchment-lined baking sheets and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! These truffles are best served chilled.
Gingerbread Caramel Clusters
These chewy clusters combine the warmth of gingerbread with the richness of caramel, perfect for a sweet treat or gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Chopped crystallized ginger and sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, ginger, and salt. Stir until combined.
3. In a small saucepan, combine corn syrup and granulated sugar. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 250°F (120°C).
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
5. Pour the caramel mixture into the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Bites
Cozy up with these bite-sized treats that combine the richness of hot cocoa and the fluffiness of marshmallows.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon instant hot cocoa mix
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together marshmallows, butter, powdered sugar, and hot cocoa mix until well combined.
3. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each bite.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cranberry Almond Brittle
Sweet and tangy, this crunchy brittle is perfect for snacking or as a topping for salads or yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup (60g) water
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) chopped fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup (30g) sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract.
5. Stir in cranberries and almonds until well combined.
6. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
7. Let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 1 pound (450g) brittle
Spiced Pecan Pralines
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of the South with these Spiced Pecan Pralines. A perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 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 over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, 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 butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
5. Stir in pecans and salt. Pour onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Let cool and set at room temperature. Break into pieces.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies
Get into the holiday spirit with these adorable peanut butter cookies shaped like reindeer!
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• Red and black gel or icing for decorations
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, butter, and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Use cookie cutters or a glass to cut out reindeer shapes (or any shape you like!).
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool before decorating with red and black gel or icing.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salted Caramel Chocolate Pretzels
Transform ordinary pretzels into a sweet and salty masterpiece with this simple recipe. Rich caramel, crunchy pretzels, and decadent chocolate come together to create an irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of soft pretzels (about 20-25 pieces)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter and sea salt until dissolved. Pour caramel mixture over pretzels on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 1 hour or until caramel is set.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Dip pretzel rods into melted chocolate and sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired. Place on parchment paper-lined surface to cool.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (plus cooling time)
Snowball Coconut Macaroons
Snowball Coconut Macaroons Recipe
These chewy coconut macaroons are dipped in a sweet snowball coating, perfect for a tropical treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg white
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ powdered sugar for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, flour, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and egg white until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow macaroons to cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Melt confectioners’ powdered sugar in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
9. Dip cooled macaroons into the melted powdered sugar and place on parchment paper.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Maple Walnut Divinity
Maple Walnut Divinity Recipe: A Sweet Treat
This classic Southern confectionery is a simple yet elegant dessert that combines the richness of maple syrup with the earthy flavor of walnuts. With just a few ingredients and a minimal amount of cooking time, you can create these bite-sized treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (100g) pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, maple syrup, and sugar. Place over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in water and salt. Let cool slightly.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with walnuts.
6. Allow to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Orange Spice Gumdrops
This recipe yields a sweet and tangy treat that combines the citrusy flavor of oranges with warm spices, perfect for a delightful snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon orange extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Orange zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in orange extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and let cool completely.
7. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
White Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Add a festive touch to your holiday treats with this simple and delicious recipe for White Chocolate Peppermint Bark.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (about 4-6 pieces)
• 1 tablespoon shortening (like Crisco)
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 crushed candy canes or peppermint candies.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Allow to set at room temperature for about 20-25 minutes or until firm to the touch.
6. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your festive White Chocolate Peppermint Bark!
Cherry Almond Nougat
Sweet and chewy, this Cherry Almond Nougat is a delightful treat that combines the flavors of juicy cherries and crunchy almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh cherries
– 1/4 cup (30g) sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon cherry extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
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 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, stirring until fully incorporated.
5. Stir in the chopped cherries, sliced almonds, and cherry extract.
6. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface and let it cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
7. Cut into desired shapes and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Caramels
Transform the flavors of fall into a sweet treat with these Pumpkin Spice Caramels, perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the corn syrup, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a medium saucepan.
3. Add the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the caramel onto the prepared baking sheet and let cool to room temperature.
6. Once set, cut into desired shapes or simply break into pieces.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Toffee Apple Cinnamon Balls
Sweet treats that combine the warmth of cinnamon with the crunch of toffee and the freshness of apples.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped (about 1 cup)
– 1 tablespoon toffee bits
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles wet sand.
4. Fold in chopped apple and toffee bits.
5. Use your hands to shape the mixture into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Dark Chocolate Raspberry Truffles
Rich and decadent, these truffles combine the deep flavor of dark chocolate with the sweet-tartness of fresh raspberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then fold in the fresh raspberries.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
5. Use a melon baller or spoon to form the truffle mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Roll each truffle between your hands to shape, then dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None needed! Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Honeycomb Candy with Sea Salt
Sweet Sea Salt Honeycomb Candy Recipe
Create a delectable treat that combines the crunch of honeycomb with the savory flavor of sea salt. This recipe is perfect for those who love sweet and salty combinations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– Baking soda (optional, for easier removal from pan)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place on medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in honey and sea salt. Let cool slightly, until the mixture thickens to a syrupy consistency.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish and let set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or until fully hardened.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Christmas Tree Popcorn Balls
Add some festive fun to your holiday gathering with these adorable Christmas tree popcorn balls! Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re perfect for snacking or as a creative addition to your holiday party.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– Green and red food coloring
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, water, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Place over medium heat and stir until the mixture reaches 250°F (120°C).
3. Remove from heat and quickly pour over the popped popcorn in a large bowl. Stir until the popcorn is evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Divide the popcorn mixture into four portions and add a few drops of green food coloring to each portion, stirring until the desired shade of green is achieved. Repeat with red food coloring for one portion.
5. Using your hands or a spoon, shape each colored popcorn mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Dust the popcorn balls with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: None required! These festive treats are ready to enjoy as soon as they’re shaped.
Vanilla Bean Marshmallow Wreaths
Elevate your party gatherings with these stunning Vanilla Bean Marshmallow Wreaths, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 12-15 graham cracker sheets, crushed
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
– Fresh flowers or greenery for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Add marshmallows and gently fold until well coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Pour in heavy cream and fold until marshmallows are evenly moistened.
5. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the marshmallow mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape into a wreath shape using your hands or a spatula.
6. Repeat step 5 to form additional wreaths, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until marshmallows are lightly toasted and puffed.
8. Allow wreaths to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 delicious and festive candy recipes! From classic treats like peppermint bark and gingerbread caramel clusters to unique flavors like eggnog truffles and pumpkin spice caramels, there’s something for everyone on this list. Create special memories with your loved ones by making homemade candies like chocolate squares, fudge, and marshmallow bites. Perfect for gift-giving or snacking, these sweet treats are sure to bring joy to your holiday season.
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