The holiday season is all about sharing joy, and what better way to spread cheer than with delicious homemade treats? Whether you’re planning a festive get-together, looking for a gift idea, or just craving a sweet snack while you relax by the fire, these five easy Christmas treats are sure to please your taste buds and add a touch of homemade warmth to your celebrations.
1. Peppermint Bark
Peppermint bark is a classic holiday treat that’s not only quick and easy to make but also irresistibly delicious. With just three ingredients, you can create a festive, chocolatey snack that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz white chocolate chips
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
Instructions:
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Let it cool for about 10-15 minutes.
- While the semi-sweet chocolate is cooling, melt the white chocolate using the same method.
- Once the semi-sweet chocolate has cooled, spread the melted white chocolate on top.
- Immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the white chocolate layer.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes until completely set, then break into pieces and enjoy!
2. Sugar Cookie Bars
If you love sugar cookies but want to skip the rolling and cutting, these sugar cookie bars are a perfect solution. Soft, buttery, and topped with festive sprinkles, they’re a delightful treat that will disappear in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Festive sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan and press it down with your hands or a spatula.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden. Let cool completely, then cut into squares. Top with sprinkles for extra holiday cheer!
3. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
Chocolate-covered pretzels combine the best of both worlds—salty and sweet. These treats are so simple to make, yet they look elegant and are perfect for gifting or serving at parties. Plus, you can customize them with festive decorations!
Ingredients:
- Pretzels (traditional or mini)
- 12 oz white chocolate or milk chocolate chips
- Sprinkles or crushed candies (optional)
Instructions:
- Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Dip each pretzel into the melted chocolate, covering it halfway or entirely, depending on your preference.
- Place the dipped pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and immediately top with festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes.
- Refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens. Serve and enjoy!
4. Mini Gingerbread Loaves
Gingerbread is a quintessential Christmas flavor, and these mini gingerbread loaves are a simple, yet delightful way to enjoy it. They’re perfect for gifting or as a treat to share with loved ones during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line 4 mini loaf pans with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the molasses and buttermilk, mixing until combined. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the mini loaf pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool before serving.
5. Cinnamon Sugar Pecan Clusters
If you're a fan of both sweet and nutty flavors, these cinnamon sugar pecan clusters will be a hit. They’re quick to make and are perfect for snacking, decorating your holiday table, or gifting in cute little jars.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Toss the pecans in the melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over them, making sure each pecan is well-coated.
- Spread the pecans in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the pecans are golden and fragrant. Let them cool completely before serving or gifting.
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