Easy Christmas Desserts for a Sweet Holiday Season
Christmas is a time for joy, family, and indulging in delicious treats. Baking desserts for Christmas can be an enjoyable way to celebrate the holiday and create lasting memories. However, baking can also be time-consuming and stressful, especially during the busy holiday season.
To help you enjoy the holiday season without the hassle, we've compiled a list of easy Christmas desserts that are sure to impress your loved ones without breaking the bank or taking up all your time.
1. Gingerbread Cookies:
Gingerbread cookies are a classic Christmas treat that is always a crowd-pleaser. They are easy to make and can be customized with different shapes and decorations.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup molasses
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. In a large bowl, combine the molasses, sugar, butter, and egg. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and baking soda.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
7. Cut out cookies using your favorite shapes.
8. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Peanut Butter Blossoms:
Peanut butter blossoms are another easy and delicious Christmas dessert. They are made with peanut butter dough that is rolled in powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
6. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown.
8. While the cookies are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar.
9. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
3. Chocolate Peppermint Bark:
Chocolate peppermint bark is a quick and easy Christmas dessert that is perfect for parties or gifts.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
- 6 ounces white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the semisweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out into a thin layer.
3. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Pour the melted white chocolate over the semisweet chocolate layer and spread it out evenly.
4. Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the white chocolate layer.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
6. Break the chocolate bark into pieces and enjoy.
4. Christmas Tree Rice Krispie Treats:
Christmas tree rice Krispie treats are a fun and festive Christmas dessert that is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 10 ounces marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- Green food coloring (optional)
- Red and white sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring to create a Christmas tree-like color.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
5. Sprinkle with red and white sprinkles, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until set.
7. Cut into Christmas tree shapes and enjoy.
5. Candy Cane Sugar Cookies:
Candy cane sugar cookies are a simple and festive Christmas dessert that is perfect for cookie exchanges or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Red and white sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
7. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Use a wooden spoon to press down on each ball to flatten it into a disc.
9. Sprinkle with red and white sprinkles, if desired.
10. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
These easy Christmas desserts are sure to make your holiday season sweeter and more memorable. Whether you are baking for a family gathering, a party, or just to enjoy yourself, these treats will not disappoint.