The holiday season is here, and there’s nothing more heartfelt than gifting homemade treats. If you’re looking for simple yet delicious recipes to spread joy, these 5 easy Christmas treats are perfect for gifting. From cookies to festive fudge, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive into the magic of Christmas baking!
1. Peppermint Chocolate Bark
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup crushed candy canes
Instructions:
- Melt dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring each time.
- Spread the melted dark chocolate on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Melt the white chocolate chips using the same method and drizzle over the dark chocolate.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.
- Let it set in the refrigerator for about an hour before breaking it into pieces.
Helpful Notes:
- Use a silicone spatula for even spreading.
- Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
2. Holiday Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking powder
- Holiday-themed sprinkles or icing
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Combine flour and baking powder, then gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to create festive shapes.
- Bake on a lined cookie sheet for 8-10 minutes.
- Let cool before decorating with sprinkles or icing.
Helpful Notes:
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling for easier handling.
- Perfect for gifting in decorative tins.
3. Christmas Cranberry Bliss Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1½ cups brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine melted butter and brown sugar in a bowl. Mix in eggs and vanilla extract.
- Fold in flour, baking powder, dried cranberries, and white chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool completely before slicing into bars.
Helpful Notes:
- Add a drizzle of melted white chocolate for an extra festive touch.
- Wrap bars in cellophane and tie with ribbon for a polished gift.
4. Gingerbread Truffles
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups crushed gingerbread cookies
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup white chocolate chips, melted
- Holiday sprinkles
Instructions:
- Mix crushed gingerbread cookies with cream cheese until smooth.
- Roll into small balls and place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Dip each ball into melted white chocolate and place back on the tray.
- Decorate with holiday sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Helpful Notes:
- Use a fork to dip truffles for an even coating.
- Store in the fridge for up to a week.
5. Festive Marshmallow Pops
Ingredients:
- 12 large marshmallows
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips, melted
- 1 cup white chocolate chips, melted
- Crushed candy canes or sprinkles
- 12 lollipop sticks
Instructions:
- Insert a lollipop stick into each marshmallow.
- Dip half the marshmallow into melted milk chocolate and the other half into white chocolate.
- Roll in crushed candy canes or sprinkles while still wet.
- Let set on a parchment-lined tray for 20 minutes.
Helpful Notes:
- Perfect for kids to help decorate.
- Wrap individually in clear bags for gifting.
These 5 easy Christmas treats are sure to brighten up anyone’s holiday. Whether you’re gifting them to neighbors, friends, or family, the effort and love you put into these recipes will surely be appreciated. Which one will you try first? Let us know in the comments below!