The holiday season is a time for joy, love, and—most importantly—delicious treats!

Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply want to indulge in some sweet holiday spirit, these 22 easy Christmas desserts will satisfy your cravings without taking hours to prepare.

From no-bake delights to quick bakes, each recipe is designed to save you time while delivering that festive flavor you love. Get ready to whip up these holiday favorites in no time!

1. Peppermint Bark

This classic holiday treat combines the rich flavors of dark and white chocolate with a refreshing minty twist.

Perfect for sharing or as a sweet gift, peppermint bark is not only easy to make but also visually stunning with its contrasting layers. Melt the chocolates, layer them, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top, and let it set. Within minutes, you have a delightful dessert that captures the essence of Christmas.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
– 8 oz white chocolate, chopped
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies

Instructions:
1. Melt dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth.
2. Spread the melted dark chocolate on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Melt white chocolate and pour it over the dark chocolate layer, swirling gently with a spatula.
4. Sprinkle crushed peppermint on top and refrigerate until set.
5. Break into pieces and serve or package as gifts.

2. No-Bake Chocolate Truffles

Rich, creamy, and utterly indulgent, these no-bake chocolate truffles are a holiday favorite that can be made in mere minutes.

With just a few ingredients, you can create a decadent dessert that looks and tastes gourmet. Roll them in cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or sprinkles for a delightful touch. These truffles are perfect for any gathering, and they keep well in the fridge for a sweet treat anytime!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
– Cocoa powder or toppings of choice

Instructions:
1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering.
2. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes.
3. Stir until smooth and refrigerate for about 15 minutes.
4. Once firm, scoop the mixture and roll into balls.
5. Roll in cocoa powder or toppings and serve.

3. Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a timeless holiday favorite, and making them can be quick and easy!

With their warm spices and sweet aroma, these cookies evoke the spirit of Christmas. You can cut them into fun shapes, decorate with icing, or simply enjoy them plain. The best part? They can be made in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute holiday baking!

Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and spices.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar, then mix in molasses.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined.
5. Roll out the dough, cut into shapes, and bake for 8-10 minutes.

4. Eggnog Pudding Cups

Bring a twist to traditional eggnog with these delightful pudding cups!

Creamy, spiced, and topped with whipped cream, these cups are perfect for holiday gatherings. They come together in just minutes and can be served in individual cups for a beautiful presentation. The rich flavors of eggnog make this dessert a festive favorite, sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients:
– 2 cups eggnog
– 2 cups vanilla pudding mix
– Whipped cream for topping
– Ground nutmeg for garnish

Instructions:
1. Whisk together eggnog and pudding mix in a bowl until smooth.
2. Spoon the mixture into dessert cups.
3. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg.
4. Chill for a few minutes before serving.

5. Mini Cheesecakes

These mini cheesecakes are the perfect bite-sized treat for any holiday celebration!

With a buttery graham cracker crust and creamy filling, they’re easy to make and can be topped with your favorite holiday flavors, from cranberry to chocolate. Perfect for sharing, these desserts are sure to wow your guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; press into the bottom of cupcake liners.
3. Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture over the crust and bake for 15-20 minutes.
5. Let cool and top with your choice of fruit or chocolate.

6. Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

These cinnamon sugar donut holes are a delightful treat that will bring joy to any holiday gathering!

Soft, fluffy, and coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture, they are incredibly easy to make and even easier to eat. Perfect for snacking or serving at a party, these treats are guaranteed to disappear quickly.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin pan.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon.
3. Add milk and melted butter, stirring until combined.
4. Fill the mini muffin pan with the batter and bake for 10-12 minutes.
5. Roll the warm donut holes in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before serving.

7. Strawberry Santa Hats

These adorable Strawberry Santa Hats are a fun and festive dessert that kids and adults will love!

Simple to make, they combine juicy strawberries with a creamy filling and a fluffy marshmallow topping. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also make for a charming holiday treat that brings a smile to everyone’s face.

Ingredients:
– Fresh strawberries
– 1 cup whipped cream or cream cheese
– Mini marshmallows

Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the strawberries, then cut the tops off.
2. Pipe whipped cream or cream cheese onto the strawberry for the ‘hat’.
3. Top with a mini marshmallow.
4. Serve immediately for a fun holiday treat.

8. Holiday Fruit Kabobs

Brighten up your dessert table with colorful holiday fruit kabobs!

These easy-to-make treats are as nutritious as they are festive. Use a variety of fruits like strawberries, grapes, and pineapple, and arrange them on skewers for a beautiful presentation. Not only are they quick to assemble, but they also provide a refreshing contrast to richer holiday desserts.

Ingredients:
– Assorted fresh fruits (strawberries, grapes, pineapple, kiwi)
– Skewers

Instructions:
1. Wash and cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces.
2. Thread the fruits onto skewers, alternating colors and shapes.
3. Arrange on a platter and serve chilled.

9. Chocolate Peppermint Mousse

This silky chocolate peppermint mousse is a luxurious dessert that can be whipped up in no time!

With its rich chocolate flavor and a hint of refreshing peppermint, it’s perfect for holiday celebrations. Serve it in individual cups for an elegant touch, and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for added flair.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Gently fold in the melted chocolate and peppermint extract until fully combined.
3. Spoon the mousse into dessert cups and refrigerate for about 10 minutes.
4. Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes before serving.

10. Christmas Cookie Bars

These Christmas cookie bars are a simple yet delicious twist on traditional cookies!

With a buttery base and festive toppings, they offer all the flavors of the holidays in a convenient bar form. Quick to prepare and bake, these bars are perfect for sharing at holiday parties or as a treat for yourself.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Mix flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until combined.
3. Stir in chocolate chips and sprinkles.
4. Spread the mixture in the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes.
5. Let cool before cutting into bars.

11. Eggnog Cupcakes

These eggnog cupcakes are a delightful holiday treat that combines the flavors of eggnog with a moist and fluffy cupcake!

Topped with creamy frosting and a sprinkle of nutmeg, they are perfect for any holiday celebration. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, these cupcakes will be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a bowl, mix eggnog, sugar, and butter until smooth.
3. Add eggs and flour, and mix until well combined.
4. Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes.
5. Cool and frost with your favorite frosting, then sprinkle with nutmeg.

12. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels

Chocolate dipped pretzels are a sweet and salty treat that is super easy to make!

These bite-sized snacks are perfect for holiday parties, and their festive appearance can be enhanced with sprinkles or crushed nuts. They offer a delightful crunch and a rich chocolate flavor, making them a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:
– 1 bag pretzel rods or twists
– 1 cup melting chocolate
– Sprinkles or crushed nuts for decoration

Instructions:
1. Melt chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth.
2. Dip each pretzel into the melted chocolate, coating halfway.
3. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and sprinkle with toppings.
4. Let them cool until the chocolate hardens.

13. Fruitcake Cookies

Fruitcake cookies are a delightful alternative to traditional fruitcakes, combining all the classic flavors into a chewy, easy-to-make cookie!

Packed with dried fruits and nuts, these cookies are a festive treat that can be made in a flash. They are perfect for holiday gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried mixed fruit
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts
– 1 cup flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in flour, dried fruit, and nuts until combined.
4. Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.

14. Rice Krispie Treats

Rice Krispie treats are an all-time favorite and are incredibly easy to make, especially during the busy holiday season!

With just three simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, chewy treat that can be shaped into festive designs. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these treats are sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations.

Ingredients:
– 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 4 cups mini marshmallows
– 3 tablespoons butter

Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over low heat.
2. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted.
3. Remove from heat and stir in Rice Krispies until coated.
4. Press the mixture into a greased pan and let cool before cutting into squares.

15. Coconut Snowballs

These coconut snowballs are a delightful no-bake dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your holiday table!

With a sweet coconut flavor and a soft texture, they are rolled in powdered sugar to resemble snowballs. These treats are perfect for holiday parties and can be made quickly, making them an easy Christmas favorite.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded coconut
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– Powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk.
2. Roll the mixture into small balls.
3. Roll the balls in powdered sugar until coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator before serving.

16. S’mores Bars

S’mores bars bring the campfire favorite right into your kitchen, and they are incredibly easy to make!

With layers of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows, these bars are a delicious homage to the classic treat. They are perfect for holiday gatherings and will surely be a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– 2 cups mini marshmallows

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Press graham cracker crumbs into the bottom of the dish.
3. Layer with chocolate chips and marshmallows.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes until melted and gooey. Let cool before cutting into bars.

17. Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups

Chocolate chip cookie cups are a fun twist on classic cookies, and they are simple to whip up!

These cookie cups are baked in a muffin tin, making them the perfect vessel for filling with your favorite toppings, such as ice cream or whipped cream. They are sure to impress at any holiday gathering!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 eggs
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. Cream together butter and sugars until smooth.
3. Add eggs and mix well, then stir in flour and chocolate chips.
4. Press the dough into muffin tin cups, creating a well in the center.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes and let cool before adding toppings.

18. Maraschino Cherry Cheesecake Bites

These Maraschino Cherry cheesecake bites are a fun and festive dessert that packs all the flavor of classic cheesecake into bite-sized treats!

With their creamy filling and a sweet cherry topping, they are perfect for holiday parties. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, these bites will surely be a hit!

Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Maraschino cherries for topping

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until well combined.
3. Spoon the mixture into mini cupcake liners and top with a maraschino cherry.
4. Chill before serving.

19. Pumpkin Spice Mug Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Mug Cake is perfect for a quick and easy dessert that captures the flavors of the season!

Ready in minutes, you can enjoy a warm, spiced cake right from your mug. Topped with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth this holiday season.

Ingredients:
– 4 tablespoons flour
– 4 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice
– 3 tablespoons milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and pumpkin spice.
2. Stir in milk and oil until combined.
3. Microwave for 1-1.5 minutes until the cake is cooked through.
4. Top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon before enjoying.

20. Pecan Pie Bars

Pecan pie bars are a delicious twist on the traditional pie, offering all the flavors in a convenient bar form!

Rich, buttery, and filled with crunchy pecans, these bars are perfect for holiday gatherings. They’re quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them an easy favorite to serve.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup corn syrup
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup flour

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of the dish and bake for 10 minutes.
4. In another bowl, mix pecans, corn syrup, and sugar, then pour over the baked crust.
5. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until set.

21. Chocolate Mint Brownies

Chocolate mint brownies are a decadent dessert that combines fudgy chocolate with a refreshing minty layer!

These brownies are quick to make and perfect for holiday gatherings. With their rich flavor and festive green topping, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 eggs
– 1 cup cocoa powder
– 1 cup flour
– 1 teaspoon mint extract

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix melted butter and sugar until well combined.
3. Add eggs, cocoa powder, flour, and mint extract; mix until smooth.
4. Pour into the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
5. Let cool before cutting into squares.

22. Holiday Sugar Cookies

Holiday sugar cookies are a classic treat that everyone loves, and they can be made quickly and easily!

Soft, buttery, and perfect for decorating, these cookies are a must-have for any holiday gathering. Use festive cookie cutters and colorful icing to create beautiful designs that will impress your friends and family.

Ingredients:
– 2 3/4 cups flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups sugar
– 1 egg

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar, then beat in the egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
5. Roll out the dough, cut into shapes, and bake for 8-10 minutes.

Conclusion

Making easy Christmas desserts doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated.

With these 22 quick recipes, you can create delightful holiday treats that will impress your family and friends, all in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for something classic or a little more unique, there’s something here for every sweet tooth this holiday season!