Over 50 Irresistible Holiday Treat Recipes: Cookies, Bars, & Festive Desserts for a Sweet Season
The holiday season is truly magical, and for many of us, that magic extends right into the kitchen! There’s something incredibly special about filling your home with the aroma of freshly baked goods, sharing delightful homemade treats with loved ones, and creating lasting memories through the joy of festive baking. Whether you’re planning a cozy family gathering, a lively holiday party, or simply looking for sweet edible gifts, this collection has something for everyone.
As you may know, I have the pleasure of co-hosting a vibrant recipe link party called Saturday Night Fever, which kicks off every Saturday night at 6 PM PST. Each week, our community of talented food bloggers shares an incredible array of dishes, and this past week was particularly overflowing with spectacular holiday treats and desserts. The sheer volume of delicious inspiration was too good not to share, so I’ve curated this fantastic roundup of over 50 yummy cookies, bars, cakes, and other festive desserts that are absolutely perfect for the holiday season!
Prepare to be inspired by a diverse selection of festive delights, from classic Christmas cookies to decadent holiday bars and unique sweet concoctions. These recipes are designed to add an extra sprinkle of joy to your celebrations and make your holiday baking adventures both easy and incredibly rewarding. Get ready to discover new favorites and revisit timeless classics that will surely impress your family and friends!
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Cornmeal Stars with Orange Glaze from Yesterfood
Brighten your holiday platter with these unique Cornmeal Stars. The subtle crunch of cornmeal paired with a zesty orange glaze offers a delightful twist on traditional holiday cookies, making them both delicious and visually charming for any festive celebration.
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Truffles from It Bakes Me Happy
Indulge in the rich, festive flavors of Dark Chocolate Peppermint Truffles. These bite-sized delights are perfect for holiday parties or as homemade edible gifts, combining decadent dark chocolate with a refreshing minty kick that embodies the spirit of the season.
Sour Cream Sugar Cookies from Fearlessly Creative Mammas
Elevate your classic sugar cookie game this holiday season with these incredibly tender Sour Cream Sugar Cookies. The addition of sour cream creates a wonderfully soft texture, making them the perfect canvas for festive decorating and a delightful treat for all ages.
Chocolate Walnut Biscotti from Life Made Sweeter
For a sophisticated holiday treat that pairs wonderfully with coffee or hot cocoa, try these Chocolate Walnut Biscotti. Their satisfying crunch and rich chocolate and walnut flavors make them an elegant addition to any dessert platter or a thoughtful homemade gift.
Molasses Ginger Cookies from Fearlessly Creative Mammas
Capture the essence of the holidays with these aromatic Molasses Ginger Cookies. Chewy, spicy, and perfectly sweet, they are a traditional favorite that fills your home with comforting scents and delivers a warm, inviting flavor with every bite.
Eggnog Kahlua Chocolate Chunk Muffins from Uni Homemaker
Start your holiday mornings (or enjoy a festive afternoon treat) with these indulgent Eggnog Kahlua Chocolate Chunk Crumb Muffins. They bring together the festive flavors of eggnog and a hint of Kahlua for a uniquely adult and delightful holiday breakfast or dessert.
Mocha Cookies from Dorm Room Baker
For coffee lovers, these Mocha Cookies are a dream come true! Combining the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee, they offer a sophisticated and comforting treat perfect for cozy holiday evenings. These chewy cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Christmas Cupcakes from Kiddie Foodies
Delight the little ones (and the young at heart!) with these adorable Christmas Cupcakes. Decorated with festive flair, they are a joyful and easy-to-handle dessert for holiday parties, school events, or simply a fun baking activity with the family.
Carmelitas – The Best Cookie Bars Ever from Classy Clutter
Prepare for an explosion of flavor with Carmelitas! These cookie bars feature layers of rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and buttery oatmeal, creating an irresistible treat that lives up to its name as “the best cookie bars ever.” They’re perfect for sharing at holiday potlucks.
White Chocolate Drizzled Pomegranate Bark from A Mama’s Corner of the World
Add a touch of elegance and vibrant color to your holiday dessert spread with White Chocolate Drizzled Pomegranate Bark. This easy-to-make bark combines sweet white chocolate with tart pomegranate seeds for a beautiful and refreshing festive treat.
Cranberry Orange Christmas Star Cookies from Guai Shu Shu
These Cranberry Orange Christmas Star Cookies are as festive as they are flavorful. The bright, zesty notes of orange perfectly complement the tartness of cranberries, all shaped into charming stars that are sure to twinkle on your holiday cookie tray.
Peppermint Bark Brownie Bites from DelightfulE Made
Combine two holiday favorites into one irresistible treat with Peppermint Bark Brownie Bites. Fudgy brownies are topped with classic peppermint bark, creating a decadent, minty, and utterly festive dessert that’s perfect for a sweet holiday indulgence.
Peanut M&M’s Buckeye Bars from Frugal Foodie Mama
These Peanut M&M’s Buckeye Bars are a delightful twist on the classic buckeye candy. Layers of peanut butter and chocolate, studded with colorful M&M’s, make for an easy-to-make, no-bake treat that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat during the holidays.
Gingerbread Cookie Tree from Shop Girl Maria
Create a stunning edible centerpiece with this Gingerbread Cookie Tree! This project is not only fun for the whole family but also results in a delicious and aromatic decoration that truly captures the essence of Christmas.
Homemade Marshmallows from Living Better Together
Upgrade your hot chocolate experience this winter with luxurious Homemade Marshmallows. Fluffy, soft, and infinitely better than store-bought, these are perfect for gifting or simply enjoying by the fireplace with a warm holiday beverage.
Vanilla Pomegranate Oatmeal Cookies from Blahnik Baker
These Vanilla Pomegranate Oatmeal Cookies offer a delightful blend of comforting oats, sweet vanilla, and bursts of tart pomegranate. It’s a unique and elegant cookie that stands out on any holiday dessert tray, providing a festive pop of color and flavor.
Triple Chocolate Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies from Brooklyn Farm Girl
Take the classic peanut butter blossom to the next level with these Triple Chocolate Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies. Featuring multiple types of chocolate along with the beloved peanut butter base, they are a rich and satisfying holiday treat.
Gingerbread Pound Cake with a Cinnamon-Sugar Glaze from Chelsea’s Messy Apron
A festive twist on a comforting classic, this Gingerbread Pound Cake with a Cinnamon-Sugar Glaze is dense, moist, and bursting with warm holiday spices. It’s an ideal dessert for a cozy evening or a delicious centerpiece for your holiday table.
Peppermint Oreo Chocolate Pudding from The Bitter Side of Sweet
Layered with flavor and festive appeal, this Peppermint Oreo Chocolate Pudding is a quick and easy dessert that delivers big on taste. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy Oreos, and refreshing peppermint makes it an instant holiday hit.
Apple Cranberry Pie Bars from Flavor the Moments
Enjoy all the comforting flavors of apple and cranberry pie in an easy-to-serve bar format with these Apple Cranberry Pie Bars. Perfect for parties, these bars offer a delicious balance of sweet and tart, encased in a buttery crust.
Fudgy Mint Squares from Coffee With Us 3
These Fudgy Mint Squares are a dream for anyone who loves the combination of rich chocolate and cool mint. Each square is a perfect bite of dense, fudgy goodness, topped with a refreshing minty frosting, making them a festive and irresistible holiday treat.
Pumpkin Roll from Brooklyn Farmgirl
A quintessential fall and winter dessert, this Pumpkin Roll is an elegant and delicious treat featuring a soft pumpkin cake rolled with a creamy, sweet filling. It’s a beautiful dessert that always impresses and tastes like the holidays.
Green Mint Bark from I Dig Pinterest
Add a vibrant splash of color to your holiday dessert table with this fun Green Mint Bark. It’s an easy-to-make, refreshing treat that combines minty goodness with chocolate, making it a perfect quick gift or party favor, especially for St. Patrick’s Day or even Christmas with a festive twist!
Mint Chip Sugar Cookies from Little Dairy on the Prairie
These Mint Chip Sugar Cookies combine the beloved sugar cookie with a refreshing mint chocolate chip twist. The cool mint flavor makes them perfect for winter celebrations, and their vibrant color adds a festive touch to any cookie tray.
Apple Cranberry Walnut Pie from Learn from Yesterday, Live for Today
This Apple Cranberry Walnut Pie is a harmonious blend of classic holiday flavors. Sweet apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts are nestled in a flaky crust, making for a truly comforting and impressive dessert that is a must-have for your holiday feast.
Vanilla Pudding Chocolate Chip Cookies from Mommy on Demand
These Vanilla Pudding Chocolate Chip Cookies are incredibly soft, chewy, and loaded with chocolatey goodness. The secret ingredient – instant pudding – ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes these a standout cookie for any occasion, especially the holidays!
Candy Coated Winter Oreos from Little Miss Celebration
Quick, easy, and endlessly customizable, these Candy Coated Winter Oreos are a fantastic last-minute holiday treat. Dip Oreos in melted candy and decorate with festive sprinkles for a simple yet delightful dessert that everyone will love.
English Toffee from Coffee With Us 3
Indulge in the buttery, crunchy delight of homemade English Toffee. This classic candy is a beloved holiday staple, perfect for gifting or enjoying as a rich, satisfying treat. Its irresistible texture and flavor make it truly special.
Apple Cake with Caramel Glaze from Winnish
This comforting Apple Cake with Caramel Glaze is a perfect autumnal and winter dessert. The warm spices and tender apples are beautifully complemented by a luscious caramel glaze, making it a cozy and inviting treat for any holiday gathering.
Easy Peppermint Christmas Cookies from Classy Clutter
Whip up a batch of these Easy Peppermint Christmas Cookies for a festive and flavorful treat. Their vibrant color and refreshing minty taste make them a joyful addition to your holiday cookie collection, perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of cocoa.
Chocolate Dipped Brownie Bites from Love to Be in the Kitchen
These Chocolate Dipped Brownie Bites are miniature squares of fudgy perfection, coated in even more decadent chocolate. They’re ideal for portion control at parties, or as a delightful bite-sized gift, offering rich chocolate flavor in every pop.
Pecan Pie Bars from Delightful E Made
Enjoy the classic flavors of pecan pie in a convenient bar form with these delectable Pecan Pie Bars. Featuring a buttery crust and a rich, nutty filling, they are easier to serve at gatherings than a traditional pie and equally delicious.
Cranberry Ribbon Eggnog Christmas Bundt Cake from Blahnik Baker
This beautiful Cranberry Ribbon Eggnog Christmas Bundt Cake is a showstopper for any holiday table. Moist, flavorful, and infused with the festive taste of eggnog and bursts of tart cranberry, it’s a truly elegant and delicious dessert.
Hot Chocolate Caramel Cups from Chelsea’s Messy Apron
These Hot Chocolate Caramel Cups are a delightful bite-sized treat that brings together the comforting flavors of hot chocolate and gooey caramel. They’re perfect for satisfying a sweet craving and make charming additions to a holiday treat platter.
Flourless Double Peanut Butter Cup Blossom Cookies from One Creative Mommy
For a gluten-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, try these Flourless Double Peanut Butter Cup Blossom Cookies. Packed with peanut butter goodness and topped with a chocolate peanut butter cup, they are a rich and satisfying holiday cookie.
Candy Cane Pretzels from Kleinworth & Co.
Simple to make and utterly addictive, Candy Cane Pretzels are a perfect sweet and salty treat for the holidays. Dipped in white chocolate and sprinkled with crushed candy canes, they are festive, crunchy, and an instant crowd-pleaser.
The Best Lemon Crinkle Cookies from Classy Clutter
While often associated with spring, these “Best Lemon Crinkle Cookies” bring a bright, zesty contrast to heavier holiday flavors. Their soft texture and tangy lemon flavor are refreshing and can be a welcome surprise on a holiday cookie plate.
Santa Claus Christmas Cake from Kiddie Foodies
Bring the magic of Santa to your holiday dessert table with this adorable Santa Claus Christmas Cake. This fun and festive cake is perfect for family celebrations, inspiring smiles and spreading holiday cheer with every slice.
M&M Almond Blondies from Dorm Room Baker
These M&M Almond Blondies are a chewy, buttery delight packed with colorful M&M’s and crunchy almonds. They’re easy to make, transport well, and their festive colors make them perfect for sharing at holiday parties or giving as homemade gifts.
Bakery Style XL Peanut Butter Cookies from Tina’s Chic Corner
Go big this holiday season with these Bakery Style XL Peanut Butter Cookies. Their generous size and rich, classic peanut butter flavor make them an extra satisfying treat, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a substantial sweet snack.
Peppermint Crunch Bites from Kleinworth & Co.
These Peppermint Crunch Bites are a wonderfully addictive combination of crunchy, sweet, and minty flavors. Easy to make and perfect for holiday gifting or party trays, they offer a delightful textural contrast and refreshing taste that captures the season.
Homemade Bourbon Pecan Caramels from Nibbles and Noshes
Indulge in sophisticated sweetness with these Homemade Bourbon Pecan Caramels. Rich, chewy, and infused with a hint of bourbon, they are an adult-friendly holiday treat that makes for an exquisite homemade gift or a luxurious after-dinner delight.
Microwave Peanut Brittle from Recipes for our Daily Bread
Craving a classic holiday candy but short on time? This Microwave Peanut Brittle recipe is a lifesaver! It delivers all the crunchy, nutty sweetness of traditional brittle with minimal effort, making it perfect for last-minute treats or gifts.
Cinnamon Cut Oat Cookies from Sugar Dish Me
Fill your home with the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon with these delightful Cinnamon Cut Oat Cookies. Their comforting flavor and ability to be cut into any festive shape make them a wonderful and versatile addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
Cherry Cheesecake from Somerset Lane
A beautiful and indulgent dessert, this Cherry Cheesecake offers a rich, creamy texture and a burst of vibrant cherry flavor. It’s a show-stopping cake that is perfect for holiday entertaining, providing a delightful contrast to traditional Christmas treats.
Chocolate Peppermint Trifle from One Creative Mommy
Layered with rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, this Chocolate Peppermint Trifle is an elegant and crowd-pleasing dessert. Its beautiful presentation and festive flavors make it ideal for a holiday buffet or a celebratory dinner centerpiece.
Truffle Frosted Shortbread from Sugar Dish Me
Elevate classic shortbread cookies with a luxurious truffle frosting. These Truffle Frosted Shortbread cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, with a tender crumb and a rich, chocolatey topping, making them a sophisticated treat for the holidays.
M&M Cookie Dough Bites from Kleinworth & Co.
Enjoy the irresistible taste of raw cookie dough safely with these M&M Cookie Dough Bites. Packed with colorful M&M’s, these no-bake treats are fun to make and eat, perfect for parties or a delightful snack during holiday movie nights.
Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies with Lemon Sugar Icing from Learn from Yesterday, Live for Today
These Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are exceptionally soft and tender, made even better with a bright, zesty lemon sugar icing. They offer a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience and can be shaped into festive designs, adding a lovely touch to your holiday spread.
Iced Biscuits from Sprout’s House
These Iced Biscuits, or iced cookies, are a classic holiday treat, offering a perfect canvas for intricate or simple festive decorations. Their buttery base and sweet icing make them a delightful snack and a beautiful addition to any holiday cookie box.
Oatmeal Toffee Cookies from Recipes for Our Daily Bread
Combine the comforting chewiness of oatmeal cookies with the delightful crunch and rich flavor of toffee in these Oatmeal Toffee Cookies. They are a wonderfully satisfying treat, perfect for enjoying with a warm drink on a chilly holiday evening.
Oatmeal Lacies from Pint Sized Baker
Delicately thin and wonderfully crisp, these Oatmeal Lacies are an elegant and unique holiday cookie. Their buttery, caramelized flavor and delicate texture make them a sophisticated treat, perfect for an afternoon tea or as an accompaniment to a holiday dessert.
Almond Stuffed Gingerbread Bars from de Jong Dream House
These Almond Stuffed Gingerbread Bars, or ‘Gevulde Speculaas’, are a delicious Dutch-inspired holiday treat. Layers of warmly spiced gingerbread encase a rich almond paste filling, creating a truly unique and comforting dessert that’s perfect for winter.
Winter Wonderland Chex Mix from Little Dairy on the Prairie
Create a magical snack mix for the holidays with this Winter Wonderland Chex Mix. Coated in white chocolate and adorned with festive candies, this sweet and crunchy mix is perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a delightful edible gift.
We hope this expansive collection of over 50 holiday treat ideas inspires your festive baking this season! From classic cookies and rich chocolate bars to innovative cakes and comforting pies, there’s a perfect recipe here for every taste and occasion. Imagine the joy of sharing these homemade delights with family and friends, or the warmth they’ll bring as thoughtful edible gifts.
So tie on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the sweet scents of the holidays. Don’t forget to visit the source blogs for full recipes and detailed instructions. Happy baking, and may your holiday season be filled with much sweetness and cheer!