With Christmas just around the corner, you may already be wondering how to plan your menu so that everything comes together in time for the big day. With so many guests visiting, it can be easy to forget about the dessert course, but you shouldn’t!
That’s why we’ve put together this list of traditional Christmas desserts that you’ll want to make and share with family and friends this season, especially if they’re going to be over more than once this year!
These recipes are tried-and-true crowd-pleasers that will make everyone happy at your holiday table! Traditional Christmas desserts are synonymous with the holidays, and you can’t really have one without the other.
They’re also some of the most delicious desserts out there, so what better time to try new recipes than when you’re serving a crowd?
Try out these traditional Christmas desserts this holiday season for guaranteed deliciousness at every dinner table!
1. Matcha Snowball Cookies
What better way to kick off the holiday season than with a festive dessert? These Matcha Snowball Cookies are perfect for any celebration and will be sure to impress your guests.
The ingredients to make these traditional Christmas desserts are unsalted butter at room temperature, vanilla extract, and all-purpose flour. Baking powder, salt, powdered sugar, milk, and matcha green tea powder are not left out.
2. Gingerbread Bundt Cake
Gingerbread Bundt Cake is a traditional Christmas dessert with many variations. The easiest way to make this old-fashioned cake is by following the instructions below:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Grease and flour an 8-inch bundt pan then set it aside.
- In a small bowl, stir together your dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, ground ginger, salt, and baking soda.
- Whisk together your wet ingredients in another small bowl: eggs beaten with unsweetened applesauce, dark molasses, canola oil, or other vegetable oil.
3. Holly Cupcakes
Holly Cupcakes are traditional Christmas desserts and perfect for the festive season. These cupcakes use a rich, buttery sponge and fresh berries to create a delicious contrast of textures in every bite. They’re topped with whipped cream and festive holly for a truly Christmassy look!
To prepare: First, preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4. Grease or line muffin tins with paper cases. Next, cream together the butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
Afterward, add the flour, baking powder, and milk alternatively until you have an even batter. Finally, fill each muffin case with two-thirds full of batter.
4. Black Forest Cookies
It’s no secret that I love dessert. It’s also no secret that I have a major sweet tooth. With the holidays coming up, it’s time to start thinking about various traditional Christmas desserts.
Black Forest Cookies are perfect because they’re small and chocolatey and can be made in advance or last minute.
Black Forest refers to the flavor combo of chocolate and cherry. The ingredients:
- Whipped cream (adds a decadent touch).
- Butter softened.
- Sugar.
- Egg yolk.
- All-purpose flour.
- Cocoa powder.
- Baking soda.
5. Chocolate and Pumpkin Ice Cream Sandwiches
This year, why not try something a little different? Chocolate and pumpkin ice cream sandwiches make a delicious twist on the classic holiday treat. They are super simple to make and can be thrown together in less than 30 minutes.
All you need is some chocolate or white chocolate chips (or a combination of both), pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, eggs, and flour. First, mix your dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until you get a dough-like consistency.
Secondly, place spoonfuls of dough onto wax paper and freeze them for an hour before cutting them into squares.
Once they have been frozen, melt some semi-sweet chocolate or white light brown sugar with butter. Let this be done in the microwave for about 15 seconds at a time until it’s fully melted. There you go! One of the best traditional Christmas desserts!
6. Chai Tree and Snowflake Cookies
The next on our list of traditional Christmas desserts are a classic cookie that has been around for decades. The Chai Tree Cookie is a gingersnap cookie with a chai tea twist.
These cookies are perfect because they’re hard to get wrong and can be customized with whatever flavor or color you want.
If you’re looking for another traditional Christmas recipe, try Snowflake Cookies! These chewy cookies have a vanilla base, just like the Chai Trees.
But instead of being rolled in cinnamon sugar, these cookies are rolled in powdered sugar and white chocolate chips.
They’re an excellent alternative if you need something different from the usual cinnamon sugar combo we all love so much!
7. Cupcake Wreath
A delicious and beautiful way to serve up some of your favorite traditional Christmas desserts is with a cupcake wreath.
The wreath can be made from cake, but if you want something more festive, you can make it with gingerbread cookies.
To make the gingerbread cookie dough, combine the flour, salt, and baking soda in a large bowl, stirring well.
Whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract in another bowl until creamy and light in color. Next, add the egg mixture to the flour mixture and stir well until combined.
After that is done, stir in butter until just combined. Finally, cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container for up to two days before using it (if you want to bake them now).
8. White Chocolate-Dipped Madeleines
As traditional Christmas desserts, Madeleine cookies can be made with a few simple ingredients. Further, they are dipped in white chocolate for a festive touch.
Here’s a party trick: get store-bought madeleines, dip them in melted chocolate and sprinkle them with chopped cranberries and pistachios. The best part? They’re super easy to prepare!
9. S’mores Brownies
S’mores brownies are a classic holiday dessert; adding chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers make it much better.
These brownies have a nice crispy crust on the outside, and the inside is soft and chewy with chunks of chocolate for flavor.
If you are looking for a fun recipe to make with your kids this year, I recommend making these brownies!
Here’s how to make these particular traditional Christmas desserts: Line an 8×8 baking pan with foil or parchment paper. This is to remove the bars from the pan easily.
Then, grease the foil or parchment paper before lining it to ensure easy removal. Next, in a medium-sized bowl, combine all ingredients until fully incorporated.
10. Cranberry-Pistachio Cornmeal Biscotti
Biscotti is one of the most popular Italian cookies, and this recipe features an unusual twist on the classic recipe.
Adding pistachios and cranberries lends a festive flair that will make these a holiday favorite. The cornmeal gives them a slightly crunchier texture than traditional biscotti.
And for those who prefer not to use sugar in their diet, substitute honey for the sugar in this recipe. The requirements to make: all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting), baking powder, salt, and eggs at room temperature.
Honey or brown sugar (or another sweetener) and vegetable oil or sunflower seed oil are also included to make this specialty of the traditional Christmas desserts!
11. Mint Chocolate Cookie Dough Gingerbread House
A gingerbread house is a tradition of making a festive, edible house. The best part is that you can make it any way you want!
I made mine out of mint chocolate cookie dough and decorated it with peppermint white chocolate and red sprinkles.
Try this recipe for an easy gingerbread house, which is also one of the delectable traditional Christmas desserts: Slowly add the last three ingredients (flour, salt, baking powder) while beating on low speed. Finally, bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until done in the middle.
12. Linzer Stars
Linzer stars are traditional Christmas desserts in Austrian, German, and Swiss cookies. They combine ground almonds, flour, confectioner’s sugar, butter, and spices in a food processor.
The mixture is then pressed into a thin layer in the shape of a star on baking paper before being baked in the oven.
Moreso, the cookies can be made with raspberry or apricot jam or preserves for the filling and icing sugar mixed with water for the glaze. They’re traditionally eaten at Christmas as they go well with coffee or tea.
13. Iced Lemon Stars
Iced Lemon Stars is a classic Christmas dessert that has been enjoyed for decades. These are sure to be your favorite if you enjoy the tangy taste of citrus.
To make them, start by whisking together the sugar with finely grated lemon peel and freshly squeezed lemon juice in a medium bowl.
Next, add egg whites and stir until well blended. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re ready to bake. Lastly, line two baking sheets with parchment paper and either use a pastry bag or two spoons to drop 8-inch long lines on each sheet about an inch apart from one another.
14. Creamy Cannoli Dip
Creamy cannoli dip is a simple yet decadent dessert that will have your family gathering around the kitchen table for seconds. The best part? It’s easy to make and only takes 10 minutes of prep time.
Here’s how to make this delicacy of the traditional Christmas desserts: first, start by whipping cream with sugar until it thickens.
Secondly, add ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, and vanilla extract. Thirdly, beat eggs with sugar and add them to the cream mixture.
Next, mix dry ingredients, including flour, ground cinnamon, cocoa powder, and salt. Then, fold in chunks of chocolate; pour the mixture over the top of an oven-safe dish.
Finally, bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 minutes; serve with graham crackers or vanilla wafers. Enjoy!
15. Reindeer Profiteroles
Reindeer Profiteroles are a fun twist on the classic French dessert, profiteroles. They’re made by sandwiching chocolate-covered marshmallows between two round pieces of puff pastry. And then roasting them until the filling is gooey and hot.
The result? A tasty, cute dish that’s perfect for your holiday party. Plus, these traditional Christmas desserts are just adorable.
To make Reindeer Profiteroles, you’ll need pate sucree dough, chocolate chips (or marshmallows), and sugar in equal amounts. Also, flour for rolling out the dough and a 12-inch piece of parchment paper or nonstick foil.
16. Vegan Chocolate Truffles
Chocolate truffles are one of the most popular (and decadent) traditional Christmas desserts at the holidays.
They’re also a fun holiday project to share with friends and family. The key ingredient is cocoa, which is high in antioxidants and heart-healthy nutrients.
You can whip up healthy vegan chocolate truffles this season; it’s very easy. First, combine organic cocoa powder, raw coconut oil, vanilla extract, agave nectar or maple syrup (or brown rice syrup), and vegan chocolate chips. Combine them in a food processor until it reaches a smooth consistency.
Next, roll the mixture into balls with your hands and place them onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper for freezing.
Once they’re solidified, you can coat them in melted dark chocolate or leave them as is for something simpler.
17. Blondies
Blondies are one of the most traditional Christmas desserts, for a good reason. They’re easy to make, look festive and taste delicious.
Unlike many traditional desserts, blondies are not overly sweet, so they’re perfect with coffee or tea after dinner.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s not as heavy and rich as other holiday classics, this is the dessert for you!
The ingredients:
- Unsalted butter.
- Brown sugar.
- Salt.
- Egg (plus one yolk if making vanilla).
18. Choco-Mint Snowflakes
Speaking of the delectable traditional Christmas desserts, this recipe is a creative twist on a classic Christmas dessert.
The snowflake-shaped chocolate biscuits with peppermint flavoring can be made ahead of time. Then, they are frozen until you are ready to serve them.
Start by melting the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Secondly, add the chocolate chips and stir until they melt.
Remove from the heat and mix in the cocoa powder, vanilla extract, salt, peppermint extract, powdered sugar, and heavy cream.
Next, stir until thoroughly combined. Pour into a medium bowl and place plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the frosting so it does not dry out as it cools down.
Finally, place frosting onto each cookie sheet lined with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat for easy clean-up later.
19. Flourless Chocolate-Walnut Cookies
Like other traditional Christmas, desserts have their secret recipe; the key to these cookies is using cocoa powder.
The cocoa powder gives them a deep chocolate flavor, and the lack of flour makes them dense and chewy. I like to roll mine in sugar before baking for added sweetness and that perfect crunchy exterior.
If you don’t have walnuts on hand, pecans are a great substitute! Use finely ground nuts instead of whole ones since they’ll break down when chopped and create more texture in your cookie dough.
For those with nut allergies, feel free to sub in your favorite alternative. And while it may seem crazy at first to ditch the flour, trust me- this recipe will not disappoint.
20. Spiked Hot Chocolate
When it comes to warming up on a cold winter day, spiked hot chocolate is the perfect option. Here’s what you’ll need for this treat of the traditional Christmas desserts: whole milk, dark chocolate (or semi-sweet) chips, vanilla extract, and sugar. To start, fill a pot with whole milk and heat until it bubbles.
Next, melt the chocolate in a double boiler over simmering water while stirring continuously until smooth and melted.
Then, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and sugar before pouring into mugs or cups. Finally, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with cocoa powder or cinnamon for an extra kick!
21. Cranberry-Pear Lattice Pie
Cranberry-Pear Lattice Pie is one of the traditional Christmas desserts that’s not too difficult to make. Here’s how you do it: Take the dough for a double pie crust, roll it out and line two pie pans.
Leave dough overhanging the edge of the pan, as this will be folded up and baked along with the pie.
Next, roll out the top crust and cut it into strips about 1/2 inch thick. Then, mix your cranberry filling until it reaches a chunky consistency.
Spread evenly between both pies, leaving about an inch of space from the edge of each pie crust.
After that, cover the cranberries with pear slices, again being careful to leave some space around the edges.
Fold over the top crust and pinch it in place; cut slits in the pie crust so steam can escape. Lastly, bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 50 minutes or until browned on top.
22. Christmas Tree Sheet Cake
This fun and festive cake are perfect for any holiday party or family gathering. The recipe starts with a boxed yellow cake mix, but it can be made from scratch if you prefer.
To make the cake look like a tree, simply cut the square of cake in half, then cut each half into two strips.
Next, frost with white icing and add green sugar sprinkles as pine needles by running them along the edges of the strips.
Then, add a round mound of frosting on top for the tree’s trunk, and use more green sugar sprinkles around the edge of that circle for leaves.
Finally, use red sugar sprinkles on top of white icing to make red berries and place these randomly among the other decorations. Trust me; these aren’t traditional Christmas desserts you want to miss!
23. Cranberry Frangipane Tarts
Cranberry Frangipane Tarts are traditional Christmas desserts that are popular for their combination of flavors and the tartness of the cranberries.
This recipe has two main components: the crust and the filling. Equally important to note, the crust is made with all-purpose flour, sugar, butter, salt, eggs, and water.
Furthermore, it is combined in a food processor until it reaches a dough-like consistency. It is then placed on top of small tart pans with rolling pins or pizza cutters. Afterward, it is baked at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until golden brown.
24. Pumpkin Spice Cake
Pumpkin Spice Cake is a traditional Christmas dessert that can please even the pickiest of eaters. It also provides a nice balance for those of us who are still trying to fight off the overindulgence of Thanksgiving. It does this by allowing us to indulge in something just as sweet but not quite as heavy.
Plus, it’s really easy. All you need is a boxed cake mix, canned pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, and water. Mix everything until the batter is smooth.
Next, pour it into two cake pans lined with parchment paper or cooking spray. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes or until done.
Have you ever had something so delicious that you find it hard to leave? As one of the traditional Christmas desserts, Pumpkin spice cake is like that too!
25. Creamy Cranberry Tart
One of the most popular traditional Christmas desserts is a creamy cranberry tart. You can find all the ingredients at your local grocery store, which is easy to make.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Butter softened
- Sugar.
- All-purpose flour.
- Salt.
- Grated orange peel.
- Egg, beaten with milk.
- Orange juice (or lemon).
- Fresh cranberries.
To make: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C). Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy in a large bowl. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Next, sift together the dry ingredients, then add them alternately with the milk mixture to creamed mixture until blended. Meanwhile, do not overmix, or tarts will be tough. Gently stir in fresh cranberries by hand.
26. Mr. Claus Pull-Apart Cupcakes
Mr. Claus Pull-Apart Cupcakes are a sweet and festive dessert for the holiday season. The recipe is super easy and takes only one hour from start to finish. These cupcakes make a great addition to any holiday party or dinner table this season.
And as a bonus, these traditional Christmas desserts are so fun that kids will love helping make them! To begin preparation: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Next, grease and flour two 8×4-inch loaf pans; set aside. In a large bowl, cream butter until light in color and fluffy in texture, about 3 minutes.
27. Bûche de Noël
The Yule log cake is a traditional dessert that has been eaten in France and Italy for centuries. It is a pastry cake shaped like a log, usually covered in chocolate ganache or whipped cream and decorated with glacé fruits.
The bûche de Noël can be served by itself as a sweet treat or accompanied by coffee for an afternoon snack.
Meanwhile, the bûche de Noël is easy to make, and you only need five ingredients: vanilla sponge cake, hazelnut liqueur, heavy cream, chocolate ganache, and glacé fruits.
If you desire traditional Christmas desserts that will burst your mind, the Yule log is confidently one of them!
28. Mouse King Fudge
Mouse King Fudge is a traditional Christmas dessert that can be found in many households. The fudge is made of chocolate and nuts and is easy to make. It’s also a good way for kids to get involved in the holiday cooking process.
Just add your favorite sprinkles or crushed candy cane, and you have the perfect sweet treat for family gatherings! Some of the simple ingredients are unsalted butter, room temperature, and granulated sugar.
We are far from being done with this list of traditional Christmas desserts. We still have some amazing delicacies coming up!
29. Abominable Snowman Cake
The Abominable Snowman Cake is a traditional Christmas dessert that is perfect for any winter-time celebration.
The idea for the cake came from an episode of The Flintstones and has grown in popularity ever since. All you need is a vanilla cake mix, green frosting, and black frosting.
First, bake your favorite vanilla cake and let it cool completely before frosting it with green frosting. Then take a small portion of the same green frosting and use it as glue to attach the eyes, nose, arms, and ears onto the side of the cake.
Once this is done, decorate the rest of the face by using black frosting. Who says you won’t enjoy this specialty of traditional Christmas desserts?!
30. Pecan Snickerdoodles
We can’t discuss the palatable traditional Christmas desserts and not include Pecan snickerdoodles. These are traditional and tasty cookies that the whole family will enjoy.
The recipe is easy to prepare and requires little more than a few ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
Unsalted butter (room temperature), eggs, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans are not left out.
The first step is to preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Mix all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and brown sugar in a bowl, then set it aside.
Mix granulated sugar with the butter in another bowl until it is creamy. Finally, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated before continuing.
31. Salted Caramel Mixed Nut Pie
Salted Caramel Mixed Nut Pie is one of the more traditional Christmas desserts served during the holidays. It’s made with salted caramel pastry cream, mixed nuts, and a chocolate ganache topping.
Plus, this dessert is rich and decadent, perfect for holiday entertaining. Moreover, the salted caramel pastry cream has just enough salt to offset the sweet taste.
The mix of nuts balances out the richness of the filling with their crunchy texture and earthy flavor. The chocolate ganache, on the other hand, adds a nice touch of sweetness.
Moving on, the pie crust recipe is simple, requiring just 4 ingredients: flour, sugar, butter, and water. You can make your pie crust or use store-bought dough if you’re short on time!
32. Pumpkin Spice Mousse
The pumpkin spice mousse is a delicious and traditional dessert for the holiday season. The recipe is simple, easy, and can be made in advance. All you need is heavy cream, pureed pumpkin, sugar, cinnamon powder, and vanilla extract.
Now, pour in the heavy cream into a large bowl or container with a lid. Next, add the pureed pumpkin and sugar. Add the cinnamon powder and vanilla extract.
Then, cover it with plastic wrap or a lid. Place it in the refrigerator for 4 hours or overnight until set. To serve, scoop out into small bowls or cups and enjoy!
Your taste buds deserve a nice treat; give them one with this specialty on the list of traditional Christmas desserts!
33. No-Bake Cranberry Cheesecake
Looking for traditional Christmas desserts that will satisfy your sweet tooth this holiday season? Look no further than this delicious cranberry cheesecake recipe.
This recipe is perfect for the holidays; this recipe has simple ingredients and is easy enough to make at any time of year.
Further, Cranberry cheesecake is a festive twist on traditional pumpkin pie with a creamy, smooth texture and tart flavor.
Topped with an orange glaze and fresh fruit, this is sure to be a new favorite during the upcoming season.
34. Baked Pear with Cinnamon and Currants
Growing up, my family would have some baked pear with cinnamon and currants as traditional Christmas desserts.
It was one of my favorite desserts because it was so simple and delicious! The dessert is easy to make and can be done in just a few minutes.
All you need is a pear, butter, cinnamon, brown sugar, orange juice, and raisins. The directions to make it: cut the pears in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides. Put them into an oven-safe or casserole dish with the hollowed side up.
Then, mix the butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, orange juice, and raisins until combined well. Pour this mixture over the pears. Finally, bake for about 20 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or until heated through.
35. Gluten-Free Chocolate Ganache Tart
The traditional ganache tart is a beautiful dessert for any occasion. The taste of rich chocolate, combined with the sweetness of the cream cheese and whipped cream filling, makes it an unforgettable experience. Plus, this recipe is gluten-free and made from scratch!
To make this dish which is also present on the list of traditional Christmas desserts, you’ll need the following:
- Vanilla extract.
- Cornstarch.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Sugar.
- Heavy whipping cream.
- Semisweet chocolate chips.
- The prepared tart shell is baked according to package directions.
- Low-fat cream cheese at room temperature.
- Salt.
- Confectioner’s sugar (add more if needed).
36. 3-Ingredient Chocolate Mousse
This 3-ingredient chocolate mousse is a traditional dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season. It’s easy, quick, and looks so elegant!
The best thing about this recipe is that it requires three ingredients – heavy cream, dark chocolate, and vanilla extract.
Coupled with that, it requires only 20 minutes of your time. You’ll want to make this dessert for family gatherings, church dinners, or any other holiday event!
The one thing that’s surely guaranteed about this one of the traditional Christmas desserts is that you will enjoy it!
37. Maple-Pear Tarte Tatin
Speaking of traditional Christmas desserts, a tarte Tatin is an upside-down, caramelized apple or pear tart. It’s traditionally made with a flaky pastry crust and served with ice cream on the side.
Maple-Pear Tarte Tatin is one of my favorite flavors for this holiday season. This is because it combines the sweetness of fruit with the richness of maple syrup.
The procedure to make this delicacy: In a saucepan, heat your butter, sugar, and maple syrup. Then, let it be over medium heat until melted and combined.
After that, remove from heat, add in your sliced pears and mix until coated. Lastly, set aside while you work on your crust.
38. Sticky Toffee Pudding
Sticky toffee pudding is a traditional British dessert that can be served with ice cream, whipped cream, or custard.
A layer of dates and butter is spread on the bottom of the dish. Then bread crumbs are layered on top.
In another dish, eggs are whisked together with sugar and vanilla extract until they become light and fluffy. Butter is melted into the mixture; then it is blended until smooth. Afterward, it is poured over the bread crumbs.
After baking for 20 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit, the cake should be firm yet soft when pressed down in the center with your finger.
The dish is cooled for about 10 minutes before serving so that it doesn’t melt anything you put on top of it. I bet you don’t want to be left out of the deliciousness these traditional Christmas desserts offer!
39. Tree-mendous Gingerbread Cake
We are still on our register for the best traditional Christmas desserts. This recipe is a delicious blend of molasses, ginger, and spices.
It’s a classic holiday dessert that is sure to please. Plus, it is incredibly easy to make!
Here are the ingredients needed to make it:
- All-purpose flour.
- Baking soda.
- Ground ginger.
- Salt.
- Unsalted butter, room temperature.
- Dark molasses.
- Sugar.
- Large eggs, room temperature.
- Buttermilk (plus more if necessary).
40. Cookie Cheesecake Bites
Cookie Cheesecake Bites are a perfect traditional holiday dessert. They’re easy to make and not too messy for the kids to enjoy. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, so you don’t have to spend all day in the kitchen.
The recipe is simple: cream cheese, softened; chocolate sandwich cookies; sugar; flour, plus more for rolling out dough; egg yolk.
To make these traditional Christmas desserts: Combine ingredients in a medium bowl and mix until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight.
41. Brioche Bread Pudding with Bourbon-Caramel Sauce
The holidays are here again, so it’s time for a big feast with family and friends. One of my favorite holiday desserts is brioche bread pudding with bourbon-caramel sauce. It’s the best of the best for traditional Christmas desserts.
Additionally, you can serve this dessert for breakfast or as a midnight snack. However, I like eating it at night because it reminds me of being home during the holidays.
The first thing you need to do is make the brioche dough. You’ll have better results if you use cake flour, so sift cake flour over your dough before kneading.
42. Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies
If you’re looking for a decadent and traditional dessert to serve this holiday season, look no further than chocolate hazelnut brownies.
These are the perfect holiday brownie because they combine all the flavors of the season: chocolate, hazelnuts, peppermint extract, and cream. Also, they’re easy enough to make that you can whip them up in just a few minutes!
Without second thoughts, Brownies are one of my favorite traditional Christmas desserts because they’re so versatile.
They can be paired with anything from ice cream and whipped cream to fudge sauce and caramel. You can’t go wrong with just five ingredients when it comes time for dessert.
43. White Chocolate Raspberry Thins
White chocolate raspberry thins are a fun and delicious dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. These sweet treats are easy to make and perfect for hosting parties, giving as gifts, or sharing with your loved ones. The best part about this recipe is that it only takes a few ingredients and minimal preparation time!
Besides, it’s important to have some holiday desserts on hand, especially for those unexpected guests or when you’re just in the mood for something sweet.
These white chocolate raspberry thins are sure to satisfy any craving! If you are considering going all out for traditional Christmas desserts, these should be one of them!
44. Ruby Red Grapefruit Tartlets
Preparing these delectable items on this list of traditional Christmas desserts is simple. First, blend the sugar and butter in a food processor until it is light and fluffy. Secondly, add in the egg yolk and vanilla extract and mix.
The next step is to mix the flour, baking powder, salt, citrus zest, and grapefruit juice until combined. Then, add in the wet ingredients and mix again until dough forms.
Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes while prepping the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (176 degrees Celsius).
Once chilled, roll out dough on a floured surface into a 1/4-inch thickness; then cut into 2-inch circles using a round cookie cutter or small jar lid.
45. Chocolate, Hazelnut, and Caramel Tart
Let’s talk about the various traditional Christmas desserts that aren’t only tasty and aesthetic. Chocolate, hazelnut, and caramel tart are traditional French desserts in Europe and North America. It typically consists of a crust from ground hazelnuts mixed with sugar and butter.
Proceeding this is topped with layers of dark chocolate ganache and a layer of soft caramel. The tart is then decorated with crushed hazelnuts or pecans and baked until golden brown.
This beautiful dessert was likely created by the Parisian pastry chef Gaston Lenôtre who popularized it during the early 1900s.
He would have likely used store-bought puff pastry dough for the crust that he would have filled with a mixture of heavy cream, egg yolks, corn syrup, and vanilla extract.
46. Holiday Spritz Cookies
Like others, these spritz cookies are classic, traditional Christmas desserts. They’re crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside with a crumbly texture.
The recipe is simple, easy to follow, and can easily be tweaked by adding different ingredients or flavorings.
Ingredients are:
- Unsalted butter (softened).
- All-purpose flour.
- Salt.
- Vanilla extract.
- Confectioner’s sugar.
- Whole milk.
Instructions to make: Mix the flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Then, add in the softened butter and vanilla extract. Finally, use your hands or a pastry blender to mix it until it resembles coarse sand or pebbles.
47. Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies
Gingerbread sandwich cookies are a great traditional dessert to make this holiday season. They’re delicious, easy to make, and the perfect comfort food during the cold months.
I like my gingerbread with walnuts or pecans. But feel free to substitute those for any type of nut or omit them altogether if you prefer.
The following recipe is for an 8×8-inch pan: First, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, mix all dry ingredients in one bowl and all wet ingredients in another bowl.
Then, stir wet ingredients into dry until just combined, then stir in nuts. Lastly, spread batter evenly over a greased 8×8-inch square cake pan; these are traditional Christmas desserts you won’t regret trying!
48. Chocolate Gingerbread Cake
Delicious traditional Christmas desserts? Chocolate Gingerbread Cake is a decadent dessert that is perfect for the holidays. The rich chocolate cake combines ginger and cinnamon spices for a flavor reminiscent of holiday cookies.
Meanwhile, the creamy white frosting sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies gives this cake a festive look. And the sprinkles on top make it look like a gingerbread house.
It’s always best to make this cake ahead of time as it needs some time in the fridge before you cut into it.
Traditionally, people serve this dessert with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, but I’m more of a fan of pouring hot cocoa over mine!
49. Sugar Cookie Ornaments
Sugar cookie ornaments are traditional Christmas desserts that children and adults love alike. They are simple and fun to make and taste delicious when iced with cream cheese frosting!
To make these cookies, you need butter or margarine; sugar; egg; vanilla extract, all-purpose flour; salt; Powdered sugar for dusting.
Follow these directions: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Next, add the sugar, stirring until it dissolves.
Then, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Finally, add the egg and vanilla extract into the mixture and beat until combined.
50. Jam Sandwich Cookies
Serve these delicious jam sandwich cookies as traditional Christmas desserts this season! These cookies are a wonderful addition to any family gathering.
The ingredients for the cookie dough are flour, butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, an egg, and about a cup of your favorite jam.
You will need parchment paper and a rolling pin to make the sandwich cookies. Once you have rolled out the dough into a sheet thin enough to cut without breaking (about 1/8 inch), cut it into circles with either a cookie cutter or glass (depending on what shape you would like).
Next, place one circle on one sheet of parchment paper and another on top of it (cut side down). Do this, so they overlap in the center by about half an inch.
51. Mocha Men and Star Cookies
It’s the most wonderful time of the year for many people, including families who don’t celebrate Christmas. One thing that is always on the menu at this time of year is dessert!
Many traditional Christmas desserts are served this season, and one of them is mocha men’s cookies.
Star cookies can also be considered a traditional dessert, but they’re not always served during this time of day. Various recipes will show you how to make both mocha men’s cookies and star cookies!
52. Ginger and Cream Sandwich Cookies
Ginger and Cream Sandwich Cookies are traditional Christmas desserts that can be made in the comfort of your own home.
They’re an excellent alternative to more complicated desserts and make a great centerpiece for the holiday table.
These cookies can also be frozen for up to six months, making them a perfect dessert for those who enjoy batch cooking.
What You’ll Need:
- Butter softened (1 stick).
- Sugar.
- Egg, beaten.
- All-purpose flour.
- Baking soda.
- Salt.
- Cream cheese softened.
53. Choco-Dipped Trees
In many households, the holiday season begins with a tree. These trees can be planted in the yard or even indoors.
The tradition of the tree is for it to be decorated with ornaments, lights, and other trimmings. But what if you want something more than just an ornament on your tree?
Choco-dipped trees are twists on traditional Christmas desserts and will definitely get you in the mood for Christmas as soon as you bite into one!
54. Chocolate Caramel Cookies
These Chocolate Caramel Cookies are a wonderful way to incorporate a little more of the sweet, rich holiday flavors into your everyday life.
The caramel-filled chocolate cookies are a decadent, delicious dessert that can be enjoyed any time of year.
One thing I love about these cookies, which are traditional Christmas desserts, is that they’re so easy and quick to whip up.
Furthermore, the dough comes together in minutes. And then, it’s ready for you to roll out and cut into shapes or simply drop on cookie sheets with a spoonful of dough.
If you want something even quicker than this recipe, try my Peppermint Bark Cookies. They take just 15 minutes from start to finish!
55. Christmas Trifle
Looking for amazingly awesome traditional Christmas desserts? Here’s one! A traditional Christmas dessert is a trifle, a layered dessert made with sponge cake, fruit, and cream.
Usually, the trifle consists of three layers: a bottom layer of sponge cake soaked in fruit juice or sherry.
Then, a middle layer of custard or fruit puree is mixed with whipped cream, and the top layer of finely chopped fruits is mixed with whipped cream.
The dish was first mentioned in print during the 18th century but may have originated earlier. Moving on, the history of this culinary delight is vague.
But it may have been inspired by dishes like tiramisu and Zuppa Inglese that also consist of layers of cake soaked in liquor and cream.
56. Pecan Pie Bars
Pecan Pie is a traditional holiday dessert, and this recipe for pecan pie bars takes the traditional recipe and turns it into an easy-to-prepare bar.
With a layer of pecan pie filling in between layers of buttery shortbread crust, these bars will have your family asking for seconds.
These bars are also great because they can be made in advance, frozen until needed, and then simply thawed before serving.
The ingredients are simple: butter, flour, salt, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, corn syrup, or molasses (depending on whether you prefer a more caramelized or less sweet taste).
Whipped topping (optional), brown sugar (if desired), and pecans (if desired) might be needed to make this treat which is also one of the traditional Christmas desserts!
57. Mini Apple Pies
Mini apple pies are one of the most traditional Christmas desserts around. They go well with a scoop of ice cream and a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Start by peeling and coring five apples. Then peel, core, and dice an additional apple for the filling.
To make the pie crust, mix sugar, flour, cold butter cut into pieces, egg yolk, and salt in a bowl. Mix until it forms crumbly dough but holds together when squeezed between your fingers.
Roll out on a floured surface until about 1/4 inch thick. Then use cookie cutters to cut out as many circles as possible.
58. Sugar Cookie Trees
To make sugar cookie trees this holiday season, you will need sugar cookie dough, royal icing, a rubber spatula, some green food coloring, and sprinkles.
Follow these instructions: Roll the dough into an even sheet about 1/4 inch thick. Then, use the spatula to cut it into tree shapes (or any other shape you want).
Next, place them on parchment paper or a Silpat baking mat and bake at 375 degrees for 8-10 minutes until they start to brown around the edges.
Allow them to cool completely before decorating with icing. Once they have cooled, ice them using your favorite frosting technique or recipe, and then add decorations like M&M’s, candy canes, or even edible glitter!
Take our word for this; this is one of the delicious traditional Christmas desserts that will make you return for more!
59. Pecan Cupcakes with Spiced Vanilla Frosting
Pecan Cupcakes with Spiced Vanilla Frosting is delicious traditional Christmas desserts. They’re easy to make with pantry staples, and the frosting is perfect for the season.
Ingredients are:
- Unsalted butter at room temperature, plus more for pans.
- Cake flour sifted.
- Kosher salt or table salt (less if using kosher).
- Ground cinnamon.
- Large eggs.
Instructions: Beat the butter and sugar in a bowl with an electric mixer on medium-high speed. Do this until light in colour and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Then, add in the eggs one at a time; beat well after each addition. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon.
60. Mendiant
Mendiants are little squares of almond paste and chocolate, usually topped with a sprinkling of confectioners’ sugar.
They’re traditionally served as part of a holiday dessert table. Here’s how to make these traditional Christmas desserts: First, melt some chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water.
Secondly, add some finely chopped almonds and stir until they’re coated in the melted chocolate. Thirdly, shape pieces of almond paste into small squares (about 1 inch).
And place on parchment paper or wax paper-lined cookie sheets or baking sheets. Next, set the trays in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes.
Lastly, sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve cold or store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
61. Peppermint Meringues
As we approach the end of this list of traditional Christmas desserts, Peppermint meringues are present. These are delicious but elegant desserts that can be served at a holiday party or as a cookie plate.
Below is the recipe for peppermint meringues:
- Egg whites.
- Cream of tartar.
- Sugar.
- Red food coloring, if desired (we recommend gel).
Peppermint extract (or more to taste). Directions: Preheat the oven to 250 degrees. In a large bowl with an electric mixer, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Finally, add food colouring and peppermint extract and beat until well blended.
62. Chocolate Chip Blondies
A chocolate chip blondie is one of the traditional Christmas desserts that makes the perfect sweet snack.
With festive flavours like orange and peppermint, these cookie-like desserts are a welcome addition to any holiday party and make great homemade gifts!
To prepare: In a large bowl, mix the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it becomes creamy.
Next, add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Then, add the flour mixture (flour, baking powder, salt) in thirds alternating with the milk in thirds, and mix until just combined after each addition (don’t overmix!). Mix in chocolate chips last, so they stay crunchy!
63. Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
A pumpkin cheesecake bar is an easy dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season. To make these traditional Christmas desserts, you’ll need graham crackers, cream cheese, butter, sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice.
The recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting gluten-free graham crackers and all-purpose flour for the regular ingredients.
After preparing a graham cracker crust in a 9×13 pan, mix all of the ingredients until smooth and then pour it into the crust.
Then, bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes or until set. Lastly, let cool before serving with whipped cream or ice cream!
64. Red Velvet Cookies
To finish this list of traditional Christmas desserts are Red velvet cookies. These are a traditional dish that has been around for many years.
They are chocolate cookies with red, or sometimes white, icing. Some variations might include cream cheese frosting and sprinkles on top of the icing.
Ingredients are flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, salt, milk, egg, and butter; melted and cooled; vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring.
Procedure to prepare:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until they are well combined.
- Add in milk, egg, butter, and vanilla extract.
- We have reached the end of our list of delectable traditional Christmas desserts!
Conclusion
Christmas is almost here, and nothing says the holiday season like cozy dinners with family and friends—and dessert, of course!
We’ve put together a list of traditional Christmas desserts that will surely be crowd-pleasers as you entertain this holiday season.
These desserts are sure to please, whether you serve them at your own Christmas party or someone else’s!
Christmas is just around the corner, so it’s time to start making your traditional Christmas desserts! This guide took us through must-make desserts you should probably check off your list this year. We are glad to help.
