Want to dazzle your holiday guests? These 25 easy Christmas desserts, ready in under 45 minutes, use simple ingredients like chocolate, berries, and cookies to create festive, crowd-pleasing treats for all ages.
Hello, holiday hosts! I’m MD Ashraf Ahmed, your guide to delicious, stress-free recipes. Christmas is all about joy, family, and sweet treats, but who has time for complicated baking? These 25 beginner-friendly desserts are quick, affordable, and guaranteed to make your holiday table shine. From classic cookies to no-bake delights, I’ll walk you through each step to create memorable sweets. Let’s make your Christmas extra sweet!
Why Easy Christmas Desserts Are Perfect
Christmas desserts bring warmth and cheer to gatherings. They’re the perfect finale to your holiday meal, and simple recipes save time for what matters—family. According to EatRight.org, using fruits and less sugar keeps desserts tasty and nutritious. These recipes are budget-friendly, kid-friendly, and ideal for busy hosts, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile.
Pantry Staples for Quick Desserts
Stock these ingredients for effortless holiday treats. They’re affordable and versatile.
- Chocolate (chips or bars) – rich, crowd-pleasing flavor.
- All-purpose flour – for cookies and cakes.
- Canned or fresh fruits – adds color and nutrition.
- Butter or cream cheese – creamy texture.
- Sugar and spices – cinnamon, ginger for festive flair.
Here’s a table to plan your shopping.
| Ingredient | Why It’s Great | Approx. Cost (Serves 8) |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Chips | Melts easily, versatile | $2–4 |
| All-Purpose Flour | Baking essential | $0.50–1 |
| Canned Fruit | Long shelf life, sweet | $1–2 |
| Butter | Rich flavor, creamy | $1–2 |
| Ground Cinnamon | Festive warmth | $0.50 |
With these, you’re ready to impress. Let’s dive into 25 festive desserts!
1. Gingerbread Cookies
These spiced cookies are soft and perfect for decorating.
Ingredients (Makes 24)
- 3 cups flour – $0.60
- 1 tsp baking soda – $0.05
- 2 tsp ground ginger – $0.20
- 1 tsp cinnamon – $0.10
- ½ cup butter, softened – $1.00
- ¾ cup brown sugar – $0.50
- 1 egg – $0.25
- ½ cup molasses – $1.00
Total cost: ~$3.70
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment.
- Mix flour, baking soda, ginger, and cinnamon.
- Beat butter and sugar, add egg and molasses.
- Add dry ingredients, mix to form dough.
- Roll out, cut shapes, bake 8–10 minutes.
Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 10 minutes. Total: 25 minutes. Nutrition per cookie: ~120 calories.
Tip: Chill dough for easier cutting. Variation: Add nutmeg for extra spice.
2. Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Festive and no-bake, this bark is a quick crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 8 oz dark chocolate – $2.00
- 8 oz white chocolate – $2.00
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies – $0.50
Total cost: ~$4.50
Instructions
- Melt dark chocolate, spread on parchment-lined tray. Chill 10 minutes.
- Melt white chocolate, spread over dark layer.
- Sprinkle with peppermint. Chill 15 minutes, break into pieces.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Chill time: 25 minutes. Total: 35 minutes. Nutrition per serving: ~200 calories.
Tip: Crush candies in a sealed bag. Variation: Use milk chocolate.
3. No-Bake Cranberry Cheesecake Cups
Creamy, tangy cups that look fancy but are so easy.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs – $0.50
- 2 tbsp butter, melted – $0.30
- 8 oz cream cheese – $2.00
- ½ cup powdered sugar – $0.30
- ½ cup cranberry sauce – $0.80
Total cost: ~$3.90
Instructions
- Mix crumbs and butter, press into 8 small cups.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Spoon over crusts, top with cranberry sauce. Chill 20 minutes.
Prep time: 15 minutes. Chill time: 20 minutes. Total: 35 minutes. Nutrition per serving: ~180 calories.
Tip: Use store-bought cranberry sauce. Variation: Swap for raspberry jam.
4. Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread
Buttery cookies with a chocolate twist, perfect for gifting.
Ingredients (Makes 24)
- 1 cup butter, softened – $2.00
- ½ cup powdered sugar – $0.30
- 2 cups flour – $0.40
- 1 cup chocolate chips – $1.00
Total cost: ~$3.70
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Beat butter and sugar.
- Add flour, mix to form dough.
- Roll into 1-inch balls, flatten, bake 12–15 minutes.
- Melt chocolate, dip half of each cookie. Cool on parchment.
Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 15 minutes. Total: 30 minutes. Nutrition per cookie: ~140 calories.
Tip: Chill dough for easier shaping. Variation: Add sprinkles.
5. Eggnog Panna Cotta
This creamy dessert captures Christmas flavors effortlessly.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 2 cups eggnog – $2.00
- 1 tbsp gelatin – $0.50
- ¼ cup sugar – $0.20
- ½ tsp nutmeg – $0.10
Total cost: ~$2.80
Instructions
- Sprinkle gelatin over ¼ cup cold eggnog, let sit 5 minutes.
- Heat remaining eggnog and sugar, stir in gelatin until dissolved.
- Add nutmeg, pour into 8 ramekins. Chill 4 hours.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Chill time: 4 hours. Total: 10 minutes (active). Nutrition per serving: ~150 calories.
Tip: Make ahead for ease. Variation: Top with whipped cream.
6. Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
These bite-sized treats are quick and kid-approved.
Ingredients (Makes 24)
- 1 cup flour – $0.20
- 1 tsp baking powder – $0.05
- ¼ cup sugar – $0.20
- ½ cup milk – $0.30
- 2 tbsp butter, melted – $0.30
- ¼ cup cinnamon sugar – $0.30
Total cost: ~$1.35
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease mini muffin tin.
- Mix flour, baking powder, and sugar. Add milk and butter.
- Spoon into tin, bake 10–12 minutes.
- Roll warm donut holes in cinnamon sugar.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 12 minutes. Total: 22 minutes. Nutrition per serving: ~80 calories.
Tip: Use a piping bag for easy filling. Variation: Add vanilla extract.
7. Peppermint Mocha Truffles
Rich, no-bake truffles with a festive coffee kick.
Ingredients (Makes 24)
- 8 oz dark chocolate – $2.00
- ½ cup heavy cream – $1.00
- 1 tsp instant coffee – $0.10
- ½ tsp peppermint extract – $0.20
- ¼ cup crushed peppermint – $0.30
Total cost: ~$3.60
Instructions
- Heat cream, stir in coffee and peppermint extract.
- Pour over chocolate, stir until smooth. Chill 1 hour.
- Roll into balls, coat with peppermint. Chill 15 minutes.
Prep time: 15 minutes. Chill time: 1 hour 15 minutes. Total: 30 minutes (active). Nutrition per truffle: ~90 calories.
Tip: Use a melon baller for even balls. Variation: Roll in cocoa powder.
8. Cranberry Orange Bread
This moist quick bread is festive and easy to slice.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 2 cups flour – $0.40
- ¾ cup sugar – $0.50
- 1 tsp baking powder – $0.05
- 1 cup cranberries – $1.50
- ½ cup orange juice – $0.50
- ¼ cup butter, melted – $0.50
- 1 egg – $0.25
Total cost: ~$3.70
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a loaf pan.
- Mix flour, sugar, and baking powder. Stir in cranberries.
- Whisk orange juice, butter, and egg. Combine with dry ingredients.
- Pour into pan, bake 35–40 minutes.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 40 minutes. Total: 50 minutes. Nutrition per serving: ~200 calories.
Tip: Use frozen cranberries to save money. Variation: Add walnuts.
9. Chocolate-Dipped Clementines
These refreshing treats are simple and elegant.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 4 clementines, peeled – $1.00
- 8 oz dark chocolate – $2.00
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios – $0.50
Total cost: ~$3.50
Instructions
- Melt chocolate in microwave, stirring every 30 seconds.
- Dip clementine segments halfway in chocolate.
- Sprinkle with pistachios, place on parchment. Chill 15 minutes.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Chill time: 15 minutes. Total: 25 minutes. Nutrition per serving: ~120 calories.
Tip: Dry clementines well for smooth dipping. Variation: Use almonds.
10. Snowball Cookies
These nutty, powdered sugar-coated cookies melt in your mouth.
Ingredients (Makes 24)
- 1 cup butter, softened – $2.00
- ½ cup powdered sugar – $0.30
- 2 cups flour – $0.40
- ½ cup chopped pecans – $1.00
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for coating) – $0.30
Total cost: ~$4.00
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Beat butter and sugar.
- Add flour and pecans, mix to form dough.
- Roll into 1-inch balls, bake 12–15 minutes.
- Roll warm cookies in powdered sugar.
Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 15 minutes. Total: 30 minutes. Nutrition per cookie: ~130 calories.
Tip: Cool slightly before coating to avoid mess. Variation: Use walnuts.
11. Mini Pumpkin Tarts
Bite-sized tarts with creamy pumpkin filling.
Ingredients (Makes 12)
- 1 sheet pie crust – $1.50
- 1 cup pumpkin puree – $1.00
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk – $0.80
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice – $0.20
- 1 egg – $0.25
Total cost: ~$3.75
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease mini muffin tin.
- Cut crust into 12 rounds, press into tin.
- Mix pumpkin, milk, spice, and egg. Spoon into crusts.
- Bake 15–18 minutes.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 18 minutes. Total: 28 minutes. Nutrition per tart: ~120 calories.
Tip: Use a cookie cutter for crusts. Variation: Top with whipped cream.
12. Hot Chocolate Bombs
These fun bombs explode with cocoa in warm milk.
Ingredients (Makes 8)
- 8 oz chocolate chips – $2.00
- ½ cup hot cocoa mix – $0.50
- ½ cup mini marshmallows – $0.50
Total cost: ~$3.00
Instructions
- Melt chocolate, coat silicone mold halves. Chill 10 minutes.
- Remove shells, fill half with cocoa mix and marshmallows.
- Seal halves with melted chocolate. Chill 10 minutes.
Prep time: 15 minutes. Chill time: 20 minutes. Total: 35 minutes. Nutrition per bomb: ~150 calories.
Tip: Use a brush for even coating. Variation: Add peppermint extract.
13. Apple Pie Bites
Mini pies with warm apple filling, perfect for sharing.
Ingredients (Makes 12)
- 1 sheet puff pastry – $1.50
- 2 apples, chopped – $1.00
- 2 tbsp sugar – $0.20
- 1 tsp cinnamon – $0.10
- 2 tbsp butter – $0.30
Total cost: ~$3.10
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut pastry into 12 squares.
- Mix apples, sugar, cinnamon, and butter.
- Spoon onto pastry squares, fold, and seal.
- Bake 15–20 minutes.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 20 minutes. Total: 30 minutes. Nutrition per bite: ~110 calories.
Tip: Use canned apples for speed. Variation: Add raisins.
14. No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars
Chewy, chocolatey bars that need no oven.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 2 cups rolled oats – $0.50
- 1 cup peanut butter – $1.00
- ½ cup chocolate chips – $1.00
- ¼ cup honey – $0.50
Total cost: ~$3.00
Instructions
- Melt peanut butter and honey together.
- Stir in oats, press into a lined 8x8 pan.
- Melt chocolate, spread over top. Chill 20 minutes, cut into bars.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Chill time: 20 minutes. Total: 30 minutes. Nutrition per bar: ~200 calories.
Tip: Use quick oats for smoother texture. Variation: Add coconut flakes.
15. Lemon Raspberry Parfaits
Light, tangy layers for a refreshing dessert.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 1 cup lemon curd – $2.00
- 1 cup whipped cream – $1.00
- 1 cup raspberries – $1.50
- ½ cup crushed shortbread cookies – $0.50
Total cost: ~$5.00
Instructions
- Layer cookies, lemon curd, whipped cream, and raspberries in 8 glasses.
- Repeat layers. Chill 10 minutes.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Chill time: 10 minutes. Total: 20 minutes. Nutrition per serving: ~180 calories.
Tip: Use store-bought curd. Variation: Swap raspberries for blueberries.
16. Sugar Cookie Truffles
No-bake truffles using leftover cookies.
Ingredients (Makes 24)
- 2 cups sugar cookie crumbs – $1.00
- 4 oz cream cheese – $1.00
- 8 oz white chocolate – $2.00
- Sprinkles – $0.30
Total cost: ~$4.30
Instructions
- Mix crumbs and cream cheese, roll into balls.
- Melt chocolate, dip balls, and add sprinkles.
- Chill 15 minutes.
Prep time: 15 minutes. Chill time: 15 minutes. Total: 30 minutes. Nutrition per truffle: ~100 calories.
Tip: Use a food processor for crumbs. Variation: Use dark chocolate.
17. Baked Pears with Cinnamon
Warm, cozy pears for a light dessert.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 4 pears, halved – $2.00
- 2 tbsp butter, melted – $0.30
- 2 tbsp brown sugar – $0.20
- 1 tsp cinnamon – $0.10
Total cost: ~$2.60
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Place pears in a dish.
- Brush with butter, sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.
- Bake 20 minutes.
Prep time: 5 minutes. Cook time: 20 minutes. Total: 25 minutes. Nutrition per serving: ~100 calories.
Tip: Use ripe pears for sweetness. Variation: Add granola topping.
18. Chocolate Pretzel Bites
Sweet-salty bites that are quick to make.
Ingredients (Makes 24)
- 24 pretzels – $0.50
- 24 chocolate kisses – $1.50
- 24 M&M’s – $0.50
Total cost: ~$2.50
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°F. Place pretzels on a baking sheet.
- Top each with a chocolate kiss. Bake 4–5 minutes.
- Press an M&M into each kiss. Chill 10 minutes.
Prep time: 5 minutes. Cook time: 5 minutes. Total: 20 minutes. Nutrition per bite: ~60 calories.
Tip: Work quickly to press M&M’s. Variation: Use white chocolate.
19. Cherry Almond Bars
Chewy bars with festive fruit and nuts.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 1 cup flour – $0.20
- ½ cup butter – $1.00
- ½ cup sugar – $0.30
- ½ cup dried cherries – $1.50
- ¼ cup sliced almonds – $0.50
Total cost: ~$3.50
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix flour, butter, and sugar.
- Press into 8x8 pan, top with cherries and almonds.
- Bake 20–25 minutes, cut into bars.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 25 minutes. Total: 35 minutes. Nutrition per bar: ~180 calories.
Tip: Line pan with parchment. Variation: Use dried cranberries.
20. Eggnog Fudge
Creamy fudge with holiday flavor, no baking needed.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 2 cups white chocolate chips – $2.00
- ½ cup eggnog – $0.50
- ¼ cup butter – $0.50
- ½ tsp nutmeg – $0.10
Total cost: ~$3.10
Instructions
- Melt chocolate, eggnog, and butter together.
- Stir in nutmeg, pour into lined 8x8 pan.
- Chill 2 hours, cut into squares.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Chill time: 2 hours. Total: 10 minutes (active). Nutrition per serving: ~200 calories.
Tip: Stir constantly while melting. Variation: Add rum extract.
21. Spiced Hot Chocolate Cookies
Chocolatey cookies with a spicy kick.
Ingredients (Makes 24)
- 2 cups flour – $0.40
- ½ cup cocoa powder – $0.50
- 1 cup butter – $2.00
- ¾ cup sugar – $0.50
- 1 tsp cinnamon – $0.10
- ¼ tsp cayenne – $0.05
Total cost: ~$3.55
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix flour, cocoa, cinnamon, and cayenne.
- Beat butter and sugar, add dry ingredients.
- Roll into balls, bake 10–12 minutes.
Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 12 minutes. Total: 27 minutes. Nutrition per cookie: ~130 calories.
Tip: Adjust cayenne for less heat. Variation: Add chocolate chips.
22. Peppermint Meringues
Light, airy cookies with a minty twist.
Ingredients (Makes 24)
- 2 egg whites – $0.50
- ½ cup sugar – $0.30
- ½ tsp peppermint extract – $0.20
- Red food coloring – $0.10
Total cost: ~$1.10
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°F. Beat egg whites until foamy.
- Add sugar gradually, beat until stiff peaks. Add extract.
- Pipe with red stripes, bake 1 hour.
Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 1 hour. Total: 75 minutes. Nutrition per cookie: ~30 calories.
Tip: Use a piping bag for swirls. Variation: Omit coloring for plain.
23. Chocolate Cherry Cordials
Decadent chocolate-covered cherries, easy to make.
Ingredients (Makes 24)
- 24 maraschino cherries – $1.50
- 8 oz chocolate – $2.00
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar – $0.10
Total cost: ~$3.60
Instructions
- Drain cherries, pat dry.
- Melt chocolate, dip cherries, and dust with sugar.
- Chill 15 minutes on parchment.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Chill time: 15 minutes. Total: 25 minutes. Nutrition per cordial: ~80 calories.
Tip: Dry cherries well for smooth coating. Variation: Use white chocolate.
24. Cinnamon Roll Bites
Mini bites with classic cinnamon roll flavor.
Ingredients (Makes 24)
- 1 can crescent roll dough – $2.00
- 2 tbsp butter, melted – $0.30
- ¼ cup brown sugar – $0.20
- 1 tsp cinnamon – $0.10
Total cost: ~$2.60
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Unroll dough, brush with butter.
- Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon, roll up, cut into 24 pieces.
- Bake 10–12 minutes.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 12 minutes. Total: 22 minutes. Nutrition per bite: ~70 calories.
Tip: Add glaze if desired. Variation: Use puff pastry.
25. White Chocolate Cranberry Fudge
Sweet, tart fudge that’s quick to whip up.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 2 cups white chocolate chips – $2.00
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk – $0.80
- ½ cup dried cranberries – $1.00
Total cost: ~$3.80
Instructions
- Melt chocolate and milk together.
- Stir in cranberries, pour into lined 8x8 pan.
- Chill 2 hours, cut into squares.
Prep time: 10 minutes. Chill time: 2 hours. Total: 10 minutes (active). Nutrition per serving: ~220 calories.
Tip: Line pan for easy removal. Variation: Add orange zest.
Safety Tips for Holiday Baking
Keep your kitchen safe with these tips, per FDA guidelines.
- Wash hands and surfaces before prep.
- Check for nut allergies when using pecans or pistachios.
- Store perishable desserts in the fridge within 2 hours.
Time-Saving Prep Hacks
Make desserts faster with these ideas.
| Hack | How It Helps | Time Saved |
|---|---|---|
| Use Store-Bought Dough | Saves prep time | 15–20 minutes |
| Pre-Chop Nuts | Ready for sprinkling | 5 minutes |
| Batch Bake | Make multiple recipes | 10–15 minutes |
| Choose No-Bake | Skip oven time | 20 minutes |
For more tips, visit Better Homes & Gardens.
FAQ
Can I use frozen fruit?
Yes! Thaw slightly for best texture in tarts or parfaits.
Are these kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Most have mild flavors; omit nuts for younger kids.
How do I store desserts?
Store in airtight containers in the fridge for 3–5 days or freeze for a month.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour or cookie crumbs where needed.
What if I miss an ingredient?
Swap similar items, like honey for maple syrup or almonds for pecans.
Can I prep ahead?
Definitely! Make no-bake desserts or dough a day ahead.
How do I make desserts festive?
Add red and green sprinkles, edible glitter, or holiday-shaped cutters.
Conclusion
Your Christmas table is about to get sweeter! These 25 easy Christmas desserts are perfect for busy hosts, offering quick, budget-friendly, and delicious options that wow guests. From gingerbread cookies to no-bake fudge, each recipe is beginner-friendly and packed with holiday cheer. Try a few this season, and watch your family and friends light up. Happy baking, and here’s to a joyful holiday!