
Get ready to fill your kitchen with the delightful aromas of the season! This collection of 45+ Christmas baking recipes offers a variety of treats that will make your holiday festivities deliciously memorable. From classic cookies to festive cakes, there’s something here for every sweet tooth. Let’s spread some holiday cheer through baking!
Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing
Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. The image shows beautifully decorated gingerbread cookies, featuring intricate royal icing designs. These cookies are not just tasty; they also add a festive touch to your holiday table.
Making gingerbread cookies is a fun activity, especially with family and friends. You can shape them into various festive designs, from stars to snowflakes. The royal icing adds a sweet finish and allows for creative decorating. Kids love to help with the icing, making it a perfect holiday project.
Here’s a simple recipe to make your own gingerbread cookies with royal icing:
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg and molasses. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for easier rolling.
- Roll and Cut: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are firm. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make the Royal Icing: In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, water, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.
- Decorate: Use a piping bag to decorate cooled cookies with royal icing. Let the icing dry completely before serving or storing.
Peppermint Bark with Dark and White Chocolate

Peppermint bark is a festive treat that combines rich dark chocolate with creamy white chocolate, topped with crunchy peppermint pieces. This delightful combination is perfect for sharing during the holiday season or enjoying as a sweet snack.
The image shows a beautiful spread of peppermint bark, showcasing the layers of dark and white chocolate. The vibrant red and white peppermint pieces add a cheerful touch, making it visually appealing. This treat not only tastes good but also looks great on any holiday dessert table.
Making peppermint bark is simple and fun. You can easily customize it by adding more toppings or using different types of chocolate. It’s a great recipe to involve kids in, allowing them to sprinkle the peppermint on top.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 8 ounces white chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
Instructions
- Melt the Dark Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
- Spread the Dark Chocolate: Pour the melted dark chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread it evenly to about 1/4 inch thick. Let it cool and harden for about 30 minutes.
- Melt the White Chocolate: Repeat the melting process with the white chocolate. If using, stir in the peppermint extract for extra flavor.
- Spread the White Chocolate: Pour the melted white chocolate over the hardened dark chocolate layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Add Peppermint: Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the white chocolate while it’s still warm. Press them down gently to ensure they stick.
- Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 1 hour, or until fully set.
- Break into Pieces: Once set, break the bark into pieces and enjoy!
Almond Biscotti with Dried Fruits

Almond biscotti with dried fruits is a delightful treat perfect for the holiday season. These crunchy cookies are not only easy to make but also bring a festive touch to your baking table. The combination of almonds and dried fruits adds a lovely texture and flavor that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
To make these biscotti, you’ll need ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, almonds, and a mix of your favorite dried fruits. The process involves mixing the ingredients, shaping the dough, and baking it twice to achieve that signature crunch. They store well, making them a great option for holiday gifting or enjoying throughout the season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup almonds, chopped
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (like cranberries and apricots)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk eggs and vanilla together.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the chopped almonds and dried fruits.
- Shape the dough into a log about 12 inches long and place it on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden. Let it cool for 10 minutes, then slice into 1-inch pieces.
- Place the slices back on the baking sheet and bake for another 10-15 minutes until crisp.
- Cool completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Classic Sugar Cookies with Sprinkles

Classic sugar cookies are a holiday favorite, and they bring a cheerful vibe to any gathering. These cookies are soft, buttery, and topped with colorful sprinkles, making them perfect for Christmas celebrations. The image shows a delightful spread of sugar cookies, each adorned with vibrant sprinkles that catch the eye. They are simple to make and even more fun to decorate!
To create these festive treats, you’ll need basic ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and eggs. The dough is easy to whip up, and you can involve the kids in rolling and decorating. The sprinkles add a pop of color and joy, making these cookies a hit with everyone.
Once baked, these cookies are perfect for sharing. Package them up as gifts or serve them at holiday parties. They are sure to bring smiles and create sweet memories!
Spiced Eggnog Muffins

Spiced Eggnog Muffins are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season. The image showcases a cozy setting filled with freshly baked muffins, adorned with a sprinkle of nuts on top. The warm colors of the muffins contrast beautifully with the festive decorations in the background, creating a cheerful atmosphere.
These muffins are not just visually appealing; they are packed with the rich flavors of eggnog, nutmeg, and cinnamon. They make a wonderful addition to any holiday gathering or a sweet start to your day. Imagine enjoying one of these muffins with a warm cup of coffee or tea while surrounded by loved ones.
Making Spiced Eggnog Muffins is simple and fun. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup eggnog
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggnog, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree

The Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This festive treat looks just like a Christmas tree, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. Each layer of cinnamon rolls is stacked to create a tree shape, and it’s decorated with colorful candies and icing, adding a fun touch to your holiday baking.
Making this treat is not only simple but also a great way to involve family and friends in the kitchen. The warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon fills the air, bringing everyone together. Plus, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress guests and brighten up any holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Colored candies for decoration
- Gingerbread star for the top
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix warmed milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter over it, and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly. Roll tightly and slice into individual rolls.
- Bake the Rolls: Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Once the rolls are warm, spread the frosting over them.
- Assemble the Tree: Stack the rolls in a tree shape, using icing to hold them together. Decorate with colored candies and place a gingerbread star on top.
Eggnog Cake with Nutmeg Frosting

Eggnog Cake is a delightful treat that captures the spirit of the holiday season. This cake is moist and rich, infused with the classic flavors of eggnog, making it a perfect centerpiece for your Christmas table. The nutmeg frosting adds a creamy touch that complements the cake beautifully.
The image shows a beautifully decorated Eggnog Cake, topped with a smooth nutmeg frosting and sprinkled with bits of gingerbread. The cake sits elegantly on a white cake stand, surrounded by festive decorations like pine branches and berries. This presentation not only makes it appealing but also invites everyone to dig in!
To make this festive cake, gather your ingredients and follow the simple steps below. It’s a fun baking project that will fill your kitchen with warm, holiday scents.
Chocolate Chip Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies

These Chocolate Chip Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The combination of chewy oats, sweet chocolate chips, and tart cranberries creates a perfect balance of flavors. They’re not just tasty; they also bring a festive touch to your holiday baking. Picture a cozy kitchen filled with the warm scent of cookies baking, making it the perfect atmosphere for the season.
These cookies are easy to whip up and are sure to impress family and friends. They make a great addition to any holiday cookie platter or a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa. Plus, they’re a fun way to get the kids involved in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the oats, chocolate chips, and dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Pecan Pie Bars with Caramel Drizzle

Pecan pie bars are a delightful twist on the traditional pecan pie. They offer all the rich flavors of the classic dessert in a convenient bar form. The image showcases these bars topped with a luscious caramel drizzle and crunchy pecans, making them irresistible. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these treats are sure to impress your friends and family.
To make these bars, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The crust is buttery and flaky, while the filling is sweet and nutty. The caramel drizzle adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the pecans. These bars are easy to cut and serve, making them a great option for any festive occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Prepare the filling: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the filling over the baked crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the filling is set.
- Let the bars cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce. Cut into squares and serve.
Vanilla Bean Shortbread Cookies

Vanilla bean shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. These cookies are simple yet elegant, making them perfect for any festive gathering. The buttery flavor and subtle sweetness make them a favorite among both kids and adults.
The cookies are beautifully decorated, showcasing festive designs that add a touch of cheer to your holiday table. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving a lingering taste of vanilla that is simply irresistible.
Making these cookies is a fun activity to share with family and friends. You can customize the decorations to match your holiday theme, making them not just tasty but also visually appealing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- Sprinkles or icing for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla bean paste, salt, and almond extract. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely before decorating with icing or sprinkles.
Snowball Cookies with Powdered Sugar

Snowball cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. These little bites of joy are rolled in powdered sugar, giving them a snowy appearance that’s perfect for Christmas. The soft, buttery texture melts in your mouth, making them a favorite among cookie lovers.
These cookies are often made with simple ingredients, which means you can whip them up quickly. They are usually made with flour, butter, sugar, and nuts, creating a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of cocoa or tea. The powdered sugar coating adds a sweet touch that makes these cookies irresistible.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just to enjoy at home, snowball cookies are sure to bring smiles. They also make great gifts when packaged nicely. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work well)
- Additional powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts.
- Shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely, then roll them in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.
Caramel Apple Pie with Crumble Topping

Caramel Apple Pie with Crumble Topping is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Imagine a warm pie filled with sweet, tender apples and a rich caramel sauce, all topped with a buttery crumble. This pie is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser.
The golden crust cradles the juicy apple filling, while the crumble adds a crunchy contrast. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Everyone will love the sweet aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes!
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 6 cups apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for crumble)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for crumble)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the pie crust and place it in a pie dish.
- In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, caramel sauce, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Mix well.
- Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- In another bowl, mix together the crumble ingredients: oats, flour, brown sugar, and softened butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumble over the apple filling.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the apples are tender and the crumble is golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream!
Fruitcake with Mixed Nuts and Dried Fruits

Fruitcake is a classic holiday treat that brings warmth and cheer to any gathering. This version, packed with mixed nuts and dried fruits, is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The rich, brown loaf is studded with colorful bits of fruit and nuts, making it a festive centerpiece on your dessert table.
The combination of flavors in this fruitcake is delightful. The sweetness of dried fruits like cherries, apricots, and raisins pairs perfectly with the crunch of nuts such as pecans and almonds. Each slice offers a burst of flavor that is sure to please everyone.
Making this fruitcake is a straightforward process. Start by mixing your dry ingredients and then fold in the fruits and nuts. Bake until golden brown, and let it cool before slicing. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, cherries, apricots)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (pecans, almonds, walnuts)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a loaf pan and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
- In another bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the dried fruits and nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the fruitcake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes

These Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes are a festive treat that perfectly captures the spirit of the holiday season. Topped with rich chocolate frosting and adorned with mini peppermint candies, they are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. The combination of chocolate and peppermint creates a refreshing flavor that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Making these cupcakes is simple and fun. Start with a moist chocolate cupcake base, then add a swirl of creamy frosting. The finishing touch is a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies, giving each cupcake a cheerful holiday vibe. These treats are perfect for holiday parties or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- Mini peppermint candies for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well. Add peppermint extract and mix until smooth.
- Frost the cooled cupcakes with the chocolate frosting and top with mini peppermint candies.
Holiday Spice Bundt Cake

The Holiday Spice Bundt Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the festive season. Its rich, spiced flavor makes it a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. The cake is beautifully presented, showcasing its intricate bundt shape, which is often a showstopper on dessert tables.
Surrounded by festive decorations like pine branches, red berries, and warm candlelight, this cake not only tastes amazing but also adds a cozy touch to your holiday celebrations. The creamy glaze drizzled on top enhances its appeal, making it look as good as it tastes.
Gather your loved ones and enjoy this cake with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season and share sweet moments together.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- For the glaze, mix powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.