15+ Easy Festive Dessert Recipes to Sweeten Your Holiday Season

The holiday season is the perfect time to gather with loved ones and indulge in delicious, festive treats. 

Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply want to add some holiday cheer to your home, having a collection of easy festive dessert recipes on hand is essential. 

From classic cookies to decadent truffles, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Best of all, these desserts are simple to make, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday festivities. 

In this roundup, you’ll find 15+ easy and delightful desserts that are sure to impress your family and friends without the stress.

15+ Easy Festive Dessert Recipes to Sweeten Your Holiday Season

With these 15+ easy festive dessert recipes, you can create a holiday dessert spread that is both impressive and stress-free. 

From rich, chocolatey treats to spiced and fruity favorites, these recipes are designed to be simple and quick, so you can focus on what really matters—celebrating with your loved ones. 

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, these recipes will ensure you have a sweet and festive holiday season. 

So, get your apron on and enjoy the joy of baking these easy, delicious desserts that are perfect for any holiday occasion!

Christmas Peppermint Bark

This easy Christmas peppermint bark is a festive treat perfect for the holiday season. The blend of creamy white chocolate, dark chocolate, and crushed peppermint candies brings together a satisfying crunch and sweetness that will delight guests of all ages. Whether you’re gifting or serving at a holiday gathering, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to make with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dark chocolate chips
• 2 cups white chocolate chips
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 cup crushed peppermint candies

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
3. Spread the melted dark chocolate evenly on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
4. Melt the white chocolate chips in the same way, then stir in the peppermint extract.
5. Pour the melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer and smooth out.
6. Immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the white chocolate.
7. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until set.
8. Break the bark into pieces and serve or store in an airtight container.

This festive peppermint bark is a fantastic dessert or gift option for the holiday season. Its colorful layers and refreshing minty flavor make it an instant hit at any gathering. Plus, the easy preparation allows you to make a large batch in no time, ensuring you’re ready for the celebrations ahead!

Gingerbread Trifle Cups

Gingerbread trifle cups are a delightful and visually stunning dessert, perfect for adding some festive cheer to your holiday table. Layered with spiced gingerbread cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and whipped cream, these individual servings offer a flavorful blend of holiday spices and sweetness. This recipe is easy to assemble and can be made in advance, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 gingerbread cake mix (or homemade gingerbread cake)
• 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup whipped cream
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Crumbled gingerbread cookies for garnish

Instructions

1. Bake the gingerbread cake according to the package instructions and let it cool completely. Cut the cake into cubes.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until it thickens.
3. To assemble, layer the gingerbread cake cubes in the bottom of small serving cups.
4. Add a layer of vanilla pudding on top, followed by a dollop of whipped cream.
5. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled.
6. Sprinkle the top with ground cinnamon and crumbled gingerbread cookies for garnish.
7. Refrigerate the trifle cups for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

These gingerbread trifle cups are a beautiful and flavorful dessert option for the holiday season. The combination of spicy gingerbread and creamy pudding will have your guests coming back for seconds. Simple to prepare and visually appealing, this dessert is perfect for any festive occasion.

Eggnog Cheesecake Bites

Eggnog cheesecake bites are the perfect way to enjoy a classic holiday flavor in a small, indulgent treat. With a buttery graham cracker crust and rich, creamy eggnog-flavored cheesecake filling, these bites capture the essence of Christmas in every bite. They are easy to make and serve, making them an ideal dessert for holiday parties or family gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup eggnog
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press a tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup to form the crust.
3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
4. Add in the eggnog, eggs, vanilla extract, and nutmeg, and beat until well combined.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust in each muffin cup, filling about ¾ full.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the center is set.
7. Let the cheesecake bites cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Eggnog cheesecake bites combine the festive flavor of eggnog with the creamy richness of cheesecake, creating a delightful holiday treat. These small, portable bites are easy to make and share, making them the perfect dessert for any holiday event. Enjoy them chilled and watch your guests savor every bite!

Spiced Apple Crumble Bars

These spiced apple crumble bars are the perfect mix of warm, cozy flavors and festive holiday vibes. With a buttery oat crust, spiced apple filling, and a crumbly topping, this dessert is ideal for holiday gatherings. It’s an easy, make-ahead recipe that brings the comfort of a classic apple pie into a handheld bar form, making it great for parties or gift-giving.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups rolled oats
• 1 cup flour
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup butter, melted
• 3 apples, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon allspice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ¼ cup sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine oats, flour, and brown sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
4. In another bowl, toss the diced apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cornstarch, and sugar.
5. Spread the spiced apple mixture evenly over the crust.
6. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the apples.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apples are tender.
8. Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.

These spiced apple crumble bars are a fantastic blend of warm, holiday flavors and a satisfying crumble. They make for a delicious dessert option, especially when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. With minimal effort and easy preparation, these bars are a must-try for the holiday season!

Chocolate Snowball Cookies

Chocolate snowball cookies are a classic holiday dessert that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly festive. With a rich chocolate center coated in powdered sugar, they resemble little snowballs, making them a perfect treat for Christmas gatherings. The crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the chocolatey goodness makes these cookies irresistible for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups flour
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract, then stir in the flour and cocoa powder until combined.
4. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until set but not browned.
7. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm.
8. Once fully cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again for a thick coating.

Chocolate snowball cookies are the ultimate bite-sized holiday treat. Their festive appearance and rich chocolate flavor make them a favorite at any Christmas party. These cookies are simple to prepare and are sure to become a staple in your holiday baking rotation.

Cranberry Orange Shortbread

Cranberry orange shortbread cookies are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for the holiday season. The buttery shortbread is studded with dried cranberries and zested orange, giving the cookies a bright, festive flavor. They’re easy to prepare and make a lovely addition to any holiday dessert table or cookie exchange.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Add the vanilla extract and orange zest, then stir in the flour until the dough forms.
4. Fold in the chopped dried cranberries.
5. Roll the dough into a log, about 2 inches in diameter, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for 1 hour.
6. Slice the chilled dough into ¼-inch rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Let the cookies cool completely before serving.

Cranberry orange shortbread cookies are the perfect blend of buttery richness and bright, citrusy sweetness. The tang of the cranberries paired with the fragrant orange zest makes these cookies a refreshing yet indulgent holiday dessert. Simple to make and beautifully festive, they’re a wonderful addition to any holiday celebration.

White Chocolate Cranberry Fudge

This white chocolate cranberry fudge is a luxurious and festive dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season. The creamy sweetness of white chocolate pairs beautifully with the tartness of dried cranberries, creating a delectable treat that looks just as stunning as it tastes. With only a few ingredients and no baking required, this fudge is incredibly easy to make and is perfect for gifting or serving at holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

• 3 cups white chocolate chips
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup chopped pistachios (optional, for a festive touch)

Instructions

1. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract, dried cranberries, and chopped pistachios.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
5. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours or until set.
6. Once firm, remove the fudge from the pan and cut into squares.

This white chocolate cranberry fudge combines sweet, tart, and creamy elements, making it a delightful holiday treat. Its bright colors and rich flavors make it a beautiful and tasty addition to any dessert spread. Plus, with its simple preparation, you can quickly whip up a batch for gifting or to share at festive gatherings.

Eggnog Bread Pudding

Eggnog bread pudding is a decadent dessert that’s perfect for cozying up during the holiday season. This rich and creamy bread pudding is made with soft cubes of bread soaked in a sweet eggnog custard, then baked to golden perfection. Topped with a drizzle of eggnog glaze, this dessert brings the classic holiday flavor of eggnog into a comforting dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (French or brioche)
• 2 cups eggnog
• 4 eggs
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Eggnog Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons eggnog
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggnog, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add the cubed bread to the bowl and toss until fully coated in the eggnog mixture.
4. Transfer the bread mixture to the prepared baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.
6. While the bread pudding is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggnog, and vanilla extract to make the glaze.
7. Drizzle the eggnog glaze over the bread pudding before serving.

Eggnog bread pudding is a wonderfully rich and indulgent dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season. The creamy eggnog custard pairs perfectly with the soft, spiced bread, and the sweet glaze adds an extra layer of flavor. This dessert is sure to be a hit at any holiday dinner or gathering, offering a comforting and festive end to the meal.

Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

These gingerbread cupcakes with cream cheese frosting are a delicious and festive dessert that will fill your home with the warm aromas of holiday spices. The moist gingerbread cupcakes are filled with the bold flavors of molasses, cinnamon, and ginger, while the tangy cream cheese frosting adds the perfect balance of sweetness. These cupcakes are easy to make and make a beautiful centerpiece for any holiday celebration.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups flour
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• ½ cup molasses
• ½ cup buttermilk

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg, molasses, and buttermilk, and beat until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the muffin cups and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
8. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Frost the cooled cupcakes.

These gingerbread cupcakes with cream cheese frosting are the perfect festive treat to bring some holiday cheer to your dessert table. The warm, spiced gingerbread combined with the creamy frosting makes for a delicious and irresistible combination. They’re sure to be a favorite at holiday parties and gatherings, adding a sweet and flavorful touch to the celebrations.

Peppermint Mocha Brownies

Peppermint mocha brownies bring together the flavors of the holidays in one indulgent dessert. Rich and fudgy chocolate brownies are infused with espresso and peppermint extract, creating a perfect blend of chocolate, coffee, and mint. Topped with a glossy chocolate ganache and crushed candy canes, these brownies are festive, delicious, and easy to make. They’re ideal for serving at holiday gatherings or giving as a homemade treat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
• ¾ cup cocoa powder
• 1 cup flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Ganache

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Crushed candy canes for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and espresso powder, mixing well.
4. Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. While the brownies cool, make the ganache by heating the heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate chips and stir until smooth.
7. Spread the ganache over the cooled brownies and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
8. Let the ganache set before cutting into squares.

Peppermint mocha brownies are a decadent and festive treat that combine the classic holiday flavors of chocolate, coffee, and peppermint. The rich texture and glossy ganache make them a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for holiday celebrations or gifting to loved ones. Their festive presentation and irresistible taste will make them a holiday favorite.

Caramel Pecan Turtles

Caramel pecan turtles are a delightful combination of crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate, making them the perfect bite-sized holiday treat. These easy-to-make candies are both festive and indulgent, offering a sweet and salty contrast that’s irresistible. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these turtles in no time, making them ideal for holiday parties, gifts, or simply enjoying at home.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups pecan halves
• 1 cup caramel candies
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• Sea salt (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange pecan halves into clusters of 3 on the sheet.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramel candies and heavy cream in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
3. Spoon a small amount of melted caramel over each pecan cluster. Let them set for 5 minutes.
4. In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals until smooth.
5. Spoon the melted chocolate over each caramel pecan cluster, making sure to cover them completely.
6. Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over each turtle for a sweet and salty finish.
7. Let the turtles cool and harden before serving.

Caramel pecan turtles are a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season. Their delightful combination of textures and flavors makes them a favorite at any gathering. With minimal effort, you can create a homemade candy treat that’s great for sharing with friends and family or gifting during the festive season.

Holiday Rum Balls

Holiday rum balls are a classic no-bake treat that’s popular during the festive season. Made with crushed cookies, cocoa powder, and a splash of rum, these bite-sized delights offer a rich and boozy flavor that’s perfect for holiday parties. Rolled in powdered sugar or sprinkles, rum balls are as fun to make as they are to eat. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a last-minute dessert that still feels festive and indulgent.

Ingredients

• 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
• ¼ cup dark rum
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
• Powdered sugar or sprinkles (for rolling)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and chopped pecans.
2. Stir in the dark rum and corn syrup until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
4. Roll each ball in powdered sugar or sprinkles to coat.
5. Refrigerate the rum balls for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Holiday rum balls are a delightful no-bake treat that brings a touch of elegance to any holiday gathering. Their rich, chocolaty flavor with a hint of rum makes them a standout dessert, and their ease of preparation means you can have them ready in no time. Whether you’re making them for a party or as a gift, these rum balls are sure to be a hit!

Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites

Cinnamon sugar churro bites are a fun and festive dessert that brings the delightful flavors of a churro into bite-sized pieces. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these churro bites are coated in a warm cinnamon sugar blend, making them irresistible for any holiday party. This easy recipe uses store-bought dough, so you can whip up a batch quickly and still enjoy that classic churro flavor without the hassle.

Ingredients

• 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut each biscuit into quarters to create small bite-sized pieces.
3. Fry the biscuit dough in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
5. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Toss the warm churro bites in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
6. Serve immediately with chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping, if desired.

Cinnamon sugar churro bites are an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for the holidays. The warm cinnamon sugar coating and crispy texture make them a fun, handheld treat that everyone will love. Best of all, they’re quick to prepare and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces, making them a versatile and festive addition to your holiday dessert spread.

Gingerbread Truffles

Gingerbread truffles are a decadent, bite-sized holiday treat that combines the warm spices of gingerbread with rich cream cheese for a smooth and creamy filling. Dipped in white or dark chocolate, these truffles are a beautiful and indulgent addition to any holiday dessert table. They’re simple to make, require no baking, and are perfect for sharing or gifting during the festive season.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups gingerbread cookies, crushed
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 ½ cups white or dark chocolate chips
• Sprinkles or crushed gingerbread cookies (for topping)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the crushed gingerbread cookies, cream cheese, cinnamon, and ginger until well combined and a dough forms.
2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Freeze the truffles for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
4. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
5. Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate and place back on the parchment paper.
6. Garnish with sprinkles or crushed gingerbread cookies before the chocolate sets.
7. Let the truffles cool and harden before serving.

These gingerbread truffles are a luxurious holiday treat with all the comforting flavors of gingerbread wrapped in a rich, chocolate shell. With their smooth texture and festive decoration, they’re the perfect homemade gift or party dessert. Easy to prepare and incredibly delicious, these truffles will quickly become a holiday favorite.

Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti

Cranberry pistachio biscotti is a crunchy, flavorful cookie that’s perfect for dipping in coffee or hot chocolate during the holiday season. The combination of tart cranberries and rich, nutty pistachios adds a festive flair to this classic Italian cookie. Easy to make and great for gifting, biscotti is a versatile dessert that stays fresh for weeks, making it ideal for holiday cookie exchanges or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Ingredients

• 2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup shelled pistachios

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
5. Fold in the dried cranberries and pistachios.
6. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
8. Using a serrated knife, slice the logs into ½-inch thick pieces. Place the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet.
9. Bake for another 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the biscotti are dry and crispy.
10. Let cool completely before serving.

Cranberry pistachio biscotti is a festive and flavorful cookie that’s perfect for the holiday season. The combination of tart cranberries and crunchy pistachios gives these biscotti a wonderful texture and a beautiful appearance. Whether served alongside a cup of coffee or wrapped up as a holiday gift, these biscotti are sure to impress and delight everyone who tries them.