It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas! And what better way to spread holiday cheer than with a tray full of scrumptious homemade candies? From classic treats like peppermint bark and gingerbread caramel candies, to creative concoctions like eggnog cream cheese candy and spiced pecan brittle, we’ve got 20 festive recipes to make your holiday season merry and bright.
Whether you’re looking for sweet gifts for friends and family or just want to indulge in some guilt-free snacking, these mouthwatering treats are sure to bring joy to anyone who tries them. So why settle for store-bought candy when you can create your own delicious masterpieces at home? In this article, we’ll take you on a sugary journey through the world of Christmas candy making, sharing our favorite recipes and tips along the way.
Peppermint Bark Candy
Create a refreshing and festive treat with this simple recipe for Peppermint Bark Candy. Perfect for the holiday season, these bite-sized candies are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (about 4-6 canes)
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Optional: chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or sprinkles for added texture and color
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in peppermint extract.
4. Pour melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle crushed candy canes evenly over the top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
7. Melt milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
8. Pour melted milk chocolate over the white chocolate layer and sprinkle with optional mix-ins if desired.
9. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)
Homemade Chocolate Truffles
Transform rich, velvety chocolate into bite-sized indulgences with this simple recipe for homemade truffles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the softened butter and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar to the butter mixture, whipping until smooth.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the cream mixture until well combined.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Roll the chilled mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
8. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to set.
9. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped nuts or shredded coconut if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including refrigeration)
Christmas Fudge with Marshmallows
Add a touch of festive fun to your holiday gatherings with this sweet and fluffy fudge recipe featuring marshmallows!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1 cup (200g) milk chocolate chips
– 1 can (7 oz/198g) mini marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 12 oz (340g) sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, and sweetened condensed milk. Place over low heat, stirring constantly.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook for 5 minutes or until smooth.
4. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract and salt.
5. Fold in mini marshmallows.
6. Pour fudge into prepared baking dish; refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
7. Cut into small squares.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Gingerbread Caramel Candies
Elevate your holiday season with these sweet and spicy treats that combine the comfort of gingerbread with the richness of caramel. With just a few ingredients, you can create bite-sized candies that are perfect for gift-giving or snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (250g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) crystallized ginger, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, ginger, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until caramel reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar until dissolved. Let cool slightly.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with crystallized ginger.
6. Allow to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Chocolate Peanut Clusters
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these easy-to-make White Chocolate Peanut Clusters! Crunchy peanuts coated in creamy white chocolate and held together with a hint of vanilla, these bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanuts
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Add the peanuts to the melted white chocolate mixture and stir until coated.
5. Drop the peanut-clad mixture by spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Eggnog Cream Cheese Candy
A sweet and creamy treat perfect for the holiday season, these Eggnog Cream Cheese Candies are a unique twist on traditional candies. With the warm spices of eggnog and the tanginess of cream cheese, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup eggnog
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until combined.
3. Stir in the eggnog, vanilla extract, and salt until well mixed.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
5. Once firm, use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out small balls of the candy mixture.
6. Roll each ball between your hands to shape into smooth spheres.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Spiced Pecan Brittle
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy pecan brittle recipe, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Pour the mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Spread pecan halves evenly over the surface.
7. Let cool completely, then break into pieces.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cranberry Pistachio Bark
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this show-stopping Cranberry Pistachio Bark, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch x 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped pistachios, dried cranberries, honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Break the bark into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and enjoy!
Hot Chocolate Fudge Squares
Cozy up with these indulgent treats that combine the warmth of hot chocolate with the richness of fudge. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) milk chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon instant hot chocolate powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (250g) confectioners’ sugar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Melt white and milk chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Add butter, hot chocolate powder, sugar, and vanilla extract to the melted chocolate. Stir until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
6. Cut into squares and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake fudge)
Maple Walnut Candy Balls
These bite-sized treats combine the rich flavors of maple syrup and walnuts in a crunchy, chewy candy ball. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and maple syrup. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer (hard-ball stage).
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and baking soda. Let cool slightly.
4. Stir in chopped walnuts.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Let cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
6. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form into balls. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Christmas Divinity Candy
Sweeten your holiday season with these classic candies that combine the flavors of butterscotch, caramel, and nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Combine corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract until the butter has melted.
4. Stir in chopped nuts until they are evenly coated with the candy mixture.
5. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or parchment paper. Let cool slightly before breaking into small pieces.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Orange Creamsicle Fudge
Transport yourself back to childhood memories with this creamy and dreamy fudge recipe, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of orange creamsicles. This classic treat is perfect for sharing (or not!) at parties or as a special indulgence.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon orange extract
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 12 ounces (340g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Orange zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt white chocolate chips and sugar, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat; whisk in heavy cream, orange extract, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Stir in sweetened condensed milk and butter until smooth.
5. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish; refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
6. Cut into squares and garnish with orange zest.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Snowball Coconut Truffles
Snowball Coconut Truffles Recipe
A sweet and creamy treat that combines the flavors of coconut and chocolate, these truffles are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until combined.
3. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and mix until smooth.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Fold in the shredded coconut.
6. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set.
7. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
8. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
9. Dip each truffle ball into the melted chocolate and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
10. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the chocolate to set.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Pretzels
These festive pretzels combine the classic flavors of chocolate and peppermint with the crunch of a pretzel rod. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of pretzel rods
– 1 cup of white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon of crushed candy canes (about 4-6 canes)
– 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract
– Optional: sprinkles or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Dip each pretzel rod into the melted white chocolate, coating about 2/3 of the pretzel.
4. Place the dipped pretzels on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Melt the semisweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Drizzle the melted semisweet chocolate over the pretzels in a zig-zag pattern.
7. Sprinkle crushed candy canes and optional sprinkles or nuts over the top.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Caramel Apple Candy Bites
Transform juicy apples and crunchy pecans into a sweet and indulgent treat with these bite-sized caramel apple candies. Perfect for snacking or as a gift, these treats are sure to please!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup caramel bits
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh apples (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine caramel bits, apples, and pecans. Stir until well combined.
3. Dot the top of the mixture with butter and sprinkle with vanilla extract and salt.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until caramel is melted and apples are tender.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rum and Raisin Chocolate Balls
A sweet treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the warmth of rum and the sweetness of raisins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped raisins
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (or to taste)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, and butter. Mix until well combined.
2. Add vanilla extract and mix again.
3. Stir in chocolate chips and raisins.
4. Gradually add rum, mixing until the mixture forms a dough.
5. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! These chocolate balls are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Peanut Butter Christmas Crack
Get ready to make this holiday season a little sweeter with our Peanut Butter Christmas Crack recipe! This sweet and salty treat is perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding to your favorite holiday spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups saltine crackers, crushed
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Sea salt, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, and corn syrup until smooth.
3. Stir in melted butter and vanilla extract.
4. Add crushed crackers and stir until well combined.
5. Press mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped pecans (if using).
8. Let cool completely before breaking into pieces and garnishing with sea salt.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honeycomb Toffee Candy
Create a sweet and crunchy treat with this classic honeycomb toffee candy recipe. Perfect as a snack or gift, this recipe is easy to make and yields a delicious result.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup (250g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-ball stage).
3. Remove from heat and stir in honey, baking soda, and sea salt until dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and let cool slightly.
5. If using nuts, sprinkle them on top of the toffee.
6. Allow the toffee to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
7. Break the toffee into pieces and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes
Almond Joy Candy Bars
Create a delicious treat that’s reminiscent of the classic candy bar with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups chopped almonds
– 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped almonds until well combined.
4. Press the almond mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Pour the melted chocolate over the almond mixture and smooth out the top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Christmas Tree Meringue Cookies
These adorable Christmas tree meringue cookies are perfect for adding a touch of festive cheer to your holiday gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be whipping up these sweet treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Green food coloring
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar and whisk until stiff peaks form.
4. Add green food coloring and mix until the desired shade is achieved.
5. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in small, tree-shaped mounds.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these delicious Christmas candy recipes! From classic treats like peppermint bark and chocolate truffles to creative concoctions like gingerbread caramel candies and spiced pecan brittle, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in festive flavors like eggnog cream cheese candy, cranberry pistachio bark, and hot chocolate fudge squares. Make sweet gifts with homemade maple walnut candy balls, Christmas divinity candy, and rum and raisin chocolate balls. With these 20 recipes, you’ll be the star of any holiday party!
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