20 Delicious Christmas Holiday Treats Recipes

The festive season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a collection of delicious Christmas holiday treats recipes? The aroma of sweet spices, the sound of laughter, and the warmth of loved ones gathered around the table – it's the perfect time to indulge in some mouth-watering treats that are sure to spread cheer.

From classic sugar cookies to innovative gingerbread men, we've got 20 scrumptious recipes to make your holiday season merry and bright. So, grab your apron, and let's get baking!

The Magic of Christmas Treats

Christmas treats are more than just sweet indulgences; they're a way to create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying some quality time with loved ones, these treats are sure to bring a smile to everyone's face.

Classic Christmas Treats

Some things never go out of style, and classic Christmas treats are no exception. Here are a few timeless favorites to get you started:

1. Sugar Cookies

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration

Combine dry ingredients, then cream together butter and sugar. Beat in egg and vanilla extract. Gradually add dry ingredients, and mix until a dough forms. Roll out dough, cut into shapes, and bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

2. Gingerbread Men

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• Water, as needed

Combine dry ingredients, then cream together butter and sugars. Beat in eggs, and gradually add dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. Roll out dough, cut into shapes, and bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

Modern Twists on Classic Treats

Why stick to traditional recipes when you can put a modern spin on classic Christmas treats? Here are a few innovative ideas to try:

3. Cranberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Combine dry ingredients, then cream together butter and sugar. Beat in vanilla extract, and gradually add dry ingredients. Mix in white chocolate chips and cranberries. Scoop onto baking sheet, and bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

4. Maple Pecan Tassies

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp pure maple extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Combine flour and confectioners' sugar, then cream together butter and granulated sugar. Beat in eggs and maple extract. Gradually add flour mixture, and mix until a dough forms. Roll out dough, cut into shapes, and fill with pecans. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.

Show-Stopping Christmas Treats

Looking to impress your friends and family with some show-stopping Christmas treats? Here are a few recipes that are sure to wow:

5. Chocolate Yule Log

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 ounces best-quality bittersweet or dark chocolate, broken into small pieces
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Combine flour and granulated sugar, then melt chocolate in a double boiler. Beat in butter and egg yolks, and gradually add flour mixture. Beat in egg whites and vanilla extract. Pour into a greased and floured pan, and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.

6. Snow Globe Cookies

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup royal icing
• Edible glitter or small snowflake decorations

Combine dry ingredients, then cream together butter and sugar. Beat in royal icing, and gradually add dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. Roll out dough, cut into shapes, and decorate with edible glitter or small snowflake decorations.

Gallery of Christmas Treats

Frequently Asked Questions

With these 20 delicious Christmas holiday treats recipes, you'll be sure to spread cheer and create lasting memories with your loved ones. From classic sugar cookies to show-stopping chocolate yule logs, there's something for everyone on this list. So, grab your apron, and let's get baking!

Gallery of 20 Delicious Christmas Holiday Treats Recipes