10 Recipes for Christmas Evening Desserts

Welcome to our guide on the essential recipes for Christmas evening desserts! As the festive season approaches, nothing quite sets the mood like the aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the air. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply indulging in some self-care, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and spread holiday cheer. From classic favorites like gingerbread cookies and fruitcakes to more modern twists like peppermint bark and eggnog cheesecake, we’ve curated a list of desserts that are perfect for the occasion. Get ready to impress your loved ones with these delectable sweets that capture the essence of Christmas.

10 Recipes for Christmas Evening Desserts

1. Gingerbread Cookies

A Christmas favorite, gingerbread cookies are a must-have on your dessert table. These spiced cookies are perfect for decorating with icing and sprinkles, making them a fun activity for the whole family. The aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg baking in the oven will fill your home with holiday cheer.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup molasses
• Icing and sprinkles for decorating

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and molasses and beat until well combined.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm. Cool completely before decorating with icing and sprinkles.

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2. Peppermint Bark

Peppermint bark is a simple yet indulgent treat that combines the refreshing taste of peppermint with rich chocolate. It’s easy to make and can be customized with different types of chocolate and toppings. Plus, it makes for a great gift or party favor when wrapped in festive packaging.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 12 ounces white chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth.
3. Spread the melted chocolate evenly onto the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate until set, about 30 minutes.
4. Melt the white chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Stir in the peppermint extract.
5. Spread the white chocolate over the set semi-sweet chocolate layer and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
6. Refrigerate until set, about 1 hour. Break into pieces to serve.

3. Eggnog Cheesecake

Eggnog cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines two holiday favorites into one delicious treat. The creamy texture of the cheesecake pairs perfectly with the spiced flavors of eggnog, creating a dessert that is rich and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup eggnog
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggnog, flour, and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour the batter over the crust.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.

4. Yule Log Cake

The Yule log cake, or Buche de Noel, is a traditional Christmas dessert that originated in France. It’s a sponge cake rolled and filled with cream or frosting, then decorated to resemble a log. This festive cake is not only delicious but also makes for a stunning centerpiece on your dessert table.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whipped cream, for filling and frosting
• Chocolate shavings or powdered sugar, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan. Line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides.
2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Sift the cocoa powder, salt, and flour over the egg mixture and fold gently until just combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
5. While the cake is still warm, carefully roll it up with the parchment paper inside. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Carefully unroll the cake and spread whipped cream over the surface. Roll the cake back up without the parchment paper.
7. Transfer the rolled cake to a serving platter and frost it with whipped cream. Garnish with chocolate shavings or powdered sugar before serving.

5. Fruitcake

Despite its reputation, fruitcake can be a delicious and festive dessert when made with the right ingredients and care. Packed with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, a well-made fruitcake is moist, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed dried fruit (such as raisins, currants, and chopped apricots)
• 1 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the dried fruit, nuts, and orange juice. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the fruit to plump.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the soaked fruit mixture and brandy or rum, if using.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the fruitcake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 1 week.

6. Candy Cane Brownies

Candy cane brownies are a fun and festive twist on a classic dessert. The rich chocolate brownies are topped with a layer of peppermint-flavored frosting and crushed candy canes, adding a burst of color and flavor to your dessert spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Crushed candy canes for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Bake the brownies according to the package instructions and let them cool completely.
3. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract, beating until smooth and spreadable.
4. Spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the cooled brownies and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
5. Cut into squares and serve.

7. Cranberry Orange Bread

Cranberry orange bread is a light and fruity dessert that is perfect for Christmas. The tartness of the cranberries is balanced by the sweetness of the orange, creating a flavorful and moist bread that is perfect for snacking or gifting.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
• 1/3 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon orange zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the cranberries and nuts.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the orange juice, vegetable oil, egg, and orange zest. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.

8. Pecan Pie Bars

Pecan pie bars are a portable and easier-to-make version of the classic pecan pie. The buttery crust is topped with a gooey pecan filling, creating a decadent treat that is perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or giving as gifts.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir in the chopped pecans.
5. Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set.
6. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

9. Mulled Wine Poached Pears

Mulled wine-poached pears are an elegant and sophisticated dessert that is perfect for Christmas dinner. The pears are poached in a spiced wine syrup, which infuses them with flavor and creates a beautiful presentation.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe but firm pears, peeled and cored
• 1 bottle red wine
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cloves
• 1 star anise
• 1 orange, peeled (with a vegetable peeler) and juiced
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, orange peel, and orange juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the pears to the simmering liquid, ensuring they are submerged. Cover the pan and simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes, or until the pears are tender but not mushy, turning them occasionally to ensure even poaching.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and let the pears cool in the poaching liquid.
4. Serve the poached pears with some of the poaching liquid spooned over the top, and a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.

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10. Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

Cinnamon roll monkey bread is a fun and festive dessert that is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. The pull-apart bread is made with cinnamon sugar-coated dough balls, which are baked together to create a deliciously sticky and sweet treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
2. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters.
3. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Roll each cinnamon roll quarter in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
4. Arrange the coated cinnamon roll quarters in the prepared bundt pan.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter and brown sugar. Pour the mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces in the pan.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the rolls are cooked through.
7. Allow the monkey bread to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. Serve warm.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, these 10 recipe essentials for Christmas evening desserts are sure to add a touch of sweetness to your holiday season. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just yourself, these treats are perfect for indulging in the festive spirit. From traditional favorites to modern delights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create some unforgettable Christmas memories with these delicious desserts. Cheers to a sweet and merry Christmas!

FAQs

What are some easy Christmas dessert recipes for beginners?

For beginners, try making simple treats like sugar cookies, brownies, or truffles. These recipes require minimal ingredients and are perfect for getting started in the kitchen.

Can I prepare these desserts in advance?

Yes, many of these desserts can be prepared in advance to save time on the day of your celebration. Store them in an airtight container or freeze them according to the recipe’s instructions for best results.