10 Showstopping Christmas Desserts to Make This Holiday Season

10 Showstopping Christmas Desserts to Make This Holiday Season

You are about to read: Showstopping Christmas Desserts to Make This Holiday Season.

Christmas is coming, and I know you’re already thinking about the desserts you want on your table. Maybe you’ve scrolled TikTok or Pinterest, seen all those perfect creations, and thought, “I don’t have that kind of time, or those fancy ingredients to them”.  Trust me, I’ve been there too, rushing through the market, hunting for ingredients, and wondering if it’ll actually taste as good as it looks online.

This year, you don’t need fancy skills or to spend hours in the kitchen to make something special. I’ve picked 10 desserts you can make in your home.

Why Easy Desserts Work Every Time

You don’t need hours in the kitchen to impress your family and friends. Sometimes the simplest desserts are the ones that get the most compliments. Quick recipes like Mini Gingerbread Trifles, Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mousse Cups, or Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are easy to prepare, but they look festive and taste amazing.

Using simple ingredients and straightforward techniques lets you focus on the flavors, presentation, and holiday fun, without feeling stressed. Even if you’re busy with work, school, or running errands, these quick Christmas desserts make it possible to create easy holiday desserts that feel special and thoughtful.

Adding a few festive touches like a drizzle of chocolate, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a candy cane garnish instantly elevates the dessert, making it a showstopper for your holiday table.

With recipes like these, you can enjoy the holidays without sacrificing time or flavor, proving that easy holiday desserts can truly wow your guests.

Special Christmas Desserts to Make This Holiday Season

1. Gingerbread Tiramisu 

This isn’t just the classic tiramisu with gingerbread, it’s a festive dessert with a rich caramel version. We soak gingerbread cookies in warm chai-spiced coffee, layer them with creamy mascarpone, and drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce between the layers.This dessert is super easy to make, but it still feels like something special.

 Every bite is soft and creamy, with the sweet taste of gingerbread spices and a little touch of caramel, something your family, friends, or even you, will remember.

Ingredients 

• 200g gingerbread cookies or ginger snaps
• 250g mascarpone cheese
• 200ml heavy cream
• 100g powdered sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 100ml strong coffee or chai tea
• 4–5 tbsp caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Optional: chocolate shavings or crushed gingerbread for topping

How to Make It

1. Prepare the cream: Whisk mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Dip the cookies: Quickly dunk gingerbread cookies in coffee or chai tea.
3. Layer the dessert: In a dish, add a layer of dipped cookies, drizzle some caramel, then a layer of cream. Repeat until finished, ending with cream on top.
4. Chill and finish: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Before serving, sprinkle chocolate shavings or crushed gingerbread.

Serving Tip

Serve with a cup of hot cocoa, spiced tea, or even zobo for a festive take. Every bite is creamy, spiced, and sweet, making it perfect for holiday celebrations or a cozy night at home.

2. White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies 

If you’ve ever wanted a dessert that’s sweet, festive, and makes everyone happy, these White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies are it. Soft, chewy, and packed with bursts of tart cranberries and creamy white chocolate, they’re the kind of treat that disappears fast at holiday gatherings.

Blondies are trending on TikTok this holiday season, and it’s easy to see why, they’re simple to make, look impressive, and taste like a holiday hug in every bite. Supposedly you’re baking for family, friends, or just to treat yourself, these blondies bring festive flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients 

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 ½ cups (300g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• ¾ cup dried cranberries

How to Make It

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking pan.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
3. Add dry ingredients: Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
4. Fold in the goodies: Add white chocolate chips and cranberries, mixing gently.
5. Bake: Pour into the pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
6. Cool & serve: Let it cool before slicing into squares. Optional: sprinkle extra white chocolate or cranberries on top.

Serving Tip

Serve these White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies with a cup of spiced tea, cocoa, or even coffee. They’re soft, chewy, and festive, making them a perfect holiday treat for Christmas parties, gift boxes, or family dessert tables.

3. Pistachio & Raspberry Yule Log 

Photo credit: @ Molly’s Home Guide

Looking for a unique Christmas dessert that wows without being complicated? This Pistachio & Raspberry Yule Log is your answer. A light, fluffy sponge rolled around creamy pistachio filling and tart raspberry jam, it’s a modern take on the classic bûche de Noël. Every slice is festive, elegant, and bursting with flavor, perfect for Christmas cake ideas or a special holiday centerpiece.

This dessert feels fancy, but it’s surprisingly easy to make. If you’ve been searching for a modern yule log recipe or a pistachio Christmas dessert, this one checks all the boxes.

Ingredients 

Sponge Roll:

• 4 large eggs
• 100g (½ cup) sugar
• 100g (¾ cup) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Filling:

• 200g pistachio paste or cream
• 100g butter, softened
• 50g powdered sugar
• ½ cup raspberry jam

Decoration (optional):

• Powdered sugar for “snow”
• Crushed pistachios or fresh raspberries

How to Make It

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Make the sponge: Whisk eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Gently fold in flour and vanilla. Spread evenly in the tray. Bake 12–15 minutes.
3. Roll sponge: While warm, roll the sponge in parchment paper and let it cool completely.
4. Prepare pistachio cream: Beat pistachio paste, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.
5. Assemble the yule log: Unroll sponge, spread pistachio cream, add a thin layer of raspberry jam, then roll back up gently.
6. Decorate: Dust with powdered sugar, sprinkle crushed pistachios, or place fresh raspberries on top.

Serving Tip

Slice and serve with a cup of tea, cocoa, or coffee. This Pistachio & Raspberry Yule Log is a showstopper for Christmas parties, a modern spin on the traditional holiday dessert, and a great way to bring unique Christmas desserts to your table.

4. Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mousse Cups 

If you love peppermint desserts and the cozy taste of hot chocolate, these mousse cups are made for you. Creamy chocolate mousse, a touch of peppermint, and a festive topping make every bite feel like Christmas in a cup. They’re light, easy to make, and perfect for easy Christmas treats that impress without stress.

Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party, gifting them to friends, or just treating yourself, these mousse cups are fun, delicious, and instantly festive.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

• 200g dark or milk chocolate, chopped
• 250ml heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping

How to Make It

1. Melt chocolate: Gently melt chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave. Let it cool slightly.
2. Whip cream: In a bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and peppermint extract until soft peaks form.
3. Fold chocolate: Carefully fold melted chocolate into whipped cream until smooth.
4. Assemble cups: Spoon mousse into individual serving cups.
5. Chill & top: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Before serving, top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes.

Serving Tip

Serve with mini marshmallows or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra festive touch. These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mousse Cups are perfect for holiday parties, cozy nights, or Christmas dessert tables, and they combine two trending searches: peppermint dessert ideas and hot chocolate mousse.

Other  Recipes You Can Make:

Homemade Greek Yoghurt Recipe: How to Make It Naturally from Scratch

Homemade Moist Banana Bread Cake Recipe with Toasted Coconut Topping

5. Caramel Pecan Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce 

Photo credit: @ terry thomas

This Caramel Pecan Bread Pudding is the kind of Christmas dessert that instantly warms you up. Soft, buttery bread soaks up a sweet custard, the toasted pecans add a gentle crunch, and the smooth vanilla sauce brings everything together.

This dessert is perfect if you want something hearty, easy to make, and full of holiday flavor. It’s ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a quiet treat at home after a long day.

Ingredients 

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (like brioche or challah)

• 3 large eggs

• 2 cups milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

• ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• Vanilla sauce for serving

How to Make It

1. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish.

2. Mix custard: In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon.

3. Combine with bread: Place bread cubes and pecans in the dish. Pour custard over and let it soak for 10–15 minutes.

4. Bake: Bake 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the custard is set.

5. Add caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving. Serve warm with vanilla sauce.

Serving Tip

Serve with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or cocoa for a cozy holiday treat. This Caramel Pecan Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce is a classic comfort dessert, perfect for warm Christmas desserts and fits beautifully in your holiday dessert ideas lineup.

6. Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies 

Photo credit: @ Tuck In Bites

Red velvet meets cheesecake in these rich, fudgy brownies that are trending on TikTok. The deep red brownie layer swirled with creamy cheesecake makes each square festive and irresistible. Perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or enjoying as a sweet treat at home.

These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are a must-try on the list of  christmas desserts to make this holiday season easy to prepare but impressive enough to wow your family and friends.

Ingredients 

Brownie Layer:

• 200g (7oz) dark chocolate
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tsp red food coloring

Cheesecake Layer:

• 200g (7oz) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (50g) sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

How to Make It

1. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Make brownie batter: Melt chocolate and butter, stir in sugar, eggs, vanilla, flour, cocoa powder, and red food coloring until smooth.
3. Make cheesecake layer: Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Layer and swirl: Pour half of the brownie batter into the pan. Dollop cheesecake mixture on top, then pour the remaining brownie batter. Use a knife to gently swirl for a marbled effect.
5. Bake: 25–30 minutes until the center is set. Cool completely before slicing into squares.

Serving Tip

Sprinkle with powdered sugar, white chocolate shavings, or a chocolate drizzle for an extra festive touch. These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are a standout on any list of Christmas Desserts to Make This Holiday Season.

7. Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups 

Photo credit: @ CookitYum Recipes

These Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups are fun, festive, and perfect for sharing. Soft chocolate cookie cups filled with peppermint cream or chocolate ganache give each bite a sweet, minty holiday kick. They’re small, easy to handle, and look adorable on a dessert table.

These cookie cups are a must-add to your list of  christmas desserts to make this holiday season quick to bake, simple to assemble, and sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Ingredients (Makes 12–15 cups)

• 1 cup (225g) butter, softened

• ¾ cup (150g) sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 large egg

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup cocoa powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ cup peppermint chocolate chips or crushed candy canes

• ½ cup chocolate ganache or peppermint frosting for filling

How to Make It

1. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a muffin tin.

2. Mix cookie dough: Beat butter and sugar until creamy. Add egg and vanilla. Stir in flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Fold in peppermint chips.

3. Form cookie cups: Press dough into muffin cups, creating a small well in the center for filling.

4. Bake: 12–15 minutes until edges are firm. Let cool completely.

5. Fill cups: Spoon chocolate ganache or peppermint frosting into each cookie cup. Top with crushed candy canes if desired.

Serving Tip

Serve chilled or at room temperature. These Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups are perfect for gifting, parties, or simply enjoying a little holiday indulgence, and they belong on your list of  christmas desserts to make this holiday season

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How to Make Crispy Fish Rolls at Home – Easy Nigerian Snack Recipe

8. Eggnog Panna Cotta 

Photo credit: @ Sprinkle Bakes

Silky, creamy, and lightly spiced, this Eggnog Panna Cotta is a dessert that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. The smooth custard infused with nutmeg and cinnamon tastes like holiday comfort in every spoonful, making it a standout on any festive table.

This Eggnog Panna Cotta is a perfect choice for your list of  christmas desserts to make this holiday season, quick to prepare ahead of time, elegant to serve, and loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients 

• 2 cups (500ml) eggnog
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tsp powdered gelatin
• 3 tbsp cold water
• Whipped cream and cinnamon for topping

How to Make It

1. Bloom gelatin: Sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Heat eggnog: In a saucepan, gently warm eggnog with vanilla and nutmeg until just below boiling.
3. Add gelatin: Stir in bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
4. Pour & chill: Pour mixture into serving cups. Refrigerate 4–6 hours or until set.
5. Serve: Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Serving Tip

Serve chilled in small cups or glasses. This Eggnog Panna Cotta is creamy, festive, and a must-have among christmas desserts to make this holiday season, adding elegance and flavor to your holiday spread.

9. Spiced Apple Crumble Crostata 

Photo credit: @ Foodtalk

This Spiced Apple Crumble Crostata is a rustic, stunning dessert that fills your kitchen with the aroma of cinnamon and baked apples. The buttery crust, tender apple filling, and crumbly topping make it a perfect holiday dessert that’s simple enough for home bakers but impressive enough for guests.

Add this crostata to your list of christmas desserts to make this holiday season.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of pie or tart dough (homemade or store-bought)
• 3–4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 2 tbsp flour
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 3 tbsp cold butter, diced
• Optional: drizzle of caramel or powdered sugar for topping

How to Make It

1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare filling: In a bowl, mix apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour.
3. Roll out dough: Lay dough on baking sheet, leaving a border around the edges. Place apple filling in the center.
4. Add crumble topping: Mix brown sugar and butter until crumbly, then sprinkle over apples. Fold edges of dough slightly over the filling.
5. Bake: 35–40 minutes until crust is golden and apples are tender. Let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Tip

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel. This Spiced Apple Crumble Crostata is rustic, flavorful, and a must-have for  christmas desserts to make this holiday season.

10. Chocolate Hazelnut Puff Pastry Christmas Tree 

Photo credit: @ Markle

This Chocolate Hazelnut Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is easy, impressive, and trending every holiday season, including 2025. Flaky puff pastry twisted with Nutella or chocolate-hazelnut spread becomes a beautiful, edible Christmas tree that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or last-minute festive treats.

Add this to your list of Christmas Desserts to Make This Holiday Season—it’s fun to make, looks amazing, and tastes even better. Kids and adults alike will love it!

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• ½ cup Nutella or chocolate-hazelnut spread
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Optional: sprinkles or chopped hazelnuts for decoration

How to Make It

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare puff pastry: Roll out puff pastry and spread Nutella evenly over one half. Fold and cut into strips to twist.
3. Shape tree: Twist each strip gently and form a Christmas tree shape on the baking sheet.
4. Brush & bake: Brush with beaten egg and bake 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
5. Decorate: Dust with powdered sugar and add sprinkles or chopped hazelnuts if desired.

Serving Tip

Serve warm or at room temperature. This Chocolate Hazelnut Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is flaky, sweet, and a showstopper for holiday tables, making it a perfect addition to your Christmas Desserts to Make This Holiday Season.

Desserts for Gifting

Nothing says “happy holidays” like a homemade Christmas dessert. Sweet treats you make yourself are thoughtful, personal, and always appreciated. Many of the desserts in this list, like Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies or Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups,  are perfect for gifting.

All you need is a pretty box, a jar, or some festive wrapping, and your dessert becomes an edible Christmas gift that’s ready to share with friends, neighbors, or coworkers. They’re simple enough to make in batches, yet they look and taste like something from a bakery.

Giving holiday desserts as gifts is a fun way to spread cheer, and it also makes your baking feel extra rewarding. These treats are part of your holiday dessert gift ideas, bringing a personal touch to the season without extra stress.

FAQ: 

1. Can I make these desserts ahead of time?

Yes! Many desserts on this list, like Mini Gingerbread Trifles, Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mousse Cups, and Chocolate Hazelnut Puff Pastry Trees, can be prepared a day or two in advance. Just store them properly in airtight containers in the fridge and assemble any final touches, like whipped cream or sprinkles, right before serving.

2. Can I make these desserts if I’m a beginner baker?

Absolutely! All the desserts in this list are designed to be simple yet impressive, perfect for beginners. Recipes like White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies or Eggnog Panna Cotta require minimal steps, common ingredients, and little baking experience.

3. How can I make these desserts festive without spending too much?

You don’t need expensive ingredients or decorations. Use seasonal fruits, candy canes, chocolate shavings, powdered sugar, or sprinkles to give desserts a holiday look. Desserts like Spiced Apple Crostata or Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies look fancy but are budget-friendly.

4. Can I adjust these desserts for dietary needs?

Yes! Many recipes can be modified for gluten-free, vegan, or low-sugar diets. For example:

• Substitute gluten-free flour for regular flour in blondies or crostatas.
• Use plant-based cream or butter in mousse cups and puff pastries.
• Swap sugar with natural sweeteners for a lower-sugar option.

5. How do I store leftovers from these Christmas desserts?

Most desserts last 3–5 days in the fridge if stored properly in airtight containers. Some, like Puff Pastry Christmas Trees, are best eaten the same day for flakiness but can be reheated briefly. For longer storage, you can freeze certain desserts, like brownies or blondies, and thaw before serving.

6. What desserts are best for gifting or taking to a party?

Desserts that travel well include:

• Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
• Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups
• Mini Gingerbread Trifles (packed carefully)
  They’re easy to package, shareable, and hold their shape, making them perfect for edible gifts or holiday gatherings.

7. Are there any no-bake dessert options?

Yes! No-bake desserts on this list include:

• Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mousse Cups
• Mini Gingerbread Trifles
  These require little to no oven time and are perfect for quick, stress-free holiday treats.

Make Your Holidays Sweeter

The holidays are the perfect time to enjoy festive desserts that bring joy to your table and smiles to your loved ones. From easy Christmas desserts like Mini Gingerbread Trifles to trending holiday treats 2025 like Chocolate Hazelnut Puff Pastry Trees, there’s something for everyone either for family, friends, or just yourself.

This season, don’t be afraid to try multiple recipes from this list of  christmas desserts to make this holiday season. Experiment, have fun, and let your kitchen fill with the smells and flavors that make the holidays feel special.

Once you’ve baked your favorites, share your creations on social media, tag friends, or inspire someone else to try these easy holiday baking recipes.