14 Best Homemade Treats to Share This Holiday Season

The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in homemade treats that bring joy to friends and family. These treats offer something for every taste. The best part? Many of these recipes are simple to make, yet they still impress with their festive flair. With just a little time in the kitchen, you can create mouthwatering treats that will have everyone asking for more. So, grab your mixing bowls and let’s check out some of the most delicious homemade goodies to share this season. After all, nothing says “happy holidays” quite like a plate of freshly baked treats!

Classic Chocolate Fudge

Nothing says the holidays like smooth, rich chocolate fudge that practically melts in your mouth. Start by combining 1 cup of butter, 2 cups of sugar, and ¾ cup of evaporated milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly, and let it cook for about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until silky smooth. Pour the mixture into an 8×8 parchment-lined pan and spread evenly. Refrigerate for about 2 hours or until firm, then cut into small squares. This fudge is irresistibly rich, making it perfect for sharing or gifting.

Cranberry-White Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

These chewy oatmeal cookies bring together tart cranberries and sweet white chocolate for the perfect holiday flavor combo. Start by creaming together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of white sugar in a large bowl. Mix in 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until fully combined. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 3 cups of oats, folding in 1 cup of dried cranberries and 1 cup of white chocolate chips. Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 12 minutes, then let them cool slightly on the sheet before transferring to a wire rack. These cookies are soft, festive, and impossible to resist.

Peppermint Bark

Peppermint bark is a visually stunning and simple treat that embodies the spirit of the holidays. Melt 12 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate in the microwave or a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Spread the chocolate evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill it in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes. Melt 12 ounces of white chocolate and carefully spread it over the hardened semi-sweet layer. Sprinkle ½ cup of crushed candy canes on top of the white chocolate while it is still wet. Chill the bark again in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, ensuring it sets completely. Once hardened, break the bark into uneven pieces, creating a beautiful and delicious holiday gift.

Gingerbread Loaf

Warm, spiced gingerbread loaf makes your kitchen smell like the holidays while delivering rich and cozy flavors. In a bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of cloves. In another bowl, combine ½ cup of molasses, ½ cup of sugar, ½ cup of vegetable oil, 1 egg, and ¾ cup of hot water until smooth. Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until no lumps remain. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the loaf cool completely before adding a drizzle of powdered sugar glaze for an extra sweet touch. This spiced loaf is perfect for sharing with friends over coffee or tea.

Holiday Popcorn Mix

This colorful holiday popcorn mix is sweet, salty, and totally addictive for snack lovers of all ages. Start by popping about 10 cups of plain popcorn and spreading it evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Melt 1 cup of white chocolate, stirring until smooth, and drizzle it over the popcorn. While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle in 1 cup of red and green M&Ms, 1 cup of crushed pretzels, and a pinch of sea salt for balance. Toss the popcorn gently to coat everything in chocolate and toppings. Let the mix set for about 30 minutes until the chocolate hardens, then break it into pieces. Serve it in festive bowls or bag it up as a quick and tasty holiday gift.

Maple Pecan Brittle

Maple pecan brittle is an elegant and crunchy treat with deep caramel flavor and buttery nuts. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar, ½ cup of light corn syrup, and ¼ cup of water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let the mixture boil undisturbed until it reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of chopped pecans. Immediately pour the hot brittle onto a greased baking sheet, spreading it thin with a spatula. Let it cool completely for about 1 hour until hardened, then break it into jagged pieces. This crisp, nutty brittle adds a touch of gourmet flair to your holiday treat selection.

Snowball Cookies

Snowball cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes, are delicate, buttery treats that look like little snowballs. Start by creaming together 1 cup of softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, then gradually stir in 2 cups of flour and 1 cup of finely chopped pecans until a soft dough forms. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 12-14 minutes, then let them cool for a few minutes. Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar to coat them completely, then dust them again once they have fully cooled. These soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a classic holiday treat that everyone loves.

Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark

This salted caramel pretzel bark is a sweet and salty masterpiece perfect for holiday snacking. Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and laying down a layer of pretzels, covering the surface. In a saucepan, melt 1 cup of butter and 1 cup of brown sugar, bringing it to a boil for 3-4 minutes while stirring constantly. Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the pretzels, spreading it to coat, and bake at 350°F for 5 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips over the caramel. Let the chocolate soften for a minute, then spread it evenly and finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Chill the bark in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before breaking it into pieces. The combination of crunchy pretzels, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate makes this a standout treat.

Eggnog Cupcakes

These eggnog cupcakes combine the flavors of the holidays with a fluffy, irresistible texture. Start by beating together ½ cup of butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and creamy. Mix in 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of eggnog, combining well. In another bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Top with a spiced buttercream frosting for a delicious holiday treat that tastes like a festive cup of eggnog.

Homemade Toffee

Homemade toffee is a buttery, crunchy classic that everyone will devour. Start by combining 1 cup of butter and 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer and turns a deep golden color. Pour the hot toffee onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it into an even layer. Immediately sprinkle 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips on top, letting them melt, then spread the chocolate evenly. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped almonds or pecans for a nutty crunch. Once the toffee has hardened completely, break it into pieces and enjoy this crunchy, buttery perfection.

Hot Cocoa Bombs

Hot cocoa bombs are fun, festive, and magical treats that transform into cozy drinks. Melt 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate and brush it into silicone half-sphere molds, ensuring an even layer. Chill the molds in the fridge for 10 minutes, then carefully remove the hardened chocolate shells. Fill half of the shells with 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder, a handful of mini marshmallows, and sprinkles if desired. Warm the edges of the empty shells slightly and press them onto the filled halves to seal them. Decorate with a drizzle of melted chocolate or crushed candy canes for a festive touch. Drop a bomb into a mug of hot milk, watch it burst open, and enjoy a delicious cup of cocoa.

Peanut Butter Blossoms

Peanut butter blossoms are a timeless holiday favorite with their soft texture and chocolate center. Start by beating together ½ cup of softened butter, ½ cup of peanut butter, and 1 cup of sugar until smooth. Mix in 1 egg, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt until the dough forms. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, coat them in sugar, and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes, then press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie while still warm. These cookies are a holiday staple and always a hit at parties.

Coconut Macaroons

Coconut macaroons are chewy, golden treats that are as easy to make as they are delicious. In a large bowl, mix together 4 cups of shredded coconut, 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the coconut is fully coated and sticky. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, shaping them into small mounds. Bake at 325°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Let the macaroons cool completely, then dip the bottoms in melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgent touch. These chewy and sweet cookies are perfect for gifting or enjoying with a hot cup of tea.

Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels

Chocolate-dipped pretzels are a simple, festive treat that is perfect for holiday snacking or gifting. Start by melting 1 cup of semi-sweet or white chocolate in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Dip each pretzel rod or twist halfway into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off. Before the chocolate sets, decorate with holiday sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or a drizzle of contrasting chocolate. Place the dipped pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them harden completely, either at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Once set, transfer the pretzels to clear bags tied with ribbons for easy gifting. The combination of salty pretzels and sweet chocolate makes these an irresistible crowd-pleaser.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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