5 Easy Christmas Desserts You Can Make in Under an Hour

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the joy of gathering with loved ones, exchanging gifts, and indulging in delicious treats. While the thought of baking intricate desserts can be daunting, there are plenty of easy and quick options that can satisfy your sweet tooth without hours of preparation. In this blog post, we'll explore five Christmas desserts that you can whip up in under an hour, perfect for those last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.

Peppermint Bark

Peppermint bark is a classic Christmas treat that is both beautiful and delicious. This easy-to-make dessert requires just a few simple ingredients and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces of high-quality white chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract
• 1/2 cup of crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate, stirring occasionally until smooth.
3. Remove the melted chocolate from the heat and stir in the peppermint extract.
4. Pour the chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer.
5. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the top of the chocolate.
6. Refrigerate the peppermint bark for at least 30 minutes, or until it has hardened completely.
7. Break the bark into pieces and serve.

Gingerbread Truffles

Gingerbread is a quintessential Christmas flavor, and these truffles are a delightful way to enjoy it. These bite-sized treats are perfect for gift-giving or as a sweet addition to your holiday spread.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup of molasses
• 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
• 1 1/2 cups of crushed gingerbread cookies

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar, molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, and mix until well combined.
3. Fold in the crushed gingerbread cookies until the mixture is evenly distributed.
4. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate the truffles for at least 30 minutes, or until they have firmed up.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Santas

These adorable chocolate-dipped strawberry Santas are not only delicious but also a fun and festive way to get into the holiday spirit. They're perfect for parties, gift-giving, or just as a special treat for yourself.

Ingredients:

• 12 large strawberries, washed and dried
• 12 ounces of high-quality white chocolate, chopped
• 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup of shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate, stirring occasionally until smooth.
3. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, coating it about three-quarters of the way up.
4. Place the dipped strawberries on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
5. Once the chocolate has set, use the mini chocolate chips to create the eyes and mouth of the Santa.
6. If desired, sprinkle the shredded coconut over the "hats" of the strawberry Santas.
7. Refrigerate the chocolate-dipped strawberry Santas until ready to serve.

No-Bake Eggnog Cheesecake Bites

Eggnog is a beloved holiday flavor, and these no-bake cheesecake bites are a delightful way to enjoy it. They're creamy, rich, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the hassle of baking.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup of eggnog
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 1 1/2 cups of crushed graham crackers

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar, eggnog, vanilla extract, and nutmeg, and mix until well combined.
3. Fold in the crushed graham crackers until the mixture is evenly distributed.
4. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate the cheesecake bites for at least 30 minutes, or until they have firmed up.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods

These chocolate-dipped pretzel rods are a classic holiday treat that are both sweet and salty. They're easy to make, and you can customize them with your favorite toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients:

• 12 pretzel rods
• 12 ounces of high-quality milk chocolate, chopped
• Assorted toppings (such as crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or chopped nuts)

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate, stirring occasionally until smooth.
3. Dip each pretzel rod into the melted chocolate, coating it about three-quarters of the way up.
4. Immediately sprinkle the desired toppings over the chocolate-dipped pretzels.
5. Place the coated pretzels on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or until the chocolate has set.
6. Serve the chocolate-dipped pretzel rods and enjoy!

These five easy Christmas desserts are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a quick and satisfying treat, these recipes are perfect for the occasion. So, grab your apron, preheat your oven (or not!), and get ready to create some delicious holiday magic in your kitchen.