December Dessert Ideas: 25 Cozy Holiday Treats to Try

As winter’s chill settles in we’re all craving those warm sweet treats that make December feel magical. Nothing brings holiday cheer quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies homemade pies and festive desserts wafting through our homes.

We’ve gathered our favorite December dessert recipes that’ll make your holiday season extra special. From classic gingerbread houses to rich chocolate yule logs these treats capture the spirit of the season. Looking for ways to wow your guests at upcoming holiday gatherings or simply want to create sweet memories with your family?

Key Takeaways

• Classic holiday desserts like gingerbread, Christmas cookies, and peppermint treats are perfect for December celebrations and can be stored for 5-7 days in airtight containers
• No-bake desserts such as holiday bark and truffles offer stress-free alternatives that can be prepared up to 2 weeks in advance without using the oven
• Elegant party desserts like trifles and cheesecakes can be made ahead (up to 24 hours) and create stunning centerpieces for holiday gatherings
• Winter-inspired flavors including peppermint, hot chocolate, and seasonal spices (ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg) transform traditional desserts into festive treats
• A well-organized dessert table should feature varying heights, complementary colors, proper lighting, and clear labeling for the best presentation and guest experience

Classic Holiday Dessert Recipes

Holiday baking traditions fill homes with sweet aromas and nostalgic memories. Let’s explore these time-tested recipes that bring warmth to December celebrations.

Traditional Christmas Cookies

Our favorite Christmas cookie recipes include:

• Sugar cookies decorated with royal icing in festive shapes like snowflakes stars
• Buttery spritz cookies pressed into wreaths trees bells
• Chocolate-dipped shortbread dipped in crushed peppermint
• Thumbprint cookies filled with raspberry jam or chocolate
• Cinnamon snickerdoodles rolled in sparkling sugar

Baking temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Average baking time: 8-12 minutes
Storage duration: 5-7 days in airtight container

Festive Gingerbread Creations

Gingerbread brings spicy warmth to holiday tables through these variations:

• Classic gingerbread men decorated with white icing details
• Mini gingerbread houses perfect for place settings
• Soft gingerbread loaf topped with cream cheese frosting
• Gingerbread cookie bars with crystallized ginger pieces
• Cut-out gingerbread shapes for tree ornaments

Key Spice Measurements:

The dough requires 2 hours of chilling for optimal results. Create intricate designs using royal icing thinned to different consistencies for outlining filling.

Winter-Inspired Sweet Treats

Winter calls for cozy desserts that capture the essence of the season’s flavors. Our selection of cold-weather treats combines traditional holiday ingredients with creative twists.

Peppermint-Flavored Desserts

Peppermint adds a refreshing twist to classic winter desserts. Crushed candy canes transform ordinary treats into festive delights:

• Peppermint bark squares with dark chocolate layers
• White chocolate peppermint cheesecake bites
• Candy cane-topped brownies
• Peppermint meringue cookies
• Mint chocolate sandwich cookies

Storage tip: Keep peppermint desserts in an airtight container at 65°F (18°C) to maintain freshness for 5 days.

Hot Chocolate-Based Delights

Hot chocolate inspires rich desserts perfect for cold December nights:

• Mexican hot chocolate cookies with cinnamon
• Hot cocoa cake pops with marshmallow coating
• Chocolate mug cake with melted center
• Hot chocolate trifle layers with whipped cream
• Mocha chocolate truffles

Pro tip: Add 2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder to intensify chocolate flavors in any recipe.

Elegant Holiday Party Desserts

Elevate your holiday gatherings with sophisticated desserts that blend visual appeal with exceptional taste. These elegant creations offer convenient preparation options while delivering a stunning presentation that captures the spirit of December festivities.

Make-Ahead Holiday Trifles

Layered trifles create a striking centerpiece with minimal day-of preparation. A classic English trifle combines 3 layers of pound cake soaked in sherry, vanilla custard, fresh berries, and whipped cream. Here are 3 festive variations:

• Create cranberry-orange trifles with citrus-scented cake layers topped with cranberry compote
• Layer chocolate brownie pieces with peppermint mousse and crushed candy canes
• Combine gingerbread cake with eggnog custard and caramelized pears

Pro tip: Assemble trifles up to 24 hours in advance in clear glass containers to showcase the distinct layers.

Festive Cheesecake Variations

Holiday cheesecakes offer endless opportunities for seasonal flavors and decorative touches. Here are 4 party-ready options:

• Top a white chocolate cheesecake with sugared cranberries and rosemary sprigs
• Swirl peppermint bark pieces into dark chocolate cheesecake batter
• Create mini eggnog cheesecakes with nutmeg-spiced graham cracker crusts
• Accent gingerbread cheesecake squares with gold leaf and candied ginger

No-Bake December Desserts

No-bake desserts offer a stress-free solution for holiday entertaining. These quick recipes create impressive treats without turning on the oven.

Quick Holiday Bark Recipes

Holiday bark combines melted chocolate with festive mix-ins for an easy homemade treat. Here’s how to make three popular variations:

• Peppermint White Chocolate Bark: Melt 16 oz white chocolate at 30-second intervals in the microwave, stir in 1/2 cup crushed candy canes, spread on parchment paper & chill for 30 minutes
• Dark Chocolate Pretzel Bark: Layer melted dark chocolate with broken pretzel pieces, sea salt & festive sprinkles
• Cranberry Pistachio Bark: Mix melted white chocolate with 1 cup dried cranberries & 1 cup chopped pistachios

Storage Tip: Store bark in an airtight container between wax paper layers for up to 2 weeks.

Easy Holiday Truffles

Truffles create an elegant impression with minimal effort. These no-bake options require just 4-5 ingredients each:

Basic Chocolate Truffles

Roll-time: 15 minutes after 2 hours of chilling

• Peppermint: Add 1/2 tsp peppermint extract & roll in crushed candy canes
• Gingerbread: Mix in 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ginger & roll in graham cracker crumbs
• Eggnog: Replace vanilla with rum extract & roll in nutmeg-sugar mixture

Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 10 days. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Holiday Dessert Table Presentation Tips

A beautifully arranged dessert table transforms holiday gatherings into memorable celebrations. Let’s explore practical ways to create an eye-catching display that delights your guests.

Balance and Height

• Position desserts at varying heights using cake stands, tiered trays or wooden boxes
• Place taller items at the back and shorter ones in front
• Create visual interest with 3-5 different elevation levels
• Add dimension using fresh greenery or metallic ornaments between platters

Color Coordination

• Select serving pieces in complementary holiday colors (red, green, gold or silver)
• Group similar colored desserts together for visual impact
• Use white plates to make colorful treats pop
• Add metallic accents through ribbons or decorative elements

Lighting and Ambiance

• Install battery-operated string lights around the table edges
• Place flameless candles between serving platters
• Use spotlights to highlight statement pieces
• Create soft lighting with mercury glass votives

Strategic Placement

• Set up the table away from high-traffic areas
• Leave 18 inches of space between large platters
• Group mini desserts in sets of 3-5 pieces
• Position serving utensils at easy-to-reach angles

Labels and Signage

• Create small tent cards listing dessert names
• Note common allergens on display cards
• Use elegant calligraphy or printed labels
• Include dietary information (gluten-free, vegan)

• Keep temperature-sensitive items like cheesecake chilled until serving
• Provide separate serving utensils for each dessert
• Stock extra plates and napkins within reach
• Place garbage bins discreetly nearby

How do you plan to arrange your holiday dessert table this season? Remember that a well-organized display makes serving easier and creates a festive focal point for your celebration.

Conclusion

We’ve shared our favorite December desserts to help you create unforgettable holiday moments. From timeless gingerbread creations to elegant trifles these recipes are designed to spread joy and warmth throughout the season. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or prefer no-bake options we’ve got something for every skill level.

Remember that presentation matters just as much as taste. A beautifully arranged dessert table will make your holiday gatherings even more memorable. We hope these festive treats inspire you to start new traditions and fill your home with the sweet aromas of December baking.

Let’s make this holiday season the sweetest one yet!

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of desserts are best for December holiday gatherings?

Traditional Christmas cookies, gingerbread creations, peppermint-flavored treats, and elegant cheesecakes are perfect for holiday gatherings. Popular choices include sugar cookies with royal icing, chocolate yule logs, and holiday trifles. These desserts combine festive flavors with visual appeal.

How long should gingerbread dough be chilled before baking?

The gingerbread dough requires a minimum chilling time of two hours. This ensures proper consistency for rolling and cutting shapes, resulting in well-defined edges and better baking results.

What are some quick no-bake dessert options for the holidays?

Holiday bark varieties (peppermint white chocolate, dark chocolate pretzel) and easy truffles are excellent no-bake options. These treats require minimal ingredients and preparation time, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules.

How can I enhance chocolate flavors in my holiday desserts?

Add a small amount of instant espresso powder to chocolate-based recipes. This professional baking tip intensifies the chocolate flavor without adding any coffee taste to your desserts.

How should I store holiday cheesecakes?

Store cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

What’s the key to creating an attractive holiday dessert table?

Use varying heights with cake stands and tiered trays, maintain color coordination with serving pieces, and ensure easy access to all treats. Include clear labels with allergen information and add ambient lighting for a festive atmosphere.

Can holiday truffles be made in advance?

Yes, holiday truffles can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container. Keep them refrigerated for up to 2 weeks, or freeze them for up to 3 months.

What are some popular peppermint dessert options?

Popular peppermint desserts include peppermint bark squares, white chocolate peppermint cheesecake bites, and candy cane-topped brownies. These treats combine classic holiday flavors with festive presentation.