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9 Christmas Treats! Easy & Impressive Holiday Recipes 🎄 Christmas Bake With Me Testing Holiday Treat

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THE WADS
THE WADS
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Christmas cookies are a beloved tradition in the United States, often made during the holiday season. Families and friends gather to bake and decorate these cookies, which come in various shapes and flavors. They are commonly exchanged as gifts or served at festive gatherings, symbolizing joy and celebration during the holidays.

Ingredients

  • all-purpose flour
  • sugar
  • butter
  • eggs
  • vanilla extract
  • baking powder
  • salt
  • decorative sprinkles

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. 3Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. 4In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  6. 6Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
  7. 7Flatten each ball slightly and add decorative sprinkles on top.
  8. 8Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  9. 9Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.
  10. 10Store in an airtight container for freshness.

Ingredient Alternatives

all-purpose flour

Healthier: whole wheat flour

Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients.

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is a healthier fat option, while margarine can be more budget-friendly.

Techniques

mixingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking sheetwire rackoven
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowglutendairyeggs

Also Known As

Holiday CookiesFestive Cookies

Gingerbread houses originated in Germany during the early 19th century, inspired by the fairy tale of Hansel and Gretel. These festive creations have become a beloved holiday tradition in the United States, often associated with Christmas celebrations. Families gather to build and decorate their houses, creating lasting memories. Today, gingerbread houses are enjoyed worldwide, with variations reflecting local flavors and designs.

Ingredients

  • all-purpose flour
  • ground ginger
  • ground cinnamon
  • baking soda
  • brown sugar
  • unsalted butter
  • eggs
  • molasses
  • royal icing
  • decorative candies
  • candy canes
  • gumdrops
  • chocolate
  • sprinkles

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2Mix flour, ginger, cinnamon, and baking soda in a bowl.
  3. 3In a separate bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
  4. 4Add eggs and molasses to the butter mixture, mixing until combined.
  5. 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
  6. 6Chill the dough for at least 1 hour to firm up.
  7. 7Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  8. 8Cut out shapes for the house pieces using templates or cookie cutters.
  9. 9Place the cut pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  10. 10Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until firm.
  11. 11Allow baked pieces to cool completely on a wire rack.
  12. 12Prepare royal icing by mixing powdered sugar and egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  13. 13Assemble the gingerbread house using royal icing as glue, attaching walls and roof.
  14. 14Decorate the assembled house with candies and icing as desired.
  15. 15Let the icing set for a few hours before displaying.

Ingredient Alternatives

unsalted butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil adds a subtle flavor with healthier fats.

royal icing

Healthier: Greek yogurt icing

Cheaper: powdered sugar icing

Greek yogurt icing offers a tangy flavor with less sugar.

decorative candies

Healthier: dried fruits

Cheaper: store-brand candies

Dried fruits provide natural sweetness and nutrition.

molasses

Healthier: honey

Cheaper: brown sugar syrup

Honey is a natural sweetener that can be easier to find.

Techniques

mixingrollingbakingdecorating

Equipment

mixing bowlsbaking sheetsparchment paperrolling pincookie cutterswire rackspatula
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowgluteneggsdairy

Also Known As

Gingerbread CottageGingerbread Village

Peppermint Bark is a beloved holiday treat in the United States, often enjoyed during Christmas festivities. Its combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint evokes the spirit of the season. Traditionally made with layers of dark and white chocolate, it has become a staple in holiday gifting and celebrations. Today, variations abound, with some incorporating different types of chocolate or additional toppings, making it a versatile and cherished dessert.

Ingredients

  • dark chocolate
  • white chocolate
  • peppermint extract
  • crushed peppermint candies
  • candy canes
  • sea salt

Instructions

  1. 1Melt dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water until smooth.
  2. 2Spread melted dark chocolate evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. 3Refrigerate dark chocolate layer until set, about 30 minutes.
  4. 4Melt white chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water until smooth.
  5. 5Stir in peppermint extract into the melted white chocolate.
  6. 6Spread melted white chocolate over the set dark chocolate layer.
  7. 7Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies evenly over the white chocolate layer.
  8. 8Chill the bark in the refrigerator until fully set, about 1 hour.
  9. 9Break the bark into pieces and serve.

Ingredient Alternatives

dark chocolate

Healthier: dark chocolate with stevia

Cheaper: semi-sweet chocolate chips

Stevia reduces sugar content, while semi-sweet chips are more affordable.

white chocolate

Healthier: yogurt coating

Cheaper: vanilla candy melts

Yogurt coating has less sugar, while candy melts are budget-friendly.

peppermint extract

Healthier: vanilla extract

Cheaper: mint extract

Vanilla is often more accessible, while mint extract can be less expensive.

crushed peppermint candies

Healthier: sugar-free peppermint candies

Cheaper: generic brand peppermint candies

Sugar-free options reduce calories, and generic brands save money.

Techniques

meltingspreadingchilling

Equipment

heatproof bowlbaking sheetparchment paperspatularefrigerator
dairy

Also Known As

Holiday BarkChocolate Peppermint Bark

Ingredients

  • 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp almond extract
  • 1/4 cup sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
  2. 2Add the granulated sugar and stir until dissolved.
  3. 3Add the mini marshmallows, vanilla extract, and almond extract, stirring until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
  4. 4Remove the saucepan from heat and add the Rice Krispies cereal, stirring until well coated.
  5. 5If using, fold in the sprinkles gently until evenly distributed.
  6. 6Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  7. 7Press the mixture down firmly into the dish using a spatula or your hands (damp hands work best).
  8. 8Allow to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until set.
  9. 9Once set, cut into squares or bars and serve.

Equipment

large saucepanspatula9x13 inch baking dish

Chocolate truffles originated in France in the late 19th century, named for their resemblance to the prized truffle fungus. These decadent confections symbolize luxury and indulgence, often enjoyed during celebrations or as gifts. Today, variations abound globally, with flavors and coatings reflecting local tastes and ingredients.

Ingredients

  • dark chocolate
  • heavy cream
  • unsweetened cocoa powder
  • vanilla extract
  • sea salt
  • milk chocolate
  • butter
  • chopped nuts
  • powdered sugar
  • flavored liqueur
  • coconut flakes
  • crushed cookies
  • espresso powder
  • fruit puree

Instructions

  1. 1Chop dark chocolate into small pieces and place in a heatproof bowl.
  2. 2Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until just simmering.
  3. 3Pour hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 5 minutes.
  4. 4Stir the mixture until smooth and fully combined.
  5. 5Add vanilla extract and sea salt, mixing until incorporated.
  6. 6Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours until firm.
  7. 7Scoop out small portions of the chocolate mixture using a melon baller or spoon.
  8. 8Roll each portion into a ball between your palms.
  9. 9Prepare coatings by placing cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or coconut flakes in separate bowls.
  10. 10Roll each truffle in the desired coating until fully covered.
  11. 11Place truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  12. 12Refrigerate the truffles for another 30 minutes to set.
  13. 13Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
milkeggstree-nuts

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

Instructions

  1. 1In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved to create a simple syrup.
  2. 2Once the syrup is ready, remove it from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
  3. 3Add the fresh cranberries to the cooled syrup, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them soak for about 1 hour.
  4. 4After soaking, drain the cranberries and spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. 5In a shallow bowl, place 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Roll each cranberry in the sugar until fully coated.
  6. 6Return the sugared cranberries to the baking sheet and let them dry for about 1 hour at room temperature.
  7. 7Once dried, the sugared cranberries can be used as a garnish or enjoyed as a sweet snack.

Equipment

medium saucepanbaking sheetparchment papershallow bowl

Ingredients

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 3-4 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup edible glitter or sprinkles

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. 3In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. 4Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
  5. 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. 6Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  7. 7Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  8. 8Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. 9In a separate bowl, mix the powdered sugar with milk until smooth to create the icing.
  10. 10Once the cookies are cool, drizzle the icing over the top of each cookie.
  11. 11Sprinkle shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, and edible glitter on top to create the 'snow globe' effect.

Equipment

mixing bowlswhiskbaking sheetparchment paperwire rackspatula

Fruitcake has a long history in Britain, traditionally enjoyed during the festive season. Its rich blend of dried fruits, nuts, and spices reflects the abundance of the harvest. Often served at weddings and holidays, fruitcake symbolizes celebration and togetherness. In modern times, variations have emerged globally, with each culture adding its unique twist to this classic dessert.

Ingredients

  • mixed dried fruit
  • candied citrus peel
  • nuts
  • flour
  • butter
  • sugar
  • eggs
  • baking powder
  • spices
  • vanilla extract
  • brandy
  • salt

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. 2Prepare a cake pan by greasing and lining it with parchment paper.
  3. 3Mix the dried fruit, candied citrus peel, and nuts in a bowl.
  4. 4In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  5. 5Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  6. 6Stir in the vanilla extract and brandy.
  7. 7In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.
  8. 8Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  9. 9Fold in the fruit and nut mixture until evenly distributed.
  10. 10Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
  11. 11Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
  12. 12Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  13. 13Once cooled, wrap the cake in foil and store in a cool place for at least a week before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

mixed dried fruit

Healthier: fresh fruit

Cheaper: raisins

Fresh fruit offers a lighter option, while raisins are more budget-friendly.

candied citrus peel

Healthier: zest of fresh citrus

Cheaper: dried fruit

Fresh zest provides flavor without added sugar, and dried fruit is often less expensive.

nuts

Healthier: seeds

Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Seeds are lower in calories and cost less than many nuts.

brandy

Healthier: apple juice

Cheaper: water

Apple juice adds sweetness without alcohol, and water is the most economical option.

Techniques

mixingbaking

Equipment

ovenmixing bowlcake panwhiskspatulaparchment paper
🌶️🌶️🌶️LowContains Alcoholnutsglutendairyeggs

Also Known As

Christmas CakeHoliday Cake

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
  • 1/2 cup pesto
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg (beaten)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
  3. 3Cut the pastry into tree shapes using a template or freehand.
  4. 4Spread a thin layer of pesto on each tree shape.
  5. 5Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pesto.
  6. 6Fold the branches of the trees slightly to create a 3D effect.
  7. 7Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to help them brown.
  8. 8Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  9. 9Place the trees on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  10. 10Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
  11. 11Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Equipment

baking sheetparchment paperrolling pinknifepastry brush

Ingredients

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Green food coloring
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Decorative sprinkles or edible glitter
  • Piping bag with star tip

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).
  2. 2In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy.
  3. 3Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until soft peaks form.
  4. 4Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while beating on high speed until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
  5. 5Add the vanilla extract and a few drops of green food coloring, mixing until the color is evenly distributed.
  6. 6Transfer the meringue to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
  7. 7On a parchment-lined baking sheet, pipe meringue in the shape of Christmas trees, starting with a wide base and tapering to a point at the top.
  8. 8Bake the meringue trees in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are dry and can be easily lifted off the parchment.
  9. 9Once baked, turn off the oven and let the meringues cool inside for an hour.
  10. 10In a small saucepan, combine powdered sugar and water to make a glaze. Heat gently until smooth and slightly thickened.
  11. 11Once the meringue trees are cool, drizzle the glaze over them and decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter.

Equipment

Mixing bowlElectric mixerPiping bagBaking sheetParchment paperSaucepan

Ingredients

  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup crushed peppermint candies
  • 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
  • 12 wooden stirrer sticks

Instructions

  1. 1In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
  2. 2Remove the saucepan from heat and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring until melted and smooth.
  3. 3Stir in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
  4. 4Pour the chocolate mixture into a large baking dish or onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it evenly.
  5. 5Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies and mini marshmallows over the top of the chocolate mixture.
  6. 6Insert the wooden stirrer sticks into the chocolate mixture, spacing them evenly apart.
  7. 7Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate is completely set.
  8. 8Once set, remove from the refrigerator and cut into individual pieces around the stirrer sticks.
  9. 9Wrap each stirrer in cellophane or place in a decorative bag for gifting or serving.
  10. 10Serve with hot cocoa for a festive treat!

Equipment

medium saucepanbaking dish or parchment-lined baking sheetspatularefrigerator

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