Festive Holiday Baking Ideas For Beginners: Easiest Christmas Treats

It is time to get in the kitchen and bake some festive magic for christmas. But if you are new to baking or just looking for easy ideas to get your holiday baking started, you are in the right place. Christmas treats do not have to be complicated to be delicious and you do not have to be a pro baker to make something yummy.

Whether you are preparing for a family gathering, a festive party or just need something sweet, simple Christmas treats make the holiday extra special. From cookies that melt in your mouth to no-bake desserts that require little effort but big flavor, there is something for everyone. These treats not only fill your home with the warm, sweet smells of Christmas but also bring joy to everyone who gets a bite.

No fancy skills or equipment required, just a few basic ingredients, some time and a bit of imagination. So grab your apron and get baking some delicious memories this holiday season with these beginner friendly Christmas treats!

Easiest Christmas Treats: No-Bake Christmas Chocolate Fudge

Christmas is all about spreading joy and what better way to do that than with a sweet treat? If you’re looking for a fuss free, delicious and festive dessert that doesn’t require baking then this No Bake Christmas Chocolate Fudge is for you.

Ingredients:

• 200g dark chocolate
• 100g milk chocolate
• 200g sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp chopped nuts (cashews, walnuts or almonds)
• Holiday sprinkles

Method:

1. Line a small square or rectangular baking dish (8x8 inches) with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Break the dark and milk chocolate into small pieces. In a heatproof bowl melt them together with butter and sweetened condensed milk.
3. You can melt the mixture in the microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring each time or use the double boiler method on the stove.
4. Once the chocolate is melted and smooth remove the bowl from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. If you want some extra crunch fold in the chopped nuts of your choice.
6. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle holiday sprinkles on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours or until set. Remove from pan and cut into small squares.

6 Easy Holiday Baking Ideas For Beginners: Simple Christmas Treats

1. Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a Christmas classic and are easier to make than you think. With simple ingredients like flour, sugar, butter and spices like cinnamon and ginger you can whip up a batch in no time. Once baked you can get creative with icing, sprinkles or even edible glitter. These are perfect for sharing, gifting or just enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.

2. No-Bake Chocolate Peppermint Bars

No-bake treats are a lifesaver when you are short on time and chocolate peppermint bars are one of the simplest and most festive. With a base of crushed graham crackers, butter and a hint of mint extract, topped with melted chocolate and crushed peppermint candy, these are sweet, crunchy and full of holiday spirit. Just chill in the fridge for a few hours, slice and serve.

3. Sugar Cookie Truffles

If you love sugar cookies but do not want to roll dough and use cookie cutters, sugar cookie truffles are the way to go. Bake a batch of sugar cookies, crumble them up, mix with frosting and roll them into balls. Dip into melted white or milk chocolate, and chill until firm.

4. Cranberry Orange Shortbread

Shortbread is a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie that is easy to make and always a hit. For a holiday twist add fresh cranberries and orange zest to your shortbread dough. The tartness of the cranberries and the citrus of the orange make these cookies perfect for Christmas. Once baked dust with powdered sugar or dip in melted chocolate for extra sweetness. Simple and elegant, great for gifting or snacking with the family.

5. Snowman Rice Krispies Treats

Rice Krispies treats are a fun way to add some whimsy to your holiday baking. For a festive twist shape the treats into snowmen! Melt marshmallows with butter, mix with Rice Krispies and form into snowman shapes. Once set, decorate with chocolate chips for the eyes, a candy button row and a small piece of orange candy for the nose.

6. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels

Chocolate-dipped pretzels are a no-brainer, yet fancy, treat everyone loves. The salty crunch of the pretzel and the smoothness of the chocolate is the perfect holiday snack. Simply dip pretzel rods or twists into melted chocolate and sprinkle with festive toppings like crushed candy canes, sprinkles or mini marshmallows.