Well hello there, fellow candy lovers! The most wonderful time of the year is finally upon us, which means it’s time to break out those holiday recipes and get to baking. And what better way to spread the holiday cheer than with some delicious homemade candy? From classic favorites like peppermint bark to modern twists like champagne gummy bears, we’ve got you covered with our top 10 favorite Christmas candy recipes.
Whether you’re planning on gifting these sweet treats to loved ones or just indulging in them all for yourself (no judgment here!), our recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth and elevate your holiday snacking experience. So grab your apron, turn on those holiday tunes, and let’s get started!
Introduction: Christmas Candy Recipes
It’s the time of year when we all love to indulge in some sweet treats, and what could be better than homemade Christmas candy? Making candy with your family and loved ones is a great way to celebrate the holiday season and create some unforgettable memories. In this article, we’ll share some amazing Christmas candy recipes with you that are easy and fun to make.
1. Fudge
Fudge is a classic Christmas candy that’s loved by everyone, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. To make fudge, you’ll need sugar, butter, evaporated milk, marshmallow cream, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 (7 oz.) jar marshmallow cream
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
To make fudge, start by combining the sugar, butter, and evaporated milk in a large saucepan, and cook over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Stir frequently while the mixture boils for about 5 minutes. Then, remove the pan from heat and add the chocolate chips, marshmallow cream, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Pour the fudge into a greased 9×13 inch pan and let it cool for a few hours before cutting it into small squares. You can also add chopped nuts, candies, or other ingredients to your fudge to make it even more delicious.
Fudge is a fun and easy Christmas candy recipe that’s perfect for making with your family and loved ones.
Classic Christmas Candies
Nothing says holiday cheer like a tray of homemade Christmas candies. These classic Christmas candy recipes will be a hit at your next holiday party. From peppermint bark to fruit and nut clusters, these candies are easy to make and perfect for gift-giving. So break out the candy thermometer and let’s get started!
Peppermint Bark
Peppermint bark is a classic Christmas candy recipe that is sure to impress your guests. To make this festive treat, melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave. Pour the melted chocolate onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. In a separate bowl, melt dark chocolate chips and pour over the white chocolate layer. Top the candy with crushed candy canes and chill in the refrigerator until firm. Once the bark has hardened, break it into pieces and serve.
Peppermint bark can also be made using milk or dark chocolate as the base layer. You can add peppermint extract to the white chocolate for an extra minty flavor, or mix in chopped nuts for added crunch. This candy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Fruit and Nut Clusters
If you’re looking for a healthier candy option, try making fruit and nut clusters. These candies are made with toasted almonds, pecans, and dried fruit such as cranberries or apricots. Melt your favorite chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave. Mix in the nuts and fruit, then drop spoonfuls onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator until firm and serve.
Fruit and nut clusters can be made with any combination of nuts and dried fruit. Try adding shredded coconut or chia seeds for added texture. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate such as dark chocolate or white chocolate.
Butter Toffee
Butter toffee is a crunchy and buttery candy that melts in your mouth. To make this candy, mix butter, sugar, and corn syrup in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer. Pour the hot toffee onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and sprinkle with chopped nuts or your favorite sprinkles. Chill in the refrigerator until firm, then break into bite-sized pieces.
Butter toffee can be made with any type of nut such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts. You can also add sea salt or cinnamon for added flavor. This candy can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
These classic Christmas candy recipes are easy to make and perfect for gift-giving. Whether you prefer peppermint bark, fruit and nut clusters, or butter toffee, these candies are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Festive Christmas Candies
During the holiday season, nothing beats biting into a sweet and festive Christmas candy. Whether it’s a classic peppermint bark or an unconventional fruitcake fudge, these homemade candies make great gifts or additions to any holiday dessert table. Here are three mouth-watering Christmas candy recipes that will delight your taste buds all season long.
Gingerbread Fudge
Get into the Christmas spirit with this delicious and creamy gingerbread fudge. This recipe combines the iconic flavors of gingerbread cookies with sweet and sticky molasses for a rich and festive treat.
To make this fudge, start by melting one can of sweetened condensed milk and three cups of white chocolate chips in a saucepan over medium heat. Once fully melted, add one teaspoon of ginger, half a teaspoon of cinnamon, and a quarter teaspoon of nutmeg to the mixture. Next, crumble one cup of gingerbread cookies and add them to the pot, along with two tablespoons of molasses. Stir everything together and pour the mixture into a greased 8×8 inch pan. Let it cool in the fridge for at least two hours before slicing into bite-sized squares.
Eggnog Truffles
If you love eggnog, you’ll adore these rich and velvety truffles coated in dark chocolate. With their creamy texture and indulgent flavor, they’ll add a touch of sophistication to any holiday party.
To make these truffles, start by melting six ounces of white chocolate chips in a bowl set over simmering water. In another saucepan, heat up a quarter cup of heavy cream and a quarter cup of eggnog until simmering. Pour the hot mixture over the melted white chocolate and stir until smooth. Add one teaspoon of nutmeg and a pinch of salt, and refrigerate the mixture until firm (about two hours). Once set, scoop spoonfuls of the mixture and roll them into small balls. Melt six ounces of dark chocolate and use a fork to dip each truffle into the chocolate, then let them cool on a sheet of wax paper.
Cranberry Pistachio Brittle
Treat your taste buds to a colorful and crunchy homemade brittle made with dried cranberries and pistachios. This recipe takes a classic candy to the next level by incorporating the tartness of cranberries and the earthy flavor of pistachios.
To make this brittle, preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a saucepan, heat up one cup of sugar, half a cup of light corn syrup, and a quarter cup of water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture reaches 300°F (the hard crack stage). Remove from heat and immediately stir in one and a half cups of shelled pistachios, one cup of dried cranberries, and one tablespoon of butter. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out into an even layer. Let it cool completely before breaking into pieces and serving.
These three festive Christmas candy recipes are sure to please your family and friends this holiday season. Whether you prefer creamy fudge, decadent truffles, or crunchy brittle, there’s something for everyone on this sweet and indulgent list.
International Christmas Candies
If you want to add some international flavors to your Christmas candy repertoire, you can try making these sweet treats from different parts of the world. These candies are not only delicious, but they also carry cultural significance and traditions that celebrate the festive season.
Italian Torrone
Torrone is a traditional Italian Christmas candy that originated in the city of Cremona, located in the Lombardy region of Italy. This nutty and chewy nougat candy is made with honey, almonds, and egg whites, and sometimes with other types of nuts and dried fruits as well. The candy is cooked over low heat until it forms a thick, sticky mixture, then poured into a mold where it cools and hardens. Torrone is often served during the Christmas season, and it’s also a popular gift to give to friends and family. Each region of Italy has its own version of torrone, making it a versatile and delicious treat to try.
Mexican Coconut Candy
Coconut candy, also known as cocadas, is a popular Mexican dessert that’s perfect for the Christmas season. These sweet and chewy candies are made with shredded coconut, condensed milk, sugar, and cinnamon, and sometimes flavored with vanilla or lime zest. The ingredients are mixed and cooked in a pan until the mixture thickens and forms into balls. Coconut candy is often enjoyed during Dia de los Muertos and Christmas festivals, and it’s also a favorite among children. You can make these candies in different colors and shapes to add a festive and fun touch to your Christmas candy bowl.
German Marzipan
If you love almond-based desserts, then you’ll love German marzipan. This traditional candy is made with ground almonds, sugar, and rose water, and sometimes flavored with other extracts like chocolate or orange. The marzipan dough is shaped into festive holiday figurines, such as angels, snowmen, or gingerbread men, and then decorated with icing sugar or other edible decorations. Marzipan is a popular treat in Germany, especially during the Christmas season, and it’s often sold in Christmas markets and specialty stores. You can make your own marzipan figurines at home and gift them to your loved ones or use them as festive decorations for your Christmas table.
In conclusion, these international Christmas candies offer a delicious and unique way to celebrate the festive season. Whether you prefer nutty torrone from Italy, sweet coconut candy from Mexico, or rich marzipan from Germany, these treats will add a touch of international flavor to your Christmas candy spread. Try making these candies at home and share them with your friends and family, or gift them to your loved ones for a sweet and memorable Christmas surprise.
Healthy Christmas Candies
Christmas candy doesn’t have to be all about indulgence! You can still satisfy your sweet tooth while making healthy choices. Here are three recipes that are both delicious and guilt-free.
Dark Chocolate Bark
Dark chocolate is known for its antioxidant properties, which makes this recipe a healthy treat. You can add any dried fruits and nuts you like to this bark recipe, but we recommend using almonds, cranberries, and pistachios. These nuts and fruits are packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats, making them great for snacking.
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 cup of dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup of dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup of roasted almonds
- 1/4 cup of roasted pistachios
Directions:
- Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler.
- Mix in the dried cranberries, roasted almonds, and roasted pistachios.
- Scoop the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until firm.
- Break into pieces and enjoy!
Peppermint Meringues
If you’re looking for a low-calorie yet flavorful candy, these peppermint meringues are perfect for you. Meringues are made with egg whites and sugar, which makes them light and airy. Add some peppermint extract for a refreshing twist.
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 egg whites
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract
- A pinch of salt
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°F (93°C).
- Beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Add the sugar, peppermint extract, and salt gradually while still beating the mixture.
- Pipe the mixture into small circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until the meringues are dry and crispy.
Almond Butter Cups
If you’re a fan of Nutella, you’ll love these almond butter cups. Not only are they healthier than Nutella, but they’re also gluten-free and free from refined sugar. Almond butter is high in healthy fats and protein, making it a perfect snack. Combine it with some dark chocolate and coconut oil, and you’ve got yourself a perfect candy.
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup of almond butter
- 1/4 cup of coconut oil
- 1/4 cup of maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup of dark chocolate chips
Directions:
- Melt the almond butter and coconut oil in a microwave or double boiler.
- Add the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt, and mix until well combined.
- Line a mini muffin pan with paper cups.
- Melt the dark chocolate chips, and pour a spoonful into each paper cup.
- Add a spoonful of the almond butter mixture on top of the chocolate in each cup.
- Top each cup off with another spoonful of melted chocolate.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until firm.
These healthy Christmas candy recipes are perfect for those who don’t want to compromise their health for sweet treats. Whether you make these candies for yourself or to give as gifts, you’ll enjoy them guilt-free!
Happy Holidays and Sweet Treats!
Thank you for taking the time to read about these 10 delicious Christmas candy recipes! We hope that you feel inspired to try them out and add some extra sweetness to your holiday season this year. Whether you are making them for a party, as a gift for a loved one, or just for yourself, we are sure that these recipes will not disappoint.
If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check back for more sweet recipes and holiday inspiration. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season filled with joy, love, and of course, plenty of delicious treats!
FAQ
1. Are these recipes difficult to make?
Not at all! These recipes are perfect for beginners or experienced bakers alike. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take your time.
2. Can I adjust the recipe to fit my dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! Many of these recipes can be easily adapted to fit dietary needs such as gluten-free, vegan, or low-sugar. Simply substitute ingredients as needed.
3. Where can I find the ingredients for these recipes?
Most of the ingredients can be found at your local grocery store. If you are having trouble finding a specific ingredient, try checking specialty food stores or ordering online.
4. How long do these candies last?
If stored properly in an airtight container, most of these candies will keep for up to two weeks. Some may even last longer.
5. Can I freeze these candies?
Yes, many of these candies can be frozen for later enjoyment. Be sure to wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe container.
6. Can I make these recipes in advance?
Definitely! Many of these recipes can be made in advance and stored until you are ready to serve or give as a gift.
7. Can I add my own twist to these recipes?
Absolutely! These recipes can be easily customized to include your favorite seasonal flavors or ingredients. Get creative and have fun!
8. Can I use different types of chocolate for these recipes?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite type of chocolate for these recipes. Just be sure to adjust the measurements as needed.
9. How can I package these candies for gift-giving?
There are many creative ways to package homemade candies for gift-giving. Try wrapping them in festive cellophane or placing them in a decorative tin.
10. Can I double these recipes if I am making them for a large group?
Absolutely! If you need to make a larger batch of these candies, simply adjust the measurements accordingly and follow the instructions as written.
