Christmas is a season of warmth, joy, and, of course, unforgettable desserts. From the smell of fresh gingerbread cookies filling the kitchen to the sight of a decadent yule log on the holiday table, sweets have a way of making the season feel extra special.
Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, planning a holiday party, or simply looking for something sweet to enjoy with a cup of cocoa, Christmas desserts bring comfort and cheer in every bite.
In this guide, you’ll find everything from nostalgic classics like fruitcake and sugar cookies to modern twists like peppermint cupcakes and eggnog cheesecake. There are also easy no-bake treats, show-stopping cakes, and kid-friendly ideas that double as fun holiday activities. No matter your baking style or skill level, these recipes and ideas will help you end your festive meals on the sweetest note possible.
30+ Best Christmas Desserts
1.Yule Log (Bûche de Noël)
This yule log is a show-stopper: soft cocoa-flavored sponge cake rolled with cocoa-hazelnut whipped cream filling, topped with chocolate ganache, plus decorations like meringue “mushrooms,” sugared cranberries, rosemary sprigs, etc.
Because of multiple elements (cake, filling, ganache, decorations), you can make parts ahead (bake the sponge, make filling, ganache), then assemble closer to serving.
Chill well so slices hold shape. Serve slices standing or lying on a festive platter; dust with powdered sugar for a “snowy” effect. It looks dramatic and decadent, perfect for holiday dessert tables.
2. Classic sugar cookies with royal icing
These sugar cookies are classic, lightly sweet, easy to make, and decorated with icing. They are quite simple and fast compared to heavier desserts. They can be made ahead.
You can bake them a day or two before, decorate, and store them in airtight containers. Serve on a cookie plate, with various shapes & colored icing, maybe sprinkles or festive sugar.
Great for gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as part of a dessert spread, with milk, cocoa, or tea. Their simplicity makes them highly versatile.
3. Thumbprint cookies with jam
These are small buttery cookies with an indent (“thumbprint”) filled with jam, often fruit-flavoured. They’re charming, colorful, and very giftable. They can also be made ahead—the cookies can be baked, filled, and stored for a day or more in airtight tins.
Serve these as bite-sized treats, perhaps with tea or coffee, or on a cookie platter. Their small size means guests can try several kinds. They also make beautiful edible gifts when packaged nicely.
4. Gingerbread cookies
These soft, spiced gingerbread cookies are deeply flavored with molasses, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and brown sugar, with a chewy texture that’s just perfect for holiday baking. The dough is chilled for at least 2 hours so the shapes hold well during baking.
You can make the dough ahead (wrap and refrigerate up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 3 months) and bake later; once baked, the cookies keep 4-5 days in an airtight container and even improve as their flavors deepen.
Serve them plain, or decorate with royal icing, sprinkles, or a glaze. Excellent with milk or hot chocolate.
5. Christmas Trifle
This English Christmas Trifle layers almond pound cake (soaked in liqueur), poached pears, fresh raspberries, homemade custard (crème anglaise), and whipped cream, making for a visually stunning and taste-rich dessert.
Many components custard, poached pears, and pound cake, can be made a day or two in advance. Then assemble just before serving so the whipped cream is fresh. Serve in a large glass bowl so the layers show; garnish with fresh fruit, slivered almonds, and mint for that festive look.
Perfect for parties with large groups.
6. Christmas Parfait
These Christmas Parfaits feature fudgy brownie pieces, peppermint white chocolate pudding, and whipped cream, with crushed peppermint candy on top for crunch and holiday flair. They’re fast to put together (about 20 minutes) since there’s no baking required beyond the brownie-making; if using pre-made or boxed brownies, you’ll save more time.
Best served chilled, ideally in clear glasses or dessert jars so guests can see the layers. Garnish with crushed candy canes.
7. Cheesecake Truffles
These decadent little bites combine cream cheese, crushed graham crackers, and strawberry flavor, formed into truffles and often dipped or dusted for extra sweetness. Because they are small and no-bake (after mixing), they make a wonderful make-ahead dessert gift or party treat you can prepare and refrigerate ahead, then serve cold or at room temperature.
Serve on a platter (dust with freeze-dried strawberry powder or drizzle white chocolate) for a pretty presentation. Their size and flavor make them ideal for nibbling, gifts, or part of a dessert tray.
8. Chocolate Bark
This easy chocolate bark is a flexible, fuss-free dessert: melt chocolate, spread it out, and cover with toppings like nuts, dried fruit, sea salt, perhaps peppermint or crushed candy canes. It makes fantastic gifts or additions to dessert platters. You can make it ahead once the bark is set, store it in a cool, dry place, and break it into pieces when you’re ready to serve.
Serve laid out on parchment paper or a decorated tray, perhaps boxed with festive ribbon for gifting. Great when you want a high visual impact with minimal effort.
9. Icebox Cake
This Christmas Icebox Cake layers graham crackers (or cookies), whipped cream (often sweetened/vanilla), and seasonal flavors (like chocolate or vanilla), chilled overnight until the layers meld into a soft, cake-like texture.
Because there’s no baking required beyond any cookie base, it’s perfect to assemble the night before or several hours ahead. Keep well covered in the fridge so it holds its shape and texture.
Serve cold, sliced straight from the fridge, often with fresh berries or chocolate shavings on top. It’s elegant, effortless, and a great dessert when oven space (or time) is limited.
10. Peppermint Mocha Cupcakes
These cupcakes are a moist chocolate-mocha cake infused with coffee and topped with a peppermint Swiss meringue buttercream; rich, festive, and very indulgent.
You can make the cupcakes ahead (the cake base can be made, cooled, and even frozen; buttercream can also be made earlier and refrigerated), then frost shortly before serving to keep the frosting fresh.
Serve with a swirl of frosting, maybe a drizzle of chocolate ganache, and crushed candy cane or peppermint pieces on top. They’re great plated as dessert or boxed for gifting, best enjoyed at room temperature so the buttercream texture is cream-soft.
11. Fruitcake
This dense and incredibly moist fruit cake is loaded with a wealth of dried fruit, nuts, warm spices, and a hint of brandy or rum. It’s ideal as a holiday centerpiece or gift loaf. It can be made ahead of time, the flavours deepen if you bake it a couple of weeks in advance, and let the alcohol mature.
Store wrapped tightly, brushing occasionally with more spirit to keep moist. Serve at room temperature, sliced thinly (since it’s rich), maybe with a cup of tea or a dollop of whipped cream. Also looks lovely on a platter decorated with nuts or candied peel.
12. Christmas Pudding/ Figgy pudding
This is a classic steamed Christmas pudding full of chopped dates, apricots, raisins, currants, candied ginger, butter, buttermilk and a hint of whiskey (or other spirit) plus zest and juice of orange. It can be made ahead you can mix, steam, and then let it rest (even refrigerate overnight) before serving.
When ready, reheat/steam again. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream, heavy cream, or a crème anglaise; drizzle with golden syrup or maple syrup for extra richness. It’s hearty and perfect for finishing a rich Christmas meal.
13. Eggnog Cheesecake
This cheesecake blends the creamy richness of traditional cheesecake with festive eggnog flavors — nutmeg, cinnamon, maybe a touch of vanilla or rum. Because cheesecakes need time to set, they must be made ahead (often a day or more before) to allow chilling and proper texture.
Serve cold or slightly chilled, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon. A slice on its own is decadent; it pairs beautifully with coffee or a small fruit compote. Refrigerate leftovers, tightly covered, for up to several days to preserve flavor and texture.
14. Cranberry Bliss Bars
These bars combine a buttery base, cranberries, white chocolate drizzle or frosting, and often cream cheese elements, delivering a balance of tartness and sweetness. They can be made ahead, bake the bar base a day or two prior, and frost or drizzle later (so toppings look fresh). Serve cut into small squares or bars; they shine on dessert platters or gift boxes.
Garnish with extra cranberries or a dusting of powdered sugar for presentation. Best stored chilled if frosting is involved; bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
15. Red velvet with cream cheese frosting
This Red Velvet Cake features the classic moist red chocolate-tinged sponge layers with cream cheese frosting between and on top. Because it is more involved, you can make parts ahead: bake the cake layers a day early and store wrapped; prepare frosting ahead and refrigerate, then assemble just before serving.
Serve slices on dessert plates with a thick ribbon of cream cheese frosting, maybe a garnish of red sprinkles, rose petals, or white chocolate curls. It’s dramatic on the holiday dessert table; keeping it slightly cool helps hold shape, but let slices warm a bit so frosting isn’t too stiff.
16. Chocolate cake with peppermint buttercream
This decadent chocolate cake is infused with peppermint both in the cake layers and in the buttercream frosting, making it a festive and flavor-packed holiday centerpiece. The texture is soft, moist, and richly chocolatey, with buttermilk adding depth to the flavor.
You can make this cake ahead- the layers can be baked and cooled in advance; the frosting can also be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge.
Store frosted cake refrigerated (especially if the buttercream is rich), then bring to room temperature before serving so it’s not too firm. Decorate with crushed candy canes or red sprinkles for a holiday look, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a mug of hot cocoa.
17. Pavlova
This pavlova is a show-stopper with crisp outer shell and marshmallow-soft interior, topped with lightly sweetened whipped cream and a mix of fresh fruit (berries etc). It’s elegant, airy, and visually stunning, especially with layers of color from fruit.
The meringue base can be made ahead (up to 3 days) and stored at room temperature, with whipped cream kept separately. Assemble just before serving (so the whipped cream doesn’t make the meringue soggy).
Slice or serve as individual nests; garnish with mint or edible flowers. Best eaten soon after assembly.
18. Meringue Wreath
This version of pavlova is shaped like a festive wreath, decorated with bright strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, pomegranate arils, and mint leaves for red & green holiday colors. The shell is crisp outside, soft inside, just like a classic pavlova, but the presentation makes it a centerpiece.
You can make the meringue shell up to five days ahead and store it in a cool, dry place; add the whipped cream and fruit just before serving. Serve on a large platter, dusted with powdered sugar. Leftovers are best eaten within two days once topped.
19. Pecan pie
This is a classic pecan pie with a rich, caramel-like filling and a flaky, buttery crust. The filling’s mix of sugars and pecans gives it texture and flavor, plus visual appeal when pecans are placed decoratively on top. It can be made ahead bake the pie 1-3 days in advance, allow it to cool, then cover and refrigerate.
You can also prepare the crust and filling earlier. Before serving, let it come to room temperature about an hour beforehand to bring out the flavor. Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Leftovers (covered) stay good in the fridge for several days.
20. Pumpkin pie
This pumpkin pie has a smooth, creamy, warmly spiced filling in a flaky crust, with tips included to avoid cracks and ensure even baking. The filling is custard-based, enriched with pumpkin puree and aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, etc. It can be made ahead the pie can be baked a day ahead, and stored refrigerated.
The dough/crust can also be prepared ahead or frozen for future use. Cool completely before refrigerating. Serve chilled or brought gently to room temperature; garnish with whipped cream and perhaps a dusting of cinnamon. Leftovers keep well covered in the fridge for several days.
21. Reindeer Cupcakes
These festive chocolate cupcakes are transformed into charming reindeer with pretzel antlers, Nilla wafers for muzzles, M&M’s for noses and eyes, and plenty of chocolate frosting. Perfect for kids’ holiday parties or classroom treats because decoration is easy and fun.
The base cupcakes and frosting can be made ahead (the cake baked & cooled, frosting prepared), but for best results, decorate close to serving so the pretzel antlers stay crisp. Serve at room temperature; place on a platter so the faces show, these are as much decor as dessert.
22. Santa Hat Brownies
This dessert arranges strawberries and other sweet elements to resemble Santa, typically by slicing strawberries and topping with whipped cream to mimic Santa’s hat and beard. It’s light, fresh, and fun, especially for families.
Because it uses fresh fruit and whipped topping, assemble just before serving to keep things vibrant and avoid sogginess.
You might prep the strawberries earlier (washed, hulled), but finalize decoration last minute. Serve chilled as a palate‐cleanser or alongside heavier desserts. Great for kids or those who want something lighter.
23. Candy Cane Dessert
This dessert layers or combines candy cane flavors, crushed peppermint, white chocolate or cream, perhaps in a pudding, cake, parfait, or bark format for a sweet, minty holiday treat.
Because peppermint and cold creams or fillings hold up fairly well, parts can be made ahead (the base or cream mixture), then layered or garnished just before serving, so the peppermint crunch remains.
Serve cold, in clear glasses or dishes so the layers and crushed peppermint show, maybe with whipped cream topping. Visually festive and great for mint lovers.
24. Stuffed baked apples
These baked apples are stuffed perhaps with brown sugar, nuts, spices, and baked until soft and fragrant, often topped with ice cream or cream. Warm, comforting, and a classic holiday dessert option with apples’ natural sweetness and spice tones. They can be made ahead up to the point of baking, or even baked earlier and gently reheated, though fresh baking gives the best texture.
Serve warm, drizzled with sauce (caramel, vanilla cream), maybe with a scoop of ice cream or dollop of whipped cream; good for single-serving presentation in ramekins.
25. Poached pears in wine
These pears are gently poached in red wine with spices (cinnamon, cloves, etc), resulting in tender, deeply flavored fruit with beautiful color. Elegant, somewhat lighter than heavier desserts, and great for serving at the end of meals or as part of dessert platters.
They can be made ahead – poach them a day or two ahead, refrigerate in their poaching liquid so they stay moist and flavorful; rewarm or serve chilled depending on preference. Serve on its own or with cream, yogurt, mascarpone, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream; garnish with the poaching syrup and maybe some nuts for texture.
Planning Your Christmas Dessert Table
Balance Flavors and Textures
Mix rich and indulgent desserts with lighter, fruit-based options. For example, pair a heavy yule log with something refreshing like citrus salad or pavlova so guests have variety.
Mix Make-Ahead and Fresh Desserts
Reduce stress by preparing certain desserts in advance, such as truffles, bark, or cheesecakes. Save last-minute items like meringues or whipped toppings for the day of your gathering. This balance helps you stay organized without sacrificing quality.
Incorporate Color and Festive Presentation
Use holiday-inspired garnishes like sugared cranberries, sprigs of rosemary, or powdered sugar “snow” to instantly elevate your spread. Serving on tiered stands or arranging treats in themed platters adds to the festive look.
Portion for Easy Serving
Cut bars, brownies, and tarts into bite-sized pieces so guests can sample multiple desserts. Mini versions also prevent waste and encourage variety.
Consider Dietary Needs
Offer at least one gluten-free, vegan, or lighter option so all guests feel included. Labeling desserts can be a thoughtful extra touch.