As the holiday season twinkles into view, it’s time to sweeten the celebrations with a sprinkle of sugar, a dash of cocoa, and a whole lot of love! Whether you’re crafting treats for a festive gathering or simply indulging in some cozy kitchen creativity, our roundup of 20 Delicious Holiday Candy Recipes is your ticket to a sweeter season. Let’s dive into these irresistible confections that promise to delight every palate!
Peppermint Bark
Peppermint Bark is the perfect holiday treat that combines the cool taste of peppermint with rich chocolate, creating a festive dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 12 ounces white chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Refrigerate the semi-sweet chocolate layer for 20 minutes until set.
- Melt the white chocolate in a separate microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract.
- Pour the white chocolate over the set semi-sweet chocolate layer and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies over the white chocolate while it’s still wet.
- Refrigerate for another 20 minutes until completely set, then break into pieces.
The contrast between the dark and white chocolate layers, speckled with vibrant peppermint, makes this bark a standout on any holiday dessert table.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, use holiday-themed cookie cutters to cut the bark into fun shapes before it fully sets.
Homemade Chocolate Truffles
Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of these homemade chocolate truffles, a decadent treat that’s surprisingly simple to whip up in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 oz high-quality dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
- Place the finely chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, about 2-3 minutes. Do not let it boil.
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1 minute. Add the 2 tbsp of softened butter and 1 tsp of vanilla extract, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to scoop.
- Using a small spoon or a melon baller, scoop out portions of the chocolate mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls between your palms.
- Roll each truffle in cocoa powder until fully coated, then place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Refrigerate the truffles for another 30 minutes to set before serving.
These truffles stand out for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and the deep, complex flavors of high-quality dark chocolate, enhanced by a hint of vanilla.
Tip: For an extra touch of elegance, roll the truffles in crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or powdered sugar instead of cocoa powder.
Easy Fudge
Who says making fudge has to be complicated? This easy fudge recipe is your ticket to sweet, creamy bliss with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk, and 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully melted, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/4 tsp salt until well combined.
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is set and firm to the touch.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the dish. Cut into 1-inch squares and serve.
This fudge stands out for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and the perfect balance of sweetness and chocolate depth, thanks to the slow melting process.
Tip: For a festive twist, sprinkle the top with sea salt or crushed nuts before refrigerating.
Candy Cane Cookies
These Candy Cane Cookies are a festive twist on the classic sugar cookie, perfect for holiday baking sessions with family or friends.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 large egg, 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract.
- Gradually mix in 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon salt until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough in half. Mix 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring into one half until evenly colored.
- Take small pieces of each dough and roll them into ropes. Twist a red and white rope together, then bend the top to form a candy cane shape.
- Place cookies on prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, until set but not browned.
- Immediately sprinkle baked cookies with 1/2 cup crushed candy canes while still warm.
The almond extract adds a subtle depth to these cookies, making them stand out from typical holiday treats.
Tip: For a smoother dough, let it chill for 30 minutes before shaping if it feels too soft.
Gingerbread Caramels
These Gingerbread Caramels are a festive twist on classic homemade caramels, infusing the warm spices of gingerbread into every chewy bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1/4 cup molasses, and 1/4 cup light corn syrup. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 245°F (firm-ball stage), about 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in 1 tsp ground ginger, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, and 1/4 tsp salt until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Let cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until completely set.
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the caramel out of the pan. Cut into 1-inch squares with a sharp knife.
The deep molasses and spice blend gives these caramels a rich, complex flavor that’s unmistakably gingerbread, with a texture that’s perfectly chewy yet tender.
Tip: For a professional touch, wrap each caramel in wax paper squares and twist the ends to seal.
White Chocolate Popcorn
Transform your movie night into a sweet celebration with this irresistible White Chocolate Popcorn, a crunchy, creamy treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients
- 10 cups popped popcorn
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the 10 cups popped popcorn evenly on it.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup white chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon salt into the melted white chocolate mixture until well combined.
- Drizzle the white chocolate mixture over the popcorn, using a spatula to gently toss until all the popcorn is evenly coated.
- Allow the popcorn to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until the white chocolate hardens. Break apart any large clusters before serving.
The magic of this recipe lies in the perfect balance of salty and sweet, with the vanilla adding a subtle depth that elevates the white chocolate beyond the ordinary.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some colored sprinkles over the popcorn before the white chocolate sets.
Rocky Road Candy
Rocky Road Candy is the perfect blend of chocolatey goodness and crunchy nuts, with marshmallows adding a soft, sweet contrast. It’s a no-bake treat that comes together in minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gifts or a quick dessert fix.
Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, then fold in 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows and 1 cup roasted peanuts until evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Use the parchment overhang to lift the candy out of the dish, then cut into squares.
The magic of Rocky Road Candy lies in its contrasting textures—creamy chocolate, chewy marshmallows, and crunchy peanuts create a symphony in every bite. It’s a nostalgic treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Tip: For a twist, swap the peanuts for almonds or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before refrigerating for a sweet-salty flavor.
Peanut Butter Balls
These no-bake Peanut Butter Balls are a dreamy treat that combines creamy peanut butter with a crispy chocolate coating, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups rice cereal
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup honey, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in 1 1/2 cups rice cereal until evenly coated.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze for 30 minutes.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1 tbsp coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated, then return to the tray. Chill until the chocolate sets, about 15 minutes.
The magic of these Peanut Butter Balls lies in the contrast between the crunchy cereal inside and the smooth chocolate shell, making every bite a delightful surprise.
Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.
Maple Walnut Fudge
Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of Maple Walnut Fudge, a decadent treat that combines the deep flavors of maple syrup with the crunch of toasted walnuts.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 236°F on a candy thermometer (soft-ball stage).
- Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Let cool for 5 minutes without stirring.
- Using a wooden spoon, beat the mixture vigorously until it thickens and loses its gloss, about 5 minutes. Quickly fold in 1 cup chopped toasted walnuts.
- Pour the fudge into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Let cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
The magic of this fudge lies in its velvety texture and the way the maple’s warmth plays off the walnuts’ earthiness—no two bites are exactly the same.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the fudge before it sets.
Christmas Gumdrops
Bring a touch of holiday magic to your kitchen with these homemade Christmas Gumdrops, a festive treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp unflavored gelatin
- 1/2 tsp lemon extract
- 1/2 tsp orange extract
- 1/2 tsp raspberry extract
- Red and green food coloring
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in unflavored gelatin until fully dissolved.
- Divide the mixture into three bowls. To each bowl, add 1/2 tsp of lemon extract, orange extract, or raspberry extract, and a few drops of red or green food coloring to tint as desired.
- Pour each flavored mixture into a greased 8×8 inch pan. Let set at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Once set, cut the gumdrops into small squares using a greased knife. Toss each piece in the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar to coat.
These Christmas Gumdrops stand out with their vibrant colors and trio of fruity flavors, making them a cheerful addition to any holiday candy platter.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, use cookie cutters to shape the gumdrops into holiday-themed figures before they fully set.
Toasted Coconut Clusters
These Toasted Coconut Clusters are a crunchy, sweet treat that’s surprisingly simple to whip up with just a handful of ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix together 2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 tsp sea salt, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until the coconut is evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small clusters, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Let the clusters cool completely on the baking sheet to harden before serving.
The magic of these clusters lies in their perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, making them an irresistible snack or dessert topping.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, drizzle the cooled clusters with melted dark chocolate.
Dark Chocolate Almond Bark
Dark Chocolate Almond Bark is the perfect treat for those who love the rich combination of crunchy almonds and smooth dark chocolate. It’s incredibly easy to make and requires just a few ingredients!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup whole almonds, toasted
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a double boiler over medium heat, melt the 12 ounces of dark chocolate with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of toasted almonds until evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out into an even layer with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt evenly over the top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until completely set.
- Once set, break the bark into pieces and serve.
The contrast between the creamy dark chocolate and the crunchy almonds, topped with a hint of sea salt, makes this bark irresistibly delicious. It’s a foolproof recipe that’s sure to impress.
Tip: For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle melted white chocolate over the set bark before breaking it into pieces.
Cherry Cordials
Indulge in the sweet, luxurious taste of homemade Cherry Cordials, a perfect treat to dazzle your taste buds and impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 24 maraschino cherries with stems, well-drained
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup dark chocolate chips, 1/4 cup heavy cream, and 1 tbsp unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
- Holding each maraschino cherry by its stem, dip into the chocolate mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow excess chocolate to drip off, then place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Sprinkle each cherry lightly with powdered sugar before the chocolate sets. Repeat with all cherries.
- Refrigerate the tray for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
The magic of these Cherry Cordials lies in the contrast between the juicy cherry center and the rich, velvety chocolate shell—a duo that’s simply irresistible.
Tip: For an extra glossy finish, temper your chocolate before dipping the cherries.
Pecan Pralines
Dive into the sweet, buttery world of Southern hospitality with these easy-to-make Pecan Pralines that are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir continuously until the sugars dissolve and the mixture comes to a boil.
- Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan. Cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage), about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 1/2 cups pecan halves. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Quickly drop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Let cool completely until set, about 30 minutes.
These Pecan Pralines stand out with their creamy texture and the perfect balance of sweetness, thanks to the combination of granulated and brown sugars.
Tip: For an extra glossy finish, lightly butter the parchment paper before dropping the praline mixture.
Orange Creamsicle Fudge
This Orange Creamsicle Fudge is a dreamy, creamy treat that combines the nostalgic flavors of a classic creamsicle with the rich texture of homemade fudge.
Ingredients
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange extract
- Orange food coloring (optional)
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers (optional for texture)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon orange extract. If using, add a few drops of orange food coloring until desired color is achieved.
- If adding crushed vanilla wafers for texture, fold them into the fudge mixture now.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm. Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.
The magic of this fudge lies in its velvety texture and the bright burst of orange that perfectly complements the sweet white chocolate base.
Tip: For an extra creamy texture, let the fudge sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
Vanilla Bean Caramels
Dive into the world of homemade sweets with these luxurious Vanilla Bean Caramels, a perfect blend of creamy texture and rich flavor that’s surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on all sides.
- In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, salt, and vanilla bean seeds. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil.
- Stop stirring and cook until the mixture reaches 248°F on a candy thermometer (firm-ball stage), about 10 minutes.
- Carefully pour the cream mixture into the sugar mixture, stirring constantly. The mixture will bubble vigorously. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the temperature reaches 245°F (firm-ball stage), about 15 minutes.
- Pour the caramel into the prepared pan and let cool completely at room temperature, about 2 hours.
- Using the parchment overhang, lift the caramel out of the pan. Cut into 1-inch squares with a sharp knife.
The real magic of these caramels lies in the speckles of vanilla bean throughout, offering a depth of flavor that’s unmatched by extract alone.
Tip: For a professional touch, wrap each caramel in wax paper twists to give as gifts or keep for a sweet treat anytime.
Salted Caramel Pretzel Bites
These Salted Caramel Pretzel Bites are the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mini pretzel twists
- 1/2 cup caramel candies, unwrapped
- 1 tbsp heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tsp coconut oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the mini pretzel twists in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Place one caramel candy on top of each pretzel twist.
- Bake for 5 minutes, or until the caramel candies have softened.
- Remove from the oven and gently press another pretzel twist on top of each melted caramel to form a sandwich. Let cool.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Dip each pretzel bite halfway into the melted chocolate, then place back on the parchment paper.
- Sprinkle the sea salt over the chocolate-dipped pretzel bites before the chocolate sets.
- Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature, about 30 minutes.
The contrast between the crunchy pretzel, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate creates a texture that’s simply addictive.
Tip: For an extra touch, drizzle any remaining melted chocolate over the tops of the pretzel bites before the chocolate sets.
Honeycomb Candy
Crunchy, sweet, and utterly addictive, this Honeycomb Candy is a delightful treat that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup light corn syrup, and 1 tbsp honey. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and bring to a boil.
- Cook the mixture until it reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer (hard crack stage), about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in 2 tsp baking soda and 1 tsp vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up dramatically.
- Immediately pour onto the prepared baking sheet. Do not spread; the mixture will settle on its own.
- Let cool completely, about 1 hour, then break into pieces.
The magic of this candy lies in its airy, honeycomb texture that shatters with each bite, releasing a burst of sweet vanilla flavor.
Tip: For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled candy pieces.
Spiced Pecan Brittle
This Spiced Pecan Brittle is a crunchy, sweet treat with a kick of warmth from cinnamon and cayenne, perfect for gifting or snacking during the holidays.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water. Stir until sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and bring to a boil. Cook until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer (hard crack stage), about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in 1 cup pecans, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, and 1/4 tsp salt until well combined.
- Immediately stir in 1 tsp baking soda (the mixture will foam). Quickly pour onto the prepared baking sheet and spread thinly with a spatula. Let cool completely, about 1 hour, then break into pieces.
The contrast of sweet sugar and spicy cayenne makes this brittle irresistibly moreish, with the pecans adding a buttery crunch.
Tip: For an even distribution of heat, mix the cayenne with the cinnamon before adding to the brittle.
Eggnog Truffles
These Eggnog Truffles are a festive twist on the classic holiday drink, transforming its creamy, spiced flavors into bite-sized delights perfect for your dessert table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup eggnog
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream and eggnog over low heat until warm. Do not boil.
- Add the white chocolate chips, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon.
- Pour the mixture into a bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to roll.
- Once chilled, use a spoon to scoop out small amounts, rolling them into 1-inch balls.
- In a shallow dish, mix together the powdered sugar and crushed graham crackers. Roll each truffle in the mixture until fully coated.
- Place the truffles on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for another 30 minutes before serving.
The combination of creamy white chocolate and spiced eggnog, rolled in a sweet and crunchy coating, makes these truffles irresistibly festive.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a little extra nutmeg on top of each truffle before serving.
Conclusion
We hope this roundup of 20 Delicious Holiday Candy Recipes inspires your sweet celebrations! Each recipe is a delightful way to spread joy this season. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for your next holiday gathering. Happy cooking and even happier indulging!