The festive season is upon us, and what’s more fun than making special holiday treats for kids during this time of the year? Creating these adorable and delicious snacks is a great way to make memorable moments with your little ones.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!These 19 christmas treats are not only a delight to look at but also a pleasure to eat. What’s more, they’re relatively simple to make, using ingredients you likely have on hand. This makes them perfect for family activities, holiday parties, or just a fun day at home.
Making these treats together creates lasting memories that go beyond just enjoying the food. It’s about sharing in the joy and magic of the season with your kids.
Key Takeaways
- 19 adorable and delicious holiday treat ideas for kids
- Simple recipes to make memorable moments with your children
- Perfect for holiday parties, school events, or family activities
- Many treats can be customized based on available ingredients
- Creating treats together makes lasting memories
Why Holiday Treats Make the Season Special
The holiday season is a time for creating special memories, and one of the best ways to do this is through baking holiday treats. The kitchen becomes the heart of the home during the holiday season, filled with the sights and smells of delicious Christmas treats that bring everyone together.
Creating Memories in the Kitchen
Baking with kids is a great way to create lasting memories. As you mix and bake, the holiday treats become a part of your family’s story. The smells and tastes of holiday baking are often associated with cherished memories that are passed down through generations.
Benefits of Baking with Kids
Involving kids in the kitchen has numerous benefits. It helps develop their fine motor skills, teaches them to follow instructions, and fosters patience and creativity. Baking together is a screen-free activity that encourages communication and bonding, making the time spent together truly special. As you bake, you’re not just making treats; you’re building family traditions that will last a lifetime.
Quick and Easy No-Bake Holiday Treats
For a hassle-free holiday treat option that’s perfect for kids, consider making some delicious no-bake goodies. The holiday season can be busy, and no-bake treats are a great way to simplify your baking schedule. They’re also ideal for making with younger children who may not be ready for complex baking tasks.
Christmas Wreath Cookies
These adorable cookies use cornflakes instead of traditional rice cereal, giving them a unique twist. Dressed up with green food coloring and red candies, they’re a pretty addition to any holiday cookie platter.
Snowman Donut Pops
Transform store-bought donuts into adorable snowmen on sticks, perfect for Christmas morning. These treats are easy to make and require no baking, making them a great activity for kids.
Peanut Butter Penguins
Using Nutter Butter cookies covered in chocolate and decorated to look like penguins, these treats are a fun and easy no-bake option. They’re perfect for kids and can be made ahead of time for holiday gatherings.
No-bake holiday treats like these are not only easy to make, but they also deliver on festive appearance and delicious taste without requiring an oven. They’re perfect for kids with short attention spans and can be made ahead of time for holiday gatherings or last-minute visitors.
Festive Holiday Cookies Kids Will Love
The holiday season isn’t complete without baking festive holiday cookies that kids will love. These sweet treats are not only delicious but also a great way to spend quality time with your little ones.
Reindeer Cookies
Reindeer Cookies are a fun and creative treat that kids will adore. Made with chocolate cookies, pretzel antlers, and candy decorations, these cookies transform into adorable reindeer faces. To make Reindeer Cookies, you’ll need a chocolate cookie recipe, pretzels, and candy eyes and noses.
Peanut Butter Christmas Mice
Peanut Butter Christmas Mice are another delightful cookie that kids will love. Made with peanut butter cookie dough shaped into mice, these treats feature licorice tails, candy noses, and peanut ears. They’re easy to make and perfect for little hands to help with.
Gingerbread Men
Gingerbread Men are a classic holiday tradition that kids enjoy making and decorating. Using a simple gingerbread men cookie recipe, you can create these treats and decorate them with royal icing that hardens for easy handling. This activity is a great way to get kids involved in the holiday spirit.
These festive holiday cookies are not only delicious but also make excellent gifts for teachers, neighbors, or friends during the holiday season. While they require baking, the decorating process is where kids can really express their creativity, making them a fun and memorable holiday activity.
Chocolate-Dipped Holiday Delights
During the holidays, dipping treats in chocolate is a simple yet impressive way to create sweet treats that kids and adults alike will love. Chocolate-dipped treats offer a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for holiday snacking, perfect for family gatherings or as gifts.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels combine the perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors, making them a hit with both kids and adults. To make, simply dip pretzels in melted chocolate and let them cool on a baking sheet.
Oreo Snowman Balls
Oreo Snowman Balls are a fun and creative treat made by crushing Oreos, mixing them with cream cheese, and shaping into balls. Dip the tops in white chocolate and decorate with mini M&Ms or other edible markers to create snowman faces.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods can be customized with different types of chocolate and festive sprinkles, making them a great option for holiday treats. Simply dip pretzel rods in melted chocolate and sprinkle with your favorite toppings before the chocolate hardens.
These chocolate-dipped delights are not only delicious but also make excellent homemade gifts when packaged in cellophane bags or glass jars. They’re an easy and fun project to make with kids, and the variety of chocolate types and toppings offers endless possibilities for customization.
Fun Holiday Bark Recipes
One of the easiest and most delicious holiday treats to make with kids is holiday bark, a sweet and salty delight. Holiday bark is a versatile dessert that can be customized with your family’s favorite flavors and add-ins, making it a great activity for kids of all ages.
Oreos and Candy Cane Chocolate Bark
This delicious bark combines the flavors of chocolate, cookies, and peppermint. To make it, melt some chocolate, add crushed candy canes and Oreos, and let it harden. The result is a delicious and festive treat perfect for the holiday season.
Snowman Bark
Snowman Bark is another fun and creative holiday treat. It uses white chocolate as a base and decorative elements to create snowman shapes. This bark is perfect for kids to help with, as they can get creative with the decorations.
Both of these bark recipes require only about 15 minutes of active preparation time, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules. You can break the bark into irregular pieces for a rustic look or cut it into squares for a more uniform presentation. Consider packaging the bark in decorative tins or boxes for homemade holiday gifts.
Adorable Holiday-Themed Rice Krispie Treats
With their versatility and ease of preparation, Rice Krispie treats are an ideal canvas for creating holiday-themed treats that kids will adore. These classic childhood snacks can be transformed into a variety of festive designs, making them perfect for holiday parties and bake sales.
Making Reindeer Rice Krispie Treats
Reindeer Rice Krispie treats are a fun and easy project that can be made using store-bought treats for convenience or homemade for a more personal touch. To create these adorable reindeer, simply shape the treats into desired forms, add pretzel antlers, and use candy eyes to bring the reindeer to life.
Creating Elf Hat Rice Krispie Treats
Elf Hat Rice Krispie treats are another delightful holiday design that kids will love. Form the treats into triangular shapes and decorate with green frosting to resemble elf hats. These treats are not only adorable but also gluten-free if made with gluten-free rice cereal, making them suitable for kids with dietary restrictions.
One of the best things about Rice Krispie treats is how forgiving and easy they are to work with, making them perfect for young helpers in the kitchen. You can also add a pop of color to your treats by incorporating food coloring into the marshmallow mixture for a festive touch. Additionally, these treats can be wrapped individually, making them ideal for bake sales or holiday parties.
Holiday Treats for Kids with Dietary Restrictions
The holiday season is a time to get creative with treats that are not only delicious but also safe for kids with dietary restrictions. As a parent or caregiver, it’s wonderful to include all children in the joy of holiday baking and snacking.
Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies
One of the simplest and most delicious gluten-free holiday treats is peanut butter cookies made with just 5 ingredients and no flour. These cookies are soft, tasty, and perfect for kids with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
Allergy-Friendly Holiday Snacks
For kids with severe allergies, it’s crucial to prepare snacks that avoid the top 8 allergens, including peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, soy, and wheat. Using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter is a great substitution. Allergy-friendly snacks can be just as festive and delicious as traditional treats.
When preparing holiday treats for children with dietary restrictions, it’s essential to read labels carefully and avoid cross-contamination. Clear labeling when serving these treats at gatherings is also important, so parents of children with allergies can easily identify safe options.
By making a few simple adjustments to traditional holiday recipes, we can ensure that all kids feel included in the holiday celebrations. Whether it’s gluten-free cookies or allergy-friendly snacks, these treats can bring joy to every child.
Festive Fudge Recipes Kids Can Help Make
Involving kids in fudge making is a wonderful way to spend quality time together during the holiday season. Fudge is a classic holiday treat that can be made simple and fun with kids. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you can create delicious fudge that everyone will love.
Easy Microwave Fudge
Easy Microwave Fudge is a great recipe for kids to help with, requiring just three ingredients: chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Simply melt these ingredients in the microwave, stir until smooth, and pour into a lined pan to set. This recipe is perfect for beginners and eliminates the need for stovetop cooking, making it safer for young helpers.
Peppermint Fudge
Peppermint Fudge is a festive flavor profile that’s perfect for the holiday season. Simply add peppermint extract to the Easy Microwave Fudge recipe and top with crushed candy canes for a delicious and festive touch. Kids can help with measuring ingredients, stirring the mixture, and adding toppings.
Fudge makes an excellent homemade gift when cut into squares and packaged in decorative boxes. You can also customize the fudge to your family’s preferences by adding nuts, dried fruits, or different extracts. With these easy fudge recipes, you can create a fun and delicious holiday tradition with your kids.
Holiday Treats for Kids That Double as Gifts
One of the joys of the holiday season is creating delicious treats that can be shared as gifts. Kids can be involved in making these treats, making it a fun and educational experience. Edible gifts are perfect for teachers, neighbors, and family friends.
Fudge in Cookie Cutters
Pouring fudge directly into holiday-shaped cookie cutters creates both a delicious treat and a reusable gift. To prepare, simply grease the cookie cutters with butter or cooking spray before adding the fudge mixture. Once set, the fudge can be packaged attractively for giving.
Homemade Peppermint Patties
Making homemade peppermint patties is a simple process that involves creating a creamy mint center and coating it in chocolate. These treats taste fresher and more delicious than store-bought alternatives. Package them in cellophane bags with festive ribbons or decorative tins for a beautiful gift.
These homemade treats are not only delicious but also make thoughtful gifts. Including a handwritten note or recipe card adds a personal touch, making the gift even more special.
Creative Holiday Cake Pops and Bites
As the holiday season approaches, I’m excited to share creative dessert ideas that are perfect for kids and adults alike. Cake pops and bite-sized treats are ideal for the holiday season, offering a fun and portion-controlled way to indulge in sweet treats.
Simplifying Starbucks-Inspired Cake Pops
One of my favorite holiday dessert recipes is a simplified version of Starbucks’ famous cake pops. By using cake mix, prepared frosting, and candy coatings, you can create these adorable treats at home. Simply form cake balls, insert sticks, and decorate with festive colors and sprinkles.
No-Bake Cookie Butter Blossoms
Another delicious no-bake treat is the Cookie Butter Blossoms. These bite-sized desserts combine rice cereal with cookie spread and chocolate kisses, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season. They’re easy to make and require no baking, making them a great option for kids to help with.
Sweet and Salty Holiday Treats
Sweet and salty holiday treats are a match made in heaven, offering a delightful twist on traditional festive snacks. These treats are not only delicious but also fun to make with family and friends.
The combination of sweet and salty flavors creates irresistible holiday treats that are perfect for snacking during movie nights or game nights. Two such treats that stand out are Rolo Pretzel Reindeer and Potato Chip Clusters.
Rolo Pretzel Reindeer
Rolo Pretzel Reindeer are adorable and easy to make. They transform simple pretzels, Rolo candies, and decorations into cute reindeer faces. To make them, melt the caramel candy on warm pretzels and add candy eyes and a red M&M nose.
Potato Chip Clusters
Potato Chip Clusters combine crushed potato chips with melted chocolate for a unique crunchy, sweet-salty treat. These clusters require minimal ingredients but deliver maximum flavor impact. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings and can be customized with different types of chips or chocolate.
Both Rolo Pretzel Reindeer and Potato Chip Clusters are universally appealing, making them perfect for both children and adults. You can also experiment with variations like using different chips or chocolate types to create customized flavors.
Holiday Treats That Use Store-Bought Shortcuts
With busy holiday schedules, semi-homemade treats are a lifesaver. Using store-bought shortcuts can simplify the baking process without sacrificing the festive spirit. I love how these treats allow kids to be involved in the decorating process, making it a fun family activity.
Snowman Doughnuts
Snowman Doughnuts are an adorable and easy treat that transforms store-bought doughnuts into snowmen with simple decorations like candy buttons and icing. To make, simply decorate the doughnuts with your favorite toppings.
Reindeer Christmas Brownies
Reindeer Christmas Brownies use a boxed brownie mix as a base, then add chocolate frosting and candy decorations to create adorable reindeer faces. This treat is perfect for kids to help with, as they can get creative with the decorations.
These semi-homemade treats are not only time-saving but also result in impressive, festive desserts perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings or classroom parties. Keeping a few boxed mixes and decorating supplies on hand can make impromptu baking sessions a breeze.
Minty Holiday Treats Kids Adore
Kids go crazy for minty holiday treats, and I’ve got two delicious ideas to share. Mint is a quintessential holiday flavor that adds a refreshing twist to sweet treats. The combination of chocolate and mint creates a delightful flavor that balances sweetness, making it a hit among kids.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies capture the flavors of a favorite winter beverage in cookie form. These cookies have a rich chocolate cookie base infused with peppermint extract and topped with crushed candy canes. The result is a scrumptious cookie that tastes like rich hot chocolate.
White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn
White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn is a festive snack that combines crunchy popcorn with creamy white chocolate and refreshing mint. This treat is perfect for holiday movie nights or after-school snacks. The bright colors of these minty treats make them visually appealing on holiday dessert tables.
Both of these minty treats are not only delicious but also make great gifts. You can package the White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for an easy homemade gift.
Colorful Holiday Treats for Festive Celebrations
Vibrant holiday treats not only taste great but also add to the festive decor of your celebrations. These colorful desserts are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike, making your holiday party or gathering even more special.
Christmas Swirl Fudge
Christmas Swirl Fudge is a delightful holiday treat that combines white chocolate with red and green swirls, creating a candy cane-inspired appearance. This fudge is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Grinch Cookies
Grinch Cookies are a fun and festive holiday treat inspired by the classic Dr. Seuss character. These bright green cookies with a small red heart decoration are sure to delight both kids and adults, adding a touch of whimsy to your holiday dessert table.
Tips for Storing and Gifting Holiday Treats
To keep holiday treats fresh and make them gift-worthy, consider these tips. Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality and freshness of your baked goods.
Best Containers for Freshness
The right container can make a significant difference in keeping your holiday treats fresh. For cookies, use airtight containers like resealable freezer bags to maintain softness. If cookies become too hard, you can soften them by adding a slice of white bread to the container. The cookies absorb the moisture, making them soft again.
| Treat Type | Best Container | Storage Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Cookies | Airtight Containers | Add a slice of white bread to soften |
| Candies | Refrigerated Containers | Keep away from direct sunlight |
| Fudge | Airtight Containers | Store in a cool, dry place |
Creative Packaging Ideas
When it comes to gifting your holiday treats, creative packaging can make your presents stand out. Consider using decorative tins, cellophane bags with ribbons, or mason jars to add a personal touch. Don’t forget to include gift tags with ingredient information for recipients with dietary restrictions.
By following these storage and packaging tips, you can ensure that your holiday treats remain fresh and delightful, both for your family and for those you gift them to.
Conclusion: Making Holiday Memories Through Sweet Treats
Making holiday treats with kids is more than just a fun activity; it’s a way to build traditions that last a lifetime. As we’ve explored throughout this article, there are countless ways to get your kids involved in the kitchen, from simple no-bake treats to more elaborate baked goods.
The time spent together in the kitchen is ultimately more valuable than the treats themselves. It’s a chance to bond, teach new skills, and create memories that will be cherished for years to come. Some of the easiest and most popular treats for beginners include Christmas Wreath Cookies and Snowman Donut Pops. These recipes are not only delicious but also fun to make with kids.
As you start your holiday treat-making journey, remember to begin small. Choose one or two recipes to start, and gradually build your traditions over time. These homemade treats can become a special part of your annual celebrations that your kids look forward to each year. Sharing these treats with neighbors, friends, and family also strengthens community bonds during the holiday season.
Don’t worry if your treats aren’t perfect – the imperfections often become part of their charm. Consider documenting your treat-making process with photos to preserve these special memories. I wish you and your family a joyous holiday season filled with sweet memories and delicious treats. Feel free to share your favorite holiday treat recipes and traditions in the comments below.
