Mini Christmas Desserts: 7 Festive Treats to Cherish

mini christmas desserts

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a sweet way to sprinkle a little joy into your holiday celebrations, you’ve got to try these mini Christmas desserts! They’re not just adorable; they’re bursting with festive flavors that make every bite feel like a hug. I grew up making these with my family every Christmas, and it always brought us together in the kitchen, laughing and decorating with sprinkles like it was a competition. Trust me, the best part is pulling them out of the oven and seeing those little treats puff up perfectly! Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or cozying up with loved ones, these delightful bites are sure to bring smiles all around. So, let’s dive into the magic of mini Christmas desserts!

Ingredients for Mini Christmas Desserts

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to whip up your mini Christmas desserts. Each one plays a role in making these treats festive and delicious!

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of your desserts, giving them structure and a lovely soft texture.
  • 1/2 cup sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that perfect tender crumb.
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: For that rich chocolate flavor that makes everything better!
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened: It adds moisture and a delightful richness to the batter.
  • 2 large eggs: These are vital for binding everything together and giving your desserts a fluffy lift.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Trust me, this brings in that warm, comforting aroma that screams “holiday!”
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: This little leavening agent ensures your bites are nice and fluffy.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the sweet flavors—don’t skip it!
  • 1 cup powdered sugar: For the icing that brings sweetness and that festive touch.
  • 2 tablespoons milk: Just enough to create a smooth, drizzle-able icing.
  • Red and green sprinkles for decoration: These are the cherry on top, adding that holiday cheer!
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Ninja | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry

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REALINN Under Sink Organizer

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Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater

How to Prepare Mini Christmas Desserts

Ready to get your hands a little messy and create some holiday magic? Let’s dive into the preparation of these delightful mini Christmas desserts! I promise it’s easier than you think, and the end result is so worth it. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of festive treats ready in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because a hot oven is key to getting those mini desserts to rise beautifully!
  2. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix is what brings all the flavors together, so make sure it’s well combined.
  3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. You want a nice creamy texture here—this is where all that deliciousness starts!
  4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well. You’ll love that heavenly aroma wafting up—pure holiday magic!
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Don’t rush this part; mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough mini desserts, and we want these to be soft and delightful!
  6. Now, it’s time to pour the batter into your mini muffin tins. I like to use festive liners to add a pop of holiday cheer!
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes. Check them with a toothpick; it should come out clean when they’re done. Just imagine that warm chocolate smell filling your kitchen!
  8. Once baked, let them cool in the tins for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Patience is key here—let them cool completely before icing.
  9. For the icing, simply mix the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle it over your mini desserts and top with those colorful red and green sprinkles. It’s the final touch that makes them festive!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore these mini Christmas desserts! They’re not just tasty; they’re also a joy to make and share. Here’s why they’re sure to become a holiday favorite in your kitchen:

  • Quick to prepare: You can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
  • Festive appearance: With their vibrant sprinkles and adorable size, these little treats look like they belong on Santa’s dessert platter!
  • Perfect for gatherings: They’re easy to serve and a hit with both kids and adults—everyone loves a mini dessert!
  • Customizable with toppings: Feel free to get creative! Whether it’s chocolate chips, different sprinkles, or a drizzle of caramel, you can make them your own.
  • Great for sharing: They’re easy to package up and give as gifts or take to parties, spreading holiday cheer wherever they go.
  • Deliciously chocolatey: The rich cocoa flavor is a crowd-pleaser, and who can resist the combo of chocolate and sprinkles?

Tips for Success

Want to ensure your mini Christmas desserts turn out perfectly every time? I’ve got you covered with some tried-and-true tips that I swear by! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you nail the recipe and impress everyone around you.

  • Use quality ingredients: Fresh eggs, real vanilla extract, and high-quality cocoa powder make a huge difference in flavor. It’s worth investing a bit more for that extra holiday magic!
  • Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can make your desserts dense instead of fluffy—yikes!
  • Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is a bit different, so start checking your mini desserts at the 15-minute mark. You want them just set, so they stay soft and tender.
  • Let them cool completely: Patience is key! Make sure they cool fully before icing them. This prevents the icing from melting away into a puddle of sweetness.
  • Get creative with decorations: Feel free to switch up the sprinkles with crushed candy canes, edible glitter, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate for a gourmet touch!
  • Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm holiday spice twist that’ll elevate your mini desserts even more.
  • Have fun with presentation: Use festive liners, arrange them on a pretty platter, or wrap them up in clear bags with ribbons for a cute gift. Presentation can make your treats even more special!

Variations on Mini Christmas Desserts

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up, there are so many fun ways to customize these mini Christmas desserts! Here are some delightful variations that can cater to different tastes and make your treats even more festive:

  • Mint Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing twist. Top with crushed peppermint candies for an extra holiday touch!
  • White Chocolate: Fold in white chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate for a creamy, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the cocoa base.
  • Nutty Delight: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the soft mini desserts beautifully. You could even sprinkle some on top for decoration!
  • Spiced Pumpkin: Swap out 1/4 cup of the flour for pumpkin puree and add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a cozy autumn-inspired treat that’s perfect for the holidays.
  • Red Velvet: For a festive twist, use a bit of red food coloring in the batter and swap some cocoa for additional flour. Top with cream cheese icing for that classic red velvet flavor!
  • Fruit-Filled: Add a dollop of fruit preserves or jam in the center of each mini dessert before baking. Raspberry or cherry would add a lovely tangy surprise!
  • Chocolate Orange: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange zest into the batter to give a bright citrus note that pairs wonderfully with the chocolate.
  • Caramel Drizzle: After icing your mini desserts, drizzle melted caramel over the top for an indulgent touch that will have everyone coming back for more!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to make your mini Christmas desserts uniquely yours. It’s all about having fun in the kitchen and creating something delicious that your loved ones will adore!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a delicious batch of mini Christmas desserts, and now you’re wondering how to keep them fresh for those later cravings? No worries! Storing these little bites is super simple. Just follow my tips to ensure they stay tasty and delightful!

  • Storing: Place your mini Christmas desserts in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, pop them in the fridge, where they can last up to a week. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to prevent them from drying out!
  • Freezing: If you want to save some for a later date, you can freeze them! Just wrap each mini dessert tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
  • Reheating: To bring them back to their delightful, fresh state, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds. This will warm them up just enough to enjoy! If you’ve got a bit of icing on top, be careful not to overheat them, or you might melt the icing. Alternatively, you can enjoy them cold straight from the fridge!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll always have a tasty mini Christmas dessert ready to put a smile on your face whenever the craving strikes! Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Curious about what’s in these delightful mini Christmas desserts? Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional values based on the ingredients I use. Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on specific brands or if you decide to make any substitutions:

  • Serving Size: 1 mini dessert
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

These little treats are a wonderful combination of sweetness and flavor without going overboard. They’re perfect for indulging during the holiday season while still keeping an eye on balance. Enjoy every bite, and remember that the joy of cooking and sharing is just as important as the numbers on the nutritional label!

FAQ About Mini Christmas Desserts

I know you might have some questions about these delightful mini Christmas desserts, and I’m here to help! Here are some frequently asked questions that can guide you through making and enjoying these treats.

How long do these mini desserts stay fresh?
These mini Christmas desserts will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container. If you keep them in the fridge, they can last about a week, but they may dry out a bit, so make sure they’re sealed well!

Can I freeze mini Christmas desserts?
Absolutely! Just wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for about 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge.

What can I substitute for eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for each egg. This works well in keeping the texture nice and moist!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
You can, but I recommend using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to maintain the light texture of the mini desserts. Whole wheat flour can make them a bit denser, so a 50/50 mix is a great start!

What toppings do you recommend?
Get creative with your toppings! You can use chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, or even drizzles of caramel or white chocolate. Fresh fruit, like raspberries or strawberries, could also make a beautiful and tasty addition!

Can I make these in advance for a party?
Definitely! You can make these mini Christmas desserts a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container, and they’ll be ready to impress your guests when the time comes!

What should I serve them with?
These mini desserts pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or even a festive holiday punch. For an extra treat, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side!

Can I make them without cocoa powder?
Yes! If you want a fun twist, you can swap out the cocoa powder and make vanilla mini desserts instead. Just replace the cocoa with an equal amount of flour and add a bit of extra vanilla for flavor!

These FAQs should help you navigate making and enjoying your mini Christmas desserts. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to share my kitchen wisdom!

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mini christmas desserts

Mini Christmas Desserts: 7 Festive Treats to Cherish


  • Author: Julia marin
  • Total Time: 38 minutes
  • Yield: 24 mini desserts 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A collection of delightful mini desserts perfect for Christmas.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • Red and green sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar together.
  4. Add eggs and vanilla to the butter mixture, mixing well.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
  6. Pour batter into mini muffin tins.
  7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Let cool, then mix powdered sugar and milk for icing.
  9. Decorate with icing and sprinkles.

Notes

  • Use festive liners for the mini muffins.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Feel free to add chocolate chips for extra flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 mini dessert
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: mini christmas desserts, holiday treats, festive desserts

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

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