45 Christmas Dessert Inspirations For Evenings Spent Inside

As soon as the weather cools down, staying inside and making cookies just feels right. You’ll find 45 ideas here for Christmas desserts that work for casual get-togethers, quiet nights, and cheerful celebrations. Every batch brings a little bit of that special holiday feeling to the table.

Three Santa Claus whoopie pies on a baking sheet. — Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Chocolate Pudding

Dessert time gets so much better with this Chocolate Pudding. Friends always notice how comforting a chilled bowl can feel after a chilly night. I reach for pudding recipes when I want something rich yet simple. Creamy desserts like this never stay on the table for long.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pudding

Matcha Tiramisu

A close-up of a slice of tiramisu topped with green matcha powder, served on a ceramic plate. — Matcha Tiramisu. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

New flavors show up with this Matcha Tiramisu on the table. Curious guests lean in for a taste, curious about the green color. I set this out when I want a conversation starter for dessert. Unique cakes like this turn any evening into something worth remembering.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

S’mores Muffins

Close-up of chocolate chip muffins with crumb topping in paper liners, cooling on a wire rack. — S’mores Muffins. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Sweet muffins like this S’mores Muffins bring everyone over for a quick snack before the movie starts. Gooey centers are always a hit during winter weather. I love baking these when friends ask for something cozy. S’mores never go out of style, even indoors.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Muffins

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

A stack of chocolate truffles with white icing, one cut open to reveal a peanut butter filling. — No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cookie trays look more welcoming with this No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls right at the front. People appreciate a treat they can grab without waiting on the oven. I use this recipe in a pinch for busy weeks. Peanut butter bites always make a perfect snack for sharing.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Classic Cherry Pie

A slice of cherry pie with a flaky crust is served on a black plate with a spoon; another plate with pie is in the background. — Classic Cherry Pie. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Old-fashioned desserts feel right on cold nights, especially this Classic Cherry Pie. Slices start to disappear as folks swap stories over dessert. I like serving cherry pie to balance out all the richer flavors. Fruit pies promise comfort with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Classic Cherry Pie

Loaded S’mores Bark

Pieces of chocolate bark topped with mini marshmallows, graham cracker pieces, and drizzled chocolate arranged on a wooden surface. — Loaded S’mores Bark. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Party trays turn exciting when this Loaded S’mores Bark pops up next to coffee mugs. Crunchy bits mixed with marshmallow bring childhood favorites to grown-up gatherings. I make this bark for evenings when everyone wants to nibble through a movie. Bark treats bring out laughter and smiles.
Get the Recipe: Loaded S’mores Bark

Eggnog Pie

Close-up of a sliced pie with a crumb crust, topped with star-shaped cookies dusted with powdered sugar. — Eggnog Pie. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Winter evenings cry out for a classic like this Eggnog Pie. People look for a creamy slice that’s just right after a savory dinner. I enjoy surprising guests with a flavor that brings immediate cheer. Chilled pies always warm up the mood indoors.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Pie

Tangy Lemon Cheesecake

A slice of lemon cheesecake with a graham cracker crust is being lifted from the whole cake, which is topped with whipped cream and lemon slices. — Tangy Lemon Cheesecake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dessert platters shine a little brighter with this Tangy Lemon Cheesecake. Friends seek out the cool, fresh option after a full meal. I prefer cheesecake for a lighter ending to an evening feast. A little citrus cuts through the cold, keeping spirits bright.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon Cheesecake

Sweet Kool Aid Pie

A slice of cream pie on a white plate, topped with whipped cream. An orange slice and a drink are in the background. — Sweet Kool Aid Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Colorful desserts grab attention, like this Sweet Kool Aid Pie set out between cookies and cakes. Kids and adults often reach for a second bite thanks to its unique flavor. I love the way a bright pie makes any gathering more fun. No one forgets such a playful treat.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Kool Aid Pie

Sweet Christmas Poke Cake

A slice of festive Christmas Poke Cake with red swirls and pink frosting, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry, sits elegantly on a plate with a fork. — Sweet Christmas Poke Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sprinkles and frosting on this Sweet Christmas Poke Cake bring the party to life before anyone even cuts a slice. Layers make dessert look special for the season. I bake poke cakes to help the dessert table stand out. Every square serves up both color and joy.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Christmas Poke Cake

Crispy Candied Tanghulu

Skewers of grapes and strawberries coated in a shiny glaze are arranged on a light surface with loose fruit pieces nearby. — Crispy Candied Tanghulu. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dessert spreads turn into talking points with this Crispy Candied Tanghulu front and center. Shiny, crunch-topped fruit gets people curious about what else is in store. I choose tanghulu for events where everyone wants a fun snack. Candied fruit keeps winter nights lively.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Candied Tanghulu

Apple and Cranberry Pie

A slice of mixed berry pie with a golden crust sits on a plate next to a spoon, with fruit filling spilling out. — Apple and Cranberry Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Apple and cranberry together give this Apple and Cranberry Pie a spot among holiday classics. Guests take their time choosing slices before settling down. I pull out this pie for a fresh finish to a heavier meal. Tart and sweet keep the evening feeling light.
Get the Recipe: Apple and Cranberry Pie

Christmas Brownies

Several brownies decorated with candy eyes, red candy noses, and pretzel antlers are arranged on a white surface to resemble reindeer faces. — Christmas Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Everyone crowds around the plate when this Christmas Brownies appears. Swirls and toppings turn a classic into something party-ready. I bake these brownies when I want dessert to be fun and nostalgic at the same time. Brownies always win over a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Brownies

Ambrosia Salad

Sweet salads like this Ambrosia Salad bring a welcome change from cookies and cakes. Bowls empty quickly while people chat over dessert. I like to serve salads that bring fruit to the table in a simple way. Light, creamy mixes work even on the coldest nights.
Get the Recipe: Ambrosia Salad

Thumb Print Cookie

Guests pause to pick their favorite from this Thumb Print Cookie collection. Each cookie hides a tiny sweet surprise right in the center. I use thumbprints as a way to add variety without fuss. The simple shape makes every holiday cookie platter more inviting.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie

Decadent Dubai Chocolate

Close-up of sliced dessert bars with layers of chocolate, crumbly filling, and green topping, garnished with chopped pistachios. — Decadent Dubai Chocolate. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Conversations pick up when this Decadent Dubai Chocolate makes its entrance. The rich look catches everyone’s eye and draws them in for a taste. I see empty plates every time exotic chocolates arrive at dessert. Chocolate treats bring out a little luxury on winter nights.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Dubai Chocolate

Red Velvet Cupcakes

Bright colors make this Red Velvet Cupcakes shine among other desserts. Guests linger just a bit longer deciding which cupcake looks best. I love offering cupcakes for easy serving and zero mess. Red velvet always feels right for festive gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cupcakes

Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Four Christmas tree-shaped cookies with powdered sugar on a wooden board, decorated with red and white string. — Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cookie decorations double as dessert with this Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging. Piping and sprinkles keep hands busy before eating even begins. I bake extra to be sure a few survive the decorating process. Hanging cookies combine fun and flavor in one sweet bite.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

A slice of apple pie stuffed cheesecake on a plate with a spoon. — Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Everyone leans in for a closer look at this Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake. Swirls of apple join creamy layers that feel just right after dinner. I try this cheesecake for potlucks or evenings by the fire. Combining classic pies with rich cakes creates something unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Friends reach for this Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie as soon as dessert starts. Chewy texture and chocolate chips land these cookies in the front row of any winter treat tray. I bake a big batch for sharing on cold nights. Simple cookies can mean the most in the right company.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Fudgy Pink Snoball Brownies

Three stacked slices of chocolate coconut candy, reminiscent of Pink Snoball Brownies, topped with pink shredded coconut. — Fudgy Pink Snoball Brownies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Pink icing sets this Fudgy Pink Snoball Brownies apart from every other treat on the table. It’s easy to see why guests grab extra for the ride home. I serve these when the holiday mood needs a burst of energy. Brownies with color bring smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Pink Snoball Brownies

Christmas Crack

A plate of chocolate-covered cracker toffee squares topped with festive holiday sprinkles and decorations. — Christmas Crack. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Dessert tables light up when this Christmas Crack sits at the end for all to see. Crunchy treats vanish faster than you might think. I make this every winter since friends always ask for more. Snapping into sweet bites makes even cold nights feel lively.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Crack

Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Close-up of a stack of gooey caramel-filled Biscoff Brownies, sprinkled with flaky sea salt, on parchment paper. — Decadent Biscoff Brownies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Swirls of flavor steal the show thanks to this Decadent Biscoff Brownies. Guests discuss the unique cookie layers with every bite. I pull brownies like these from the oven when I want to impress. Serving something special lifts the mood every single time.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Enjoy our chocolate cherry cookies, each topped with a swirl of rich chocolate frosting and a vibrant red cherry. — Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Winter treats reach new heights with this Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies. Bites combine bold fruit and cocoa, earning plenty of compliments along the way. I bring out these cookies for cold evenings by the heater. Chocolate and cherry flavors warm up the room.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream

A glass bowl holds two scoops of pistachio ice cream topped with crushed pistachios, with a waffle cone placed upside down in the bowl. — Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Someone always asks for dessert seconds after seeing this Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream on the table. Cool, nutty scoops balance out rich cakes. I keep ice cream nearby for friends who like chilled sweets during winter. Pistachio never fails to surprise new guests.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream

Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

A close-up of a baked pastry ring dusted with powdered sugar, featuring multiple layers of golden-brown, flaky dough and hints of cinnamon apple strudel slices peeking through. — Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Warm slices from this Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices fill the kitchen with sweet comfort. Crackling layers draw everyone closer to the dessert tray. I find strudel pairs well with late-night storytelling. Nothing suits a cold night like a pastry filled with apple.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Rich Banoffee Pie

A slice of banoffee pie with layers of banana, caramel, whipped cream, and a crumbly biscuit crust on a white plate. — Rich Banoffee Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Finding new favorites gets easier with this Rich Banoffee Pie waiting after dinner. Slices disappear before the tea even finishes brewing. I love offering a mix of familiar and new pies for dessert. Banoffee’s layers always start a conversation.
Get the Recipe: Rich Banoffee Pie

Caramelized Fried Banana

A close up of a plate of fried bananas with sauce. — Caramelized Fried Banana. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Anyone searching for a quick dessert enjoys this Caramelized Fried Banana. Hot fruit on a cold night feels just about perfect with a mug of cocoa. I turn to simple bananas for speedy treats between bigger courses. A touch of sweetness ends the evening on a good note.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Fried Banana

Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Green cookies topped with powdered sugar and red, green, and white candy shapes resembling trees and candy canes. — Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Every party needs a little color, and this Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies delivers just that. Soft, green bites have a way of bringing everyone together. I see these cookies disappear before the main meal winds down. Bright crinkles always stand out on a crowded tray.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

A slice of cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, topped with strawberry sauce and fresh strawberry pieces, sits on a serving tray. — No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy layers fill every slice of this No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake. Winter gatherings benefit from a fruity note that feels simple and fresh. I save this recipe for nights when the oven is already busy. Strawberry and cheesecake offer the right mix of comfort and fun.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

Sweet Little Debbie Christmas Tree Dip

A white bowl filled with whipped cream topped with green sprinkles, surrounded by fresh strawberries. — Sweet Little Debbie Christmas Tree Dip. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Dessert platters turn playful with this Sweet Little Debbie Christmas Tree Dip. Chips, cookies, and fruit all find their way to the bowl. I break out this dip for relaxed visits with friends. No one passes up a treat that feels so easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Little Debbie Christmas Tree Dip

Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

Two glass cups filled with layers of sliced strawberries, chocolate, granola, and chopped pistachios, with a blurred bowl of nuts in the background. — Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Elegant looks set this Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup apart on the dessert table. Chocolate and fruit make a perfect ending for holiday feasts. I save these for times when desserts need a bit of glamour. Strawberry cups create lasting memories with every single bite.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies

A stack of rich peanut butter brownies with a spoonful of creamy peanut butter on the side. — Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Slicing into this Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies guarantees plenty of “who made this?” questions. Peanut butter swirls bring people together even before dinner ends. I bake these brownies for evenings with card games or late movies. Chocolate mixed with peanut butter is a universal favorite.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Peanut Butter Brownies

Butterscotch Rice Treats

Rectangular rice crispy treats drizzled with white icing are arranged on a wooden surface, with small marshmallows scattered nearby. — Butterscotch Rice Treats. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple treats hit the spot with this Butterscotch Rice Treats in the lineup. Old friends comment on the classic flavor after just one square. I mix up these bars when I need dessert in a hurry. Crunchy butterscotch lands perfectly between the creamy and chewy options.
Get the Recipe: Butterscotch Rice Treats

Warm Apple Crisp

Close-up of apple crumble with oats and brown sugar topping. A spoon is partially visible on the left. — Warm Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Plates of this Warm Apple Crisp turn cold nights around in a snap. Friends dig in until there’s nothing left but crumbs. I save apple crisps for when comfort is the main goal. Baked apples fill the whole home with the best winter smells.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Crisp

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Spirals add instant excitement thanks to this Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies. Cinnamon aroma brings everyone closer to the kitchen. I try these for a fun take on the usual holiday cookies. New favorites get discovered every time the plate refills.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Candy Cane Hot Chocolate Stirrers

Three marshmallows on candy cane sticks, partially dipped in chocolate and coated with crushed peppermint, are arranged on a white plate. — Candy Cane Hot Chocolate Stirrers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Drinks get festive with this Candy Cane Hot Chocolate Stirrers ready to go. Bright colors pop in a cup and add sweetness to each sip. I pass out candy canes when cocoa is on the menu. Sipping hot chocolate feels extra fun with a stirrer in hand.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Hot Chocolate Stirrers

Cookie Cake

A tray of chocolate-frosted cake squares with colorful sprinkles, featuring one piece slightly raised above the rest. — Cookie Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Birthday parties and cozy nights in both call for this Cookie Cake. Wedges cut easily for kids and adults after a hearty meal. I like to decorate cookie cakes for every occasion. Big cookies combine sharing and fun in one easy recipe.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Cake

Tangy Key Lime Bars

A close-up of dessert bars with a crumbly crust, creamy filling, and whipped topping, garnished with lime slices in the background. — Tangy Key Lime Bars. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for a tart treat? This Tangy Key Lime Bars wakes up dessert trays just in time for evening. Friends trade stories of favorite pies after the first bite. I put key lime bars out when citrus is the best way to cut all the chocolate.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Key Lime Bars

Smooth Biscoff Ice Cream

Scoops of ice cream with chunks of cookie and a whole cookie piece placed on top in a glass bowl. — Smooth Biscoff Ice Cream. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bowls filled with this Smooth Biscoff Ice Cream look extra inviting next to brownies and cakes. Creamy bites have a bold flavor from the first spoonful. I pick ice cream when cake just isn’t enough. Frozen treats work just as well for winter celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Biscoff Ice Cream

Chewy Chocolate Brownies

Close-up image of several chocolate brownies featuring a slightly crumbly texture and a sprinkling of coarse salt on top. — Chewy Chocolate Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chewy edges make this Chewy Chocolate Brownies an instant winner for dessert tables. Chocolate lovers find it hard to stop at one piece. I bake brownie trays when guests call for repeat treats. A chewy brownie is always the best ending for cold, busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Chocolate Brownies

Cranberry Curd Tart

A slice of cherry pie topped with whipped cream and whole cherries sits on a plate, with a fork holding a bite-sized piece nearby. — Cranberry Curd Tart. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright slices from this Cranberry Curd Tart deliver a pop of color alongside traditional pies. Tartness keeps the mood lively at every table. I offer cranberry tart for something a little less sweet. Guests appreciate a new addition to the dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Curd Tart

Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop

Starbucks pink cake pops in a glass on a table. — Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Eye-catching desserts easily start a crowd at the dessert bar with this Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop. People joke about their favorite flavors while snacking. I serve cake pops for parties with both kids and adults. Cake on a stick just works for winter fun.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop

Sweet Strawberry Pretzel Salad

A dessert with a crumbly crust, creamy filling, a layer of red gelatin, topped with a whipped cream dollop and a strawberry slice, on a white plate with a spoon. — Sweet Strawberry Pretzel Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Salty and sweet come together in this Sweet Strawberry Pretzel Salad. Friends pile on extra for a treat that feels a bit unique. I prepare pretzel salad when I want something light but memorable. Crunchy layers always bring comments from the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

A tray of this Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies usually disappears before the night is over. Santa faces and sweet filling draw smiles from all around. I choose whoopie pies for both gatherings and cozy nights at home. Cookies shaped like Santa are a cheerful touch every season.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies