35 Christmas Baking Recipes That Turns a Slow Afternoon Into an Exciting One

When a slow afternoon needs something fun, these 35 Christmas baking recipes turn that quiet stretch into a moment you’ll actually look forward to. I reach for collections like this when I want treats that match the season without adding pressure to the day. It’s a simple way to bring a little warmth into those hours that feel too still.

A slice of banana cream pie topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on a plate. — Classic Banana Cream Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

If cinnamon rolls are a weakness of yours, you’re going to love combining that cozy cinnamon-sugar flavor with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. These Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies capture all the richness and warmth of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, but in cookie form. Perfect for sharing, or not!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop

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

There’s something so irresistible about cake pops, and this Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop recipe gives you all the sweetness without the coffee shop line. With its moist cake center dipped in a smooth candy coating, each bite feels like a little treat-yourself moment. They’re as cute as they are fulfilling for any holiday-inspired dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop

Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

A close-up of several chocolate chip cookies on parchment paper, with one cookie broken in half to show the chocolate chips inside. — Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Bringing together the best fall flavors, these Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are the definition of comfort in every bite. The combination of pumpkin’s subtle sweetness and warm spices pairs beautifully with rich chocolate chips. Whether you enjoy them during a quiet afternoon or share them during holiday gatherings, they’re always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chess Pie

A close-up of a sliced custard pie dusted with powdered sugar, with two metal spoons resting on top of the pie in a white dish. — Chess Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This Southern favorite is proof that simple ingredients can create magic. This Chess Pie has a sweet, custardy filling with just the right amount of richness to satisfy any dessert craving. It’s the kind of pie that reminds you of sitting at a table full of desserts and taking your time to enjoy what tradition tastes like.
Get the Recipe: Chess Pie

Candy Cane Cookies

These classic Candy Cane Cookies are more than just fun to look at; they’re filled with a light, buttery flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season. Twisting the dough into candy-cane shapes makes them a whimsical addition to cookie swaps or even as edible gifts. Just one bite, and it’ll feel like Christmas already.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies

Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of cheesecake with a caramelized sugar topping, resting on parchment paper with a crumbly base visible. — Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’ve ever wrestled with choosing between crème brûlée and cheesecake, let this Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake settle it for you. It pairs the silky smoothness of classic cheesecake with a crisp, caramelized sugar topping that cracks delicately with each bite. It’s a showstopper dessert that’s almost too good to share.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

Red Velvet Cupcakes

Few desserts feel as special as these Red Velvet Cupcakes. With their striking red hue and cocoa-kissed flavor, they’re a holiday favorite that always stands out. Of course, the dreamy swirl of tangy cream cheese frosting on top doesn’t hurt either. These are the kind of cupcakes people reach for first on any dessert tray.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cupcakes

Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Three peanut butter sandwich cookies are stacked, with the top cookie showing a large bite taken out. Crumbs and cookie pieces are scattered on a parchment-lined surface. — Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies are practically holiday magic in edible form. Imagine the warm, spiced flavors of Biscoff cookies paired with a creamy filling that takes them to the next level. They’re fun to make, addictive to eat, and always bring a little extra sparkle to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

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.

Say goodbye to plain brownies and hello to the most festive dessert of the season. These Christmas Brownies are just as rich and chocolaty as you’d hope, but dressed up with colorful holiday sprinkles or decorative frosting. They’re practically made for sharing with friends, yet you’ll want to stash a few away for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Brownies

Soft Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray. — Soft Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or keeping it casual, these Soft Garlic Knots are always a crowd-pleaser. Buttery, fluffy, and brushed with just the right amount of garlic, they’re the kind of side dish you’ll keep reaching for. Serve them with soups, pasta, or just enjoy them on their own.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots

Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

A stack of three round, golden-brown cookies with chocolate flecks and a sprinkle of salt on top, resting on a cooling rack with more cookies around them. — Sweet Salted Honey Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Sweet meets salty in these Sweet Salted Honey Cookies, and the balance is absolutely perfect. Each bite is soft with a subtle honey flavor, followed by a tiny hit of salt that keeps things interesting. These cookies have that homemade charm that gets people asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Close-up of sliced crumbly cakes topped with white icing. One piece is positioned vertically to show its texture. — Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Blondies might seem humble, but these Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies will change your mind. Soft, buttery, and spiced with just the right amount of cinnamon, every bar feels like a hug on a cold day. They pair perfectly with a mug of coffee or hot cocoa and are just as wonderful for gifting to loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

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.

Who says holiday treats have to be complicated? No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls are proof that easy recipes can still taste amazing. With their rich peanut butter filling and smooth chocolate coating, these bite-sized treats make the perfect addition to cookie trays or the perfect snack when no one’s watching.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Gingerbread Cupcakes

Three cupcakes topped with swirled frosting, cranberries, rosemary sprigs, pinecones, and powdered sugar, with a small decorative house in the foreground. — Gingerbread Cupcakes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Gingerbread is a holiday must, and these Gingerbread Cupcakes take the classic flavor to a whole new level. Moist and perfectly spiced, they’re topped with a swirl of frosting that adds a lovely sweetness to every bite. Plus, that warm, spiced aroma in your kitchen? Pure holiday bliss.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread 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.

Turning cookies into holiday decor? Yes, please! These Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging are designed to double as edible ornaments. They’re as beautiful as they are fun to bake and decorate, and they add a charming homemade touch to your holiday tree.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Fudgy Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies

A close-up of a brownie square topped with a swirl of cheesecake and cherry filling. — Fudgy Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

You can’t go wrong with these Fudgy Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies. The rich, chocolatey brownie base is layered with creamy strawberry cheesecake for a combo that’s as decadent as it sounds. The balance of bold chocolate and sweet fruit flavors makes these a dessert to remember.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies

Sweet Orange Rolls

A round baking dish lined with parchment paper holds several cinnamon rolls covered in a thick layer of icing. — Sweet Orange Rolls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Orange rolls don’t always get the spotlight during the holidays, but these might change that for good. Bursting with fresh citrus flavor and a soft, pillowy texture, these Sweet Orange Rolls are perfect for mornings when you want something a little extra special. Pair them with coffee, and you’ve got yourself a moment to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Orange Rolls

Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops

Three chocolate cake pops shaped like reindeer, with pretzel antlers and red candy noses, on wooden sticks. — Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Want to add some fun to the dessert table? These Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops are always a hit. With their festive faces and chocolatey flavor, they’re a kid-friendly (and grown-up-approved) treat that doubles as a cute holiday decoration before they’re devoured.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops

Gingerbread House

Building this Gingerbread House is way more than just making dessert; it’s creating memories. From the spiced, fragrant pieces to colorful candies for decorating, the tradition of building and admiring these edible homes never goes out of style. It’s the perfect blend of creativity and sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread House

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.

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s equal parts fun and impressive, this Sweet Christmas Poke Cake delivers. The colorful layers and creamy toppings make it a holiday centerpiece people will keep coming back to. It’s festive, delicious, and just what your dessert table needs.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Christmas Poke Cake

Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Close up image of lemon blueberry muffin cookies on a wooden board. — Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

These Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies bring a fresh twist to holiday baking. The light, citrusy lemon plays beautifully against the sweet bursts of blueberry in every bite. Whether for a cookie exchange or just a little pick-me-up during the busy season, these cookies are always a standout.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Rich German Chocolate Cake

A slice of double-layer chocolate cake with a creamy filling and glossy chocolate frosting on top. — Rich German Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There’s nothing subtle about this Rich German Chocolate Cake, and that’s a good thing. From the moist chocolate layers to the luscious coconut-pecan frosting, this dessert defines indulgence. It’s the dessert that disappears first at any gathering, and when you taste it, you’ll understand why.
Get the Recipe: Rich German Chocolate Cake

Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies

Stack of four chocolate brownies with visible white chocolate chunks. — Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’ve ever wished for brownies with a little extra flair, these Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies are your answer. They combine the smooth, cocoa richness of red velvet cake with a chewy brownie texture for something completely irresistible. They’ll steal the show on any dessert tray.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies

Santa Cupcakes

Chocolate cupcakes with red frosting swirled to resemble Santa hats, topped with powdered sugar and a small marshmallow, with miniature decorative trees in the foreground. — Santa Cupcakes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cupcakes that look like Santa? Yes, it’s as adorable as it sounds. These Santa Cupcakes bring holiday cheer with their fun, festive decorations and moist cakes underneath it all. They’re party-ready and sure to make everyone smile before they even take a bite.
Get the Recipe: Santa Cupcakes

Crusty Sourdough Bread

Sliced loaf of bread on a cutting board with a knife beside it. — Crusty Sourdough Bread. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Few things are as satisfying during the holidays as a fresh loaf of this Crusty Sourdough Bread. With its crackling golden crust and soft center, it’s the perfect companion to warm soups, cheeses, or simply a swipe of butter. It’s the kind of bread that makes every meal feel a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Sourdough Bread

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

A little chewy, a little gooey, and a whole lot of nostalgic; they don’t make cookies more classic than this Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie. The heartiness of oats paired with the sweet richness of chocolate chips has “comfort” written all over it.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Buttermilk Biscuits

Three golden-brown biscuits are stacked, with the top one missing a bite. A small sprig of greenery with red berries is visible in the corner. — Buttermilk Biscuits. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you bite into these Buttermilk Biscuits, you’ll get all the comforting flakiness you expect from a classic biscuit; with maybe a little extra buttery goodness. They’re just as at home on a breakfast table with jelly as they are served next to a holiday roast. No meal is complete without them.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

Swirled Cinnamon Bread

Close-up of cinnamon swirl bread slices, showcasing a spiral pattern in the texture. — Swirled Cinnamon Bread. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Few things fill your kitchen with as much warmth as the scent of these Swirled Cinnamon Bread baking. With its tender texture and sweet, cinnamon ribbon running through each slice, it’s the perfect companion to a lazy morning breakfast or a mid-afternoon treat.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Cinnamon Bread

Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

A festive cookie stack resembling a Christmas tree, decorated with green frosting and pink and white edible pearls. — Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A cookie and a centerpiece all in one? These Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies bring both beauty and flavor to the table. The stacked layers mimic a tiny Christmas tree, and the frosting adds just the right amount of flair. Edible holiday decor never looked this good.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Christmas Crack

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

The nickname says it all; this Christmas Crack is hard to stop eating. With layers of crunchy crackers, buttery caramel, and smooth chocolate, it’s a sweet and salty snack that disappears fast. Make extra because people will want the recipe; and seconds.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Crack

Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Close-up view of a pile of Shortbread Cookies with visible small holes on the surface. — Buttery Shortbread Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

All the best things in holiday baking start with butter, and you can taste why in these Buttery Shortbread Cookies. With their rich, crumbly texture and melt-in-your-mouth flavor, they’re perfect for enjoying on cold afternoons with tea or coffee. Sometimes, simple is best.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake

A slice of pineapple cake topped with fresh raspberries on a white surface. — Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

This Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a throwback dessert that still holds its place at the table. Caramelized pineapples and cherries glisten on top of the moist cake, making every slice a balance of sweet, fruity goodness and buttery richness. It’s a favorite for holidays, and any time, really.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites

Close-up of Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites, dusted in a sweet layer and piled on crisp white paper. — Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

These Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites are the ultimate grab-and-go treat when you’re too busy to sit down. Warm, fluffy, and coated in that irresistible mix of cinnamon and sugar, they’re great for everyone to snack on throughout the day. Trust me; these go fast!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites

Chewy Sourdough Bagels

A plate with a bagel seasoned with seeds sits next to a baking tray holding more bagels, also topped with seeds. — Chewy Sourdough Bagels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bagels may not scream “holiday,” but homemade Chewy Sourdough Bagels are a breakfast winner, no matter the season. Their signature texture and slight tang set them apart, and they’re a versatile base for anything from cream cheese to egg sandwiches. Breakfast just got more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Sourdough Bagels

Classic Banana Cream Pie

There’s something so nostalgic about this Classic Banana Cream Pie. The creamy banana filling, flaky crust, and fluffy whipped topping make it less of a dessert and more of an experience. It’s the perfect way to add a little retro charm to the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Classic Banana Cream Pie