31 Easy Christmas Dessert Recipe Ideas to Share With Friends

The best holiday desserts are the ones that feel easy to pass around, whether you’re hosting or heading out to meet friends. I lean toward any of these 31 simple Christmas ideas that still feel festive. They make gatherings warmer and more relaxed, the kind of sweets people reach for without hesitation.

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.

Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Close-up of two stacked pieces of chocolate cake drizzled with caramel sauce on a plate, with more cake in the background.
Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Holiday desserts don’t get much more indulgent than this Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. The balance of rich chocolate and buttery caramel always impresses guests. Whenever I serve this, it’s the first dessert to vanish. Friends bring it up later like it’s still on the table.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

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

A festive holiday dessert that’s equal parts cute and delicious, these Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies bring a smile to everyone’s face. Their playful design grabs attention, but it’s the creamy, soft filling that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. They’re always a hit when I bring them to gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream

A bowl of strawberry swirl ice cream topped with a rectangular shortbread biscuit, with a spoon on the side.
Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Serving this Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream adds a surprising twist to holiday desserts. Its balance of fruity sweetness and creamy indulgence creates moments of joy. I’ve found that guests enjoy this refreshing treat on cozy nights. It’s the perfect complement to the festive season.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream

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.

Bring a unique flair to your holiday celebrations with this Matcha Tiramisu. The velvety texture paired with an earthy twist is always a conversation starter. Whenever I make this dessert, guests rave about it. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of sophistication to your table.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

Decadent Chocolate Hummus

A bowl of chocolate hummus topped with chickpeas and coarse salt, surrounded by sliced peaches, apples, biscuits, and rolled wafers.
Decadent Chocolate Hummus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sweet and creamy, this Decadent Chocolate Hummus takes dessert spreads to the next level. I love setting out fruit or cookies alongside it; it’s a fuss-free crowd-pleaser. Guests always ask for the recipe. It’s a treat that’s both unexpected and wonderfully enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Hummus

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.

Cheerful and festive, Santa Cupcakes are a guaranteed hit at holiday parties. I always bake extras because they disappear so quickly. These cupcakes bring out the kid in everyone. They’re fun, creative, and loved by all ages.
Get the Recipe: Santa Cupcakes

Classic Pumpkin Pie

A slice of pumpkin pie on a plate with cranberries.
Classic Pumpkin Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm spices meet creamy, smooth filling in this Classic Pumpkin Pie, a timeless holiday favorite that always impresses. It’s the dessert people instinctively grab first. I’ve noticed it’s gone before anything else. It always feels like a cherished tradition.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pumpkin Pie

Decadent Hot Fudge Sundae

A glass filled with vanilla ice cream, crumbled cookies, and chocolate sauce being poured on top.
Decadent Hot Fudge Sundae. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Nostalgia meets festive fun with this Decadent Hot Fudge Sundae. I love dressing it up with whipped cream and sprinkles for holiday flair. The rich, chocolaty flavor brings smiles to everyone’s faces. It’s a sweet treat that makes gatherings special.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Hot Fudge Sundae

Showstopping Baked Alaska

A slice of baked Alaska with a toasted meringue exterior and green ice cream center being lifted from the dessert.
Showstopping Baked Alaska. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A dessert that turns heads is exactly what Christmas calls for, and this Showstopping Baked Alaska delivers. Its layers and golden meringue make it as dramatic as it is delicious. I’ve noticed guests are always impressed when this beauty makes its way from the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Showstopping Baked Alaska

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.

These Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat. People always comment on their colorful, creative design. They add playful excitement to dessert tables. Decorating and sharing them brings the holiday spirit alive.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Sweet Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Close-up of a slice of fruit pie with a golden, flaky crust. The filling is a mix of pink and red fruit, slightly oozing out onto the plate.
Sweet Strawberry Rhubarb Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bold, tangy flavors shine in this Sweet Strawberry Rhubarb Pie, perfect for brightening up heavier holiday desserts. Guests always appreciate its balance of sweetness and tartness. It’s a refreshing break from richer desserts. This pie will be requested year after year.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins

Close-up of three chocolate muffins in brown paper wrappers, topped with chocolate chips, with part of a bowl of chocolate chips visible in the background.
Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cozy morning gatherings or quick holiday snacks call for these Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins. The comforting aroma fills the house long after they’re baked. I’ve learned to make an extra batch because they’re gone so quickly. They’re a hit whenever I serve them.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins

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.

Few desserts capture old-fashioned holiday warmth like this Classic Cherry Pie. Its bold red filling and flaky crust never fail to impress. Guests gather around to admire it, sparking warm conversations. It’s the perfect pie for making cherished memories.
Get the Recipe: Classic Cherry Pie

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Christmas tree shaped cookies on a baking sheet.
Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Gather loved ones to create these Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies, a mix of fun and dessert. The smiles and laughter while decorating them are priceless. Sharing these cookies brings joy to holiday gatherings. They make Christmas extra special and unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

A plate of five sticky buns topped with caramelized nuts and sauce, resting on a red cloth.
Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Combining gooey caramel and warm apple filling, these Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls feel like an indulgent holiday hug. Serving them with coffee or tea is always a hit. I love the compliments guests give. These rolls remain a favorite long after the holidays end.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie

A lemon meringue pie in a white dish, topped with swirled, browned meringue, sits on a light-colored surface next to a lemon.
Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bright and refreshing, this Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie is a perfect counterbalance to heavier holiday desserts. Guests often appreciate its light, citrusy flavors. It stands out on the dessert table. This pie has become a staple for festive dinners.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie

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.

Spiced to perfection, these Gingerbread Cupcakes pack all holiday flavors into a handheld treat. Guests can’t stop grabbing them, and there’s always someone sneaking extras to take home. They bring festive cheer to every table. I make these every year.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Cupcakes

Reindeer Chocolate Bark

Chocolate bark topped with mini pretzels, red and green candy-coated chocolates, candy eyes, and round sprinkles on a white plate.
Reindeer Chocolate Bark. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Whimsical and fun, this Reindeer Chocolate Bark is a playful addition to any holiday party. Kids light up when they grab a piece, while adults keep coming back for more. It’s easy to make and spreads holiday joy. This treat is a must-have for festive gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Reindeer Chocolate Bark

Classic Banana Cream Pie

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.

The holidays always welcome timeless desserts like this Classic Banana Cream Pie. Its creamy simplicity is always appreciated. I’ve found it brings comfort to the table. Guests love this refreshing addition to the dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Classic Banana Cream Pie

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.

Warm spices meet chewy layers in these Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies, creating instant cozy vibes. They’re always the first dessert guests grab. I bake these for every holiday gathering, and they never disappoint. You’ll see people reaching for them all evening.
Get the Recipe: Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Adorable Snowman Cookies

Christmas cookies with cherries and icing on a baking sheet.
Adorable Snowman Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Desserts become even more fun when they’re whimsical, like these Adorable Snowman Cookies. Their playful designs bring smiles all around the table. I’ve seen them brighten every holiday gathering. They’re as enjoyable to look at as they are to eat.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies

Sweet Churro Cheesecake

A piece of creamy cheesecake with a dusting of cocoa powder on a white plate, accompanied by a silver spoon.
Sweet Churro Cheesecake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Combining creamy cheesecake with crunchy churros, this Sweet Churro Cheesecake is a festive delight. Guests never forget how impressive it tastes. I love seeing their reactions as they enjoy each bite. This dessert always leaves everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Churro Cheesecake

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.

These Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies blend seasonal spices with chocolate to create holiday magic. I make them for cozy evenings or gatherings. They’re always the first dessert guests rave about. Sometimes, people talk about them before even finishing the first bite!
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip 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.

Festive decorations turn these Christmas Brownies into stars of the dessert table. Seeing everyone’s reactions to the creative designs is a joy. Their rich, fudgy texture is perfect for the holidays. These brownies are a must-have for adding fun to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Brownies

Boozy Eggnog Pudding Shots

Plastic cups filled with creamy yellow eggnog pudding shots are topped with whipped cream, star anise, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Boozy Eggnog Pudding Shots. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Add festive fun to your celebration with these Boozy Eggnog Pudding Shots. They always spark joy and laughter at gatherings. It’s amazing how such a small dessert becomes the party’s highlight. They’re a crowd favorite that brings everyone together.
Get the Recipe: Boozy Eggnog Pudding Shots

Red Velvet Cupcakes

Several red velvet cupcakes with swirls of cream cheese frosting and sprinkled crumbs on top, arranged on a light-colored surface.
Red Velvet Cupcakes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bold, velvety flavors shine in these Red Velvet Cupcakes, making them ultimate holiday desserts. Guests race to grab one, so I always bake extras. These cupcakes add instant glamour to Christmas gatherings. They’re an utterly pleasing treat that everyone enjoys.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cupcakes

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.

These Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies bring playful charm to the table with their bright green coloring. Cookie swaps or movie nights are perfect for them. Guests smile as they grab these cookies, enjoying their fun look and delicious taste. They’re holiday favorites for all ages.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Easy Christmas Dump Cake

A plate of fruit crumble topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, accompanied by a spoon.
Easy Christmas Dump Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When time gets tight, I rely on this Easy Christmas Dump Cake for a quick, special dessert. Its warm, comforting flavors are always loved by guests. They’re usually surprised by how simple it is to make. That’s the beauty of this wonderfully enjoyable, stress-free treat.
Get the Recipe: Easy Christmas Dump Cake

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.

These Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices are perfect for holiday mornings. Serving them with hot coffee is a treat. The crispy edges and spiced filling make them nostalgic and comforting. They’re ideal for cozy winter days.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Reindeer cookie pops in a cup.
Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Whimsical treats like these Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops bring smiles and excitement. They’re perfect for holiday parties or crafting sessions. Kids and adults alike love their playful charm. Making and sharing them adds extra joy to the season.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

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.

Effortless elegance describes this No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake, my secret weapon for holiday hosting. Guests always appreciate its creamy, fruity flavors. It’s proof that great desserts don’t always require the oven. I love the surprise and delight it brings to festive gatherings.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

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