60 Holiday Desserts for Christmas Dinner

Christmas dinner always feels a little more special when dessert looks festive too.

A pretty treat on a holiday cake stand or little sweets on a holiday serving platter are my go to ideas when serving!

1. Cranberry White Chocolate Bread Pudding

This feels cozy and a little fancy without being hard to make. The tart cranberry and sweet white chocolate make it feel very Christmas dinner friendly.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf brioche bread, cut into cubes
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a ceramic baking dish.
2. Scatter the brioche bread, dried cranberries, and white chocolate chips into the dish so everything is mixed through, not just sitting on top.
3. Whisk the eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the custard slowly over the bread and press the cubes down gently so they soak evenly.
5. Let it sit for 15 minutes so the center turns soft instead of dry.
6. Bake until the top is lightly golden and the middle looks set but still soft. Let it rest for 10 minutes before scooping.

2. Christmas Tree Tiramisu Cups

These feel soft, creamy, and pretty after a heavier dinner. The little green tree top makes them look much more festive than regular tiramisu.

Ingredients

• 18 ladyfingers
• 1 cup cooled espresso
• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon matcha powder
• 8 clear dessert cups

Directions

1. Break the ladyfingers into smaller pieces that will fit neatly into the clear dessert cups.
2. Dip them quickly in the espresso. Do not soak them too long or they will turn mushy.
3. Beat the heavy whipping cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form, then fold in the mascarpone cheese.
4. Layer dipped ladyfingers and mascarpone filling into the cups.
5. Dust the tops lightly with matcha powder in a little triangle shape so each cup has a tiny Christmas tree look.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving so the layers settle.

3. Peppermint Chocolate Lasagna

This is creamy, layered, and very fun for a holiday table. The peppermint makes it feel festive without being too strong.

Ingredients

• 1 package Oreo cookies
• 6 tablespoons melted butter
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 12 ounces whipped topping
• 2 boxes chocolate pudding mix
• 3 cups milk
• ⅓ cup crushed candy canes

Directions

1. Crush the Oreo cookies and mix them with the melted butter. Press that firmly into the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Beat the cream cheese with half the powdered sugar, then fold in some of the whipped topping.
3. Spread that over the crust in an even layer, reaching all the corners.
4. Whisk the chocolate pudding mix with the milk until thick, then spread that over the cream cheese layer.
5. Top with the remaining whipped topping and sprinkle over the crushed candy canes.
6. Chill until firm enough to slice cleanly.

4. Christmas Wreath Pavlova

This looks beautiful after Christmas dinner and feels light enough after a big meal. The wreath shape makes it feel very special.

Ingredients

• 4 egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds
• 2 kiwis, sliced

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Draw a large circle as a guide if you want a neater wreath.
2. Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form, then slowly beat in the granulated sugar until glossy and stiff.
3. Fold in the cornstarch and white vinegar.
4. Spoon the meringue into a ring shape, making the center open like a wreath.
5. Bake low and slow until dry on the outside, then cool completely in the oven with the door cracked.
6. Top with softly whipped cream, then decorate with pomegranate seeds and kiwi.

5. Gingerbread Trifle

This feels classic and cozy and looks lovely in a glass bowl. The soft gingerbread and creamy layers are perfect for Christmas dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 baked gingerbread cake
• 3 cups vanilla pudding
• 8 ounces whipped topping
• ⅓ cup caramel sauce
• Trifle bowl

Directions

1. Cut the gingerbread cake into cubes.
2. Layer some cake into the bottom of the trifle bowl, then spoon over some vanilla pudding.
3. Add a layer of whipped topping and drizzle lightly with caramel sauce.
4. Repeat the layers until the bowl is full, keeping the edges tidy so the layers show through the glass.
5. Finish with whipped topping on top and a little extra caramel if you want it prettier.
6. Chill until serving time so the layers settle.

6. Peppermint Mocha Cheesecake Bars

These have a rich coffee-chocolate flavor that feels really nice after dinner. The peppermint keeps them feeling festive.

Ingredients

• 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
• 5 tablespoons melted butter
• 16 ounces cream cheese
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F and line an 8-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter and press into the pan.
3. Beat the cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth, then beat in the eggs, espresso powder, and peppermint extract.
4. Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
5. Bake until the center is just set, then cool fully before chilling.
6. Slice into bars with a warm knife for cleaner edges.

7. Christmas Tree Cream Puff Tower

This looks so pretty in the middle of the dessert table. It feels special, but using ready-made cream puffs keeps it easy.

Ingredients

• 30 mini cream puffs
• Green decorating sugar
• Melted white chocolate
• Red sprinkles
• Yellow star sprinkle

Directions

1. Arrange the mini cream puffs into a tree shape on a platter, starting with a wide base and narrowing toward the top.
2. Use a little melted white chocolate between layers if you want the stack to hold better.
3. Dust or sprinkle with green decorating sugar.
4. Add red sprinkles like ornaments.
5. Place the yellow star sprinkle at the top.
6. Keep chilled until serving so the puffs stay fresh.

8. Eggnog Poke Cake

This is soft, creamy, and easy to make for a crowd. Eggnog flavor always feels right at home on Christmas night.

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 2 cups eggnog
• 1 box instant vanilla pudding
• 8 ounces whipped topping
• Ground nutmeg

Directions

1. Bake the yellow cake mix in a 9x13 pan according to package directions.
2. While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top with the handle of a wooden spoon.
3. Whisk the instant vanilla pudding with the eggnog and pour it over the cake so it sinks into the holes.
4. Chill until cold.
5. Spread on the whipped topping and dust the top with nutmeg.

9. Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

This looks beautiful on a Christmas dinner table and slices so neatly. The orange and cranberry flavor feels bright after a heavier meal.

Ingredients

• 1 box vanilla cake mix
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
• Eggs called for on the box
• Oil called for on the box
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons orange juice

Directions

1. Prepare the vanilla cake mix batter using the eggs and oil listed on the box.
2. Fold in the orange zest and chopped fresh cranberries.
3. Pour into a greased bundt pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Cool in the pan briefly, then turn out onto a rack.
5. Whisk the powdered sugar with the orange juice and drizzle over the cooled cake.

10. Hot Cocoa Poke Cake

This feels cozy and fun and looks especially cute with marshmallows on top. It is a crowd-friendly dessert that slices easily.

Ingredients

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1 packet hot cocoa mix
• 1 box instant chocolate pudding
• 3 cups milk
• 8 ounces whipped topping
• 1 cup mini marshmallows

Directions

1. Mix the chocolate cake mix with the hot cocoa mix before preparing the batter, then bake in a 9x13 pan.
2. Poke holes all over the cake while it is still warm.
3. Whisk the instant chocolate pudding with the milk and pour it over the cake so it fills the holes.
4. Chill until cold.
5. Spread on the whipped topping and scatter over the mini marshmallows.

11. Chocolate Peppermint Tart

This feels elegant but is still pretty simple. The glossy chocolate filling makes it a lovely after-dinner dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 chocolate cookie crust
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• Crushed candy canes

Directions

1. Place the chocolate cookie crust on a flat tray or plate.
2. Heat the heavy cream just until steaming, then pour it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
3. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Mix in the peppermint extract.
4. Pour the filling into the crust and smooth the top.
5. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
6. Chill until set enough to slice neatly.

12. Christmas Star Hand Pies

These are cute, buttery, and easy to serve after dinner. They feel festive and cozy at the same time.

Ingredients

• 2 refrigerated pie crusts
• 1 cup apple pie filling, chopped smaller
• 1 egg
• Coarse sugar
• Star cookie cutter

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut stars from the pie crusts using the star cookie cutter.
3. Spoon a little chopped apple pie filling onto half the stars, leaving a border around the edge.
4. Top with the remaining stars and seal the edges with a fork.
5. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
6. Bake until golden and let them cool slightly before serving.

13. Red Velvet Trifle

This looks so festive in a glass bowl. The red cake and white cream layers feel especially pretty for Christmas dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 baked red velvet cake
• 2 cups cream cheese frosting
• 8 ounces whipped topping
• Trifle bowl

Directions

1. Crumble the red velvet cake into chunks.
2. Layer cake, cream cheese frosting, and whipped topping into the trifle bowl.
3. Repeat the layers, making sure some of the red cake shows around the outside.
4. Finish with a fluffy white top layer.
5. Chill until ready to serve.

14. Snowflake Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

This feels creamy and festive and looks really sweet once decorated. Snowflake cookies on top make it perfect for Christmas night.

Ingredients

• 1 plain cheesecake
• Snowflake sugar cookies
• Whipped cream
• Silver sprinkles

Directions

1. Place the plain cheesecake on a serving plate or holiday cake stand.
2. Pipe little swirls of whipped cream around the top edge.
3. Press the snowflake sugar cookies into the whipped cream so they stand slightly upright.
4. Scatter over the silver sprinkles.
5. Keep chilled until slicing.

15. Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake

This feels rich and cozy and very right for Christmas dinner. It is one of those warm desserts that always feels a little extra special.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped dates
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy cream

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a small baking dish.
2. Pour the boiling water over the chopped dates and stir in the baking soda. Let that sit to soften.
3. Mix the batter with the flour, part of the brown sugar, and some of the butter, then fold in the softened dates.
4. Bake until the cake springs back lightly in the center.
5. While it bakes, make a toffee sauce with the remaining butter, sugar, and heavy cream.
6. Pour the warm sauce over the warm cake before serving.

16. Candy Cane Cheesecake Truffles

These are tiny, rich, and easy to set out on a tray after dinner. They look especially cute with a little peppermint on top.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• White chocolate
• Crushed candy canes

Directions

1. Mix the softened cream cheese with the graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar.
2. Roll into small balls and chill until firm.
3. Dip in melted white chocolate.
4. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes before the coating sets.
5. Let them firm up on parchment before serving.

17. White Chocolate Cranberry Tartlets

These look pretty and polished on a holiday dessert tray. The tart cranberry on top keeps them from feeling too heavy.

Ingredients

• 24 mini tart shells
• 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup cranberry sauce

Directions

1. Heat the heavy cream until just steaming and pour it over the white chocolate chips.
2. Stir until smooth and glossy.
3. Fill the mini tart shells with the white chocolate mixture.
4. Top each one with a small spoonful of cranberry sauce.
5. Chill until the filling is set enough to hold its shape.

18. Christmas Tree Brownie Stack

This is fun and festive and works well if you want a centerpiece-style dessert. Brownie layers make it easy and sturdy.

Ingredients

• 1 pan baked brownies
• Green frosting
• Holiday candies
• Star cookie cutter

Directions

1. Cut stars from the baked brownies in a few different sizes.
2. Stack them from largest to smallest with a little green frosting between each layer.
3. Turn each star slightly so the points show and the stack looks more tree-like.
4. Add the holiday candies like ornaments.
5. Set the finished tree on a cake stand or platter.

19. Mulled Wine Poached Pears

This feels elegant and a little more grown-up for Christmas dinner. The pears look beautiful once spooned into bowls with syrup.

Ingredients

• 4 pears, peeled
• 2 cups red wine
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• A few strips orange peel

Directions

1. Add the red wine, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and orange peel to a saucepan.
2. Bring it to a gentle simmer and add the peeled pears.
3. Cook slowly, turning them now and then, until they are tender and stained a deep red color.
4. Lift the pears out and simmer the syrup a little longer if you want it thicker.
5. Spoon the warm syrup over the pears when serving.

20. Peppermint Brownie Trifle

This is rich, festive, and easy to make in a big bowl for a crowd. The peppermint keeps it feeling holiday special.

Ingredients

• 1 pan brownies
• 3 cups chocolate pudding
• 8 ounces whipped topping
• ⅓ cup crushed candy canes
• Trifle bowl

Directions

1. Cut the brownies into cubes.
2. Layer brownies, chocolate pudding, and whipped topping into the trifle bowl.
3. Repeat the layers until you reach the top.
4. Scatter the crushed candy canes over the top.
5. Chill before serving so it slices or scoops more neatly.

21. Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

These feel rich and holiday cozy without being too heavy. The gingerbread base gives them a really nice Christmas flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups gingerbread cookie crumbs
• 5 tablespoons melted butter
• 16 ounces cream cheese
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F and line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the gingerbread cookie crumbs with the melted butter and press firmly into the pan.
3. Beat the cream cheese with the brown sugar until smooth, then beat in the eggs and cinnamon.
4. Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
5. Bake until just set, then cool and chill before slicing into neat bars.

22. Snowy Coconut Layer Cake

This looks really pretty on a Christmas table and has that soft snowy look people love in December. The coconut makes it feel light and festive.

Ingredients

• 1 box white cake mix
• Vanilla frosting
• 2 cups shredded coconut
• Silver sprinkles

Directions

1. Bake the white cake mix in two round pans and cool completely.
2. Stack the layers with vanilla frosting between them.
3. Frost the outside smoothly.
4. Press the shredded coconut all over the cake so it looks snowy and soft.
5. Add a few silver sprinkles for sparkle.

23. Chocolate Hazelnut Yule Log

This feels classic and cozy and looks great as a Christmas dinner centerpiece dessert. The chocolate hazelnut filling keeps it extra indulgent.

Ingredients

• 1 thin chocolate sheet cake or sponge
• ¾ cup chocolate hazelnut spread
• Chocolate frosting
• Powdered sugar

Directions

1. Lay the cooled chocolate sheet cake out flat on parchment.
2. Spread the chocolate hazelnut spread all over it, leaving a small border.
3. Roll it up carefully from the short end into a log.
4. Cover the outside with chocolate frosting and drag a fork through the frosting for a bark-like look.
5. Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

24. Christmas Star Mini Cheesecakes

These are pretty and easier to serve than a big cheesecake. The little star top makes them feel extra festive.

Ingredients

• 12 mini cheesecakes
• Yellow fruit stars or star candies
• Strawberry sauce
• Whipped cream

Directions

1. Set the mini cheesecakes on a serving tray.
2. Top each one with a tiny swirl of whipped cream.
3. Place one yellow fruit star or star candy on top.
4. Drizzle a little strawberry sauce over the plate or lightly across the tops if you want more color.
5. Keep chilled until serving.

25. Spiced Apple Cranberry Crisp

This is warm, cozy, and perfect for Christmas dinner. The apple and cranberry mix feels festive without being too heavy.

Ingredients

• 5 apples, sliced
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup oats
• ¾ cup flour
• 8 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
2. Toss the sliced apples and fresh cranberries with a little brown sugar and place them in the dish.
3. Mix the remaining brown sugar, oats, flour, cinnamon, and the butter until crumbly.
4. Scatter the topping over the fruit without packing it down too much.
5. Bake until the top is golden and the fruit bubbles around the edges.

26. White Chocolate Bread Pudding with Raspberry Sauce

This feels soft, cozy, and a little elegant. The raspberry sauce adds a bright holiday color that looks lovely on the plate.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf challah bread, cubed
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 4 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sugar
• Raspberry sauce for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and butter a baking dish.
2. Add the cubed challah bread and white chocolate chips to the dish.
3. Whisk the eggs, milk, heavy cream, and sugar and pour it over the bread.
4. Press the bread down lightly so it soaks evenly and let it stand for 15 minutes.
5. Bake until the top is golden and the center is set.
6. Spoon the warm raspberry sauce over each serving.

27. Christmas Ornament Cupcakes

These look playful and bright on a dessert stand. They are a fun way to make Christmas dinner dessert feel a little less formal.

Ingredients

• 12 store-bought cupcakes
• Red frosting
• Green frosting
• Gold sprinkles
• Mini pretzels

Directions

1. Frost half the cupcakes with red frosting and the other half with green frosting.
2. Smooth the tops slightly so they look more round and ornament-like.
3. Scatter with gold sprinkles.
4. Press a tiny broken piece of mini pretzel at the top of each one like the ornament hanger.
5. Arrange them on a holiday cake stand.

28. Orange Ginger Cheesecake

This feels bright and rich at the same time. The orange keeps it feeling fresh after a big dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs
• 5 tablespoons butter
• 16 ounces cream cheese
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 eggs

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F and press the gingersnap cookie crumbs mixed with melted butter into the bottom of a springform pan.
2. Beat the cream cheese with the sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the orange zest, ground ginger, and the eggs.
4. Pour over the crust and smooth the top.
5. Bake until just set, then cool and chill fully before slicing.

29. Peppermint Icebox Cake

This is soft, cool, and easy to make ahead. It feels festive and a little lighter than heavier baked cakes.

Ingredients

• 1 box chocolate wafer cookies
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• Crushed candy canes

Directions

1. Whip the heavy whipping cream with the powdered sugar and peppermint extract until soft peaks form.
2. Spread a little cream on a serving plate or loaf pan base.
3. Layer the chocolate wafer cookies and whipped cream, building up into a long rectangle or loaf shape.
4. Cover the outside with more whipped cream.
5. Sprinkle the top with crushed candy canes.
6. Chill overnight so the cookies soften into cake-like layers.

30. Christmas Dinner Dessert Board

This is such a fun way to end dinner when you want a mix of little treats. It looks beautiful in the middle of the table and lets everyone choose what they like.

Ingredients

• Mini cheesecakes
• Brownie bites
• Christmas cookies
• Strawberries
• Green grapes
• Truffles
• Wood charcuterie board

Directions

1. Set out the wood charcuterie board.
2. Arrange the mini cheesecakes, brownie bites, Christmas cookies, and truffles in small grouped sections.
3. Fill gaps with strawberries and green grapes for red and green color.
4. Keep the board full and balanced so it looks festive from every angle.
5. Serve it right after dinner so everyone can graze and choose their favorites.

31. Christmas Wreath Pavlova Bites

These feel light and airy after a big dinner, but they still look really pretty on the table. The little wreath shape makes them feel extra special for Christmas night.

Ingredients

• 4 egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds
• 2 kiwis, diced small

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Beat the egg whites until foamy, then slowly add the granulated sugar and beat until the mixture turns glossy and stiff.
3. Fold in the cornstarch and white vinegar.
4. Spoon the meringue into small circles with little open centers so they bake like mini wreaths.
5. Bake until dry on the outside, then cool fully in the oven with the door cracked.
6. Top each one with softly whipped cream, then add the pomegranate seeds and diced kiwi.

32. Peppermint Oreo Icebox Cake

This is creamy, cool, and easy to make ahead. The peppermint flavor keeps it feeling festive without making it too heavy.

Ingredients

• 36 Oreo cookies
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• ⅓ cup crushed candy canes

Directions

1. Beat the heavy whipping cream with the powdered sugar and peppermint extract until soft peaks form.
2. Spread a little of the cream into the bottom of a loaf pan or small serving dish.
3. Layer the Oreo cookies and whipped cream, making sure the cookies are fully covered so they soften nicely.
4. Repeat the layers until the pan is full.
5. Spread the last of the cream over the top and sprinkle with the crushed candy canes.
6. Chill overnight so the cookies soften into cake-like layers.

33. Gingerbread Panna Cotta Cups

These feel smooth and elegant, but they still have that cozy Christmas flavor. Little dessert cups make them easy to serve after dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 2 ¼ teaspoons gelatin
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• Mini dessert cups

Directions

1. Sprinkle the gelatin over ¼ cup of the milk and let it sit for a few minutes to bloom.
2. In a saucepan, warm the remaining milk, the heavy cream, brown sugar, molasses, cinnamon, and ground ginger just until steaming.
3. Whisk in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved.
4. Pour into the mini dessert cups.
5. Chill until set.
6. Serve plain or with a tiny swirl of whipped cream if you want a softer finish.

34. Christmas Star Linzer Tart

This feels pretty and a little old-fashioned in the best way. The star cutouts on top make it perfect for Christmas dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 pie crusts
• ¾ cup raspberry jam
• 1 egg
• Powdered sugar
• Star cookie cutter

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and fit one pie crust into a tart pan.
2. Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the bottom.
3. Cut stars from the second crust with the star cookie cutter and layer them over the top in a loose pattern so some jam still shows through.
4. Brush the pastry lightly with beaten egg.
5. Bake until golden and glossy.
6. Cool fully and dust with powdered sugar before slicing.

35. Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake

This is rich, dramatic, and definitely feels like a special occasion dessert. The red and white layers look so festive on a Christmas table.

Ingredients

• 2 boxes red velvet cake mix
• 1 baked cheesecake layer
• Cream cheese frosting

Directions

1. Bake the red velvet cake mix in two round pans and cool fully.
2. Place one cake layer on a stand or plate and spread a little cream cheese frosting over it.
3. Set the cheesecake layer on top, then add another thin frosting layer.
4. Top with the second red velvet cake layer.
5. Frost the outside smoothly or with soft swirls.
6. Chill briefly before slicing so the layers stay neat.

36. Snowflake Bread Pudding Muffins

These feel cozy and soft, but the muffin shape makes them easier to serve than a big pan. A little snowy finish makes them extra cute.

Ingredients

• 4 cups day-old bread cubes
• 3 eggs
• 1 ½ cups milk
• ⅓ cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• Powdered sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a muffin pan.
2. Add the bread cubes to a bowl.
3. Whisk the eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon and pour it over the bread.
4. Let the bread soak for 10 minutes, then spoon the mixture into the muffin cups.
5. Bake until puffed and lightly golden.
6. Dust with powdered sugar right before serving.

37. Peppermint Meringue Layer Cake

This feels airy and festive and looks really pretty on a cake stand. The meringue layers make it feel a little more delicate after a big meal.

Ingredients

• 6 egg whites
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• Crushed candy canes

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Beat the egg whites while slowly adding the sugar until stiff and glossy.
3. Spread the meringue into two or three round layers.
4. Bake until dry and crisp on the outside, then cool completely.
5. Whip the heavy whipping cream with the peppermint extract.
6. Layer the meringue with peppermint cream and finish with crushed candy canes.

38. Orange Cranberry Cheesecake Tart

This feels bright, creamy, and very pretty on a holiday dessert table. The cranberry on top gives it that nice Christmas color.

Ingredients

• 1 tart crust or graham cracker crust
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ½ cup cranberry sauce
• 1 cup whipped cream

Directions

1. Beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and orange zest.
2. Fold in the whipped cream so the filling stays light.
3. Spoon it into the crust and smooth the top.
4. Swirl the cranberry sauce over the top.
5. Chill until firm enough to slice cleanly.

39. Christmas Tree Macaron Tower

This looks really pretty and elegant if you want a showy dessert display. The stacked shape feels very festive for Christmas dinner.

Ingredients

• Green macarons
• White chocolate
• Red sprinkles
• Yellow star sprinkle

Directions

1. Arrange the green macarons in a cone or tree shape on a serving plate.
2. Use a little melted white chocolate between layers if you need help holding the shape.
3. Add red sprinkles like tiny ornaments.
4. Place the yellow star sprinkle at the top.
5. Keep cool until serving so the tower stays neat.

40. Eggnog Cheesecake Dip Board

This feels casual but still very festive. It works so well if you want dessert to feel easy and shareable after dinner.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1 cup marshmallow fluff
• ¼ cup eggnog
• Ground nutmeg
• Gingerbread cookies
• Apple slices

Directions

1. Beat the softened cream cheese with the marshmallow fluff.
2. Add the eggnog a little at a time until the dip is smooth and fluffy.
3. Spoon it into a serving bowl and dust the top with nutmeg.
4. Set the bowl on a board and surround it with gingerbread cookies and apple slices.
5. Serve chilled.

41. Cranberry Orange Mousse Cake

This has a really pretty holiday color and a lighter texture than a heavy frosted cake. It feels bright and festive after a big meal.

Ingredients

• 1 vanilla cake layer
• ¾ cup cranberry sauce
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon gelatin
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar

Directions

1. Set the vanilla cake layer into the bottom of a springform pan or cake ring.
2. Bloom the gelatin in a little water, then warm it just enough to dissolve.
3. Whip the heavy whipping cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
4. Fold in the cranberry sauce, orange zest, and dissolved gelatin.
5. Spoon the mousse over the cake layer and smooth the top.
6. Chill until firm enough to slice.

42. Christmas Star Shortbread with Lemon Glaze

These are buttery and simple, but they still feel elegant enough for Christmas dinner. The little glaze makes them look polished.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups flour
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Star cookie cutter

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and powdered sugar until smooth, then mix in the flour to form a soft dough.
3. Roll the dough and cut out stars with the star cookie cutter.
4. Bake until just lightly golden at the edges.
5. Whisk a little powdered sugar with the lemon juice to make a glaze.
6. Drizzle the cooled cookies lightly with glaze.

43. White Chocolate Raspberry Yule Log

This feels soft, creamy, and very pretty on a Christmas dessert table. The raspberry swirl adds such a nice holiday color.

Ingredients

• 1 thin vanilla sheet cake or sponge
• ½ cup raspberry jam
• White chocolate frosting
• Powdered sugar

Directions

1. Lay the cooled vanilla sheet cake flat on parchment paper.
2. Spread with the raspberry jam in a thin even layer.
3. Roll it carefully into a log.
4. Cover the outside with white chocolate frosting and add light fork marks if you want texture.
5. Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.

44. Snowy Lemon Coconut Bars

These feel bright, soft, and a little lighter after a rich dinner. The coconut top makes them look extra wintery.

Ingredients

• 2 cups shortbread cookie crumbs
• 6 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup lemon juice
• 1 cup shredded coconut

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the shortbread cookie crumbs with the melted butter and press into the pan.
3. Whisk the sweetened condensed milk with the lemon juice until thickened.
4. Pour over the crust and sprinkle the shredded coconut over the top.
5. Bake until just set, then cool fully before slicing into bars.

45. Christmas Wreath Cookie Cake

This is playful and easy to share around the table. The wreath shape makes it feel really festive without making it complicated.

Ingredients

• 1 roll sugar cookie dough
• Green frosting
• Red candies
• Mini pretzels

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and shape the sugar cookie dough into a large ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Bake until lightly golden and let it cool fully so it stays firm when decorated.
3. Pipe or spread green frosting over the top in a wreath-like layer.
4. Add the red candies like berries.
5. Break the mini pretzels into bow shapes and place one at the bottom.
6. Slice like a cookie pizza when serving.

46. Spiced Pear and Almond Tart

This feels elegant and grown-up in a really nice way. The pear slices on top make it look beautiful without much extra work.

Ingredients

• 1 tart shell
• 1 cup almond flour
• 6 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 pears, thinly sliced
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Beat the butter with the sugar, then mix in the almond flour, eggs, and cinnamon.
3. Spread that almond filling into the tart shell.
4. Arrange the sliced pears over the top in a fan pattern.
5. Bake until the filling is golden and the pears are tender.
6. Cool slightly before slicing.

47. Peppermint Brownie Cheesecake

This is rich, creamy, and a little dramatic on the dessert table. The brownie base makes it feel extra cozy for Christmas dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 box brownie mix
• 16 ounces cream cheese
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• Crushed candy canes

Directions

1. Prepare the brownie mix and spread it into the bottom of a springform pan.
2. Beat the cream cheese with the sugar until smooth, then beat in the eggs and peppermint extract.
3. Pour the cheesecake layer over the brownie batter.
4. Bake until the center is just set.
5. Cool fully, chill well, and sprinkle with crushed candy canes before serving.

48. Christmas Ornament Mini Cakes

These are cute, festive, and easy to plate one at a time. They add a playful look to a more formal dinner dessert spread.

Ingredients

• 12 mini bundt cakes
• Red glaze
• Green glaze
• Gold sprinkles
• Mini pretzels

Directions

1. Set the mini bundt cakes on a wire rack over parchment.
2. Drizzle half with red glaze and half with green glaze.
3. Scatter with gold sprinkles.
4. Press a small piece of mini pretzel at the top of each one like an ornament hanger.
5. Let the glaze set before moving them to a platter.

49. Maple Pecan Bread Pudding

This feels warm, rich, and very cozy for Christmas dinner. The maple and pecan flavor is so nice after savory holiday food.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf brioche bread, cubed
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup maple syrup
• 4 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• ½ cup heavy cream

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
2. Scatter the cubed brioche bread and chopped pecans into the dish.
3. Whisk the eggs, milk, heavy cream, and most of the maple syrup.
4. Pour over the bread and press down gently so it all soaks.
5. Drizzle the rest of the maple syrup over the top and bake until puffed and golden.

50. White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cups

These are creamy, festive, and easy to serve in little cups. They feel pretty without being fussy.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 8 ounces whipped topping
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• Mini dessert cups

Directions

1. Melt the white chocolate chips and let them cool slightly.
2. Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then mix in the melted white chocolate and peppermint extract.
3. Fold in the whipped topping.
4. Put a spoonful of graham cracker crumbs into the bottom of each mini dessert cup.
5. Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crumbs and chill until firm.

51. Christmas Tree Baklava

This feels crisp, buttery, and a little extra special for a holiday dinner. The tree cuts make it look much more festive than a regular pan of baklava.

Ingredients

• 1 package phyllo dough
• 1 cup chopped pistachios
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup melted butter
• ¾ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and butter a rectangular baking pan.
2. Layer sheets of phyllo dough into the pan, brushing every few sheets with melted butter.
3. Mix the pistachios, walnuts, and cinnamon, then scatter that mixture between more phyllo layers.
4. Finish with several buttered phyllo sheets on top.
5. Before baking, cut the pan into stacked tree triangles so the Christmas tree shape is already there once it bakes.
6. Bake until deeply golden, then pour the warmed honey over the hot baklava and let it soak in as it cools.

52. Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

This is rich, creamy, and very cozy for Christmas night. The marshmallow topping makes it feel like dessert and winter comfort all at once.

Ingredients

• 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
• 5 tablespoons melted butter
• 16 ounces cream cheese
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons hot cocoa mix
• 2 eggs
• Mini marshmallows

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F and press the chocolate cookie crumbs mixed with melted butter into a springform pan.
2. Beat the cream cheese with the sugar and hot cocoa mix.
3. Beat in the eggs just until combined.
4. Pour over the crust and bake until the center is barely set.
5. Cool and chill fully.
6. Top with mini marshmallows right before serving, or lightly toast them if you want more drama.

53. Cranberry Pistachio Ice Cream Cake

This feels festive and colorful without being heavy. The red and green pieces make it look perfect for Christmas dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ quarts vanilla ice cream
• 2 cups crushed shortbread cookies
• 4 tablespoons melted butter
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup chopped pistachios

Directions

1. Mix the crushed shortbread cookies with the melted butter and press into the bottom of a springform pan.
2. Let the vanilla ice cream soften a little, then fold in the dried cranberries and pistachios.
3. Spread the ice cream over the crust and smooth the top.
4. Freeze until very firm.
5. Unmold and slice with a warm knife for cleaner slices.

54. Snowy Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta

This is simple, creamy, and very elegant after a big meal. It looks soft and wintry with just a little topping.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons gelatin
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• Shredded coconut for garnish

Directions

1. Bloom the gelatin in a few tablespoons of the milk.
2. Warm the remaining milk, the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla bean paste until steaming.
3. Whisk in the bloomed gelatin until smooth.
4. Pour into serving glasses or ramekins.
5. Chill until fully set.
6. Top with a little shredded coconut before serving for a snowy look.

55. Christmas Tree Mille-Feuille

These look fancy and layered, but they still feel playful because of the tree shape. They are beautiful on a dessert tray.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry
• 2 cups thick vanilla pudding
• Powdered sugar
• Christmas tree cookie cutter

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and cut the puff pastry into tree shapes using the Christmas tree cookie cutter.
2. Bake until crisp and deeply golden, then cool fully.
3. Spread or pipe the thick vanilla pudding onto half the pastry trees.
4. Top with the remaining pastry trees to make layered little stacks.
5. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

56. White Chocolate Eggnog Trifle

This is creamy, soft, and really nice for Christmas dinner. The eggnog flavor makes it feel especially holiday-specific.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf pound cake
• 3 cups eggnog pudding or vanilla pudding with eggnog
• ½ cup white chocolate chips
• 8 ounces whipped topping
• Ground nutmeg
• Trifle bowl

Directions

1. Cut the pound cake into cubes.
2. Layer cake, eggnog pudding, a few white chocolate chips, and some whipped topping into the trifle bowl.
3. Repeat until the bowl is full.
4. Finish with whipped topping on top.
5. Dust lightly with nutmeg.
6. Chill until serving.

57. Chocolate Cranberry Tart

This feels rich and elegant and looks beautiful with glossy cranberries on top. It is a nice balance of deep chocolate and bright fruit.

Ingredients

• 1 chocolate tart crust
• 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chips
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup cranberries
• ⅓ cup sugar

Directions

1. Heat the heavy cream until steaming and pour it over the dark chocolate chips.
2. Stir until smooth and glossy, then pour into the chocolate tart crust.
3. In a small pan, simmer the cranberries with the sugar just until they soften and look glossy.
4. Cool the cranberries slightly, then spoon them over the tart.
5. Chill until the chocolate is set enough to slice cleanly.

58. Snowflake Mini Pavlovas with Lemon Curd

These are airy and bright and feel lovely after dinner. The lemon keeps them from feeling too rich.

Ingredients

• 4 egg whites
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ½ cup lemon curd
• Whipped cream
• Silver sprinkles

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Beat the egg whites while gradually adding the sugar until glossy and stiff.
3. Fold in the cornstarch.
4. Spoon the meringue into little starburst or snowflake-like shapes with a slight dip in the center.
5. Bake until dry on the outside and cool fully.
6. Top each one with a little lemon curd, a bit of whipped cream, and a few silver sprinkles.

59. Gingerbread Tiramisu

This is soft, creamy, and a little unexpected in the best way. The gingerbread flavor makes it feel especially nice for Christmas.

Ingredients

• 24 gingerbread cookies or gingerbread cake slices
• 1 cup cooled espresso
• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar
• Cocoa powder

Directions

1. Dip the gingerbread cookies or cake pieces quickly into the espresso.
2. Beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form, then fold in the mascarpone cheese.
3. Layer the soaked gingerbread and mascarpone mixture in a dish or dessert cups.
4. Repeat until full.
5. Chill for several hours.
6. Dust the top lightly with cocoa powder right before serving.

60. Holiday Dessert Board with Mini Favorites

This is a fun way to finish Christmas dinner when you want a little bit of everything. It feels festive, generous, and really pretty in the center of the table.

Ingredients

• Mini cheesecakes
• Truffles
• Christmas cookies
• Macarons
• Strawberries
• Green grapes
• Holiday cake stand or wood charcuterie board

Directions

1. Set out a large wood charcuterie board or use a few holiday cake stands together for more height.
2. Arrange the mini cheesecakes, truffles, Christmas cookies, and macarons in grouped sections.
3. Fill the open spots with strawberries and green grapes so the red and green colors show throughout.
4. Keep the layout full and balanced so it looks finished from every side.
5. Set it out right after dinner and let everyone pick their favorites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best holiday desserts for Christmas dinner?

The best ones usually feel festive but still easy to serve after a big meal. Cheesecakes, trifles, bread puddings, tarts, layered cakes, and elegant little plated desserts all work really well.

A dessert served on a holiday cake stand or a holiday serving platter also feels more special right away.

What flavors feel the most Christmas-like for dessert?

Some of the prettiest and most classic Christmas dinner dessert flavors are peppermint, gingerbread, cranberry, orange, eggnog, cinnamon, chocolate, maple, pecan, and white chocolate.

They feel festive without needing a lot of extra decorating.

Should Christmas dinner dessert be light or rich?

Either can work. After a heavy meal, lighter desserts like pavlova, panna cotta, mousse, or fruit-forward trifles can feel really nice.

If your family loves a richer dessert moment, cheesecakes, tarts, bread puddings, and chocolate cakes are always popular too.

What are the easiest Christmas dinner desserts to make ahead?

Cheesecakes, trifles, tarts, bars, icebox cakes, and bread puddings are all great make-ahead options.

They often taste even better once chilled or rested. Storing slices in airtight cake carriers or food storage containers makes the holiday prep easier.

How do I make Christmas desserts look more festive?

Simple details help a lot. Christmas tree shapes, star cutouts, wreath patterns, snowy powdered sugar, and holiday sprinkles can make a big difference.

What are good Christmas desserts for serving a crowd?

Big-format desserts usually work best for a crowd. Trifles, poke cakes, sheet cakes, dessert boards, bars, tarts, and bread puddings are all easy to portion.

Serving them in a large ceramic baking dish, a trifle bowl, or on a wide wood charcuterie board makes serving easier too.

What should I serve with Christmas dinner desserts?

Coffee, espresso, hot cocoa, or tea all pair nicely.

A little whipped cream, fruit sauce, caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also make plated desserts feel more complete without adding much work.

Christmas Desserts

Holiday desserts for Christmas dinner should feel festive, a little special, and still easy to serve after a big meal.

A dessert does not need to be complicated to feel beautiful on the table.

Flavors like peppermint, cranberry, gingerbread, orange, white chocolate, maple, and chocolate already feel like Christmas. A few simple details can make them look even better.

Get the scoop on more like this:

• 30 Last-Minute Christmas Desserts
• 50 Christmas Party Bites for Entertaining
• 40 Festive Christmas Snack Ideas
• 75 Christmas Party Food Ideas