47 Christmas Desserts Nobody Leaves the Table Without

There’s always that moment at Christmas when the main course is forgotten and dessert takes over. These 47 holiday desserts make that moment last longer than it should, and no one complains. They’re joyful, familiar, and impossible to skip, even for the “I’m too full” crowd. When dessert hits this good, leaving the table just isn’t an option.

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.
Christmas Poke Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream

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

Some desserts bring a smile before the first bite, and Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream is one of them. It mixes nostalgia and sweetness in a way that feels both playful and comforting. The creamy chill meets soft, crumbly texture in a perfect balance. It’s the kind of treat that makes people pause and go back for more.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream

Christmas Sugar Cookies

A group of cookies decorated with icing and snowflakes.
Christmas Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Family gatherings always feel brighter with Christmas Sugar Cookies on the table. Each one is soft, sweet, and shaped with care, carrying memories of laughter in the kitchen. The texture is simple but comforting, perfect for sharing across generations. They remind everyone that homemade always tastes better.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Sugar Cookies

Blueberry Cheesecake

A slice of cheesecake topped with glossy blueberry sauce on a white plate, with two black spoons beside it.
Blueberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Some desserts earn their place through pure comfort, like Blueberry Cheesecake. The smooth texture and subtle sweetness make it an easy favorite at any gathering. Every bite feels calm and familiar, the kind of dessert that doesn’t need to be announced. It’s elegance made simple and shared with love.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake

Santa Whoopie Pies

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

Joy tends to show up in unexpected ways, like with Santa Whoopie Pies. They’re fun, soft, and easy to pass around at any table. The look brings smiles before anyone even tastes them. They disappear fast because everyone secretly wants another one.
Get the Recipe: Santa Whoopie Pies

Hot Fudge Sundae

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

No list of desserts feels complete without Hot Fudge Sundae somewhere on it. The warm topping over cold sweetness always feels like the right balance. It’s simple, classic, and never fails to please. Every spoonful feels like comfort dressed as dessert.
Get the Recipe: Hot Fudge Sundae

Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake with whipped cream swirls on a cakestand.
Red Velvet Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Some desserts carry tradition in every crumb, and Red Velvet Cake does exactly that. It’s rich yet gentle, smooth yet bold enough to stand out at any celebration. The color draws attention, but it’s the flavor that keeps people talking. It’s one of those desserts that always earns a spot at the end of the table.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cake

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.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Familiar flavors blend perfectly in Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, making each bite warm and full. They’re soft, chewy, and feel like something baked out of kindness. The mix of textures keeps things interesting without being fussy. These cookies are the quiet favorite that everyone remembers later.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

Fruit salad in a blue bowl with a spoon.
Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Light desserts can still feel festive, and Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing proves that beautifully. It’s refreshing and colorful, perfect for balancing heavier holiday plates. Each bite feels bright yet calm. It’s a sweet reminder that simple can be special.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

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.
Cherry Pie. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Few desserts hold as much comfort as Cherry Pie sitting in the center of a table. The flaky crust and warm filling make it both inviting and timeless. Each slice feels like a piece of family tradition. It’s a dessert that speaks softly but leaves a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Pie

Pink Snoball Brownies

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

Fun desserts often steal the show, and Pink Snoball Brownies do it without trying too hard. They’re soft, rich, and bring a touch of nostalgia to any spread. The pink color adds charm without being over the top. Every bite feels playful yet homey.
Get the Recipe: Pink Snoball Brownies

Christmas Dump Cake

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

Effortless desserts like Christmas Dump Cake remind you that good things don’t need much fuss. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for big family tables. The baked layers hold just enough sweetness to keep everyone happy. It’s a go-to treat that never fails to please.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Dump Cake

Banana Pudding Brownies

Several squares of chocolate brownies with a yellow and brown marbled pattern are stacked and arranged on parchment paper.
Banana Pudding Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Familiar favorites meet in Banana Pudding Brownies, blending two comfort desserts into one. The texture stays rich but light enough to enjoy after a full meal. Every square feels smooth and home-baked. It’s one of those desserts that make people ask for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Banana Pudding Brownies

Fried Banana

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

Simplicity often wins, and Fried Banana proves that in the easiest way possible. Warm and golden, it turns a humble fruit into something special. The sweetness deepens just enough to feel indulgent without being heavy. It’s a quick treat that always feels thoughtful.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Dip

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

Nostalgia gets a creamy twist with Little Debbie Christmas Tree Dip. It’s playful, easy to share, and perfect for casual gatherings. Every spoonful feels familiar, like something made for everyone at once. It’s a crowd favorite that never stays on the table long.
Get the Recipe: Little Debbie Christmas Tree Dip

Grinch Crinkle Cookies

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

Some desserts are fun just by name, and Grinch Crinkle Cookies fit that role perfectly. They’re soft, chewy, and cheerful from the first look to the last bite. The color makes people smile before they even taste them. It’s a playful nod to a holiday classic everyone knows.
Get the Recipe: Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Chocolate cupcakes with white frosting and small pastel-colored marshmallows on top, arranged in a group against a neutral background.
Hot Chocolate Cupcakes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm drinks turned into baked treats are always a hit, like Hot Chocolate Cupcakes. They’re rich, soft, and bring that cozy feeling everyone loves. The texture stays smooth and comforting with every bite. They’re perfect for ending a meal on a gentle note.
Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Reindeer Cookie Pops

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

Desserts that make people laugh are always welcome, and Reindeer Cookie Pops do just that. They’re cute, sweet, and fun to hand out at gatherings. Every piece carries a sense of joy that feels contagious. They prove desserts can bring both smiles and sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Reindeer Cookie Pops

Peppermint Fudge

Close-up of two stacked pieces of chocolate peppermint fudge, with visible crushed peppermint candy on top.
Peppermint Fudge. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A little sweetness with a touch of coolness makes Peppermint Fudge a standout. It’s creamy, soft, and just strong enough to freshen up the dessert table. The smooth bite keeps people coming back. It’s a small piece that leaves a big mark.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Fudge

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.

Holiday tables shine brighter with Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies at the center. They’re creative, layered, and easy to share among family or friends. The shape brings out laughter and photos before anyone eats. It’s a dessert that makes the moment feel special.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Strawberry Mochi

Strawberry ice cream with a slice cut out.
Strawberry Mochi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A bite of Strawberry Mochi feels like soft comfort wrapped in something new. It’s tender, chewy, and quietly sweet without needing attention. The texture surprises first-timers but keeps them hooked after. It’s a modern favorite that fits right beside traditional desserts.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Mochi

Best Chocolate Cake

A person holding a slice of chocolate layer cake with frosting from a chocolate cake recipe.
Best Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Few desserts have a reputation like Best Chocolate Cake, and it lives up to every bit of it. Moist, rich, and perfectly balanced, it feels timeless every single time. The flavor stays deep without being too heavy. It’s the kind of cake that always finishes first.
Get the Recipe: Best Chocolate Cake

Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

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

Treats can be decoration too, and Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging make that possible. They’re fun to bake, easy to display, and even better to eat later. Every one feels like a small piece of tradition made new again. They keep both the tree and the table joyful.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Watergate Salad

A glass bowl filled with pistachio-flavored dessert topped with mini marshmallows and chopped nuts, with another similar bowl in the background.
Watergate Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Light and nostalgic, Watergate Salad is one of those old favorites that never truly leave. It’s creamy, soft, and perfect for sharing in big bowls. The flavor is familiar, something that feels easy and welcoming. It’s the quiet favorite that always finds its way back.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad

Tanghulu

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

A dessert with shine and crunch, Tanghulu always draws attention. The glossy coating cracks softly before the sweetness melts through. It’s simple but somehow feels special every time it’s made. People can’t help but reach for another piece.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

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

Few things say celebration like Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies lined up on a tray. They’re soft, buttery, and shaped with care that shows in every bite. The decorations make them as pretty as they are sweet. It’s the kind of treat that makes both kids and grown-ups pause for a moment of joy.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Reindeer Cake Pops

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

Fun desserts bring life to a table, and Reindeer Cake Pops do it effortlessly. Each one is small, charming, and made to share between laughs. They’re the perfect mix of cute and sweet without being too much. People reach for them before they even realize it.
Get the Recipe: Reindeer Cake Pops

Apple Fritters

Close-up of freshly baked apple cookies drizzled with icing, resting on parchment paper with part of a bowl visible to the right.
Apple Fritters. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Familiar comfort always finds its way back through recipes like Apple Fritters. Each piece is soft inside, crisp outside, and full of quiet sweetness. They bring a cozy feeling that feels like old-fashioned home cooking. You can almost hear stories being shared over them.
Get the Recipe: Apple Fritters

Pecan Pie Bars

Two pecan-topped dessert bars are stacked on parchment paper, showing a dense, crumbly base and a caramelized nut topping.
Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pecan Pie Bars take a classic favorite and make it easy to hold in your hand. They’re chewy, rich, and layered with just enough sweetness to feel indulgent. The texture is the perfect balance between firm and soft. It’s a dessert that disappears one small square at a time.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Bars

Snowman Cookies

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

Joy seems to multiply when Snowman Cookies make their way to the table. They’re lighthearted and full of charm, shaped to bring smiles before the first bite. Every cookie feels like it carries a bit of fun from whoever made it. It’s the kind of treat that brings everyone together.
Get the Recipe: Snowman Cookies

Candy Cane Fudge

Two pieces of vanilla and red swirled candy cane fudge stacked, with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint on top. Greenery in the background.
Candy Cane Fudge. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A little peppermint goes a long way in Candy Cane Fudge, creating a dessert that feels both smooth and fresh. It melts softly with just enough crunch to keep things interesting. The sweetness stays light, never too heavy. It’s a small square that leaves a big impression.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Fudge

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.
Lemon Cheesecake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Some desserts calm the table after a rich meal, and Lemon Cheesecake does that beautifully. It’s creamy, smooth, and carries a soft hint of brightness. Each slice feels balanced and comforting without trying too hard. It’s the perfect finish for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cheesecake

Sweet Potato Pie

A slice of sweet potato pie with a swirl of cream on it.
Sweet Potato Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Tradition stays strong through desserts like Sweet Potato Pie. It’s warm, silky, and loved by generations for good reason. The texture feels familiar, the kind that keeps people quiet while they enjoy it. It’s comfort baked into a crust.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

Peanut Butter Brownies

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

Peanut Butter Brownies blend two favorite desserts into one rich, homey bite. They’re soft, dense, and have just the right touch of sweetness. The flavor feels balanced and deeply comforting. You’ll find yourself reaching for one more even when you’re full.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Brownies

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.

There’s something special about Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake, where richness meets calm sweetness. The layers feel smooth and steady, like something made for celebrations that matter. Every bite feels indulgent without being overwhelming. It’s the dessert everyone remembers long after it’s gone.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Strawberry Ice Cream

Close-up of scoops of strawberry ice cream in a glass dish, garnished with a fresh strawberry.
Strawberry Ice Cream. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Simple desserts often carry the most happiness, and Strawberry Ice Cream proves it. It’s creamy, refreshing, and quietly nostalgic. The flavor brings a touch of calm that fits any occasion. It’s one of those desserts that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Ice Cream

Chocolate Cheesecake

A slice of chocolate cheesecake with a cookie crust and whipped cream topping is being lifted from the whole cake.
Chocolate Cheesecake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Smooth and rich, Chocolate Cheesecake feels like the dessert equivalent of comfort and elegance combined. It’s firm enough to hold its shape but soft enough to melt with each bite. The balance between chocolate and cream makes it unforgettable. It’s the kind of dessert people linger over.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cheesecake

Banoffee Pie

A slice of Banoffee pie with whipped cream and caramel.
Banoffee Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s a kind of joy in seeing Banoffee Pie appear at the table. It’s layered, soft, and full of familiar sweetness. Every slice feels like a treat made with care and patience. It’s hard to find anyone who doesn’t love it.
Get the Recipe: Banoffee Pie

Coffee Cake

Close-up of eight square pieces of crumb cake with a textured, crumbly topping.
Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Mornings or evenings, Coffee Cake fits them all. It’s tender, lightly sweet, and perfect beside a warm drink or a quiet chat. The texture stays comforting without being too rich. It’s a dessert that feels like time slowing down.
Get the Recipe: Coffee Cake

Eggnog Pudding Shots

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

Laughter tends to follow Eggnog Pudding Shots, the kind of dessert that brings both fun and warmth. They’re creamy, light, and perfect for sharing with friends. Each one feels like a little toast to good company. It’s dessert with a cheerful spirit.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Pudding Shots

Basque Cheesecake

A close-up of several slices of a dense, golden-brown custard or cheesecake on parchment paper.
Basque Cheesecake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A slice of Basque Cheesecake feels like something made with patience and care. The baked edges and soft center make it stand out quietly among richer desserts. Each bite feels calm, smooth, and deeply comforting. It’s proof that simplicity often wins hearts.
Get the Recipe: Basque Cheesecake

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A close-up image shows a stack of four chocolate crinkle cookies covered in powdered sugar, revealing their cracked texture.
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Few cookies feel as nostalgic as Chocolate Crinkle Cookies dusted and cracked just right. They’re soft, chewy, and rich without being heavy. The texture gives you everything you want from a homemade treat. They disappear faster than you can stack them.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

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.
Pistachio Ice Cream. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pistachio Ice Cream brings a gentle sweetness that feels both unique and familiar. The color draws attention, but the flavor keeps it. It’s cool, smooth, and perfectly mellow. Every spoonful feels like a quiet pause between conversations.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Ice Cream

Rudolph Cupcakes

Rudolph cupcakes featuring swirled frosting, candy eyes, a red candy nose, and pretzel antlers mimic the playful charm of a reindeer.
Rudolph Cupcakes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Desserts that make people smile before eating are always a win, like Rudolph Cupcakes. They’re adorable, light, and fun to decorate with kids. Each one brings laughter to the table long before dessert starts. It’s the kind of treat that becomes a family memory.
Get the Recipe: Rudolph Cupcakes

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.

There’s comfort in something as simple as Chewy Chocolate Brownies. They’re dense, soft, and full of that deep chocolate flavor people never tire of. The edges stay just crisp enough to keep every bite interesting. They’re the dessert everyone hopes to see at the end.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Chocolate Brownies

Christmas Cheese Trees

Close-up of sliced cheese coated with mixed herbs and chopped nuts on parchment paper, resembling charming Christmas cheese trees.
Christmas Cheese Trees. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creativity meets comfort with Christmas Cheese Trees, a fun twist that surprises guests in the best way. They’re shaped beautifully and easy to share during gatherings. Every piece feels thoughtful, like something made for the moment. They bring charm and cheer without trying too hard.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Cheese Trees

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

A delectable close-up of Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies, adorned with spiral white icing on a parchment paper background.
Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies combine softness and sweetness in a way that feels indulgent yet homey. The swirl adds that extra bit of fun to an already beloved cookie. Each bite feels warm and steady. It’s a dessert that belongs in every home baker’s rotation.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

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.
Christmas Poke Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bright, soft, and full of cheer, Christmas Poke Cake closes out any meal with ease. The texture is tender and rich without feeling too heavy. Every slice looks festive and feels familiar. It’s the dessert people look forward to long before dinner ends.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Poke Cake

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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