27 Christmas Cakes Recipe Ideas Great for After-Dinner “Let’s Just Have Something Small” Moments

Hosting during the holidays gets easier when there are 27 cake recipes lined up for those little dessert moments. Friends and family tend to look for just a bite or two once the plates are cleared, and cakes are perfect for sharing. A quick slice lets everyone linger before saying goodnight without needing a big production.

Rich Oreo Cheesecake

A thick cookie crust and creamy top layer draw people in for this Rich Oreo Cheesecake, delivering a holiday-worthy treat at every gathering. Shoppers rave about how each slice feels special. Dessert tables light up the second it arrives. I bring out this cake whenever classic favorites get requests during winter.
Get the Recipe: Rich Oreo Cheesecake

Amish Cinnamon Cake

Cozy spice fills the air when this Amish Cinnamon Cake makes an appearance at holiday gatherings. Friends gather to talk about the unique bakery aroma. Gentle sweetness carries through each bite. I reach for this recipe when a peaceful treat fits the evening best.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Cake

Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Winter chills seem to melt away once this Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes show up with their cheerful look. Guests crowd around for the first pick, sharing excitement over the creamy center. Lively chatter rises, making the celebration feel cozier. I reach for this dessert to create a warm moment during holiday parties.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake

The blend of pumpkin and spice in this Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake always gets a chorus of compliments after Christmas dinner. People enjoy the moist crumb and gentle warmth in every bite. Plates empty quickly at festive brunches. I love sharing this cake when winter mornings could use an extra touch of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

A golden, crackly top invites guests to sample this Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake, which shines as a centerpiece on holiday tables. The creamy filling keeps everyone coming back for another slice. Soft flavors balance out the season’s busy energy. I bring it out when elegance and celebration go hand in hand.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

Moist Pumpkin Cake

Pumpkin fans gather around for this Moist Pumpkin Cake, feeling the gentle sweetness with every forkful. It’s a hit at potlucks where conversation lasts late into the evening. Warm brown color makes holiday tables pop. I rely on this cake to add a comforting touch to winter dessert spreads.
Get the Recipe: Moist Pumpkin Cake

Festive Christmas Tree Cupcakes

Green icing and playful candy toppers welcome guests to try this Festive Christmas Tree Cupcakes at family gatherings. The seasonal colors encourage smiles and laughter. Children and adults both linger close to these bright treats. I serve them when creative baking fits the holiday mood.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cupcakes

Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops

Kids run for dessert first once this Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops appear after Christmas dinner. The charming look makes even adults reach for seconds. Friends snap pictures before digging in. I rely on them for gatherings where playful, edible crafts inspire excitement.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops

Moist Chocolate Cake

Deep cocoa flavor and soft crumbs are what make this Moist Chocolate Cake a reliable crowd-pleaser at December parties. Guests crowd the dessert table to claim a slice before it’s gone. Smiles follow every bite. I always save this cake for celebrations that need an easy, comforting finale.
Get the Recipe: Moist Chocolate Cake

Sweet Cinnamon Roll Cake

Buttery swirls and spicy aroma surround this Sweet Cinnamon Roll Cake, giving dessert time a new spark during the holidays. Flavor reminds everyone of cozy breakfasts by the fire. Plating this cake feels just right for chilly nights. I reach for it whenever classic sweetness fits the celebration.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cinnamon Roll Cake

Fudgy Strawberry Brownies

Bites of chocolate and pink swirl create excitement when this Fudgy Strawberry Brownies land on the tray. Guests rush for a taste, especially as the fresh berry aroma fills the room. The pretty colors draw extra eyes during Christmas. I choose this recipe for parties with a focus on playful treats.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Strawberry Brownies

Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Bright fruit and golden topping add cheerful energy to this Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake, perfect for holiday tables. Each slice brings up happy nostalgia for dessert lovers. The sticky finish encourages everyone to grab seconds. I put it out for gatherings where old-school cake wins hearts.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Sweet Christmas Poke Cake

Swirls of color and creamy filling make this Sweet Christmas Poke Cake stand out whenever dessert time rolls around. Friends talk about the light texture and surprising flavor. The fun look matches easy serving for big groups. I keep the recipe handy for quick holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Christmas Poke Cake

Buttery Coffee Cake

Warm mornings turn special as guests discover this Buttery Coffee Cake on the counter during holiday brunch. The crumb topping sparks interest and conversation. Slices go quickly before anyone even finishes breakfast. I use it for family get-togethers needing gentle flavor and a simple start.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Coffee Cake

Classic Strawberry Cheesecake

A pink swirl and smooth texture help this Classic Strawberry Cheesecake shine on the holiday spread. Friends appreciate the familiar flavors paired with festive energy. The tart berry finish feels like a tiny celebration in every bite. I reach for it when dessert needs a sure-fire hit with guests.
Get the Recipe: Classic Strawberry Cheesecake

Gingerbread Cupcakes

Sweet spice and creative toppings give this Gingerbread Cupcakes a spot at December parties every year. People laugh as they decorate their own, making dessert an activity. Crowd energy rises around these charming cakes. I make extra when gatherings call for light-hearted fun.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Cupcakes

Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop

Lively colors and the promise of bakery flavor draw out smiles for this Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop every Christmas. Dippers celebrate the soft center and candied coating. These cake pops create conversation around dessert. I serve them for parties where grab-and-go treats make things easier.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop

Easy Apple Dump Cake

Hearty apples and a golden crust fill plates with this Easy Apple Dump Cake whenever the weather turns cold. People return for seconds at potlucks before anything else runs out. Recipes like this make dessert relaxing and fun. I use it as my go-to for simple gatherings during winter.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Dump Cake

Sweet Cherry Cheesecake

Bright cherries and velvet cheese filling combine in this Sweet Cherry Cheesecake for a celebration at every bite. Dessert trays gain instant appeal thanks to its classic colors. Guests crowd in close to sample extra slices. I bring it out for occasions that call for a little color and compassion.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cherry Cheesecake

Santa Cupcakes

Red hats and cheerful faces fill out this Santa Cupcakes at Christmas dessert tables, drawing laughter from everyone. Friendly competition starts as people decorate their own. The sweet flavor gets children excited for dessert. I love to feature these whenever the party calls for festive treats.
Get the Recipe: Santa Cupcakes

Easy Christmas Dump Cake

Layers of fruit and comforting cake work together in this Easy Christmas Dump Cake to create a crowd-friendly finish to any meal. Dessert goes quickly during holiday potlucks, especially with hungry kids around. People share stories as they eat. I choose this recipe for relaxed celebrations and friendly gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Christmas Dump Cake

Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Chocolate lovers smile wide for this Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake at winter festivities, drawn to its shiny caramel drizzle and deep flavor. Seconds are guaranteed at almost every party. Dessert feels like the highlight of the evening. I bring out this showstopper for special occasions needing a luxurious touch.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Rich German Chocolate Cake

Layers of coconut, chocolate, and nuts stack up in this Rich German Chocolate Cake for holiday tables that need something bold. The aromatic blend makes mouths water before dessert even begins. Guests talk about the texture until the last forkful. I rely on this cake during lively indoor celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Rich German Chocolate Cake

Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Brown cupcakes decorated with red noses make this Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes a favorite among kids and adults alike. Smiles grow as dessert plates fill up with these playful treats. People gather around for a chance to decorate their own. I grab this recipe when creativity is part of the holiday fun.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Dense Fruit Cake

Slices of this Dense Fruit Cake bring a mix of old-fashioned comfort and rich flavor to Christmas gatherings. People compliment the moist texture and enjoy the chewy sweetness as a festive treat. The classic presentation encourages conversation across the table. I serve it for evenings rooted in tradition and memory.
Get the Recipe: Dense Fruit Cake

Red Velvet Cupcakes

The deep red color and gentle cocoa flavor of this Red Velvet Cupcakes add a pop of fun to any dessert tray. Guests pause to admire the festive look before taking a bite. The moist crumb wins over the crowd. I turn to this cupcake for potlucks where anyone can help themselves.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cupcakes

Moist Red Velvet Cake

Soft, rich bites fill the plate with this Moist Red Velvet Cake as partygoers jump for seconds each season. Bright frosting combines with a gentle chocolate finish. Festive meals feel more complete the moment this dessert arrives. I rely on this classic for gatherings that celebrate flavor and friendship.
Get the Recipe: Moist Red Velvet Cake