23 Christmas Candy Recipes Perfect for a DIY Gift Box

The holiday season is the perfect time to share delicious treats, and what better way to spread the joy than with a DIY Christmas candy gift box? Whether you’re looking to impress family, surprise friends, or add a little extra cheer to the office, homemade Christmas candies are a thoughtful, personal way to say “Happy Holidays.” This year, we’re diving into a list of 23 festive and easy Christmas candy recipes that will brighten up any gift box.

From vintage Christmas recipes to modern twists on classic flavors, these holiday candy recipes capture the essence of the season in every bite. Picture sweet peppermint bark, creamy fudge, festive Christmas petit fours, and other holiday treats that are as pretty as they are tasty. Each recipe is easy enough to whip up at home, making these treats a great option for DIY enthusiasts and last-minute gifters alike.

And the best part? These candies aren’t just delicious—they’re also perfect for a Christmas sweet tray, goodie box, or gift basket. With simple instructions and basic ingredients, you can create a beautiful assortment of holiday treats that look as brilliant as they taste. So let’s unwrap the magic of homemade Christmas candy and start crafting unforgettable holiday gifts!

Holiday Treats for Gifting

When it comes to spreading holiday cheer, few things beat the joy of gifting homemade treats. Envision the delight on your friends’ faces as they unwrap a box filled with easy Christmas treats you’ve made with love.

From rich, creamy fudge to festive peppermint bark, your holiday treats for gifts will shine. You don’t need to be a master chef; simple homemade Christmas candy can be just as impactful.

Think of no-bake recipes or quick chocolate-covered pretzels that look gorgeous yet take minutes to prepare. As you package these goodies, add a personal touch with handwritten notes.

Your thoughtful gifts won’t only satisfy sweet cravings but also create lasting memories of the season’s warmth and joy.

Tips for the Best Christmas Candy

Creating homemade Christmas candy can be just as delightful as gifting those tasty treats. Here are some tips to guarantee your holiday candy recipes shine:

Choose Easy Christmas Candy Recipes: Start with simple recipes, like chocolate bark or peppermint fudge, to build your confidence.
Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chocolate and pure extracts make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Plan Ahead: Make your candy a few days in advance. This gives you time to package them beautifully for your Christmas treats gift box ideas.
Experiment with Presentation: Use festive packaging or add a personal note to enhance your gifts.

With these tips, your homemade candy won’t only taste amazing but also bring joy to everyone who receives them!

Classic Peanut Butter Balls

Classic Peanut Butter Balls are a nostalgic treat that everyone loves! They’re easy to prepare and perfect for sharing during the holidays or just enjoying at home.

Ingredients:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
3 tablespoons salted butter, melted
2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup powdered sugar
12 ounces melting chocolate (wafers or bars)

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and peanut butter until smooth and well blended.
Gently stir in the Rice Krispies cereal and powdered sugar, being careful not to crush the cereal too much.
Shape the mixture into walnut-sized balls and place them on a cookie sheet lined with parchment or wax paper.
Chill the balls in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm them up.
While the balls are chilling, melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Once chilled, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring they’re fully coated. Let excess chocolate drip off.
Place the coated balls back on the lined cookie sheet and chill for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chocolate is set.

For an extra special touch, consider drizzling some white chocolate over the top or adding festive sprinkles before they set. These peanut butter balls can also be made ahead of time and frozen, making them a great treat to have on hand for unexpected guests!

Classic Stovetop Fudge

Fudge is one of those classic treats that brings back sweet memories of Christmas and family gatherings. It’s surprisingly easy to make and is sure to impress your loved ones with its rich, creamy texture.

Ingredients:

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 cup half-and-half
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup corn syrup
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

In a 2-quart saucepan, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, half-and-half, salt, and corn syrup.
Whisk the mixture until smooth, then heat it over medium-low heat until it reaches a gentle boil.
Using a candy thermometer, cook the mixture until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage).
Remove the saucepan from heat and add the butter and vanilla on top without stirring. Let it cool until the sides of the pan feel warm to the touch.
Once cooled, beat the mixture for 1-3 minutes until it thickens and becomes less shiny.
Pour the fudge into a buttered dish and allow it to set at room temperature.

For best results, make sure to use a sturdy saucepan to prevent burning, and remember that patience is key when waiting for the fudge to cool before beating it. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding chopped nuts or different flavor extracts to make it your own!

Pecan Pralines

Pecan pralines are a classic Southern treat that brings a bit of sweetness to any holiday gathering. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor, they’re sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients:

1.5 cups granulated sugar
1.5 cups light brown sugar, packed
0.25 teaspoon salt
1 cup evaporated milk (or half-and-half)
6 tablespoons salted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups pecans

Instructions:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the pralines later.
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, evaporated milk, and butter.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a boil.
Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it reaches a temperature of 235-240°F (this is known as the soft ball stage).
Once at the right temperature, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and pecans until the mixture thickens slightly.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them out so they don’t touch.
Let the pralines cool completely until they’re set, then store them in an airtight container.

For a little extra flair, consider toasting your pecans before adding them to the mixture to enhance their flavor. Also, be patient and precise with the cooking temperature; if you’re in a humid climate, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. And remember, if your pralines don’t set just right, they can make a delicious topping for ice cream!

Maple Nut Fudge

Maple Nut Fudge is the perfect sweet treat for the holidays! It’s easy to make and packed with delicious flavors, making it a great gift or a special addition to your festive spread.

Ingredients:

3 cups white chocolate chips
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
¾ cup real maple syrup (recommended for best flavor)
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup chopped walnuts (you can use pre-chopped or freshly chopped)

Instructions:

Start by preparing an 8×8 baking dish lined with parchment paper. This will make it super easy to remove the fudge later.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, maple syrup, and butter. Stir the mixture constantly for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and lump-free.
Once everything is melted and smooth, stir in the chopped walnuts until they’re evenly distributed.
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out and gently tap the dish to release any air bubbles.
Cover the dish and chill the fudge in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Once it’s set, you can cut it into squares and enjoy!

For the best results, store your maple nut fudge in an airtight container or a zip-top bag at room temperature for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigerating it, as moisture can make it dry. If you want to enhance the maple flavor, consider adding a splash of maple extract. Feel free to swap out walnuts for other nuts like pecans or almonds if you prefer!

Homemade Toffee

Toffee is a delightful holiday treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family! This easy homemade toffee recipe combines sweet and crunchy flavors, making it a favorite during the festive season.

Ingredients:

1 cup butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup pecans (or your favorite nuts)
Optional: pinch of salt
Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup milk chocolate chips

Instructions:

Prepare Your Equipment: Gather a candy thermometer and a baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper and spray it lightly with cooking spray.
Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add Sugar: Once the butter is melted, add the granulated sugar and stir until fully combined.
Cook the Mixture: Keep stirring continuously while the mixture comes to a boil. Use your candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Reach the Right Temperature: Cook the mixture until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). This may take about 10-15 minutes, so be patient and keep stirring!
Add Nuts and Flavor: Once the mixture reaches the right temperature, remove it from heat. Stir in the pecans, salt, and vanilla extract if you’re using it.
Pour and Cool: Quickly pour the hot mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Let it cool for about 5 minutes.
Add Chocolate: Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the toffee. Allow them to sit for a few minutes until melted, then spread the melted chocolate evenly with a spatula.
Set and Break: Let the toffee cool completely at room temperature or in the fridge until set. Once it’s hardened, break it into pieces.

When making toffee, remember to keep an eye on it and stir continuously to prevent burning. If you live in a humid area, be mindful that it can affect the texture, so try to store your toffee in a cool, dry place.

Raspberry Jellies

Raspberry Jelly Candy is a delightful treat that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion! It’s easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, and it offers a unique flavor that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

1.75-ounce box of pectin
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ cup water
Approximately 1 cup sugar (plus extra for coating)
1 cup seedless raspberry jam

Instructions:

Prep the Pan: Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix Pectin: In a bowl, combine the pectin, baking soda, and water.
Boil Jam Mixture: In a saucepan, mix the sugar and raspberry jam, heating it over medium heat until it starts to boil.
Heat Pectin: Microwave the pectin mixture in intervals, stirring until it reaches a boil.
Combine Mixtures: Carefully stir the pectin into the boiling jam mixture and let it boil for 3 minutes.
Pour and Set: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and let it sit undisturbed for 2 days to set properly.

For the best results, make sure you allow the candy to set for the full 2 days. If you find the texture to be a bit sticky, try leaving it out longer or dusting the squares with extra sugar before serving. Enjoy your homemade raspberry jellies, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors or even a chocolate dip for a delicious twist!

Maple Candy

Making maple candy is a delightful way to enjoy the rich, sweet flavors of maple syrup, and it’s a great treat for the holidays! This simple recipe will guide you through creating your own delicious maple candy at home.

Ingredients:

2 cups pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Optional: Pinch of salt or chopped walnuts for flavor enhancement

Instructions:

Prepare your workspace by spraying candy molds or lining a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Pour the maple syrup into a large saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
Once the syrup is boiling, add in the butter and continue to boil the mixture.
Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, aiming for 240°F (soft-ball stage). Stir the syrup vigorously as it cooks.
Once the mixture thickens and loses its glossy finish, quickly remove it from the heat.
Carefully pour the hot syrup into your prepared molds or pan, being cautious of the heat.
Allow the candy to cool and harden at room temperature for about an hour before removing from molds.

For best results, remember that the quality of maple syrup you use will greatly affect the taste of your candy. If you find that your syrup is too thick, it may indicate that the temperature was too high or the cooking time was too long. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors by adding a pinch of salt or some chopped walnuts for an extra crunch!

Peppermint Bark

Peppermint bark is a festive treat that’s super easy to make and perfect for sharing during the holidays! With its rich chocolate layers and crunchy candy cane topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients:

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup white chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2 cup crushed candy canes

Instructions:

Begin by melting the semisweet chocolate chips. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or use a double boiler. Be careful not to overheat!
Once melted, pour the semisweet chocolate onto a parchment-lined sheet pan and spread it evenly with an offset spatula.
Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes, just until the chocolate is partially set.
While the semisweet layer is chilling, melt the white chocolate chips in the same way—using the microwave or double boiler.
Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract. Be cautious not to overheat the white chocolate, as it can thicken.
Pour the melted white chocolate over the semisweet chocolate layer and spread it out evenly.
Before the white chocolate sets, sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top. Gently press them into the chocolate for better adhesion.
Chill the entire pan in the refrigerator until fully set, about 1 hour.
Once set, remove the bark from the pan and use a sharp knife to cut it into squares or break it into pieces.

For the best results, make sure to use high-quality chocolate, as it makes a big difference in flavor! If you’re having trouble with the white chocolate melting, try a different brand or make sure it’s fresh.

And remember, peppermint bark can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or 3 weeks in the fridge, but it’s so delicious, it probably won’t last that long!

Classic Soft Stovetop Caramels

These delightful homemade caramels are perfect for the holidays or anytime you want a sweet treat! With a rich flavor and chewy texture, they’re sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups brown sugar
1 cup corn syrup
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

Start by lining a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a 3-quart saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, sweetened condensed milk, and salt.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a boil.
Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan and continue cooking until the temperature reaches 236°F (soft ball stage).
Once it reaches the target temperature, stop stirring to prevent air bubbles from forming.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the caramel cool completely at room temperature for at least 4 hours.
Once cooled, use a lightly buttered knife to cut the caramels into squares.

Make sure to keep an eye on the color of your caramel—it should be a deep golden-brown. If the smell starts to get toasty or the color darkens too much, it means you might’ve overcooked it. Don’t forget to wrap your caramels in wax paper once they’re firm to keep them from sticking together!

Chocolate-Covered Pretzels

Chocolate-covered pretzels are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the salty crunch of pretzels with the sweet goodness of chocolate. They make for a fun and festive addition to any holiday celebration or party!

Ingredients:

8 ounces semisweet Bakers chocolate
Mini pretzels (about 75)
Sprinkles, crushed M&Ms, or toasted coconut (for toppings)

Instructions:

Begin by breaking the semisweet chocolate into smaller pieces and placing them in a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s completely melted and smooth.
Dip each mini pretzel into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Use a fork to lift the pretzel out of the chocolate, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off.
Place the dipped pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle your desired toppings over the pretzels.
Once all the pretzels are dipped and decorated, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to let the chocolate harden.

For the best results, store your chocolate-covered pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigeration to prevent moisture from ruining their texture.

Turkish Delight

Turkish delight, or lokum, is a sweet treat that’s perfect for the holiday season! With its chewy texture and delightful flavors, it’s a fun and rewarding candy to make at home.

Ingredients:

2 cups white sugar
1 cup water
1 teaspoon citric acid
1 cup cornstarch
1 ½ cups water (for cornstarch mixture)
1 tablespoon rosewater (or flavor of choice)
Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, 1 cup of water, and citric acid. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until it reaches 250°F (hard ball stage). Be sure to monitor it closely!
While the syrup is cooking, mix 1 cup of cornstarch with 1 ½ cups of water in a separate bowl until it’s lump-free.
Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the hot syrup, whisking continuously until it’s fully incorporated.
Keep heating the mixture on medium-low, whisking until it thickens. Then, let it simmer on low, stirring every 7-8 minutes for 1-2 hours, until it’s nice and thick.
Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the rosewater and food coloring, if using.
Pour the mixture into a greased dish and let it set at room temperature for at least 5 hours, preferably 24 hours.

To make your Turkish delight extra special, remember to dredge the cubes in a mix of cornstarch and powdered sugar before serving. This helps prevent sticking and adds a lovely texture.

White Chocolate Truffles

These delicious white chocolate truffles are super easy to make and perfect for gifting during the holidays. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sweet treat that everyone will love!

Ingredients:

8 oz white chocolate, chopped
½ cup heavy cream or sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Additional melted chocolate for coating
Optional toppings: chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or cocoa powder

Instructions:

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped white chocolate, heavy cream (or condensed milk), and vanilla extract.
Heat the mixture in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Once melted, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours, allowing the mixture to firm up.
Once chilled, use a small ice cream scoop or your hands (wear gloves to avoid melting) to shape the mixture into small balls.
Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate until fully coated, then place them on a lined tray.
If desired, sprinkle with your choice of toppings before the coating sets.
Allow the chocolate coating to set completely at room temperature or in the fridge.

When making these truffles, remember to chill the mixture thoroughly for easy handling. Working in small batches will help keep your hands cool, especially on warm days. If you want to get creative, feel free to mix in your favorite extracts or toppings to customize the flavors!

Dark Chocolate Truffles

If you’re looking for a simple yet indulgent treat to impress your family and friends this holiday season, these Dark Chocolate Ganache Truffles are the perfect choice!

With just three ingredients, you can create a rich and delicious dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

200 grams (1 and 1/3 cup) high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
120 ml (1/2 cup) full-fat heavy or thickened cream
40 grams (1/2 cup) cocoa powder for coating

Instructions:

Finely chop the dark chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl.
In a saucepan, heat the cream until it reaches a simmer, then pour it over the chopped chocolate.
Let the mixture sit covered for 3-5 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt.
Whisk the chocolate and cream together until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Refrigerate the ganache for at least 2 hours until it sets firmly.
Once set, scoop out small amounts of ganache and roll them into balls to form truffles.
Roll each truffle in cocoa powder until fully coated.

These truffles aren’t only delicious but also easy to customize! You can add a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty treat, or even roll them in crushed nuts for an extra crunch.

Almond Bark

Almond bark is such a delightful treat that’s perfect for the holidays! It’s super easy to make and is a hit at cookie exchanges and gatherings. Let’s get started on this deliciously simple recipe!

Ingredients:

2 cups whole raw skin-on almonds
12 ounces white chocolate or white chocolate confectionary
2 tablespoons refined coconut oil (or shortening/vegetable oil as substitutes)
½ teaspoon sea salt (or flaky salt of your choice, pink sea salt recommended)
Optional: crushed peppermint for topping

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the almonds on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Toast the almonds in the oven for about 20 minutes, stirring them around every 5 minutes to make certain they don’t burn. Keep an eye on them during the last 5 minutes!
Once they’re dark brown and extra crisp, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
Once the almonds have cooled, stir them into the melted chocolate mixture until well coated.
Pour the chocolate-covered almonds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading them out evenly.
Sprinkle the sea salt (and crushed peppermint if using) over the top while the chocolate is still warm.
Allow the bark to cool and set completely at room temperature or place it in the refrigerator for quicker results.
Once set, break the bark into pieces and enjoy!

For the best results, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings! You can experiment with different nuts or even add a sprinkle of vanilla bean infused sea salt for a unique flavor twist.

Peanut Butter Fudge

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s quick to prepare and perfect for sharing, this old-fashioned peanut butter fudge is just the thing! It’s creamy, delicious, and calls for just a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients:

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter

Instructions:

Start by spraying an 8×8 dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
In a medium pan, combine the sugar and milk. Stir well to combine.
Heat the mixture over medium-low heat and bring it to a boil. Let it boil for 2.5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Carefully pour the fudge mixture into your prepared dish and spread it evenly.
Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature before cutting it into squares.

For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before it cools, or try mixing in some chocolate chips for a delicious twist! Remember, patience is key for cooling time—don’t rush it, or you might end up with a gooey mess.

Peppermint Patties

Peppermint patties are a delightful holiday treat that are super easy to make at home. With their creamy peppermint filling coated in rich chocolate, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends during Christmas!

Ingredients:

1 can sweetened condensed milk (or dairy-free coconut version)
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa recommended)
1 tablespoon oil (not extra virgin olive oil)
1 tablespoon butter (optional for richness)
Colored sprinkles (optional for decoration)

Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and powdered sugar. Mix until you form a thick dough.
Roll out the dough on a clean surface to about 1/4 inch thickness, then use a cookie cutter or a small glass to cut out 1-inch circles.
Place the circles on a baking sheet lined with wax paper and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
While the patties chill, melt the dark chocolate with the oil. You can do this in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals or using a double boiler until smooth.
Once the patties are chilled, dip each one into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s completely coated. Let the excess chocolate drip off.
Place the dipped patties back on the wax paper and, if desired, sprinkle colored sprinkles on top before the chocolate sets.
Refrigerate the patties for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden.

For extra tips, make sure your patties are chilled well before dipping them in chocolate to maintain their shape. If you want to get creative, try using crushed peppermint candies for added flavor and texture, or experiment with different types of chocolate. Enjoy your homemade peppermint patties!

Oreo Truffles

Oreo truffles are a delicious and easy treat that everyone will love, especially during the holiday season. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these rich and chocolatey bites that are perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying at home.

Ingredients:

1 package of regular Oreos
8 oz. cream cheese (full-fat preferred)
12 oz. chocolate melts (Ghirardelli recommended)
Optional: peppermint extract and crushed candy canes for garnish

Instructions:

Crush the Oreos: Use a food processor to finely crush the Oreos. If you don’t have one, you can place the Oreos in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Oreos and cream cheese. Mix until everything is well blended and forms a dough-like consistency. You can use a stand mixer or electric hand mixer for this.
Shape the Balls: Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with wax or parchment paper.
Chill the Truffles: Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about 15 minutes to let the truffles firm up before dipping.
Dip in Chocolate: Melt the chocolate melts according to package instructions. Once melted, dip each truffle into the chocolate, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off. Place them back on the lined baking sheet.
Add Toppings: If you want to get festive, sprinkle some crushed candy canes or drizzle some extra melted chocolate on top before the chocolate sets.
Chill Again: Allow the dipped truffles to chill in the refrigerator until the chocolate hardens.

For the best results, be sure to use regular Oreos and avoid light cream cheese, as it can affect the texture of the truffles. After making them, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. These truffles can also be frozen for up to three months—just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Chocolate Peanut Clusters

Chocolate Peanut Clusters are a super easy and delicious treat that you can create in no time! Perfect for last-minute gifts or a festive snack, this two-ingredient recipe is a fun way to get the kids involved in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

400g / 14oz of milk or dark chocolate
275g / 2 cups of salted peanuts

Instructions:

Begin by melting the chocolate. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or use a double boiler on the stove.
Once the chocolate is melted and smooth, stir in the salted peanuts until they’re fully coated in chocolate.
Line a baking tray with parchment paper to make it easy to remove the clusters later.
Using a spoon, scoop out the chocolate and peanut mixture and drop it onto the prepared tray. You can flatten the clusters a little if you’d like.
Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the clusters firm up.

Chocolate-Covered Marshmallows

Chocolate-covered marshmallows are such a fun and delightful treat, perfect for Christmas celebrations or any festive occasion. They’re easy to make and can be a fun activity to do with the kids!

Ingredients:

1-2 bags (10 ounces each) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening per 10-ounce bag
Standard-size or jumbo marshmallows
Optional decorations: seasonal sprinkles, contrasting melted chocolate, or cake-pop sticks
Equipment: parchment paper, microwave-safe bowl

Instructions:

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave for 1 minute.
Stir the mixture and continue microwaving in 15-second increments until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Using a toothpick, dip each marshmallow into the melted chocolate, making sure to coat it evenly. Remove any excess chocolate.
Place the dipped marshmallows on the prepared baking sheet and allow them to set in a cool, dry place until the chocolate hardens.

For a festive touch, feel free to add sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet, or drizzle some contrasting melted chocolate on top for an extra pop of color. These little treats can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for the best freshness.

Homemade Fireball Whiskey Caramels

Are you ready to make some delicious homemade Fireball whiskey caramels? These sweet treats aren’t only perfect for holiday gifting, but they also pack a spicy cinnamon punch that everyone will love!

Ingredients:

1 cup Fireball whiskey
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 cup corn syrup
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Parchment paper

Instructions:

Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting some overhang for easy removal later.
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. It’s important not to stir while it’s boiling to prevent crystallization.
Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. When the mixture reaches 246°F (firm ball stage), carefully add the Fireball whiskey and vanilla extract. Stir quickly to combine.
Once the whiskey is fully incorporated, pour the caramel mixture into the prepared baking pan. Allow it to cool undisturbed for about 2 to 4 hours at room temperature.
Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the caramels into pieces. You can score the surface beforehand for easier cutting.

For best results, make sure to measure and prepare all your ingredients ahead of time. This will help you avoid any last-minute scrambling. Remember, if your caramels are too soft, you can cook them a little longer next time, and if they seem grainy, it’s probably from stirring while boiling.

Peanut Brittle

Peanut brittle is a classic holiday treat that’s not only delicious but also fun to make! With a few simple ingredients and some careful cooking, you can create this crunchy candy that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup corn syrup
2 cups raw peanuts
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and corn syrup. Heat over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil.
Once boiling, add the peanuts and stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
Remove the saucepan from the heat source and quickly stir in the butter, baking soda, and vanilla. Be careful, as the mixture will foam up!
Immediately pour the hot mixture onto a parchment-lined sheet pan and spread it out evenly.
Let the peanut brittle cool for at least 30 minutes before breaking it into pieces.

Making peanut brittle is a wonderful way to bring some holiday cheer into your home! Remember to keep safety in mind while cooking, as the sugar mixture will be extremely hot. Also, make sure to store your brittle in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy.

Easy Crockpot Christmas Candy

If you’re looking for a simple yet festive treat to brighten up your holiday season, this Easy Crockpot Christmas Candy is just the thing! With a blend of delicious chocolates and crunchy peanuts, it’s perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself.

Ingredients:

16 ounces lightly salted roasted peanuts
10 ounces 60% cocoa baking chocolate
4 ounces 48% cocoa baking chocolate
4 ounces white baking chocolate
10 ounces vanilla flavored candy melts
Holiday sprinkles

Instructions:

Start by adding the peanuts and broken pieces of both types of chocolate into your slow cooker.
Set your slow cooker to LOW and let it cook for 1 hour. After that, give it a good stir and continue cooking for an additional 1.5 hours.
Once the cooking time is up, let the mixture sit covered for 30 minutes to cool slightly.
Using a spoon, drop the mixture onto parchment paper in 2-tablespoon portions, making sure to leave about 0.5 inches of space between each piece.
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle on your holiday sprinkles. Then, pop the trays in the refrigerator for 1 hour to let the candies set.

For the best results, store your candies in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. If you’re planning to keep them for a while, know that they can last up to 3 weeks in the fridge or even 6 months in the freezer.

Remember to add the sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet so they stick well! And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can double or triple this recipe, but be careful not to halve it, as that might lead to scorching.

Malted Milk Balls

Malted milk balls are a delightful treat that brings a nostalgic flavor to any holiday gathering. They’re fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat, especially when you share them with family and friends!

Ingredients:

1 cup malted milk powder
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk (evaporated or non-dairy alternatives recommended)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Corn syrup (for binding)
Chocolate coating (for the outer layer)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, whisk together the malted milk powder, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.
In a separate bowl, mix the milk and vanilla extract together.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and combine until everything is well mixed.
Chill the mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
Once chilled, use your hands to roll the mixture into small balls.
Place the rolled balls in the freezer for another 30 minutes to set.
While the balls are freezing, melt your chocolate in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid burning.
Once the balls are frozen, dip them into the melted chocolate to coat them completely.
Place the coated balls back on a baking sheet and freeze again to allow the chocolate to set.

To guarantee your malted milk balls turn out perfect, remember to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. It’s also key to keep the size of the balls uniform for even coating. Don’t skip the chilling steps; they help maintain the right consistency. Feel free to get creative with different coatings, like sprinkles or nuts, to give your treats a fun twist!

With 23 delightful Christmas candy recipes to choose from, you’re all set to make this holiday season extra sweet! Whether you’re crafting a Christmas sweet tray, filling a gift box, or making holiday treats for friends, each of these recipes adds a personal, festive touch.

Which of these Christmas candies will make it to your gift box this year? Have you ever made homemade Christmas candy to share with those you care about? Share your favorite recipes and experiences in the comments!