As the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm and comforting dessert. The season is full of flavors that evoke feelings of coziness and nostalgia – think cinnamon, nutmeg, and peppermint. This year, why not try something new to satisfy your sweet tooth? From classic treats like gingerbread cookies and pumpkin cheesecake to innovative creations like caramel apple dumplings and chai spiced rice pudding, we’ve got 20 irresistible winter dessert recipes to warm your heart and fill your belly.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just need a little pick-me-up on a cold winter’s night, these cozy desserts are sure to be a hit. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get baking, and let the magic of the season begin!
Warm Apple Cinnamon Crisp
Transform your home with the cozy aroma of warm apples and cinnamon, topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar crumble. Perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.
5. Top apple mixture with the oat mixture, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic Gingerbread Cookies
Classic Gingerbread Cookies Recipe
These soft, spicy, and sweet cookies are a holiday staple, perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. If too sticky, add a little water.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Decadent Chocolate Peppermint Brownies
These rich and fudgy brownies are infused with the invigorating flavor of peppermint, perfect for a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cocoa powder until well combined.
4. Let cool slightly, then whisk in eggs one at a time, followed by peppermint extract and vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
6. Add dry ingredients to saucepan and stir until just combined.
7. Stir in chocolate chips and crushed candy canes (if using).
8. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake
This spiced pumpkin cheesecake is a perfect blend of fall flavors, with the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice complementing the creamy richness of pumpkin puree.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Mix well.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Hot Chocolate Lava Cakes
Warm up with these rich and decadent Hot Chocolate Lava Cakes!
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon hot chocolate mix (or 1-2 tablespoons melted dark chocolate)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter six 6-ounce ramekins and dust with sugar.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Melt butter and chocolate in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth.
4. Whisk in eggs one at a time, then whisk in sugar, flour mixture, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour batter into prepared ramekins, filling about 3/4 of the way.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Pecan Pie Bars
These gooey bars combine the richness of maple syrup and pecans with the comfort of a traditional pie, all wrapped up in an easy-to-make package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pecans and granulated sugar.
6. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vanilla Bean Eggnog Panna Cotta
Transform your holiday gatherings with this creamy and indulgent Vanilla Bean Eggnog Panna Cotta, a perfect blend of rich flavors. This decadent dessert is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp kosher salt
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and egg yolks. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the eggs to cook slightly.
3. Stir in eggnog and split vanilla bean.
4. Pour mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding
This Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on the classic bread pudding, perfect for the holiday season. The combination of sweet bread, tart cranberries, and citrusy orange will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, cranberries, sugar, and orange juice. Toss until the bread is evenly coated.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until the bread is well saturated.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and let it rest for 10 minutes.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Toffee Almond Biscotti
These chewy-on-the-inside, crunchy-on-the-outside biscotti are infused with the sweetness of toffee and the nutty flavor of almonds. Perfect for dipping in your favorite coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup (30g) toffee bits
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, egg, and almond extract until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until a dough forms. Fold in almonds and toffee bits.
5. Shape into two logs, about 12 inches (30cm) long. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely before slicing.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Chocolate Raspberry Tart
This elegant dessert combines the sweetness of white chocolate with the tartness of fresh raspberries, creating a delightful and refreshing treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Pour over crust.
5. Arrange raspberries on top of white chocolate, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Sprinkle granulated sugar and drizzle with heavy cream.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peppermint Mocha Tiramisu
Elevate your coffee break with this unique and delicious dessert that combines the flavors of peppermint, mocha, and creamy tiramisu.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or chopped chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine coffee and cocoa powder; whisk until smooth.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, peppermint extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Arrange half of the ladyfingers in a single layer in a serving dish.
5. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers; repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Top with chocolate shavings or chopped chocolate chips.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramel Apple Dumplings
These sweet and indulgent dumplings combine the flavors of caramelized apples, cinnamon, and pastry to create a mouthwatering dessert perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 package of refrigerated biscuit or croissant dough (about 8-10 pieces)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the biscuit dough and cut into squares.
3. Place a slice of apple in the center of each square.
4. Fold the dough over the apple, forming a triangle or envelope shape, and press edges to seal.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
6. Brush the tops of the dumplings with the caramel sauce and sprinkle with the sugar mixture.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chai Spiced Rice Pudding
This comforting dessert combines the aromatic spices of chai tea with creamy rice pudding, perfect for a cozy evening treat. The warm, comforting flavors will transport you to a cozy corner of your favorite café.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups milk (whole or 2% work well)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and black pepper.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
5. If desired, add raisins or chopped nuts and stir to combine.
6. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional spices if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Dark Chocolate Cherry Truffles
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized treats that combine the deep flavors of dark chocolate and sweet cherries. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) cherry jam
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) fresh or dried cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Add heavy cream, cherry jam, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped cherries.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form into balls. Roll between hands to shape.
7. Refrigerate for another 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking time is minimal, as the focus is on mixing and chilling)
Baked Pear and Honey Galette
Baked Pear and Honey Galette: A Simple Yet Elegant Dessert
This recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the warmth of honey, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), sliced into 1/8-inch thick wedges
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Pinch of salt
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Arrange pear slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle honey over the pears and sprinkle with salt. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush pastry with melted butter and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Eggnog Crème Brûlée
Celebrate the flavors of the season with this rich and creamy Eggnog Crème Brûlée. This indulgent dessert combines the warm spices of eggnog with the velvety texture of crème brûlée, topped with a caramelized sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– Pinch of salt
– Caramelized sugar, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and egg yolks.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and eggnog.
5. Strain into 6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set.
7. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle with caramelized sugar (if desired) and caramelize with a kitchen torch.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spiced Molasses Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the rich flavors of molasses, cinnamon, and nutmeg, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season or any time you need a warm hug in a cookie.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup blackstrap molasses
– 2 large eggs
– Optional: chopped nuts or crystallized ginger for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs until smooth. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Winter Berry Pavlova
This recipe combines the crunch of meringue with the sweetness of winter berries, creating a show-stopping dessert perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup mixed winter berries (such as cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet, forming a round shape. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until crisp and dry.
4. Allow meringue to cool completely. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in mixed berries.
5. Top cooled meringue with whipped cream and berry mixture. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Salted Caramel Hot Fudge Sundae
This rich and indulgent sundae combines the deep flavors of salted caramel hot fudge, creamy vanilla ice cream, and crunchy whipped cream. Treat yourself to a decadent dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup salted caramel hot fudge sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Pinch of flaky sea salt
– Chopped nuts or sprinkles for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a sundae glass or a tall clear cup.
2. Drizzle the salted caramel hot fudge sauce over the ice cream in a zig-zag pattern.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Top the sundae with the whipped cream, creating a swirl design.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the whipped cream for added texture and flavor.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts or sprinkles, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This sundae is ready to devour in minutes.
Orange Cardamom Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the warmth of cardamom and the brightness of orange zest, making them a unique and delicious treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange zest
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in orange zest and cardamom.
4. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between cookies.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of winter with these 20 irresistible dessert recipes. From classic treats like gingerbread cookies and maple pecan pie bars, to decadent indulgences like chocolate peppermint brownies and caramel apple dumplings, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at warm and cozy crisps, cheesecakes, and panna cotta, or go all out with rich and creamy truffles and tiramisu. Whatever your taste buds desire, these winter desserts are sure to satisfy.