Homemade Holiday Treats You Can Give as Gifts

By Rachel King

If you have a huge sweet tooth like I do, then the holiday season is the best way to satisfy it and spread joy by baking for others. However, some desserts are excessively difficult and time-consuming. With this list of homemade classics and seasonal treats, you will have some delectable goodies on your hands in no time that you can indulge in, as well as gift to all of your friends!

Peppermint Bark

Ingredients: Dark chocolate (milk chocolate can also be used), white chocolate, peppermint candy (crushed)

Steps to Make: Melt the dark chocolate and spread evenly in a pan. Let it set at room temperature for one hour. Then, melt the white chocolate and spread evenly over the dark chocolate layer. Immediately afterwards, sprinkle the peppermint pieces over the chocolate. Let it set at room temperature for one hour or refrigerate for an hour before eating.

M&M Sugar Cookies

Ingredients: Pre-made sugar cookie dough, M&M’s (red and green)

Steps to Make: In a large bowl, combine the cookie dough with the M&M’s. Form into 1-inch balls and line on a baking sheet. Follow baking instructions on the cookie dough container.

Mason Jar Hot Cocoa and Marshmallows

Ingredients: Cocoa powder, white sugar, mini marshmallows, peppermint candy (crushed; optional)

Steps to Make: Start by pouring the cocoa powder into the bottom of the jar. Layer the sugar over the powder and add marshmallows. Top the jar off with a layer of peppermint pieces.

Puppy Chow

Ingredients: Rice Chex cereal, peanut butter, chocolate chips, butter, powdered sugar

Steps to Make: Pour cereal into a gallon-sized plastic bag. Melt the peanut butter, chocolate chips and butter in the same bowl and combine well. Pour this mixture into the bag and zip shut. Use your hands to completely coat the cereal with the mixture. Once coated, add powdered sugar to the bag and, again, use your hands to ensure the cereal is fully coated.

Brownies

Ingredients: Ghirardelli brownie mix

Steps to Make: Follow the instructions on the box for super delicious, easy and quick brownies. Why make your own when these have already been perfected?

Chocolate Fudge

Ingredients: Chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk

Steps to Make: Melt the chocolate chips with the condensed milk and combine well. Pour mixture into a tray and refrigerate for at least three hours.

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