Last-Minute Christmas Candies: Quick and Delightful Holiday Treats
The holiday season is upon us, and sometimes we need quick solutions for festive treats. Whether you’re hosting an unexpected gathering or simply forgot to prepare your holiday sweets, these last-minute Christmas candies are perfect for any situation. These recipes require minimal ingredients, little to no baking, and can be prepared in under an hour. While some might opt for traditional Christmas cookies or an elegant Christmas cake, these quick candy recipes will save the day when time is of the essence.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| White chocolate chips | 4 cups |
| Dark chocolate chips | 2 cups |
| Candy canes | 8-10 pieces |
| Pretzels | 2 cups |
| Mixed nuts | 1 cup |
| Condensed milk | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups |
| Butter | 1 cup |
| Peanut butter | 1 cup |
| Coconut flakes | 2 cups |
| Sprinkles | 1 cup |
| Food coloring (red and green) | As needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Peppermint Bark
Start with this classic holiday treat that looks impressive but takes minimal effort.
- Crush candy canes into small pieces
- Melt white chocolate in a double boiler
- Spread on parchment paper
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes
- Refrigerate for 15 minutes
2. No-Bake Chocolate Clusters
Similar to holiday popcorn mix, these clusters are addictively good.
- Melt dark chocolate chips
- Mix in pretzels and nuts
- Drop spoonfuls onto wax paper
- Add festive sprinkles
- Chill until set
3. Quick Fudge
- Combine condensed milk and chocolate chips in microwave
- Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each
- Add vanilla extract
- Pour into lined pan
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes
4. Coconut Snowballs
- Mix condensed milk and coconut flakes
- Form into balls
- Roll in additional coconut
- Chill until firm
5. Peanut Butter Balls
- Mix peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar
- Form into balls
- Dip in melted chocolate
- Decorate with sprinkles
Tips for Success
- Use good quality chocolate for better results
- Keep ingredients at room temperature
- Have all tools ready before starting
- Use festive containers for gifting
Conclusion
These last-minute Christmas candies prove that you don’t need days of preparation to create memorable holiday treats. With these simple recipes, you can whip up impressive homemade candies in no time. They’re perfect for gift-giving, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with family around the Christmas tree.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do these Christmas candies last?
When stored in an airtight container in a cool place, these candies can last up to two weeks. For best results, keep them refrigerated and bring to room temperature before serving.
Can I make these candies ahead of time?
Yes! While these are perfect for last-minute preparation, you can make them up to a week in advance. Store them properly in airtight containers and keep them in a cool place or refrigerator.
What if I don’t have all the exact ingredients?
These recipes are quite flexible. You can substitute different types of chocolate, nuts, or toppings based on what you have available. Just maintain the same ratios of dry to wet ingredients for consistent results.
