Is it just me, or does the Christmas after dinner treats, excite more than Christmas dinner? This festive season calls for indulgence, and what better way to impress family and friends than by bringing jaw-dropping desserts to the table? Whether you’re hosting or attending a Christmas dinner, these dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner will elevate the holiday spirit and add a sweet ending to any celebration. If you’re not the one cooking dinner, it’s always an act of love to help out with the desert, so why not have some fun? From whimsical designs to classic flavors with a twist, this guide is your one-stop shop for festive dessert inspiration. Trust me, if you don’t find the perfect idea here, I’ll eat Santa’s hat.
31 Delicious Dessert Ideas to Bring to Christmas Dinner
1. Santa Clause Macarons
Add a dose of cuteness to Christmas dinner with these adorable Santa Claus macarons! These little red-bellied treats are a fun take on the traditional French macaron. The crisp shells are dyed bright red, and the filling bursts with flavors like vanilla buttercream or peppermint ganache. You choose!
What makes them stand out is the charming design: While they may look intricate, these macarons are surprisingly easy to make with a bit of patience. They’re guaranteed to be a conversation starter and are perfect for guests of all ages. Bring these along to your Christmas gathering, and you’ll be the star of dessert hour!
2. Christmas Hot Chocolate Cups
Hot chocolate is a Christmas classic, but these edible hot chocolate cups take things to the next level. Molded from chocolate and filled with marshmallows, chocolate and more chocolate – maybe a candy cane or two.
These treats are not only delicious but interactive, as they bring out the inner child in everyone. Hand them out watch them melt in the mug as your loved ones savor the fun. These dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner make for a cozy and delicious addition to the holiday table.
3. Edible Chocolate Pinecones
For a rustic and nature-inspired dessert, edible chocolate pinecones are a standout choice. Dust them with powdered sugar for a snowy effect and serve them on a wooden platter for a natural, festive aesthetic. They’re not only visually stunning but also satisfyingly crunchy and chocolatey. Your guests will appreciate the creativity and flavor these unique desserts bring to the celebration.
Related: Easy Christmas Treats – 25+ Recipes to Wow Your Guests
4. Easy Black Forest Wreath
Transform the classic Black Forest cake into a stunning Christmas wreath! This no-fuss dessert features layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, cherries and chocolate shavings arranged in a circular, wreath-like shape.
It’s as beautiful as it is delicious, offering the rich and tangy flavors of the traditional Black Forest with a holiday twist. This dessert is perfect for anyone looking to balance elegance and ease in their Christmas dessert offering.
5. Yule Log Cake
No Christmas dessert table is complete without the iconic Yule Log cake. This rolled chocolate sponge cake, filled with luscious cream and coated in chocolate ganache, is a true showstopper.
Craft the log-like appearance with a fork for the bark texture and decorate with edible mushrooms, holly leaves, or a sprinkling of powdered sugar for a snowy finish. This dessert is steeped in tradition and will make a memorable addition to your list of dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner.
6. Melted Snowman Brownies
Whimsical and delicious, melted snowman brownies are a festive hit. These soft brownies are topped with a marshmallow snowman that appears to be “melting” under a drizzle of icing.
Add personality with candy decorations for to your hearts content such as, eyes, and carrot nose. They’re a perfect choice for families with kids, as these brownies double as a fun conversation piece and a tasty treat. Plus, they’re quick and easy to whip up if you’re short on time before the big event.
7. Triple-Decker Choc Mint Rocky Road
Rocky road gets a holiday makeover with this triple-decker choc mint version. Layers of dark chocolate, white chocolate, and mint-infused chocolate are packed with marshmallows.
The vibrant green accents scream Christmas, while the refreshing mint flavor offers a pleasant contrast to the rich chocolate. This no-bake treat is perfect for transport, making it one of the most convenient dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner.
8. Grinch Red Velvet Oreo Balls
Bring a subtle Grinch to dessert with these Grinch-inspired red velvet Oreo balls! These bite-sized treats are made by blending red velvet cake a cheese cake center, rolling them into balls, and coating them in vibrant green chocolate.
A tiny red candy heart on a beautiful touch. These playful and festive treats are a hit with kids and adults alike. Their rich, creamy texture and whimsical appearance make them irresistible additions to any Christmas gathering.
9. Christmas Tree Cupcakes
Turn ordinary cupcakes into festive works of art with Christmas tree designs. Swirl green frosting into a tall, tree-like shape on vanilla or chocolate cupcakes and decorate with edible glitter, candy stars, sugar or sprinkles. Whatever you like!
These cupcakes are not only delicious but also double as table décor. Arrange them on a platter to resemble a forest, and watch your guests marvel at the creativity. These dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner will surely impress!
10. Snow Globe Cookies
Warning… Please don’t eat the props! Bring a touch of winter magic to your dessert table with snow globe cookies. These sugar cookies feature a clear dome over a snowy scene made from royal icing and edible decorations like gingerbread houses or Christmas trees.
They’re certainly delicious but will marvel more than anything. They’re also interactive and Instagram-worthy don’t forget! These cookies are perfect as individual gifts or centerpieces for your dessert spread.
11. Gingerbread Men Cookies
No Christmas dessert table is complete without the cheerful presence of gingerbread men cookies. These classic holiday treats are made with spiced gingerbread dough, rolled and cut into adorable gingerbread man shapes. Decorate them with royal icing for buttons, faces, and festive outfits—let your creativity shine!
Not only do these cookies exude holiday nostalgia, but they also fill the kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon and ginger. Package them in festive boxes for a giftable dessert, or let guests decorate their own cookies as a fun after-dinner activity. These timeless dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner never fail to charm both the young and the young at heart.
12. Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake
Add a sophisticated touch to your dessert offering with a Christmas cranberry pound cake. This moist, buttery cake is bursting with tart cranberries and finished with a tangy orange glaze. The vibrant red berries and citrusy sweetness make it a perfect seasonal dessert.
Serve it as a loaf or in mini bundts for individual portions. The flavors strike a delightful balance between sweet and tart, making it an ideal pairing with a warm cup of coffee or tea as the evening commences. Simple yet elegant, this cake will stand out as one of the most delightful dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner.
13. Salted Peanut Butter No-Bake Christmas Trees
For a nutty and whimsical dessert, try salted peanut butter no-bake Christmas trees. Cover the top in chocolate, cut into triangles and sprinkle with candy decorations as well as green icing. They’re quick and easy to transport. Their sweet flavors makes them a delightful addition to the Christmas spread.
14. White Chocolate Cranberry Tart
I love how classy this looks! Impress your guests with a stunning white chocolate cranberry tart. This elegant dessert features a buttery tart shell filled with creamy white chocolate ganache and topped with glistening sugared cranberries.
The combination of rich, creamy white chocolate and tart cranberries creates a harmonious flavor profile that’s indulgent without being overly sweet. Garnished with rosemary leaves for a pop of green, this tart not only tastes amazing but also looks festive and elegant. It’s one of those dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.
Related: Best Christmas Cheesecake Ideas to WOW Your Guests
15. Reindeer Brownies
Add a dash of whimsy to your Christmas dessert table with reindeer brownies. These fudgy, rich brownies are topped with candy eyes, pretzel antlers, and red candy noses to resemble Rudolph and his friends.
These festive treats are easy to make and guaranteed to delight kids and adults alike. Bring a plate of these to your gathering, and watch how quickly they disappear. Reindeer brownies are one of the most playful and delicious dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner.
16. Chocolate Mint Pull-Apart Pavlova
For a show-stopping centerpiece, try a chocolate mint pull-apart pavlova. This meringue-based dessert is flavored with a hint of mint and topped with, chocolate, raspberries, sugarcanes and other candies – get creative!
Arrange the pavlova in a circular, pull-apart format for easy serving, mimicking the look of a festive wreath. Light, airy, and delightfully refreshing, this dessert adds a sophisticated flair to your Christmas spread and is perfect for mint chocolate lovers.
17. Gingerbread and Chocolate Pudding Trifle with Spiced Chantilly Cream
Layered desserts always make an impression, and this gingerbread and chocolate pudding trifle is no exception. Alternating layers of spiced gingerbread cake, rich chocolate pudding, and fluffy Chantilly cream create a stunning visual and a flavor explosion.
Serve it in a large trifle bowl or individual glasses for a dramatic presentation. Topped with a gingerbread cookie and a festive fresh herb, this trifle is a must-have on your list of dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner.
18. Gingerbread and Chocolate Bundt Cake
Combine the warm spices of gingerbread with the decadence of chocolate in this festive Bundt cake. The cake is moist and rich, with a perfect blend of flavors that encapsulate the holiday spirit.
It’s an ideal centerpiece dessert and pairs wonderfully with a cup of mulled wine or hot cocoa. Easy to slice and share, this cake is perfect for large gatherings.
19. Cranberry Gingerbread Christmas Pudding
I love the look of this classic Christmas Pudding – it’s perfect! Why not put a twist on traditional Christmas pudding by incorporating cranberry and gingerbread flavors. This steamed dessert is packed with dried cranberries and warm spices.
Serve it warm with a generous pour of brandy sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of tart cranberries and pudding is comforting and nostalgic, making it a standout option among dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner.
20. Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs
Turn a simple chocolate cupcake into a mini mug! Chocolate cupcakes are topped with more chocolate, mini marshmallows, and finished with a candy cane on the side to mimic a mug handle.
These cupcakes are not only delicious but also make for a delightful presentation that will have everyone reaching for their own “mug” of hot cocoa.
21. Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
These sweetened condensed milk snowballs are melt-in-your-mouth treats that capture the magic of a snowy winter wonderland.
Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and coat them with powdered sugar or desiccated coconut for a snowy finish. These snowballs are perfect for a Christmas dessert platter, offering a chewy, sweet texture with a nostalgic flavor. If you’re short on time, this is one of the easiest dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner that will still impress.
22. Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze
These soft gingerbread cookies take the traditional spiced treat to the next level with a velvety maple glaze. The cookies are delicately spiced creating a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
The maple glaze adds a sophisticated sweetness that perfectly complements the spices. Decorate with white chocolate or icing to elevate their presentation. These cookies are simple yet elegant, making them an ideal choice for a laid-back yet festive Christmas gathering.
23. Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
Add a refreshing citrusy twist to your holiday dessert spread with cranberry orange shortbread cookies. The buttery shortbread base is infused with orange zest and dotted with dried cranberries, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
These cookies are crisp, fragrant, and festive, with the red cranberries adding a pop of holiday color. Drizzle them with white chocolate or an icing sweetness. These dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner are perfect for those who appreciate light and zesty flavors.
24. Spiced Eggnog Cake and Eggnog Buttercream
Eggnog lovers, get ready! This spiced eggnog cake is a dessert worthy of your holiday table. The moist layers are infused with the creamy, nutmeg-rich flavor of eggnog, while the buttercream frosting carries a subtle hint of rum or bourbon for added depth.
Decorate with a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg and top with festive accents like sugared cranberries or gold sprinkles. This cake not only tastes divine but also serves as a beautiful centerpiece for your dessert spread. It’s an excellent choice for indulging in the holiday spirit.
25. Gingerbread Village Cake
Wow your guests with a gingerbread village cake—a whimsical creation that combines the flavors of gingerbread with the artistry of cake design. This multi-layered cake encased in a gingerbread village.
Use royal icing to create snowy rooftops for a magical effect. This dessert is a labor of love but doubles as an impressive centerpiece and conversation starter. It’s one of the most creative dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner if you can pull it off! Challenge accepted.
26. Reindeer Cake
Delight your guests with a playful and festive reindeer cake! This cake can be whatever you like! The cake is not only delicious but also a visual treat that will have everyone reaching for their phones to snap a picture. Perfect for families, this whimsical dessert is guaranteed to bring smiles to the Christmas table.
27. Christmas Tree Raspberry Linzer Cookies
For a touch of elegance, try Christmas tree raspberry Linzer cookies. These classic sandwich cookies feature a buttery, nutty base with a festive Christmas tree cutout, revealing a jewel-like layer of raspberry jam.
Dust them with powdered sugar for a snowy look and serve them on a decorative plate to highlight their beauty. These cookies are as much a visual delight as they are a flavorful one, making them one of the best dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner for those who love a sophisticated dessert.
Related: 25+ Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies to DIY This Year
28. Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies
For those who love a mix of flavors and textures, Christmas kitchen sink cookies are the way to go. These chewy cookies are packed with festive add-ins like crushed candy canes, chocolate chips, pretzels, and red and green M&M’s.
The sweet and salty combination creates an addictive treat that’s impossible to resist. They’re perfect for sharing and are easy to bake in large batches, making them a crowd-pleasing option for any holiday party.
29. Christmas Soft Sugar Cookies
Soft sugar cookies are a holiday staple, and these Christmas-themed versions are no exception. The cookies are pillowy and buttery, with a delicate sweetness that pairs perfectly with colorful royal icing.
Decorate them with holiday designs like snowflakes, stockings, or Christmas trees to fit the festive mood. These cookies are versatile and universally loved, making them a fail-safe choice among dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner.
30. Red Velvet Snowflake Cookies
Red velvet snowflake cookies bring the classic flavors of red velvet to your holiday dessert table in a whimsical form. These soft, chewy cookies are infused with cocoa and a hint of vanilla, capturing the richness of traditional red velvet cake. The dough is rolled out and cut into delicate snowflake shapes, then baked to perfection.
31. Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll
Let’s wrap up the list with a bang! The Christmas raspberry cake roll is a festive showstopper that combines a light, airy sponge cake with a luscious raspberry filling. The cake is rolled into a perfect spiral, showcasing layers of vibrant red raspberry filling against the golden sponge. To make it extra Christmassy, the exterior is dusted with powdered sugar for a snowy effect and decorated with fresh raspberries and fresh herbs.
Final Thoughts
With these 31 dessert ideas to bring to Christmas dinner, you’re guaranteed to spread joy and indulgence this holiday season. Whether you’re drawn to whimsical creations like Christmas tree cheesecake bars or crave the classic flavors of Christmas pudding, this list has everything you need to make your Christmas desserts unforgettable. Bring one (or more) of these treats to your holiday gathering and end the evening on the sweetest note possible!
