13 Irresistible Holiday Chocolate Desserts That Are Easy to Make

Chocolate desserts are a must for any holiday gathering, and they don’t have to be a hassle to prepare. This collection features indulgent treats that impress your guests while keeping your stress levels low. Get ready to whip up some crowd-pleasers that deliver on both taste and presentation, making your holiday celebration a sweet success!

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: A Luxurious Delight

Chocolate mousse is the kind of dessert that feels fancy without requiring a culinary degree. The image shows beautifully presented chocolate mousse cups, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. They sit elegantly against a backdrop of twinkling lights and pine cones, perfect for a holiday gathering.

This dessert is rich and creamy, making it a crowd-pleaser at any festive occasion. It’s simple to whip up, and you can prepare it ahead of time, leaving you stress-free when guests arrive. The combination of chocolate and cream creates a smooth texture that melts in your mouth, and the toppings add a delightful crunch.

Let’s get to the fun part—making this delicious treat! Here’s how you can create your own chocolate mousse that will impress everyone at your holiday table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whipped cream for topping
• Chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
2. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Set aside about 1/4 cup for topping later.
3. Mix Eggs and Sugar: In another bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy. Stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Fold in the Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture in two parts, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
5. Chill: Spoon the mousse into serving cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
6. Serve: Top with reserved whipped cream and chocolate shavings before serving. Enjoy your luxurious chocolate mousse!

Chewy Chocolate Brownies: A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite

When it comes to holiday desserts, chewy chocolate brownies are a classic that never disappoints. Their rich, fudgy texture and deep chocolate flavor make them a favorite among friends and family. Perfect for gatherings, these brownies are easy to whip up and will surely impress your guests without causing you any stress.

Imagine cutting into a pan of freshly baked brownies, the chocolatey aroma filling the room. Each square is perfectly moist, with a shiny top that beckons for a bite. These brownies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of chocolate goodness that brings everyone together.

Whether you serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or dust them with powdered sugar, they are sure to be a hit. Let’s get to the recipe so you can make these delightful brownies for your next holiday gathering!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
3. Mix in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Let cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

Elegant Chocolate Truffles: A Bite Of Bliss

Chocolate truffles are the perfect treat for any holiday gathering. These little bites of bliss are not only delicious but also visually stunning. Imagine a beautifully arranged box filled with rich, creamy truffles, each one adorned with a unique topping. From shredded coconut to crunchy nuts, each truffle offers a delightful surprise.

Making chocolate truffles is surprisingly easy. You can customize them to suit your taste or impress your guests. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just looking to add a sweet touch to your holiday celebrations, these truffles are sure to please.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Cocoa powder, for dusting
• Chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or sprinkles for coating

Instructions

1. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
2. Melt the Chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes. Stir until smooth.
3. Add Flavor: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for about 2 hours until firm.
4. Shape the Truffles: Once firm, use a small scoop or your hands to form the chocolate into balls. Roll each ball in your choice of coating such as cocoa powder, nuts, or coconut.
5. Chill and Serve: Place the truffles on a baking sheet and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy these delightful treats with friends and family!

Chocolate Peppermint Bark: A Festive Treat

Chocolate peppermint bark is a delightful treat that captures the spirit of the holidays. This sweet and minty dessert combines layers of rich chocolate and creamy white chocolate, topped with crushed peppermint candies. It’s not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, making it perfect for festive gatherings.

The image showcases a beautiful platter filled with both dark and white chocolate bark, sprinkled with bits of peppermint. The vibrant colors and textures make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any holiday table. Plus, it’s super easy to make, so you won’t be stressed out in the kitchen!

This treat is perfect for sharing with friends and family or even as a thoughtful homemade gift. Just break it into pieces and package it up nicely. Everyone will love this sweet addition to their holiday celebrations!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
• 8 ounces white chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies

Instructions

1. Melt the Dark Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
2. Spread the Dark Chocolate: Pour the melted dark chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread it evenly to about 1/4 inch thick. Let it cool for about 10 minutes.
3. Melt the White Chocolate: In another bowl, melt the white chocolate using the same method as the dark chocolate.
4. Layer the White Chocolate: Once the dark chocolate has set slightly, pour the melted white chocolate over it. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
5. Add Peppermint: While the white chocolate is still warm, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the top, pressing them in gently.
6. Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until fully set.
7. Break into Pieces: Once set, remove from the fridge and break the bark into pieces. Enjoy!

No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake: Effortless Indulgence

Picture this: a rich, creamy chocolate cheesecake that requires no baking and looks stunning on any holiday table. This no-bake chocolate cheesecake is the perfect dessert to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The glossy chocolate ganache on top adds a touch of elegance, while fresh berries bring a pop of color and freshness.

Making this cheesecake is a breeze. You start with a simple crust made from crushed cookies, then layer on a luscious chocolate filling. The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy the festivities. Serve it chilled, and watch as everyone digs in for a slice of this delightful treat.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh berries for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a crust.
2. Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add the melted chocolate and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Whip the Cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble: Pour the chocolate filling over the crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Serve: Once set, remove the cheesecake from the pan. Top with fresh berries and drizzle with extra melted chocolate if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Rich Chocolate Pudding: A Comforting Classic

Rich chocolate pudding is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. The image showcases delightful ramekins filled with smooth, velvety chocolate pudding, topped with a swirl of whipped cream and chocolate shavings. The festive decorations in the background hint at a holiday celebration, making this treat perfect for impressing guests without the stress of complicated recipes.

This pudding is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels luxurious. The combination of chocolate and cream creates a rich flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Whether served at a holiday dinner or as a cozy treat on a chilly evening, this chocolate pudding is sure to impress. Let’s get started on making this classic dessert that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• Whipped cream for topping
• Chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat.
2. Heat Mixture: Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken and bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Chocolate: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Chill: Pour the pudding into individual ramekins or a large bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
5. Serve: Once chilled, top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings before serving. Enjoy your rich chocolate pudding!

Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Timeless Favorite

Chocolate chip cookies are a classic treat that never goes out of style. Their warm, gooey centers and crispy edges make them a favorite for many. The sight of a stack of freshly baked cookies, with chocolate chips melting just right, can instantly bring a smile. Whether you're baking for a holiday gathering or just a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress.

Making chocolate chip cookies is simple and fun. You can whip them up in no time, and the aroma that fills your kitchen is just the icing on the cake. Plus, they are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Everyone loves a good cookie!

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the flour and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
4. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing well until combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cookies: A Nutty Twist

Chocolate hazelnut spread cookies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavor with the nutty goodness of hazelnuts. These cookies are perfect for the holiday season, bringing warmth and sweetness to any gathering. The image showcases beautifully crafted cookies, dusted with powdered sugar, that look both inviting and festive. The creamy filling peeking out from between the cookies adds an extra touch of indulgence.

These cookies are not only easy to make, but they also impress your guests without causing you stress in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Once cooled, spread a generous layer of chocolate hazelnut spread on the bottom of one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie. Dust the tops with powdered sugar before serving.

Chocolate Soufflé: A Light And Airy Delight

Chocolate soufflé is a classic dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any holiday gathering. The image captures beautifully risen soufflés, dusted with powdered sugar, sitting on a lovely platter. The soft, airy tops promise a melt-in-your-mouth experience, while the warm glow of candles in the background adds to the cozy atmosphere.

This dessert is not just about looks; it’s surprisingly simple to make. With just a few ingredients, you can impress your guests without the stress. The soufflé’s light texture comes from whipped egg whites, which create that signature fluffiness. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!

Ready to whip up this delightful dessert? Here’s how to make a classic chocolate soufflé that will wow everyone at your holiday table.

Ingredients

• 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 large eggs, separated
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease four ramekins with butter and dust with sugar.
2. Melt the chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with half of the granulated sugar until pale and thick. Stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla.
4. In another bowl, beat the egg whites with salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
5. Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared ramekins and smooth the tops. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until puffed and set.
7. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your light and airy chocolate soufflé!

Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake: Showstopper Dessert

This chocolate layer cake is a true showstopper. With its rich layers of moist chocolate cake and creamy frosting, it’s perfect for any holiday gathering. The cake is beautifully topped with fresh raspberries and blackberries, adding a pop of color and a hint of tartness to balance the sweetness. The elegant presentation on a golden cake stand makes it a centerpiece that will impress your guests.

Making this cake is easier than it looks. You don’t need to be a baking expert to create something that looks and tastes amazing. Just follow the simple steps, and you’ll have a dessert that’s sure to wow everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
• 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
• Fresh raspberries and blackberries for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
3. Stir in boiling water until well combined. The batter will be thin.
4. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and cool completely on wire racks.
6. For the frosting, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until smooth. Add milk to reach your desired consistency.
7. Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top, then add the second layer and repeat. Top with the final layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
8. Decorate with fresh raspberries and blackberries. Slice and serve!

Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats: Fun And Easy

Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. They bring together the crispy texture of Rice Krispies with the rich flavor of chocolate. This treat is not only fun to make but also easy enough for anyone to whip up in no time. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these treats are sure to impress your guests without causing you any stress.

The image shows a plate of beautifully decorated Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats. They are drizzled with chocolate and topped with colorful sprinkles, making them visually appealing and festive. The combination of chocolate and sprinkles adds a playful touch, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Making these treats is a breeze. You only need a few ingredients, and the steps are simple. Gather your friends or family, and enjoy the process of creating these delicious bites together!

Ingredients

• 4 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup chocolate for drizzling
• Sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir until they are completely melted and smooth.
2. Add the Chocolate: Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until melted and well combined with the marshmallow mixture.
3. Combine with Cereal: Remove from heat and quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir until all the cereal is coated with the chocolate-marshmallow mixture.
4. Press into Pan: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch pan. Press down firmly with a spatula or your hands to make an even layer.
5. Drizzle and Decorate: Once cooled, melt the additional chocolate for drizzling. Use a spoon to drizzle it over the top, and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles while the chocolate is still warm.
6. Cut and Serve: Allow the treats to set for about 30 minutes. Cut into squares and serve to your guests!

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Cupcakes: A Delightful Duo

Chocolate-peanut butter cupcakes are a fantastic treat that combines two beloved flavors. The rich chocolate cake pairs perfectly with creamy peanut butter frosting, creating a delightful balance that everyone will love. These cupcakes are not just tasty; they also look stunning, making them perfect for any holiday gathering.

The image showcases beautifully decorated cupcakes topped with a swirl of peanut butter frosting and a drizzle of chocolate. Each cupcake is finished off with a mini peanut butter cup, adding an extra touch of sweetness. They are sure to impress your guests without causing you any stress in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Chocolate syrup for drizzling
• Mini peanut butter cups for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in boiling water until well combined. The batter will be thin.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
7. For the frosting, beat together peanut butter and softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, mixing until smooth.
8. Frost the cooled cupcakes with the peanut butter frosting. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and top with mini peanut butter cups.

Chocolate Biscotti: Perfect For Dipping

Chocolate biscotti are a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with coffee or hot chocolate. Their crunchy texture makes them ideal for dipping, adding a rich chocolate flavor to your warm beverages. The image shows a few beautifully baked biscotti standing tall in a glass, ready to be enjoyed. Next to them, a small bowl of luscious chocolate sauce invites you to dip and savor every bite.

Making chocolate biscotti is simple and rewarding. With just a few ingredients, you can create a batch that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine Sugars and Eggs: In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Shape the Dough: Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between.
6. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until firm. Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.
7. Slice and Bake Again: Slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Place the slices back on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until crisp.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the biscotti cool completely before serving. Enjoy them dipped in chocolate sauce or your favorite drink!