Christmas time is all about gifts, family, good drinks, great food, and of course, most importantly… sweets.
We all appreciate a piece of chocolate here and there, of course the Christmas cookies.. but as I started to think about the specific candy and treats for Christmas, I realized there were a lot more than just 2 or 3 that I am gobbling and washing down with some ‘nog.
Here is my list of the top 10 Christmas-time sweet treats, from worst to first.
10. Marshmallows
Who doesn’t love marshmallows? While it isn’t a treat specifically for Christmas, I do love to slurp down a cup of hot cocoa with those cute little mini marshmallows on top.
9. Caramel Corn:
People love this popcorn. I say people and not me because, well, I am not one of those people. But this is certainly a sweet treat that I associate with Christmas and my Aunt Cindy buying us the giant tub every year.
I was usually very happy when we got the can that had the three sections because I was more partial to the cheese popcorn. I left the caramel to my brother and sister.
8. Peanut Brittle
Crunchy, buttery, and packed with peanuts, this candy is perfect for snacking around the yule log. That satisfying crack when you bite into a piece of peanut brittle is the best! It’s the perfect balance of crunchy, buttery, and nutty.
Peanut brittle is great on its own, but it’s also delicious crumbled over ice cream or mixed into trail mix.
7. Chocolate Covered Cherries
A sweet and tangy treat with a festive red and green color scheme. The sweetness of the chocolate contrasts beautifully with the tart cherry filling. It’s a sophisticated treat that feels special.
6. Fudge
Besides the classic chocolate, there’s also peanut butter fudge, chocolate walnut fudge, and even eggnog fudge for the holidays!
Making fudge can be tricky, but it’s so worth it when you get it right. The key is to cook it to the correct temperature.
5. Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies are a holiday staple in most families. Mine is no different, and one of my favorite activities in the week before Christmas is seeing how many sugar cookies I can make (and eat).
I also love stuffing up tins full of sugar cookies and giving them out to friends and families as a delicious (and inexpensive) gift!
4. Peppermint Bark
The crisp peppermint candy combined with the smooth dark and white chocolate is a heavenly combination.
Peppermint bark is delicious on its own, but it’s also great crumbled over ice cream or hot chocolate.
I am a huge peppermint fan, so that is the main reason I have Peppermint Bark ranked so highly. I also really only eat this treat around the holidays, so it belongs toward the top of the list!
3. Gingerbread Cookies
Soft, chewy, and perfectly spiced, these cookies are a holiday baking favorite. Nothing says Christmas to me quite like the smell and taste of gingerbread.
I also love making gingerbread houses. From the time I was a little kid making them with my grandmother, through to making them with my own kids and family, it is a fun Christmasy activity.
2. Assorted Chocolates
Boxes of chocolates with a variety of flavors are always a hit for gifting and sharing. From creamy caramels to nutty pralines and fruity ganaches, there’s a chocolate for everyone in an assorted box.
Some of my favorite brands for assorted chocolates are See’s Candies, Godiva, and Ghirardelli.
1. Candy Canes
A classic for a reason! Legend has it that candy canes were invented in the 1600s to keep children quiet during church services.
Not only is this a delicious candy treat, but the very site of a candy cane says “Christmas” to most people. It is the quintessential sweet treat and deserves the top slot!
