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Chocolate Chip Candy Cane Fudge

By · PUBLISHED · 35 Comments

This Candy Cane Fudge is a fantastic treat! Soft, sweet, and loaded with peppermint pieces, this festive fudge will be the star at any holiday party.

Pink swirled fudge squares on a red towel.

One of our holiday traditions is making fudge. During this time of year, it's the perfect sweet treat to share with loved ones, gift, or take to parties.

I enjoy creating a variety of flavors for our cookie tins. A few of our favorites are peppermint Oreo fudge and cappuccino fudge. Every year, we add a few new recipes to our classic favorites. This year, we fell in love with this candy cane fudge.

Swirls of chocolate chips and red candy pieces turn this pretty pink fudge into an eye-catching dessert.

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Why You Will Love This Candy Cane Fudge

This white chocolate peppermint fudge is a delightful holiday treat and a perfect gift for friends and family. You can wrap it in paper bags or Christmas tins.

  • Easy to make. This simple fudge is made in one pan over low heat. No special tools or candy thermometer is needed. Plus, it's an easy treat to make year-round with starlight mints.
  • Amazing flavor and texture. Creamy white chocolate, crunchy candy canes, chocolate chips, and a cool peppermint flavor make it taste like Christmas in a pan.
  • Pretty and festive. This candy cane fudge is perfect for Christmas parties and events. The pink color and candy cane pieces make it stand out on dessert tables and cookie trays.
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Pomegranate Cookies

By · PUBLISHED · 13 Comments

These Pomegranate Cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for the holidays. Combining tart pomegranate, white chocolate, cinnamon, and orange zest creates a uniquely delicious treat. 

A white plate with cookies on it.

I enjoy baking cookies during the holiday season. We select at least ten cookie recipes for cookie trays and tins in December. These peppermint Oreo cookies and Christmas kiss cookies always make the list.

Every year, I try to add a new and unique cookie to our collection. We usually buy fresh pomegranate arils to add to our salads. I added the extra seeds and orange and cinnamon to my thick chocolate chip cookie recipe this time.

It transformed these treats into the most festive cookies I've ever tasted.

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Step up your cookie game with our white chocolate pomegranate cookies. Warm cinnamon and orange zest transform a traditional chocolate chip cookie into a holiday masterpiece. The cozy flavor makes them an instant favorite for cookie lovers everywhere. 

  • Festive holiday cookie. The sweetness of the white chocolate, paired with the pomegranate's tartness and cinnamon's warmth, is a match made in cookie heaven.
  • Pop of color and burst of flavor. The little seeds add an explosion of juice and a pop of red color to each cookie ball. They are such a great addition to cookies for this time of year.
  • No chilling the dough. The best part about this recipe is that the dough can be immediately baked. No chill time is needed!
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Peppermint Stick Ice Cream

By · PUBLISHED · 6 Comments

Celebrate the holiday season with homemade Peppermint Stick Ice Cream. This festive pink treat is blended with crushed candy cane pieces and has a delicious peppermint flavor.

Pink ice cream scoops in a white bowl.

This post was first published in December 2018. It was updated and then republished in December 2023.

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Peppermint Ice Cream

Winter has finally arrived. It's the perfect time to snuggle up with a warm blanket and watch your favorite holiday movie with your favorite peppermint treats!

It isn't Christmas without a few cartons of this candy cane ice cream in your freezer. Grocery stores typically carry this seasonal flavor for only a few months each year.

Since this frozen treat is difficult to find after the holiday season, I made homemade peppermint ice cream to enjoy year-round. The hardest part is waiting for it to churn and freeze.

Why I Love This Peppermint Stick Ice Cream

This homemade peppermint ice cream is made with peppermint extract and crushed candy, making it a fun Christmas dessert.

However, you don't have to wait for the holidays to enjoy this special treat. It's easy to make so that you can indulge all year round.

  • Smooth and creamy texture. Combining heavy cream, whole milk, and melted white chocolate creates the perfect creaminess. The fat content is crucial, so it's important not to skimp on the ingredients.
  • Loaded with candy canes. Using crushed candy bits gives the ice cream a more intense flavor and satisfying crunch.
  • Pretty pink color. More or less food coloring can be added to get your desired shade of pink. However, you can skip that step and enjoy white ice cream with candy canes. Either way, it's sure to become a holiday favorite!
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Mudslide Pie

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Indulge in a slice of Mudslide Pie - an easy, no bake dessert. This treat is great for any occasion and is made with an Oreo crust, coffee mousse, and homemade whipped cream. Hot fudge and chocolate-covered coffee beans add a delightful flavor and crunch to each bite.

A slice of coffee mudslide pie on a white plate.

Over the years, our family has taken many cruises, and I always enjoy sipping on a mudslide while on the boat. Despite not being a frequent drinker, this is one of my favorites. Something about being on vacation gives you permission to eat all the desserts and drink a few drinks.

That delicious boozy beverage inspired this no-bake mudslide pie, but it is alcohol-free so everyone can enjoy it. I filled a crunchy Oreo cookie crust with a creamy coffee filling and topped it with a homemade whipped cream topping that had a slightly nutty flavor.

A drizzle of hot fudge and coffee beans adds a delicious crunch to the no-bake pie. The toppings are optional but highly recommended.

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What is a Mudslide?

A mudslide drink is a dessert cocktail made with vodka, Kahlua, and Irish cream liqueur. You can enjoy it as a regular cocktail or frozen boozy milkshake. There are also plenty of alcohol-free versions to enjoy.

Why You Will Love This Cocktail Inspired Dessert

The combination of the dark cookie crust and the rich coffee mousse is a match made in heaven. Coffee lovers will adore this fantastic cream pie. It's the perfect dessert for any celebration.

  • Easy-Breezy Prep. This pie's "no-bake" aspect is a huge advantage for beginning bakers. It's a hassle-free dessert that delivers gourmet-level satisfaction.
  • Creamy and Crunchy Texture. This pie has a velvety mousse and airy topping inside a crunchy crust. Each layer will keep you coming back for more.
  • Perfect for Coffee Lovers. The creamy filling is a caffeine lover's dream. It's like sipping your favorite cup of coffee but in pie form. The coffee flavor is well-balanced and adds sophistication to the simple dessert.
  • A Year-Round Treat. This mudslide pie is a year-round dessert because it's versatile enough for a summer picnic or a cozy winter gathering.
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Hot Chocolate Dip

By · PUBLISHED · 58 Comments

Hot Chocolate Dip is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is great for any party. It features all the flavors of your favorite hot chocolate in a smooth and creamy dessert dip. Serve it with cookies or fruit, and watch everyone dig in.

A bowl filled with chocolate dip and a plate of cookies behind it.

When it's cold outside, there's nothing quite as comforting as a cup of hot chocolate. Imagine that same chocolate flavor turned into a dip that goes well with marshmallows, fruit, cookies, and pretzels.

We always keep hot chocolate packets on hand during winter, but one year I used them to make a fun hot chocolate dessert. A few we made: frozen hot chocolate, peppermint chocolate granola bars, and hot chocolate fudge. 

But my personal favorite was this hot chocolate dip. This recipe was very popular that year and got great reviews from millions of readers, and it still does every year. Fans everywhere love the taste of hot chocolate combined with cream cheese, whipped cream, and marshmallow fluff. Plus, there is something special about a dessert dip!

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Why You Will Love Hot Chocolate Dip with Cream Cheese

The chocolate cocoa dip is creamy and tastes like our favorite hot chocolate cheesecake. Serving and eating is easier, so the dip will disappear quicker. Get ready to take your favorite snacks to the next level.

This spoon-worthy sweet treat is perfect for parties or satisfying sweet cravings during the holiday season.

  • Easy to make. The best part about this hot cocoa dip is that it is ready in just a few minutes.
  • It's fun to dip all the things. It tastes fantastic on just about any fresh fruit or cookie you can think of. Set up a yummy dip bar with everything you like, and then have fun.
  • Great snack for parties. The hot chocolate dip is a great addition to your next party. It's perfect for winter gatherings, movie nights, or just treating yourself.
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Buckeye Pretzels

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If you are a fan of the sweet and salty combination, then you'll definitely love these peanut butter Buckeye Pretzels. This easy recipe combines buckeye balls and crunchy pretzels for a bite-sized snack that will leave you wanting more.

A stack of peanut butter pretzels on a white plate.

There are certain desserts that I can't resist. Particularly ones that combine chocolate and peanut butter or sweet and salty flavors. I tend to eat my fair share of these delicious treats when we make them because it combines both.

We have been making peanut butter balls for years. Our boys request them for every holiday, so we have transformed them into bunnies, pumpkins, and Christmas trees.

A few years back, I decided to sandwich one between waffle pretzels before dipping them in chocolate. Best idea ever! The salty crunch of the pretzels makes them the perfect treat to serve on any dessert table during the holiday season.

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Why You Will Love Pretzels with Peanut Butter and Chocolate

These peanut butter pretzel bites are a great treat to add to your holiday baking plans. Easy, no bake, and full of sweet and salty goodness in every bite.

  • Sweet and Salty Twist. This fun treat turns a classic candy into a fun, no-bake dessert that will become your new favorite.
  • Pop-able Bites. The salty combination of these bite-sized snacks is hard to resist. Experience a burst of flavor with every bite.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Power. Peanut butter pretzel bites are a popular snack that can be enjoyed at parties or with family. They always disappear from the dessert table in record time.
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Maple Cookies

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Bring the warmth of fall into your kitchen with these delightful Maple Cookies. Made with pure maple syrup and pecans, these cookies perfectly combine comfort and sweetness in every bite. The thin and chewy treats are perfect for the holiday season.

A white plate filled with cookies.

Cooler weather has arrived, so why not embrace the cozy vibes with homemade maple cookies? These chewy treats are made with real maple syrup and packed with crunchy pecans. Once you try them, you'll be hooked!

We have been making these chewy maple cookies for years. They are one of my husband's favorite treats to enjoy with hot coffee. We also include them in the cookie tins we give to family and friends at Christmas.

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Why These Maple Pecan Cookies Work

These cookies are a sweet celebration of fall, combining the magic of maple and pecans. You will feel like you're surrounded by rustling leaves and a crackling fireplace because these cookies smell like a cozy cabin in the woods.

  • Chewy and delicious. The nutty pecans perfectly complement the maple syrup's warm and earthy tones, creating a cozy, warm taste in every bite.
  • Real maple flavor. Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor when baking. For an extra spicy taste, try our homemade cinnamon maple syrup.
  • Perfect for the holiday season. This cookie recipe is perfect for fall parties, Christmas cookie exchanges, or bake sales. Get ready to share the recipe for your new favorite cookie because everyone will want it!

These are the best cookies to enjoy with a maple latte or a salted caramel mocha.

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Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies

By · PUBLISHED · 36 Comments

These easy Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies are a delicious treat to add to your holiday cookie trays this year. Everyone will be delighted to find a cherry hidden beneath a layer of delicious chocolate! They are perfect for Christmas or even Valentine's Day.

A stack of cake mix cookies topped with cherries and ganache.
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Maraschino Cherry Cookies

I love finding chocolate-covered cherries in boxes of assorted chocolates because I enjoy the flavor combo. A while back, at Christmas, those candies inspired me to make chocolate covered cherry cookies using cake mix.

Using a mix as the foundation for these cookies is a game-changer. Not only does it save time, but it also guarantees a soft texture. Plus, you can use any flavor of cake to make them. We love them so much that we make them all year long.

If you are a fan of cherry cordials, you will absolutely love these simple cherry cookies. They are a great treat for any holiday cookie exchange or special dinner. 

The chocolate chip cookies have a hidden maraschino cherry that is guaranteed to make you smile. Indulge yourself or impress guests with our unique twist on a classic.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy. These thumbprint cookies are popular because they are simple. Cake mix makes them easy to prepare, even for new bakers.
  • Sweet Flavor. The soft treats have a hidden cherry center topped with a rich layer of chocolate frosting. This flavor combo tastes amazing!
  • Perfect for Any Occasion. These cookies are great any time of year, whether for a special celebration or a sweet pick-me-up.

Are you looking for more simple cake mix cookies for the holiday season? Try these Oreo peppermint crunch cookies or these cinnamon caramel cookies.

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Turkey Rice Soup

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Turkey Rice Soup is a delicious way to enjoy holiday leftovers. The tender meat, savory vegetables, and rice are cooked together in a flavorful broth. It's the perfect meal for after the holidays.

A white bowl filled with creamy soup.

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. We enjoy spending quality with our adult children while playing games and eating the holiday meal. Every year, we purchase and cook a bird that is larger than necessary to ensure that we have plenty of leftovers.

Leftover Thanksgiving turkey is a versatile ingredient. We always use it to prepare turkey cranberry salad and homemade soup throughout the upcoming weeks.

Why You Will Love This Leftover Turkey Soup

Transform your Thanksgiving turkey into a comforting meal. In less than 45 minutes, you can have a delicious pot of soup using just a few ingredients!

  • Simple preparation. Unlike other recipes, this comforting soup doesn't demand hours in the kitchen. It's a simple and flavorful one-pot meal that requires minimal effort.
  • Great use of leftovers. Looking for ideas on how to use up that leftover turkey? Check out this tasty solution! The hearty soup provides a delicious and efficient way to use up extra turkey breast. 
  • Budget-friendly meal. Making use of leftovers not only reduces food waste but also makes for a cheap meal. The dish turns basic ingredients into an incredibly tasty and fulfilling meal.
  • Easy to customize. Change up the soup by adding different vegetables, herbs, and spices to suit your taste. You can customize it more by adding heat, garlic, or lemon.
  • Freezer-friendly. The soup freezes very well. Keeping a batch in the freezer allows for quick and easy meal prep.
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Blackberry Dump Cake

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This three-ingredient Blackberry Dump Cake is a quick and delicious dessert. The juicy berries and buttery cake mix topping make it perfect for potlucks or fancy dinners.

Fruit cobbler and ice cream on a white plate.

When I am pressed for time, I love to make simple desserts. My favorite ones to make over the years have been dump cake and cherry crisp. Our entire family enjoys how the vanilla ice cream slowly melts into the warm fruit filling.

A dump cake practically makes itself with no stirring or mixing required. This dessert is perfect to make when you're invited to an event on short notice.

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What Is A Dump Cake?

A dump cake is a dessert that's a cross between a cake and a cobbler. It's made by "dumping" all the ingredients in one pan and baking it.

Dump cakes and cobblers are similar. Both desserts are made with fruit filling and a crust topping.

Why This Blackberry Cake Mix Cobbler Works

This blackberry dump cake recipe is both delicious and incredibly easy to make. The best part is that you can change the pie filling and cake flavor to create a new recipe every time you bake one. So, get creative and have fun!

  • Quick and easy. This recipe comes together in minutes with three simple ingredients.
  • No mixing bowls are required. You don't need to mix anything. Just dump the ingredients into the baking dish and pop it into the oven.
  • Serve it in multiple ways. Enjoy this crowd-pleasing, easy dessert warm with ice cream or at room temperature with homemade whipped cream.
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