12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations

Janine K. Mayer

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations

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The holiday season is here, and that means it’s time for tasty treats! I created this post to share some of my favorite holiday dessert recipes that are gluten-free but still packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just craving something sweet, these recipes will satisfy your holiday dessert desires without compromising on taste.

If you’re someone who loves indulging in delicious desserts but needs to avoid gluten, you’re in for a treat. These recipes are perfect for anyone who wants to whip up some delightful festive desserts. Imagine the joy of sharing a plate of seasonal sweets with family and friends, knowing they’re safe for everyone to enjoy.

In this post, you’ll discover 12 holiday dessert recipes that are not only easy to make but also incredibly tasty. From Christmas treats like Gingerbread Cookies to rich Chocolate Avocado Mousse, there’s something for every palate. These recipes will bring warmth and cheer to your holiday baking, making you the star of the dessert table.

So grab your apron and get ready for some sweet celebrations! These desserts are sure to elevate your holiday festivities and leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the world of gluten-free sweets that will make your holiday season truly memorable.

Key Takeaways

– Each recipe is gluten-free, ensuring everyone can indulge without worry.

– The desserts range from rich and decadent to light and fruity, catering to varied tastes.

– Recipes like Eggnog Panna Cotta and Chocolate Coconut Macaroons offer unique spins on classic favorites.

– Easy-to-follow instructions make it simple for bakers of all skill levels to create these festive treats.

– These desserts not only taste great but also add a special touch to your holiday celebrations.

1. Gluten-Free Peppermint Brownies

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - 1. Gluten-Free Peppermint Brownies

Want a chocolate treat that fits a gluten-free plan and feels festive, too? These peppermint brownies stay rich and fudgy. The peppermint note keeps it bright, not sharp. Crushed candy canes on top add a merry crunch that kids and grownups love. They’re easy to bake and great for sharing at gatherings.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cocoa powder
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Crushed candy canes for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar, mixing until smooth.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and peppermint extracts.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.
6. Spread the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Once cooled, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top and cut into squares.

FAQs:
– Can I use almond flour instead? Yes, but texture may be slightly different.
– Can I freeze these brownies? Yes, wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months.

Gluten-Free Peppermint Brownies

Editor’s Choice

2. Spiced Apple Crisp

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - 2. Spiced Apple Crisp

Comfort comes in a warm pan of fruit and cinnamon. This gluten-free apple crisp brings a cozy scent to the table. Apples stay tender while the topping stays a touch crisp. A squeeze of lemon keeps the fruit bright. It’s simple, reliable, and perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients:
– 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1 cup gluten-free oats
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/3 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the sliced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, combine the oats, almond flour, brown sugar, melted coconut oil, and salt.
4. Place the apple mixture in a greased baking dish and spread the oat mixture on top.
5. Bake for 40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.

Tips:
– Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence!

FAQs:
– Can I use other fruits? Yes, pears or peaches work beautifully as well!

Spiced Apple Crisp

Editor’s Choice

3. Chocolate Avocado Mousse

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - 3. Chocolate Avocado Mousse

A smooth, chocolatey dessert that says indulgence without the heaviness. The secret is ripe avocados, which make the mousse silky and rich. No dairy needed, yet it feels luxurious on the tongue. You get a dessert that satisfies a sweet tooth and still keeps things lighter.

Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional toppings: coconut whipped cream, berries

Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine the avocados, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.
4. Spoon the mousse into serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Top with coconut whipped cream or fresh berries before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I make it ahead of time? Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days.

Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Editor’s Choice

4. Gingerbread Cookies

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - 4. Gingerbread Cookies

Holiday scent swirls from the oven with these classic cookies. These gluten-free gingerbread cookies are warmly spiced and sturdy enough for decorating fun. The dough handles easily and holds shapes well. Bake a batch for a cheerful activity with friends or family.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 2 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp allspice
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.
3. Add the molasses and egg, mixing until combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, and spices.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough and cut into shapes.
7. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool before decorating.

Tips:
– Consider using royal icing to create beautiful decorations!

FAQs:
– How do I store them? Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Gingerbread Cookies

Editor’s Choice

Dessert Name Key Ingredients Cost Tips
Gluten-Free Peppermint Brownies Gluten-free flour, cocoa $22.99 Use almond flour for variation
Spiced Apple Crisp Apples, oats, almond flour $23.96 Serve warm with ice cream
Chocolate Avocado Mousse Avocados, cocoa powder $29.99 Make ahead and refrigerate
Gingerbread Cookies Gluten-free flour, molasses $29.99 Use royal icing for decoration
Eggnog Panna Cotta Eggnog, heavy cream $42.99 Add rum for adult twist
Chocolate Coconut Macaroons Shredded coconut, chocolate $23.98 Top with sea salt for flavor
Almond Joy Truffles Coconut, almond flour $35.12 Keep in fridge for firmer texture

5. Eggnog Panna Cotta

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - 5. Eggnog Panna Cotta

A silky finish with holiday flavor. This panna cotta takes classic eggnog and dresses it up in a light, creamy form. It’s naturally gluten-free and easy to portion for guests. A touch of nutmeg makes the top look festive and fragrant. It’s a refined dessert that still feels simple.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups eggnog
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 envelope gelatin (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of nutmeg for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 2 tablespoons water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, heat eggnog, cream, and sugar over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into molds or serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
5. Once set, serve topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Tips:
– Add a little rum or bourbon to the mixture for an adult twist!

FAQs:
– Can I make this vegan? Yes, use coconut milk and a vegan gelatin substitute.

Fun fact: Eggnog panna cotta is naturally gluten-free and easy to portion for guests. A silky finish with festive nutmeg makes holiday dessert recipes feel refined yet simple.

Eggnog Panna Cotta

Editor’s Choice

6. Cranberry Orange Scones

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - 6. Cranberry Orange Scones

Bright fruit and a warm citrus kiss in a gluten-free bite. These scones bring a pop of color to any holiday table. They stay tender inside and have a light, crumbly crust. Eat them warm with butter or honey for a morning treat that smells like winter.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
– 1 egg

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in cranberries and orange zest.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg, then add to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, shape into a circle, and cut into wedges.
7. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips:
– Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or jam!

FAQs:
– Can I replace cranberries with another fruit? Yes, blueberries or cherries work well too!

Cranberry Orange Scones

Editor’s Choice

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - 7. Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Chewy, gooey, and full of chips. These gluten-free bars are the kind you reach for when you want a quick, comforting dessert. They bake up into sturdy, shareable squares that stay soft at room temp. A crowd-pleaser at any holiday table.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugars until fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time and mix in the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring in chocolate chips at the end.
6. Spread the batter into the baking pan and bake for about 25 minutes.
7. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

Tips:
– Add nuts or sprinkles for added texture and fun!

FAQs:
– How should I store the leftovers? Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Editor’s Choice

8. Pecan Pie Bars

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - 8. Pecan Pie Bars

A bar version of a holiday classic. These gluten-free treats hold the rich pecan flavor and a gooey center. The crust stays sturdy, letting you slice neat squares. They’re easy to share and great for potlucks or gift platters. A warm finish to any dessert spread.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup pecans, chopped
– 3/4 cup corn syrup
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease a 9×9-inch pan.
2. In a bowl, mix melted butter with gluten-free flour and brown sugar until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan to form a crust.
4. In another bowl, combine corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla, then stir in the chopped pecans.
5. Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Let cool and cut into bars before serving.

Tips:
– Enjoy them warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat!

FAQs:
– Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! They store well in the fridge for several days.

Holiday dessert recipes are best when they travel well and wow the crowd. Pro tip: bake the gluten-free crust a touch longer to stay sturdy for neat squares, then chop pecans finely so the gooey center holds together in every bite.

Pecan Pie Bars

Editor’s Choice

9. Vanilla Almond Cake

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - 9. Vanilla Almond Cake

Light, airy, and subtly sweet, this almond-flavored cake fits many holiday moments. It sits nicely on a dessert table and stays moist without heavy frosting. A simple glaze or dusting of sugar makes it look party-ready. You get a festive cake that’s easy to pull off.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/3 cup almond meal
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp almond extract
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing in vanilla and almond extracts.
4. Combine gluten-free flour, almond meal, baking powder, and salt in another bowl.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
6. Pour batter into the pan and bake for 35 minutes.
7. Let cool, then serve plain or with frosting.

Tips:
– For a festive touch, add a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving!

FAQs:
– How long will the cake keep? It stays fresh for 3-4 days at room temperature.

Vanilla Almond Cake

Editor’s Choice

10. Raspberry Chia Pudding

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - 10. Raspberry Chia Pudding

A bright, fruity dessert that travels well. This chia pudding is easy to prep in advance and always hits the spot when you want something lighter. It hugs the flavors of berry and vanilla, and the chia adds a nice texture. A great option after holiday meals when you want a calm finish.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond milk (or any milk substitute)
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup raspberries (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla.
2. Stir in raspberries gently.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Before serving, give it a good stir and top with extra raspberries.

Tips:
– Try other berries or fruits for new flavors!

FAQs:
– Is this vegan? Yes, if you use a plant-based milk and sweetener.

Raspberry Chia Pudding

Editor’s Choice

11. Chocolate Coconut Macaroons

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - 11. Chocolate Coconut Macaroons

Chewy, coconut goodness with a glossy chocolate finish. These macaroons are small bites that feel fancy yet are easy to make. The chocolate coating brings a rich finish that fans of coconut will adore. They store well and travel nicely to gatherings. A true crowd-pleaser for the holidays.

Ingredients:
– 2 3/4 cups shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (for coating)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325Β°F (160Β°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the shredded coconut, condensed milk, vanilla, and salt until combined.
3. Scoop the mixture into small mounds onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
5. Once cooled, dip in melted chocolate and let set on parchment paper.

Tips:
– Add a pinch of sea salt on top for extra flavor!

FAQs:
– Can I use unsweetened coconut? Yes, but adjust sweetness if needed.

Did you know coconut macaroons stay soft and chewy for up to 5 days when stored airtight? The glossy chocolate coating elevates a simple gluten-free treat into a polished holiday dessert you can bake, dip, and shareβ€”these bites fit perfectly into any holiday dessert recipes lineup.

Chocolate Coconut Macaroons

Editor’s Choice

12. Almond Joy Truffles

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - 12. Almond Joy Truffles

These bites capture the classic candy bar mood in a gluten-free form. They blend chocolate with coconut for a familiar, cozy taste. Easy to shape and roll, they make a neat finish for any dessert table. A touch of almond adds a crunchy, nutty note that completes the flavor.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (for coating)
– Whole almonds for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine shredded coconut, almond flour, and honey until well mixed.
2. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes to firm up.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
4. Melt dark chocolate and dip each ball into the chocolate, placing them back on the sheet.
5. Top each truffle with a whole almond before the chocolate sets.

Tips:
– Keep the truffles in the fridge for a firmer texture!

FAQs:
– Can I use milk chocolate? Yes, if you prefer a sweeter taste!

Almond Joy Truffles

Editor’s Choice

πŸ’‘

Key Takeaways

Essential tips from this article

🍫

BEGINNER

Try Peppermint Brownies

Start your holiday baking with gluten-free peppermint brownies for a festive and indulgent treat everyone will love.

🍏

ESSENTIAL

Embrace Seasonal Flavors

Incorporate seasonal ingredients like apples and cranberries into your desserts for a fresh, festive twist.

πŸ₯₯

PRO TIP

Experiment with Coconut

Use coconut in desserts, such as chocolate macaroons, to add flavor and texture while keeping recipes gluten-free.

🍰

ADVANCED

Master Eggnog Panna Cotta

Challenge your skills with eggnog panna cotta, a creamy dessert that impresses guests and showcases seasonal flavors.

πŸͺ

QUICK WIN

Bake with Kids

Get the family involved by baking gingerbread cookies together, creating lasting memories and holiday cheer.

🍊

ESSENTIAL

Add Citrus Zest

Incorporate citrus zest in recipes like cranberry orange scones for added brightness and flavor in your desserts.

Conclusion

12 Holiday Dessert Recipes for Festive Sweet Celebrations - Conclusion

As the holidays approach, these 12 gluten-free dessert recipes ensure that you can celebrate without compromising on taste or inclusivity. From rich chocolate delights to fruity surprises, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Embrace the joy of holiday baking, gather your loved ones, and create sweet memories together. Happy baking and happy holidays!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Which gluten-free holiday dessert recipes are highlighted in this article and how can I get started?

The article features 12 gluten-free holiday dessert recipes designed for festive sweet celebrations, spanning cookies, cakes, pies, and no-bake treats.

To get started, pick 2–3 recipes that fit your skill level, gather certified gluten-free ingredients, and double-check labels for gluten-free certification to avoid hidden gluten. Use dedicated utensils and clean surfaces to prevent cross-contamination so your holiday dessert recipes stay safe for guests with gluten sensitivities.

Tip: lean into seasonal flavors like peppermint, cinnamon, orange zest, or cocoa to keep your festive desserts on-theme and delicious.

Question: How can I keep these gluten-free holiday desserts safe for guests with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease?

Always use certified gluten-free ingredients and keep dedicated utensils, surfaces, and storage to prevent cross-contact.

Read labels on packaged items (oats, chocolate chips, flavorings) and avoid anything with gluten ingredients or shared equipment unless it’s clearly labeled gluten-free.

Label dishes at the table so guests know which desserts are safe, and consider a separate gluten-free serving area to minimize cross-contact during serving.

Question: Are these gluten-free holiday desserts suitable for Christmas parties and festive gatherings?

Absolutely β€” these gluten-free holiday dessert recipes are designed for sharing at Christmas parties and festive gatherings.

Plan ahead by baking or assembling a couple of days in advance, store properly (refrigerate or freeze as needed), and offer a mix of lighter and indulgent options to appeal to different tastes.

Provide clear labeling and allergen notes so everyone can enjoy the festive desserts with confidence.

Question: What substitutions or techniques help boost seasonal flavor in gluten-free holiday baking?

For a cozy, seasonal kick, use gluten-free staples like almond flour or coconut flour instead of wheat flour, and add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or orange zest to boost flavor.

Try xanthan gum if your gluten-free blend needs it for better texture, and consider no-bake options with whipped cream, cream cheese, or coconut cream for a festive finish.

Always test a small batch first to dial in sweetness and moisture before scaling up for your holiday dessert recipes.

Question: Where can I find tips to avoid common gluten-free holiday baking mistakes?

Start with a simple checklist to avoid common gluten-free holiday baking mistakes: use certified gluten-free ingredients, weigh ingredients for accuracy, and avoid over-mixing batters to keep textures light in holiday baking.

Preheat your oven, follow chill times for crusts or fillings, and bake a small test cookie or mini tart first to calibrate texture before making a full batch.

Keep this article as your go-to reference for festive recipes and seasonal sweets that stay gluten-free.

Related Topics

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Christmas treats

seasonal baking

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dessert decorating tips

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vegan dessert options

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