As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with the scent of pine, gingerbread, and the joy of togetherness. One of my favorite traditions during this time is gathering with family and friends to share in the delight of festive treats. Among the many recipes I cherish, these Tantalizing No-Bake Mini Christmas Treats hold a special place in my heart. They are not only easy to prepare but also bring a touch of creamy decadence to any holiday gathering.
These mini treats have become a staple at my holiday parties. I remember the first time I made them, inspired by the vibrant colors and flavors of the season. The combination of a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cream cheese filling, and the refreshing crunch of crushed peppermint creates a dessert that is both festive and delightful. Each bite is a reminder of the joy and warmth that the holidays bring, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Whether you are hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with your family, these mini Christmas treats are sure to impress. They require no baking, making them a quick and convenient option for even the busiest of schedules. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious bites chilling in the refrigerator, ready to serve when you need them.
Recipe Details
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 0 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Crushed peppermint candy & holiday sprinkles (for topping)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined. (The mixture should resemble wet sand.)
- Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch baking dish to form the crust. Use the back of a measuring cup to compact it tightly.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well blended.
- Fold in the whipped topping gently until fully incorporated, ensuring the mixture remains light and fluffy.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the graham cracker crust in the baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the dish for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly.
- Once set, remove from the refrigerator and sprinkle the top with crushed peppermint candy and holiday sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Cut into mini squares or bars and serve chilled for a refreshing holiday treat!
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: For best results, allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing. This will ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
- Crushing Peppermint: Make sure to crush the peppermint candy finely for even distribution and a delightful crunch.
- Whipped Topping Substitute: You can substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream if preferred.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Recipe Science
This recipe relies on the creamy texture of the cream cheese, which provides a rich base that is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the powdered sugar and the freshness of the vanilla extract. The whipped topping adds lightness, creating a delightful contrast to the dense graham cracker crust. Refrigerating the treats allows the filling to set, ensuring a firm yet creamy consistency that holds up when cut into squares.
Serving Suggestions
These no-bake mini treats are ideal for holiday parties, family gatherings, or as a sweet gift to share with neighbors. They can be elegantly arranged on a festive platter or served in individual cups for a charming presentation. For an added touch, consider serving them alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate or spiced cider to enhance the cozy holiday atmosphere.
Storage & Leftovers
To store your mini Christmas treats, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 3 days. Be aware that while the flavor will still be delightful, the texture may soften slightly over time. These treats are best enjoyed chilled, so ensure they are kept cool until serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust? Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with crushed Oreos or any other cookie of your choice for a different flavor profile.
- Can I make these treats ahead of time? Absolutely! These treats can be made up to 2 days in advance, making them a great option for holiday meal prep.
- What if I don’t have peppermint candy? You can omit the peppermint or substitute it with crushed nuts or chocolate for a different topping.
- Is there a dairy-free alternative? For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping substitutes.
