The holiday season is all about making memories, and there’s no better way to do that than by spending time in the kitchen with your daughter. Baking together brings plenty of laughter, creativity, and, of course, delicious treats to enjoy. From cookies and cupcakes to unique no-bake desserts, here are some fun holiday recipes that are perfect for you and your daughter to make together.
1. Classic Sugar Cookies with a Twist
Sugar cookies are a holiday must-have, and decorating them is half the fun! Mix up a batch of classic sugar cookie dough, and let your daughter pick out festive cookie cutters in shapes like stars, candy canes, and snowflakes. Once they’re baked and cooled, it’s time for the best part — decorating! Stock up on colorful icing, sprinkles, edible glitter, and candy decorations, and let your creativity run wild. You can even have a friendly decorating contest to see who can make the most festive cookie!
Tip: To make it even easier, make the dough ahead of time and chill it until you’re ready to roll, cut, and bake.
2. Hot Cocoa Bombs
Hot cocoa bombs have become a huge holiday trend, and they’re surprisingly easy to make at home. All you need are some silicone molds, chocolate, and your favorite hot cocoa mix and mini marshmallows. Melt the chocolate and coat the molds, then let them harden in the fridge. Once the chocolate shells are ready, fill each one with a spoonful of cocoa mix and some marshmallows, then seal with more melted chocolate. Drop a cocoa bomb into a mug of hot milk, watch it dissolve, and enjoy the delicious treat together.
Tip: Add fun extras like peppermint bits or caramel drizzle for unique flavors!
3. Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting
Put a twist on classic gingerbread with these cozy cupcakes! Start with a spiced gingerbread batter, filled with flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of molasses. Once they’re baked, top them with a rich cinnamon buttercream frosting. These cupcakes are soft, fluffy, and perfect for holiday gatherings. Have fun decorating them with little gingerbread men, edible holiday sprinkles, or mini candy canes.
Tip: If your daughter loves to decorate, set up a mini topping bar with options like crushed gingerbread cookies, holiday-themed sprinkles, and candied ginger.
4. No-Bake Peppermint Bark
If you’re looking for an easy recipe, peppermint bark is a great choice — no oven required! Just melt some white and dark chocolate, then spread the layers on a lined baking sheet, adding crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top. Once it’s set, break it into pieces, and you’ve got a festive treat that’s perfect for snacking or gifting. Your daughter will love the process, and it’s simple enough for even young chefs to participate in.
Tip: For a unique twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of caramel to the top!
5. Holiday Cinnamon Rolls
Start a new holiday morning tradition with homemade cinnamon rolls. Make the dough together the night before, then let it rise and roll it out in the morning. Spread a mixture of butter, sugar, and cinnamon over the dough, roll it up, and cut it into spirals. Bake until golden, and top with a cream cheese frosting while they’re still warm. These soft, gooey cinnamon rolls are a delicious way to start a cozy holiday morning.
Tip: Let your daughter help with mixing, kneading, and spreading the cinnamon sugar filling to make her feel like a pro baker.
6. Reindeer Rice Krispie Treats
For a quick and kid-friendly treat, make some holiday Rice Krispie treats, shaped and decorated like reindeer! Prepare a batch of Rice Krispie mix, and once it’s set, use a cookie cutter or your hands to shape them into reindeer heads. Decorate with pretzel antlers, candy eyes, and a red M&M nose. These are perfect for school parties, family gatherings, or just a fun snack at home.
Tip: Try using cocoa-flavored Rice Krispies for a chocolaty twist!
These holiday recipes are not only delicious but also a fun way to bond with your daughter and get into the holiday spirit. From decorating sugar cookies to crafting peppermint bark, you’ll share plenty of laughs, make beautiful memories, and create some truly special treats together this holiday season.