The holiday season is all about joy, family, and, of course, delicious treats. That's why I love these 12 Easy No Bake Christmas Cookies for Effortless Holiday Treats. I remember one year when my son, Jake, decided to help me in the kitchen. Let's just say, flour ended up everywhere, but we had a blast making memories and tasty treats together!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- They save time in the busy holiday season.
- No baking means no fussing with the oven.
- Perfect for kids to help with and enjoy.
Pure Comfort
These no bake cookies are not just easy to make; they’re also a delightful way to indulge in holiday flavors without the stress of baking. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family.
What You Need
- 1 cup 1 cup graham cracker crumbs – You can substitute with crushed cookies or gluten-free crackers.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Dutch-process cocoa works well too.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
- 1 tsp 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Feel free to use almond extract for a different flavor.
- 1 cup 1 cup chocolate chips – Try using white chocolate or butterscotch chips.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional) – Almonds or walnuts add a nice crunch.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional) – Unsweetened coconut is a great choice.
Time to Cook
Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 0 minutes | Total: 20 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, these can be made a week in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. This makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Plus, it helps you avoid those last-minute dashes to the pantry.
- In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Mix them well until everything is evenly blended. The mixture should look like a fine sand.
- Next, pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is moist and holds together. You’ll know it’s ready when it resembles wet sand and clumps together nicely.
- Now, fold in the chocolate chips and nuts if you’re using them. The chocolate should start to melt slightly from the warmth of the mixture, creating a delicious aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the mixture firmly into the dish. Use a spatula or your hands to pack it down tightly; this helps the squares hold their shape.
- Refrigerate the dish for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm. You’ll know it’s ready when it feels solid to the touch and holds its shape when you cut into it.
- Once set, lift the parchment paper to remove the squares from the dish. Cut them into bite-sized pieces and serve. They should have a nice, glossy finish and a rich chocolate aroma.
Make It Perfect
- For a festive touch, sprinkle some crushed peppermint on top before chilling.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add a bit more melted butter to help it stick together.
- Keep the squares stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Mix It Up
- Try adding a layer of peanut butter for a delicious twist.
- Swap out the chocolate chips for dried fruit for a healthier option.
Perfect Partners
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of cocoa.
- They also go great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! They can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them tightly and store them in a freezer-safe container.
What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs?
You can use crushed cookies or even oats for a different texture.
What’s the best way to cut these squares?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat pieces.
Conclusion
These 12 Easy No Bake Christmas Cookies are a wonderful way to celebrate the season without the stress of baking. They’re quick, fun, and sure to bring smiles to your holiday gatherings. So gather your family, get creative, and enjoy these delightful treats!
12 Easy No Bake Christmas Cookies for Effortless Holiday Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all your ingredients on the counter to prepare for mixing.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar in a large bowl and mix well.
- Pour in melted butter and vanilla extract; stir until moist and the mixture clumps together.
- Fold in chocolate chips and nuts if using.
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly into the dish.
- Refrigerate the dish for at least 2 hours until firm and set.
- Lift the parchment paper from the dish, cut into bite-sized pieces, and serve.