23 Christmas desserts for last-minute miracles

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When it comes to Christmas desserts, we’ve all been there – the last-minute scramble to whip up something sweet and festive. Don’t worry, though; here are 23 delicious treats that are quick and easy to make. From classic cookies to indulgent cheesecakes, these desserts are the perfect solution for any holiday gathering. So, if you find yourself in need of a Christmas dessert miracle, keep reading for simple recipes that will save the day and satisfy your sweet tooth!

Overhead shot of an apple galette on parchment with fresh apples on the side.
Apple Galette. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chocolate Rugelach

Low angle shot of rugelach cookies filled with chocolate and pecans.
Chocolate Rugelach. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

A flaky, chocolate-filled goodness that’s a breeze to whip up. Chocolate rugelach is the answer to your sweet cravings without the stress. A delicious treat with layers of richness, making it the perfect last-minute dessert for a cozy Christmas gathering.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Rugelach

Air Fryer Churros

Churros on a white plate with a bowl of caramel dipping sauce on the side.
Air Fryer Churros. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside – that’s the magic of air fryer churros. When time is of the essence, these cinnamon-sugar delights come to the rescue. No need for deep frying; the air fryer ensures a quick fix for your churro cravings, making it a festive hit for your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Churros

Lemon Coconut Macaroons

Low angle shot of lemon coconut macaroons on a parchment paper lined baking sheet.
Lemon Coconut Macaroons. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tangy lemon meets sweet coconut in these bite-sized wonders. Lemon coconut macaroons are a refreshing twist on a classic, bringing a burst of flavor to your last-minute dessert game. With minimal effort, you can present a platter of these lovely treats that are sure to impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Coconut Macaroons

Salted Toffee Cookie Bars

Stack of 3 toffee cookies.
Salted Toffee Cookie Bars. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For the perfect blend of sweet and salty, look no further than salted toffee cookie bars. These bars are a quick and easy solution to your last-minute dessert needs. With a buttery crust, gooey toffee, and a sprinkle of salt, they are an irresistible addition to your Christmas lineup.
Get the Recipe: Salted Toffee Cookie Bars

Caramel Whoopie Pies

A plate of caramel sandwich cookies on a white plate.
Caramel Whoopie Pies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Picture two soft cookies hugging a luscious caramel filling – that’s the charm of caramel whoopie pies. These handheld delights are a simple yet indulgent addition to your last-minute Christmas dessert spread. Quick to assemble and delicious to eat, they’re a crowd-pleaser without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Whoopie Pies

Air Fryer S’mores

Stacked s'mores on a white plate.
Air Fryer S’mores. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Craving the campfire classic without the hassle? Enter air fryer s’mores. This quick and mess-free version ensures you get the gooey goodness of marshmallows and chocolate without stepping outside. Perfect for a last-minute Christmas treat that captures the essence of a cozy bonfire night.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer S’mores

Dulce de Leche Cookies

Overhead shot of dulce de leche cookies.
Dulce de Leche Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Sweet, sticky, and utterly pleasing – that’s the magic of dulce de leche cookies. These bite-sized wonders are a quick fix for your sweet tooth. With a rich caramel flavor in every bite, they add a touch of indulgence to your Christmas dessert lineup without the need for extensive preparation.
Get the Recipe: Dulce de Leche Cookies

Hamentashen

Hamentashen cookies piled on a white plate with more cookies on a rack in the background. There is jar of jam with a spoon in it in the background too.
Hamentashen. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Triangle-shaped pockets of joy, that’s hamentashen for you. These filled cookies are a delightful addition to your last-minute Christmas dessert options. With various fillings to choose from, they offer a versatile and easy-to-make treat that brings a touch of tradition to your festive table.
Get the Recipe: Hamentashen

Maple Bacon Beignets

Maple Bacon Beignets in a bowl.
Maple Bacon Beignets. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When the clock is ticking and you’re in need of a Christmas dessert miracle, consider the Maple Bacon Beignets. Think of a fluffy dough, kissed with a touch of maple sweetness, and a surprise crunch of crispy bacon. They’re like little pillows of joy that you can whip up in a flash, making them the perfect last-minute treat for the holidays. The unique blend of sweet and savory is sure to delight yourself and rescue your dessert dilemma.
Get the Recipe: Maple Bacon Beignets

Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies

Stack of hot cocoa cookies on a plate.
Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Imagine the warmth of hot cocoa in cookie form, ready in no time – that’s the magic of the Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies. With a gooey marshmallow center and a comforting chocolatey flavor, these cookies are a speedy solution for your last-minute Christmas dessert needs. They capture the essence of winter coziness and deliver a lovely twist on a classic treat, making them a perfect addition to your holiday spread with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies

Apple Galette

Overhead shot of an apple galette on parchment with fresh apples on the side.
Apple Galette. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When simplicity meets elegance in the realm of Christmas desserts for last-minute miracles, the Apple Galette takes center stage. Sliced apples nestled in a rustic, flaky crust create a visually appealing and delicious dessert. With minimal effort, this galette is your shortcut to impressing holiday guests. It’s a fuss-free solution that embodies the spirit of the season without sacrificing flavor or style.
Get the Recipe: Apple Galette

Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Stack of peanut butter cookies on a wooden board with a small bowl of peanut butter and a striped napkin.
Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Attention, peanut butter enthusiasts! For a quick fix to your last-minute dessert dilemma, turn to the Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies. These cookies strike the perfect balance between nutty goodness and chewy perfection. Quick to whip up, they’re a delicious addition to your holiday table, showcasing simplicity and deliciousness in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Chocolate Orange Babka

Low angle shot of a chocolate babka with a wedge removed so you can see the inside.
Chocolate Orange Babka. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice up your Christmas dessert game effortlessly with the Chocolate Orange Babka. Imagine rich chocolate swirls infused with zesty orange flavor – a decadent combination that requires minimal effort. This twisty treat adds a touch of sophistication to your festive table without the need for extensive preparation, making it an ideal last-minute miracle for holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Orange Babka

Coffee Brownies for Two

Coffee brownies for two on a stack of two white dessert plates with some coffee beans on the plate.
Coffee Brownies for Two. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re in the mood for a small-batch delight, the Coffee Brownies for Two step up to the plate. These rich, fudgy brownies, subtly infused with coffee goodness, are a quick solution for your last-minute sweet cravings. Perfect for a cozy night in during the holidays, they provide just the right amount of chocolate pick-me-up, proving that good things come in small packages, especially in the realm of Christmas desserts.
Get the Recipe: Coffee Brownies for Two

Black Sesame Cookies

Black sesame cookies on a baking sheet with a spoonful of black sesame seeds.
Black Sesame Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a flavor experience that stands out among Christmas desserts for last-minute miracles, try the Black Sesame Cookies. These subtly sweet treats bring a nutty and aromatic quality to your dessert table. Quick to make and intriguing to the taste buds, they’re a standout choice for those looking to surprise their guests with something a bit different, providing a unique and delicious twist to your holiday celebration.
Get the Recipe: Black Sesame Cookies

Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake

A slice of pumpkin cheesecake on a plate.
Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

In the rush of holiday prep, the Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake is your Christmas dessert savior. Think of a creamy cheesecake with a lovely crunch of pecans and a hint of festive pumpkin flavor. It’s the perfect last-minute miracle to bring a touch of decadence to your holiday spread without the fuss. So, when time is ticking, let this dessert shine on your table – a true crowd-pleaser without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake

Kolacky

Several poppy seed filled kolacky on a white plate with red and gold ribbons in the background.
Kolacky. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Traveling to Eastern Europe without leaving your kitchen? Enter Kolacky, the charming, bite-sized pastries that make for an amazing Christmas dessert surprise. With a flaky exterior and a burst of fruity goodness, they’re the perfect remedy for your last-minute sweet cravings. Imagine popping one into your mouth, instantly transported to a cozy holiday gathering where these treats steal the show. When time is tight, Kolacky is your passport to instant holiday joy.
Get the Recipe: Kolacky

Flourless Chocolate Cookies

Overhead shot of cookies on a white cloth with a glass of milk.
Flourless Chocolate Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When the craving for chocolate hits, and time is of the essence, Flourless Chocolate Cookies come to the rescue. No flour, no hassle – just rich, chewy bites of cocoa heaven. These cookies are the ultimate last-minute miracle, delivering maximum chocolate satisfaction with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Flourless Chocolate Cookies

Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes

Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes with whipped cream stars on top.
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Craving the comfort of pumpkin without the fuss? Enter Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes, the bite-sized wonders that deliver all the creamy goodness with minimal effort. It’s the ideal last-minute dessert solution, whether for individual indulgence or a quick fix for your holiday gathering. Imagine the convenience – small, flavorful, and perfect for those moments when time is short, but the desire for a delicious Christmas dessert is high.
Get the Recipe: Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes

Ginger Snaps

Low angle shot of a single gingersnap cookie broken in half.
Ginger Snaps. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice things up in a flash with the classic Ginger Snaps – the perfect last-minute addition to your Christmas dessert lineup. These cookies bring warmth and crunch without the need for elaborate baking. Mix, bake, and watch as your guests reach for seconds. In the whirlwind of holiday chaos, Ginger Snaps are your go-to for a quick and delicious sweet fix that adds that extra dash of festive flavor to your gathering.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Snaps

Tanghulu

Overhead shot of tanghuluu on a white plate.
Tanghulu. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Looking for a sweet and crunchy spectacle? Enter Tanghulu – the colorful candied fruit treats that bring a burst of joy to your last-minute Christmas dessert spread. Picture the visual delight as these treats shine on a stick. With Tanghulu, you’ve got a quick and stunning solution for pleasing sweet cravings and adding a touch of festive magic to your holiday gathering. When time is tight, Tanghulu transforms into your go-to Christmas dessert miracle.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon

Low-angled shot of a honey cookie broken in half with stacks of honey cookies and a glass of milk in the background.
Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice up your cookie game effortlessly with Honey Cookies infused with orange and cinnamon – a perfect last-minute addition to your Christmas desserts. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as you whip up these subtly citrusy treats. No need to stress – the simple pleasure of these cookies is enough to steal the spotlight at your festive gathering, providing a quick and aromatic solution to your last-minute Christmas dessert needs.
Get the Recipe: Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon

Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bites

Chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake bites on little plates with pink sprinkles.
Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bites. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Indulge into bite-sized bliss with Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bites – the ultimate Christmas dessert indulgence that requires minimal effort. Picture the luscious blend of strawberries and chocolate meeting creamy cheesecake, all in a conveniently poppable form. These bitesize delights are the perfect last-minute miracle, guaranteeing maximum satisfaction for your holiday gathering without the need for intricate preparation. When time is short, let these treats steal the show with their simplicity and irresistible flavors.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bites

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