The festive season is upon us, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with some sweet Christmas tree candy ideas? These delightful treats are perfect for decorating your tree, serving as a centerpiece, or even as a fun activity for the whole family. In this article, we'll dive into five mouth-watering Christmas tree candy ideas that are sure to bring joy to both kids and adults alike.
What Makes Christmas Tree Candy So Special?
Christmas tree candy is a beloved holiday tradition that combines the magic of the season with the sweetness of treats. These candies are often shaped like miniature Christmas trees, snowflakes, or other festive shapes, making them a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. What's more, many of these candies are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some creativity.
Why You'll Love These Christmas Tree Candy Ideas
These Christmas tree candy ideas are perfect for:
- Decorating your tree or home with a sweet and festive touch
- Serving as a centerpiece for your holiday gatherings
- Making as a fun and easy activity with the whole family
- Giving as gifts to friends and loved ones
- Enjoying as a sweet treat during the holiday season
Christmas Tree Candy Idea #1: Peppermint Bark Trees
These peppermint bark trees are a classic holiday treat that's easy to make and looks adorable on any Christmas tree. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
- 1/4 cup chopped peppermint candies
- 1 tablespoon shortening (such as coconut oil or Crisco)
Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Stir in the crushed candy canes, chopped peppermint candies, and shortening. Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until set. Break into pieces and shape into miniature Christmas trees.
Christmas Tree Candy Idea #2: Sugar Cookie Trees
These sugar cookie trees are a classic holiday treat that's perfect for decorating your tree or serving as a centerpiece. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into Christmas tree shapes. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool before decorating with colored sugar or sprinkles.
Christmas Tree Candy Idea #3: Chocolate Dipped Pretzel Trees
These chocolate dipped pretzel trees are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that's perfect for snacking on during the holiday season. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 bag pretzel rods
- 1 cup chocolate chips (white, milk, or dark)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts or sprinkles (optional)
Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Dip each pretzel rod into the melted chocolate, coating about 2/3 of the pretzel. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until set. If desired, sprinkle with chopped nuts or sprinkles before the chocolate hardens.
Christmas Tree Candy Idea #4: Marshmallow Pops
These marshmallow pops are a fun and easy treat to make with the whole family. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 bag marshmallows
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts or sprinkles (optional)
- Lollipop sticks or pretzel rods
Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Insert a lollipop stick or pretzel rod into each marshmallow. Dip the marshmallow into the melted chocolate, coating about 2/3 of the marshmallow. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until set. If desired, sprinkle with chopped nuts or sprinkles before the chocolate hardens.
Christmas Tree Candy Idea #5: Fudge Trees
These fudge trees are a classic holiday treat that's easy to make and perfect for snacking on during the holiday season. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts or sprinkles (optional)
Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, and corn syrup. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour into the prepared baking dish and allow to cool until set. Cut into Christmas tree shapes and decorate with chopped nuts or sprinkles if desired.
Get Creative with Your Christmas Tree Candy
The best part about these Christmas tree candy ideas is that you can get creative and make them your own! Try using different shapes, colors, and toppings to make your treats truly unique. You could also experiment with different flavors, such as peppermint, gingerbread, or eggnog.
Share Your Favorite Christmas Tree Candy Ideas
Do you have a favorite Christmas tree candy idea? Share it with us in the comments below! We'd love to hear about your favorite holiday treats and traditions.
What is the easiest Christmas tree candy to make?
+The easiest Christmas tree candy to make is probably the peppermint bark trees. They require just a few simple ingredients, including white chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, and shortening.
Can I make Christmas tree candy ahead of time?
+Yes, many Christmas tree candies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. However, some candies, such as fudge, are best made fresh.
What are some popular toppings for Christmas tree candy?
+Some popular toppings for Christmas tree candy include chopped nuts, sprinkles, and colored sugar. You can also experiment with different toppings, such as coconut flakes or candy pieces, to create unique and delicious flavor combinations.