Jingle All the Way: Easy Christmas Treats to Make with Kids

As the holiday season approaches, families across the globe begin to embrace the spirit of Christmas with festive activities. One of the most enjoyable ways to bond with your kids during this time is by making easy Christmas treats together. Not only do these recipes bring the joy of the season into your home, but they also create cherished memories that last a lifetime. In this article, we’ll explore several fun and simple Christmas treats you can whip up with your little ones.

1. Candy Cane Cookies

Candy cane cookies are a classic Christmas treat that’s easy to make and delightful to eat! With their festive red and white stripes, they add a cheerful touch to any dessert table.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Red food coloring
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt.
5. Divide the dough in half. Add red food coloring to one half and leave the other plain.
6. Scoop out small pieces of both doughs and roll them into long strips.
7. Twist the red and white strips together and shape them into candy cane forms.
8. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
9. Cool and enjoy your festive treats!

2. Frosted Snowman Cupcakes

These frosted snowman cupcakes are an adorable way to celebrate Christmas and will surely make your kids giggle with delight!

Ingredients:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• Ingredients needed for the cake mix (usually eggs, water, and oil)
• White frosting
• Mini chocolate chips
• Orange candy for the nose (like candy corn)
• Chocolate-covered candies (for the hat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions and bake cupcakes.
2. Once cooled, frost each cupcake with white frosting.
3. Use mini chocolate chips for eyes and buttons.
4. Add an orange candy for the nose and a chocolate-covered candy for the hat.
5. Serve your snowman cupcakes and watch them disappear!

3. Reindeer Rice Krispie Treats

These reindeer Rice Krispie treats are simple to make and are perfect for classroom parties or family gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 package (10 oz) marshmallows
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• Chocolate-covered pretzels (for antlers)
• Red M&M’s (for the nose)
• Candy eyes

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and add the Rice Krispies cereal. Mix until well-coated.
4. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch pan and let cool.
5. Once cooled, cut into squares and decorate with pretzels as antlers, red M&M’s for noses, and candy eyes.
6. Enjoy your adorable reindeer shapes!

Conclusion

Making Christmas treats with your kids is a wonderful way to embrace the holiday spirit and promote creativity. These easy recipes not only provide a delicious reward for your efforts but also foster teamwork and connection among family members. Remember, the best part of the holidays isn’t just the treats but the love and laughter shared while making them. So gather your ingredients, put on those aprons, and start creating delightful memories!

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