Christmas is a time for togetherness, warm fires, and of course, delicious treats! This year, ditch the store-bought sweets and bring a touch of Joanna Gaines' charming farmhouse style to your holiday table with these homemade candy recipes. These recipes are perfect for baking with family, gifting to loved ones, or simply enjoying as you cozy up by the fireplace. Get ready to create some seriously delightful and easy Christmas candy!
White Chocolate Peppermint Bark: A Classic with a Twist
This recipe puts a slightly elevated spin on a classic Christmas favorite, resulting in a wonderfully festive and delicious treat. It’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for both experienced bakers and beginners.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces of high-quality white chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 cup of crushed candy canes (reserve some for garnish)
- 1/4 cup of roughly chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
- Prepare your workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Melt the chocolate: Melt the white chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chocolate to seize.
- Combine ingredients: Gently stir in the crushed candy canes, nuts (if using), and sea salt.
- Spread and set: Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Work quickly, as the chocolate will begin to set.
- Garnish and chill: Sprinkle with reserved crushed candy canes. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the bark is firm.
- Break and serve: Once set, break the bark into irregular pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Peppermint Bark:
- Use good quality white chocolate for the best flavor and melt.
- Don't overheat the chocolate; otherwise, it might become grainy.
- Work quickly when spreading the chocolate to prevent it from setting too quickly.
- For a more rustic look, don't spread the chocolate perfectly evenly.
Variations:
- Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark: Substitute dark chocolate for white chocolate.
- Sea Salt Caramel Peppermint Bark: Add a layer of homemade caramel before sprinkling the candy canes.
- Cranberry Peppermint Bark: Add dried cranberries to the chocolate mixture for a festive twist.
Spiced Pecan Clusters: A Simple, Delicious Delight
These little clusters are packed with flavor and wonderfully easy to make, making them ideal for a quick and delicious holiday treat. The warm spices complement the sweetness perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of pecan halves
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup of butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix until the pecans are evenly coated.
- Bake: Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and fragrant.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the clusters cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking them apart and storing them in an airtight container.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Spiced Pecan Clusters:
- Don't overbake the clusters, or they will become dry.
- Let them cool completely before breaking them apart to prevent them from crumbling.
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving – varies based on specific ingredients and portion size):
White Chocolate Peppermint Bark (1 ounce): Calories: 150-200, Fat: 10-15g, Sugar: 15-20g
Spiced Pecan Clusters (1 ounce): Calories: 120-150, Fat: 8-12g, Sugar: 5-8g
These easy, delicious, and homemade Christmas candies will surely become holiday staples! Enjoy the process of creating these treats and the joy of sharing them with your loved ones. Happy Holidays!