Fast and Easy Christmas Candy: Quick Ideas for Festive Treats

ByMichelle Updated on

Imagine wowing your guests with gourmet Christmas candy that tastes delicious and looks stunning, all made in a fraction of the time. Believe it or not, faster does not mean sacrificing quality or flavor! With our time-saving tips, you’ll learn how to craft extraordinary candy in record time. Say goodbye to holiday stress and hello to joyful candy-making.

The Art and Joy of Candy Making

Candy making is both an art and a joyous activity, bringing a sweet harmony of flavors and textures. If you think it’s reserved for professionals, think again! It’s your chance to shine.

Signature Candy Recipes

Minutes-to-Make Truffles

Truffles are the epitome of gourmet candy elegance. With the right technique, you can make them in no time. Melt, mix, chill, and roll. That’s all there is to it! Try a basic version with dark chocolate and cream, and roll in cocoa or nuts for a festive flourish.

  • Servings approximately 20-24 truffles
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 5 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 1-2 hours (until firm enough to scoop and roll)
  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

8 oz (225g) high-quality dark chocolate, finely chopped
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for rolling

Instructions

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.

Place the finely chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to soften the chocolate.

Gently stir the mixture with a spatula or whisk until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.

If using, add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to scoop.

Use a small cookie scoop or a teaspoon to scoop out small portions of the chocolate mixture.
Roll each portion into a ball between your palms. If the mixture is too sticky, you can lightly dust your hands with cocoa powder.

Roll each truffle in cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut to coat.

Place the truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set.
Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Tips:

  • For a flavor twist, you can add a splash of your favorite liqueur (such as Grand Marnier, Kahlua, or Baileys) to the chocolate mixture before chilling.
  • To make the process even quicker, you can use a microwave to heat the cream. Heat it in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals until it begins to simmer.

Easy-Peasy Peppermint Bark

Peppermint bark is candy magic made easy. Simply layer melted chocolates and sprinkle with crushed candy canes. It’s no-bake and perfect for holiday cheer!

  • Servings approximately 24 pieces
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 5 minutes (melting chocolate)
  • Setting Time: 30 minutes (in the refrigerator)
  • Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
12 oz (340g) white chocolate, chopped
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
4 candy canes, crushed (or about 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies)

Instructions

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  • Place the chopped dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl.
  • Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
  • If using, stir in 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
  • Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
  • Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, about 1/4 inch thick.
  • Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to set.
  • While the dark chocolate layer is setting, place the chopped white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl.
  • Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the white chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
  • If using, stir in the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
  • Remove the baking sheet from the refrigerator.
  • Pour the melted white chocolate over the set dark chocolate layer.
  • Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the dark chocolate.
  • Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes evenly over the white chocolate layer.
    Gently press the candy pieces into the white chocolate to ensure they stick.
  • Place the baking sheet back in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes, or until the bark is completely set and firm.
  • Once set, remove the peppermint bark from the refrigerator.
  • Use your hands or a sharp knife to break it into irregular pieces.
  • Store the peppermint bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or in the refrigerator for longer storage.

Tips

  • For a more festive look, you can drizzle additional melted dark chocolate over the top before the white chocolate sets.
  • If you prefer, you can use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter flavor.

Quick Nut Brittle

Brittle brings crunch and flavor in one! A quick microwave technique using sugar, butter, and nuts creates a delightful candy with minimum fuss. Perfect for wrapping as gifts.

  • Servings approximately 24 pieces
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (microwave)
  • Setting Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups mixed nuts (or your favorite nuts, such as peanuts, almonds, or cashews)
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly grease it with non-stick spray or butter.
  • In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the granulated sugar and light corn syrup. Stir until well mixed.
  • Microwave the sugar and corn syrup mixture on high for 4 minutes. The mixture should be bubbling and hot.
  • Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it will be very hot).
  • Stir in the unsalted butter and mixed nuts until well combined.
  • Microwave the mixture again on high for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture turns a light golden brown.
  • Remove the bowl from the microwave.
  • Stir in the vanilla extract, baking soda, and a pinch of salt (if using). The mixture will foam up and become lighter in color.
  • Quickly pour the brittle mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
    Use a spatula to spread it out into an even layer.
  • Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature, for about 30 minutes.
  • Once cooled and hardened, break the brittle into pieces using your hands or a sharp knife.
  • Store the nut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

How to Make Gourmet Christmas Candy in Half the Time

Traditionally, candy-making was a meticulous process. With modern advancements, we can now achieve gourmet results in half the time without losing that homemade charm. Embrace change your time is precious.

Candy Making Tools: Invest in the Right Equipment

candy making tool and utensils

The right tools can dramatically cut down your candy-making time. Essential items include:

  • A candy thermometer
  • Silicone molds
  • A heavy-bottomed pot

Think of these as your culinary support team.

Choose Your Battles: Simplify Ingredients

If you need speed, choosing recipes with fewer ingredients can save time. Opt for quality over quantity. Think rich flavors like dark chocolate, peppermint, and nuts.

Timing is Everything: Plan Your Candy Schedule

Schedule by breaking your candy-making process into manageable chunks. Prep ingredients in advance and streamline your workflow for efficiency. Beat the clock!

Limitless Variations: Personalize Your Candy

Gourmet candy should be unique, just like you. Swap different nuts, chocolates, and flavorings to create a signature twist. It’s your candy canvas!

Expert Tip: Mastering the Melt

Melting the chocolate to the perfect consistency is key to quick candy-making. Use a double boiler or microwave, but keep it gentle. No one wants scorched chocolate!

Taste Test: Perfect Your Flavors

Sampling candy is a delicious task! Adjust sweetness, crunch, and spice according to your palate. Conduct taste tests with family or friends for an interactive and fun experience.

Pack Up: Pretty Presentation Tips

Presentation counts. Use colorful tins, jars, or small gift bags. A simple ribbon or a handwritten note adds a personal touch. Your candy is a visual and flavorful gift!

Beyond Homemade: Save Time with Kits

Don’t shy away from using gourmet candy kits. They save time and bring professional results without the guesswork. Perfect for when time is short but quality is key.

Interactive Fun: Make it a Group Activity

Candy-making doesn’t have to be a solo affair. Invite friends and family, share the joy, and divide the tasks. It’s a holiday party with sweet rewards!

Candy Chef Secret: Using Subtle Spices

Spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger can elevate candy to gourmet status. Use sparingly to enhance flavor without overpowering. Find your spice groove!

Sustainability: Eco-friendly Candy Ideas

Consider sustainability in your candy production. Choose organic ingredients, minimize waste, and use recyclable packaging. Sweet treats with an eco-conscious legacy.

A Sweet Conclusion: Celebrate Your Success

Making gourmet Christmas candy quickly is not just possible; it can be delightful. Celebrate your achievement with a little sampling party and share the joy—and the sweets—with others.

Final Thoughts: Share the Sweetness

Your new candy-making skills will be a highlight of the holiday season. We hope our fun, fast techniques make your festive celebrations even sweeter. Share your creations on social media and spread the joy!

Some of my other Christmas treat recipes you might be interested in.

One-Pot Cooking Rocks!

Michelle

Hi, I’m Michelle, the founder, owner, author, and editor of OvenSpot. My passion for one-pot cooking commenced when I was working to prepare cafeteria lunches for school students. I am now on a mission to assist you in choosing the cooking pot or appliance you will use daily. As well as in-depth information to assist you in using and caring for your cookware and appliances. Along with the yummy recipes I use at home.
Questions? Reach out to Michelle at [email protected]

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