When it comes to holiday parties, dessert is always the grand finale — the sweet memory your guests take home.
Whether you’re hosting a large festive gathering or a cozy get-together, these 13 Christmas dessert ideas for a party are designed to impress.
From show-stopping cakes to easy bite-sized treats, there’s something here for every kind of celebration.
1. Mini Gingerbread Cheesecakes
These adorable mini cheesecakes combine the spicy warmth of gingerbread with the creamy texture of cheesecake.
Made in muffin tins, they’re the perfect grab-and-go dessert for a crowd.
Top each one with whipped cream and a tiny gingerbread cookie for a festive touch that looks as good as it tastes.
2. Peppermint Brownie Bites
Rich, fudgy, and perfectly portioned, peppermint brownie bites are always a hit at Christmas parties.
Topped with a swirl of white chocolate ganache and crushed candy canes, they bring the flavors of the season in every bite.
You can serve them on a tiered tray or in festive mini cupcake liners.
3. Eggnog Panna Cotta
If you want something elegant yet easy, try serving eggnog panna cotta in small glass cups.
This creamy Italian dessert gets a holiday twist with nutmeg and a splash of rum extract.
Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a light and sophisticated addition to your dessert table.
Read More: 9 Christmas Brunch Party Ideas for a Joyful Holiday Gathering
4. Christmas Cupcake Tower
Cupcakes are always party favorites — and a Christmas cupcake tower doubles as décor.
Mix and match flavors like red velvet, chocolate peppermint, and vanilla spice.
Decorate with festive frosting, sprinkles, and edible glitter.
The colorful display instantly adds cheer to your dessert spread.
5. Cranberry White Chocolate Bark
For a sweet and simple treat, make cranberry white chocolate bark.
The creamy white chocolate contrasts beautifully with tart dried cranberries and pistachios.
Break it into rustic pieces and arrange in jars or bowls — guests can easily grab one while mingling.
6. Mini Pecan Pies
Tiny pecan pies are bite-sized versions of the beloved classic.
With buttery crusts and rich, nutty filling, they’re perfect for serving at cocktail-style Christmas parties.
Add a small dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel on top for a festive finish.
Read More: 12 halloween appetizers for party adults
7. Holiday Trifle Cups
Instead of one large trifle, make individual trifle cups using layers of sponge cake, custard, whipped cream, and red-and-green fruits like raspberries and kiwis.
They’re colorful, mess-free, and look stunning lined up on a party table.
8. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Simple yet elegant, chocolate-dipped strawberries are a crowd favorite.
Dip fresh strawberries in dark, milk, or white chocolate, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes or edible gold flakes.
Arrange them on a platter for a touch of sophistication and color.
9. Red Velvet Cake Squares
Turn the classic red velvet cake into easy-to-serve squares topped with cream cheese frosting.
The rich red color makes them stand out beautifully at Christmas gatherings.
Garnish with white chocolate curls or sugared cranberries for a festive look.
Read More: 7 halloween party appetizers
10. Snowball Cookies
Also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, snowball cookies melt in your mouth and look like little snow-covered treats.
Made with butter, nuts, and powdered sugar, they’re perfect for cookie platters or gift boxes at your Christmas party.
11. Chocolate Truffles
Homemade chocolate truffles add luxury to any holiday dessert table.
Roll them in cocoa powder, crushed peppermint, or shredded coconut for variety.
Arrange them in mini paper cups or on a decorative tray for an elegant touch that guests will love.
12. Holiday Macarons
Delicate and colorful, macarons make any dessert display feel fancy.
Create red, green, and white varieties filled with flavors like peppermint, eggnog, or cranberry buttercream.
Their light texture pairs beautifully with coffee or sparkling wine.
13. Christmas Cookie Charcuterie Board
End your party on a fun, festive note with a cookie charcuterie board.
Mix different holiday cookies like sugar cookies, gingerbread men, chocolate crinkles, and shortbread.
Add bowls of frosting, sprinkles, and candy for a DIY cookie-decorating experience your guests will adore.
These 13 Christmas dessert ideas for a party bring together all the flavors and joy of the holiday season — from elegant bites to fun, interactive treats.
Whether you want something simple, stunning, or nostalgic, each of these desserts is guaranteed to make your Christmas celebration memorable and delicious.
