To me, the holidays smell like pine trees, feel like being wrapped in cozy flannel, sound like Mariah Carey [1], look like fresh snowfall — and, my favorite of all, taste like peppermint.
That's why I keep a Rolodex of peppermint [2] dessert recipes on rotation for all of December. I'll be baking up a storm (and hopefully during some snowstorms!) in fresh pajamas, with Spotify on blast, and a pine candle burning — because my fake tree can only do so much.
Peppermint Mocha Cheesecake Bars
Give traditional cheesecake a festive flair with this peppermint mocha bar spin that's easy for grabbing and go-ing straight to the couch or fireplace.
Get the recipe: peppermint mocha cheesecake bars [4]
Peppermint Oreo Cookie Balls
Your roommates will be convinced you ordered in fancy truffles, but really you whipped these bites up from crushed Oreos, candy canes, and cream cheese — no one has to know.
Get the recipe: peppermint oreo cookie balls [5]
Peppermint Meringues
Yes, these meringues are delicious — but can we also talk about how pretty they are as holiday table decor, too?
Get the recipe: peppermint meringues [6]
Peppermint Layer Brownies
To call this treat a brownie is quite an understatement considering it's made of multiple layers, including a creamy peppermint cream and chocolate-peppermint ganache.
Get the recipe: peppermint layer brownies [7]
Homemade Coconut Peppermint Patties
These bites are paleo, vegan, gluten-free, and only take five minutes to make.
Get the recipe: homemade coconut peppermint patties [8]
Holiday Peppermint S'more Cookies
S'mores aren't exclusive to summer — just take these cookies as proof.
Get the recipe: holiday peppermint s'more cookies [9]
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Would this really be a holiday dessert roundup if peppermint bark didn't make the list?
Get the recipe: dark chocolate peppermint bark [10]
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