13 Barks, Bars, and Brittles for Last Minute Holiday Treats

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When the holiday season gets hectic, having a few go-to recipes for last minute holiday treats can be a lifesaver. These treats are quick to make, require minimal ingredients, and are perfect for those unexpected moments when you need something sweet fast. Whether you’re running out of time for gifts or need a last-minute addition to a gathering, these recipes will help you out. They’re simple to pull together, but still look and taste impressive. With a little effort, you’ll have something festive ready to go in no time.

Peppermint Creams

Festive red and white striped mini cupcake liners contain peppermint bark treats, arranged on a box with similar design. Some cupcakes are placed beside opened gift boxes with a pink pattern.
Peppermint Creams. Photo credit: What a Girl Eats.

These peppermint creams are a refreshing and festive addition to your holiday table. With their cool minty flavor and creamy texture, they’re perfect for last-minute holiday treats that require minimal effort and deliver maximum cheer.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Creams

Mom’s Best Cheesecake Swirled Nutella Bars Recipe

Close-up of a dessert bar with layers of yellow cake, cream filling, and chocolate swirls on a plate.
Mom’s Best Cheesecake Swirled Nutella Bars Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

These cheesecake swirled Nutella bars are the ultimate in holiday indulgence. The creamy layers and rich hazelnut flavor make them an elegant choice for last-minute holiday treats that feel homemade and luxurious.
Get the Recipe: Mom’s Best Cheesecake Swirled Nutella Bars Recipe

Slab Pecan Pie Bars

A stack of three pecan pie bars on a gray plate, with visible layers of crust, filling, and chopped pecans.
Slab Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

These slab pecan pie bars combine the classic flavors of a traditional pecan pie with the convenience of a handheld treat. They’re an excellent go-to for last-minute holiday treats that are easy to cut, serve, and share with friends.
Get the Recipe: Slab Pecan Pie Bars

Almond Bark Cereal Recipe

Bowl of white chocolate-covered snacks with colorful sprinkles, including red, orange, and yellow elements, and scattered sprinkles around the bowl.
Almond Bark Cereal Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

This almond bark cereal mix brings together crunchy cereals and creamy almond bark for a treat that’s both satisfying and simple. Perfect for last-minute holiday treats, it’s great for a sweet snack or party favor.
Get the Recipe: Almond Bark Cereal Recipe

Easy Christmas Grinch Bark Recipe

Festive green bark with heart sprinkles and multicolored toppings, surrounded by red and silver ornaments on a white tray.
Easy Christmas Grinch Bark Recipe. Photo credit: Dinners Done Quick.

This colorful Grinch-themed bark is as cheerful as it is easy to make. Bursting with festive hues and sweet flavors, it’s a fun option for last-minute holiday treats that will brighten dessert tables and bring smiles to every face.
Get the Recipe: Easy Christmas Grinch Bark Recipe

Harvest Spice Cake Mix Bars

A close-up of two stacked dessert bars with a crumbly crust and flaky top layer on a white plate.
Harvest Spice Cake Mix Bars. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

These harvest spice cake mix bars are packed with warm seasonal flavors and are incredibly easy to whip up. They’re a quick solution for last-minute holiday treats, offering a comforting bite that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Spice Cake Mix Bars

Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark

A plate of chocolate bark with caramel drizzles on a white background.
Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark. Photo credit: The Cookin’ Chicks.

This salted caramel pretzel bark combines the perfect balance of salty and sweet with its crunchy pretzels and smooth caramel. It’s a reliable favorite for last-minute holiday treats that look impressive and taste even better.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark

Easy Dark Chocolate Orange and Almond Bark

Pieces of chocolate bark with nuts wrapped in red and white twine, next to a spool of similar twine on a white surface.
Easy Dark Chocolate Orange and Almond Bark. Photo credit: Salt In My Coffee.

This bark blends rich dark chocolate with zesty orange and crunchy almonds for a sophisticated treat. It’s a standout option for last-minute holiday treats that require minimal prep but deliver bold holiday-inspired flavors.
Get the Recipe: Easy Dark Chocolate Orange and Almond Bark

This and That Bar Recipe

Chocolate-covered nut and berry bars in a glass dish, with a logo reading "The Off Griddle" in the corner.
This and That Bar Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

These bars are packed with chocolate, nuts, and chewy goodness, making them a versatile treat that everyone will enjoy. Ideal for last-minute holiday treats, they come together quickly and bring variety to any festive dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: This and That Bar Recipe

Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe

A plate of golden brown peanut brittle pieces on a wooden surface.
Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

This homemade peanut brittle is a timeless holiday classic, offering a crisp, buttery crunch that’s hard to resist. Perfect for last-minute holiday treats, it’s a nostalgic favorite that’s easy to prepare and share with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe

The Best Homemade Cashew Brittle Recipe

The Best Homemade Cashew Brittle Recipe. Photo credit: Dani’s Midlife Homestead.

Cashew brittle takes the classic brittle recipe to the next level with its rich, buttery flavor and nutty crunch. It’s a foolproof choice for last-minute holiday treats that are sure to impress guests or make a thoughtful gift.
Get the Recipe: The Best Homemade Cashew Brittle Recipe

Easy Nut Brittle Recipe

Easy Nut Brittle Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

This easy nut brittle recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort, combining crunchy nuts with a caramelized candy coating. It’s an excellent pick for last-minute holiday treats that feel homemade and special without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Easy Nut Brittle Recipe

Almond Bark with Pretzels and Popcorn

Almond Bark with Pretzels and Popcorn. Photo credit: Prepare & Serve.

Sweet almond bark coats crunchy pretzels and airy popcorn in this easy-to-make treat. Perfect for last-minute holiday treats, it’s a crowd-pleasing combination of salty and sweet that’s great for snacking or gift bags.
Get the Recipe: Almond Bark with Pretzels and Popcorn

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Sarita Harbour has been stretching her food dollars to feed her family for over 30 years. As a former banker and current freelance writer, she's written boatloads of articles about budgeting, homesteading, gardening, personal finance and more. Her food-related articles have been widely syndicated through AP and MSN. Look for her food features at NBC, The Seattle Times, Yahoo! Life, Chowhound, Tasting Table and MSN.

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