As the holiday season quickly approaches, families prepare by making various treats. From seasonal cookie bars to traditional brownie bites, it is ensured that these goods bring warmth and joy to homes worldwide.
Oreo Bites
One popular treat trending on social media is Oreo bites. These small treats can be formed and changed for any season. These easy sweets are just formed with crushed Oreos dipped in chocolate; and topped with holiday sprinkles. Freshman Sophia Coubrough states, “Last Christmas I made something similar and they were amazing.” They are quick and easy snacks to make while allowing for an opportunity to enjoy a delicious sweet. For the full recipe click here.
Cookie Bars
Cookie bars are the perfect treat to create during any holiday season. These customizable goods are ideal for sugar cookie enthusiasts who love the incorporation of chocolate. It is a large cookie square with M&M’s baked into it with white chocolate chips that sit on top. Although the creation process for these treats is time-consuming, the taste makes them worth the wait. For the full recipe, click here.
Pretzel Hugs
Pretzel hugs are convenient treats making them perfect for last-minute sweets. These seasonably interchangeable snacks are the perfect example of “less is more.” Freshman Mallory Hagenbach states, “I make these every year and I will never get sick of them.” They are bite-sized treats that combine a salty pretzel as the base with a sweet Hershey kiss that sits on top, creating the best of both worlds. They balance each other out perfectly to allow for a savory snack. For the full recipe, click here.
Brownie Bites
Brownie bites are the perfect treat for chocolate lovers. They have layers of cookies, brownies, and Oreos topped with delicious holiday sprinkles. These delectable sweets are the best desserts for parties or gatherings. Brownie bites are baked using mostly pre-made ingredients, making them perfect in a rush. For the full recipe click here.
Popcorn Balls
Although popcorn balls are time-consuming and messy, the result makes up for it. They are customizable while still being easy to prepare. They incorporate sweet marshmallows with salty popcorn to balance the flavor. Chocolate is mixed in to add sweetness and customization within the treat to complement the flavor excellently. Due to their unique yet flavorful taste, popcorn balls are great additions to a holiday hangout or gathering. Freshman Timofey Bogatikov says, “My mom makes these every year for a Christmas party.” For the full recipe, click here.
Seasonal treats allow families and friends to build and strengthen relationships. They let people express themselves enjoyably and engagingly; while bonding with those around them. Coubrough states, “Nothing brings my family closer than baking during Christmas.” The results enhance this connection due to the feeling of accomplishment and the creation of lasting memories. The treats can be given out to neighbors, friends, and family, creating experiences associated with kindness and positivity.
“When my son was younger we would bake a pumpkin eggnog pie every year,” Miss Randy Colin states. For years, her tradition was used to connect during the holidays. Baking was used as an outlet to bond with her son, which allowed them to strengthen their relationship. By families participating in traditional baking worldwide, their connections will grow, ultimately leading to healthier relationships.