The holidays wouldn’t be the same without Grandma’s Christmas Candy—a collection of old-fashioned, homemade sweets that bring back memories of cozy winter nights, twinkling lights, and family gatherings. These classic holiday confections have been passed down for generations, and each bite is filled with nostalgia and sweetness. From the crunchy perfection of peanut brittle to the rich creaminess of homemade fudge, these recipes are irresistible, easy to make, and perfect for gifting.
Below, you’ll find six of Grandma’s best Christmas candy recipes, each with simple ingredients and clear step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re making them for a holiday party, giving them as gifts, or simply treating yourself, these festive sweets will make your season extra special.
1. Old-Fashioned Peanut Brittle
A crunchy, golden caramelized candy packed with roasted peanuts and a delightful buttery flavor. This classic Christmas treat is perfect for snacking or gifting in holiday tins.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar – Provides the caramelized base.
- 1 cup light corn syrup – Prevents crystallization and keeps the candy smooth.
- ½ cup water – Helps dissolve the sugar evenly.
- 2 cups raw peanuts – Adds a rich, nutty crunch.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Enhances flavor and gives a smooth texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Creates air bubbles, making the brittle light and crisp.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness.
Instructions:
- Prepare a baking sheet by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Stir in the peanuts and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in butter, baking soda, vanilla, and salt. The mixture will foam slightly.
- Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
- Allow to cool completely, then break into pieces and enjoy!
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, lightly toast the peanuts before adding them to the mixture.
2. Grandma’s Fudge
This smooth, creamy, and rich chocolate fudge is the ultimate indulgence. Made with marshmallow creme for a silky texture, this fail-proof recipe melts in your mouth every time.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and structure.
- ¾ cup unsalted butter – Adds richness and creaminess.
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk – Ensures a smooth consistency.
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips – Creates the deep chocolate flavor.
- 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme – Makes the fudge extra creamy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional) – Adds crunch and texture.
Instructions:
- Line an 8x8-inch pan with foil and butter the foil for easy removal.
- In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and evaporated milk over medium heat. Stir constantly and bring to a rolling boil.
- Boil for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Stir in chocolate chips, marshmallow creme, vanilla, and nuts (if using) until smooth.
- Pour into the prepared pan and let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Pro Tip: For extra richness, use a mix of dark and semisweet chocolate chips.
3. Chocolate-Covered Cherries
A decadent treat with a juicy cherry center wrapped in a sweet vanilla dough and coated in rich chocolate. These candies taste even better after a couple of days, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time.
Ingredients:
- 1 jar maraschino cherries with stems, drained – The star ingredient.
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened – Helps create a smooth dough.
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup – Adds elasticity to the dough.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Creates the sweet dough layer.
- 8 oz semisweet or dark chocolate, melted – Forms the chocolate shell.
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix butter, corn syrup, and powdered sugar to form a pliable dough.
- Wrap a small piece of dough around each cherry, covering it completely.
- Dip each cherry into melted chocolate and place on wax paper to set.
- Allow the candies to rest for 1-2 days to let the flavors meld.
Pro Tip: For a boozy twist, soak the cherries in brandy or rum before coating them.
4. Peppermint Bark
A festive, crunchy, and creamy chocolate treat with a burst of cool peppermint flavor. Perfect for holiday gifting!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz white chocolate, chopped – Forms the top layer.
- 12 oz dark or semisweet chocolate, chopped – Forms the bottom layer.
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract – Infuses a minty aroma.
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies – Adds crunch and festive color.
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt the dark chocolate, stir in peppermint extract, and spread onto the baking sheet. Chill until firm.
- Melt the white chocolate and spread evenly over the dark chocolate.
- Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies and press lightly to adhere.
- Chill until completely set, then break into pieces.
Pro Tip: For an elegant touch, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top before breaking it into pieces.
5. Divinity
A light, fluffy nougat-like candy with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This Southern favorite is a must-have at Christmas.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups granulated sugar – Forms the candy base.
- ½ cup light corn syrup – Prevents crystallization.
- ½ cup water – Helps dissolve the sugar.
- 2 large egg whites – Creates the fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional) – Adds crunch.
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, cook sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat until it reaches 250°F (hard-ball stage).
- Meanwhile, beat egg whites in a stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Slowly pour the hot syrup into the egg whites, beating continuously until thick.
- Stir in vanilla and nuts (if using). Drop spoonfuls onto wax paper to set.
Pro Tip: Make divinity on a dry, cool day, as humidity affects its texture.
6. Classic Toffee
A buttery, crunchy, caramelized candy topped with a layer of melted chocolate—pure holiday indulgence!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter – Provides richness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens and caramelizes.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth.
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips – Melts into a decadent topping.
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional) – Adds texture.
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a heavy saucepan, cook butter, sugar, and salt over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns deep amber (300°F).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Pour onto the baking sheet and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips on top, let them melt, then spread into a smooth layer.
- Cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Pro Tip: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
Final Thoughts
These homemade Christmas candies bring warmth, nostalgia, and joy to every holiday celebration. Easy to make and perfect for gifting, these treats will quickly become a family favorite. Try them all, and make this holiday season the sweetest one yet!