As the New Year approaches, it’s time to reflect on the past year and celebrate new beginnings with friends and family.
What better way to ring in the New Year than with a delightful array of sweet treats?
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply looking to indulge in some delicious desserts, our collection of over 25 sweet recipes will inspire you to create mouthwatering delights that everyone will love.
From traditional favorites like rich chocolate cakes and spiced gingerbread cookies to innovative creations such as raspberry lemonade sorbet and decadent chocolate hazelnut tarts, there’s something for every palate.
Get ready to impress your guests with these scrumptious desserts that will make your New Year celebration truly memorable!
25+ Easy and Delightful New Year’s Sweet Recipes for Desserts
As you prepare to welcome the New Year, let these sweet recipes be the highlight of your celebrations.
Each recipe offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, ensuring that your dessert table is both diverse and enticing.
Whether you choose to whip up a classic or try something new, these treats are bound to bring joy and sweetness to your festivities.
So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a delicious journey that will leave everyone with a sweet taste in their mouths and fond memories to cherish for years to come.
Cheers to a sweet start to the New Year!
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
These warm and fluffy cinnamon sugar donut holes are the perfect New Year’s treat to share with loved ones. Quick to prepare and deliciously coated in sugar and cinnamon, they offer a delightful combination of sweetness and warmth. They’re soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, and perfect for a morning snack or evening dessert to celebrate the start of a new year.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Oil for frying
For Coating
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Heat oil in a pot to about 350°F (175°C). Scoop small spoonfuls of batter and drop them into the hot oil. Fry each side for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
- In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Toss each donut hole in the mixture immediately after frying.
- Serve warm, and enjoy the fluffy sweetness!
These cinnamon sugar donut holes are sure to be a hit with family and friends. They’re deliciously warm, soft, and the perfect size to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea as you ring in the new year.
Chocolate-Dipped Almond Biscotti
This chocolate-dipped almond biscotti recipe combines the deliciously crunchy texture of biscotti with a rich chocolate finish, perfect for a New Year’s treat. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the warm, nutty flavors balanced by the creamy chocolate. These biscotti are not only delightful on their own but are also perfect for dipping into a warm drink, making them a cozy dessert to enjoy at the start of the year.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup chopped almonds
For Chocolate Dip
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tsp coconut oil (optional for smoother chocolate)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add in eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in chopped almonds.
- Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log. Place logs on the baking sheet and flatten slightly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden.
- Allow the biscotti to cool, then slice into ¾-inch pieces. Arrange slices cut-side down and bake for another 10 minutes on each side until crisp.
- Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Dip one end of each biscotti into the chocolate, then set aside to harden.
This chocolate-dipped almond biscotti is an ideal New Year’s dessert for anyone looking for a sweet, crunchy, and satisfying snack. The chocolate coating adds a touch of indulgence, while the almonds give a hearty flavor perfect for winter.
Honey Almond Baklava Bites
These bite-sized baklava treats combine flaky pastry layers, honey, and almond filling, making them an indulgent New Year’s dessert. Unlike traditional baklava, which is often cut into large squares, these small servings are perfect for easy sharing. Each bite is filled with a delightful combination of sweet honey and rich almonds that perfectly captures the spirit of celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 package phyllo dough, thawed
- 1 ½ cups chopped almonds
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 stick melted butter
For Honey Syrup
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine chopped almonds and cinnamon.
- Lay out phyllo dough, cutting it into squares that will fit into mini muffin tins. Brush each layer with melted butter and stack three layers of phyllo in each muffin cup.
- Add a spoonful of the almond mixture to each muffin cup. Cover the filling with another three layers of phyllo, brushing each layer with butter.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crisp.
- While the baklava bites are baking, prepare the honey syrup by combining honey, water, sugar, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove baklava from the oven and drizzle with honey syrup. Allow it to cool and absorb the syrup before serving.
These honey almond baklava bites are a delightful dessert to share as the New Year begins. With layers of flaky pastry, a nutty almond filling, and a sweet honey syrup, each bite is a deliciously festive way to celebrate.
Festive Fruit and Nut Truffles
These delightful fruit and nut truffles are a wholesome and delicious treat to celebrate the New Year. Packed with dried fruits, nuts, and a hint of cocoa, these no-bake truffles are easy to make and provide a burst of flavor in every bite. They’re perfect for sharing at parties or for enjoying during cozy gatherings, making them a great addition to your holiday dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dates, pitted
- ½ cup dried apricots, chopped
- ½ cup walnuts or almonds
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, for coating)
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine dates, dried apricots, walnuts (or almonds), cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Process until the mixture is well combined and sticky.
- Scoop out a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball between your palms. Repeat until all the mixture is formed into truffles.
- If using shredded coconut, roll the truffles in the coconut to coat them evenly.
- Place the truffles on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
These fruit and nut truffles are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a guilt-free indulgence as you welcome the New Year. The combination of sweet fruits and crunchy nuts provides a satisfying texture, while the cocoa adds a rich flavor, making them a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy.
Spiced Apple Crisp
Warm, spiced apple crisp is a comforting dessert that embodies the essence of winter. The sweet and tart apples are topped with a crunchy oat mixture, providing a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for gatherings or as a cozy treat at home, making it a fantastic way to celebrate the New Year with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly coated. Pour the apple mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until combined and crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Spiced apple crisp is the perfect dessert to warm your heart and fill your home with a delightful aroma. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent treat. This dessert is a wonderful way to usher in the New Year, inviting comfort and nostalgia with every delicious bite.
Pomegranate Panna Cotta
Pomegranate panna cotta is a beautiful and elegant dessert that brings a touch of sophistication to your New Year’s celebration. With its creamy texture and vibrant pomegranate flavor, this dessert is a refreshing way to end your holiday feast. It’s light yet indulgent, making it a fantastic option for those looking to start the year on a fresh note.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ tsp gelatin powder
- 3 tbsp cold water
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- Pomegranate seeds and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling.
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for about 5 minutes. Once bloomed, add the gelatin mixture to the warm cream and stir until fully dissolved.
- Pour the panna cotta mixture into individual serving glasses or molds and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Once set, gently pour pomegranate juice over the top of each panna cotta.
- Garnish with pomegranate seeds and mint leaves before serving.
This pomegranate panna cotta is a stunning dessert that not only looks impressive but tastes divine. The creamy base complements the tartness of the pomegranate juice beautifully, creating a refreshing end to your New Year’s meal. Serve it chilled for a delightful treat that will have your guests raving long after the celebration is over.
Gingerbread Cookies
Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that brings warmth and nostalgia to your New Year celebrations. These soft, spiced cookies are perfect for decorating with icing and sharing with family and friends. Their delightful aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg makes them an ideal festive snack that embodies the spirit of the season.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- Icing and sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and the egg, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two disks, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm. Allow cookies to cool before decorating with icing and sprinkles, if desired.
These gingerbread cookies are not only fun to make but also deliciously festive. Whether you decorate them with friends or enjoy them straight from the oven, they are sure to add a sweet touch to your New Year celebrations. The warmth of the spices will evoke cozy memories and create new ones as you share these delightful treats with loved ones.
Chocolate Mint Brownies
Indulge in the rich flavors of these chocolate mint brownies, a perfect dessert for ringing in the New Year. These fudgy brownies are enhanced with a refreshing mint layer and topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. They’re rich, decadent, and ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth while celebrating the arrival of a new year.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Mint Layer
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp peppermint extract
For the Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes. Allow them to cool completely.
- For the mint layer, mix powdered sugar, cocoa powder, softened butter, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth. Spread evenly over the cooled brownies.
- For the ganache, heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour it over chocolate chips and let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth. Pour over the mint layer and let set.
These chocolate mint brownies are a delightful way to indulge during your New Year’s celebration. The combination of fudgy brownie, refreshing mint, and rich chocolate ganache creates a dessert that’s both satisfying and memorable. Slice them into small squares for easy sharing, and watch them disappear quickly!
Vanilla Pudding Parfaits with Berries
These vanilla pudding parfaits with fresh berries are a light and refreshing dessert to celebrate the New Year. Layered with creamy vanilla pudding and vibrant berries, these parfaits are not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to make. They offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making them a perfect treat to share with guests as you toast to new beginnings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Transfer the pudding to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly against the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate until cool.
- In serving glasses, layer the vanilla pudding with mixed berries. Start with a layer of pudding, followed by a layer of berries, and repeat until the glasses are filled.
- Top each parfait with a dollop of whipped cream and an extra berry for garnish.
These vanilla pudding parfaits with berries are a delightful way to end your New Year’s meal on a light note. The creamy pudding pairs beautifully with the tartness of the fresh berries, creating a refreshing dessert that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Enjoy this elegant treat with friends and family as you celebrate the joys of the New Year!
Maple Pecan Pie Bars
These maple pecan pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, perfect for New Year’s celebrations. With a buttery shortbread crust and a rich maple filling loaded with crunchy pecans, these bars are sweet, satisfying, and easy to serve at gatherings. They offer all the delicious flavors of traditional pecan pie in a portable form, making them a great dessert for sharing.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup maple syrup
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans and coconut if using.
- Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly.
- Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. Allow it to cool completely before slicing into bars.
These maple pecan pie bars are a perfect blend of flavors and textures that are sure to impress your guests. The sweetness of the maple syrup, combined with the nuttiness of the pecans, creates a rich and indulgent dessert that’s ideal for celebrating the New Year. Serve them at your next gathering for a taste that will leave everyone wanting more!
Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons are chewy, sweet, and utterly delicious treats that are simple to make and perfect for New Year’s celebrations. With their golden tops and moist coconut centers, these delightful bites are sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys the tropical flavor of coconut. They can be enjoyed as is or dipped in chocolate for an extra special touch.
Ingredients
- 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips (optional, for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded coconut, sugar, flour, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg whites and vanilla extract until frothy, then gently fold them into the coconut mixture until fully incorporated.
- Use a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop to form mounds of the mixture on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
- If desired, melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler. Dip the cooled macaroons in chocolate and place them back on the parchment paper to set.
These coconut macaroons are a delightful treat that brings a touch of tropical sweetness to your New Year festivities. Whether served plain or dipped in chocolate, they are sure to be a favorite among your guests. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a wonderful addition to any dessert table.
Orange Creamsicle Cake
Bring a burst of citrus flavor to your New Year’s celebration with this delicious orange creamsicle cake. Inspired by the classic orange creamsicle ice cream, this cake features layers of moist orange-flavored cake and creamy vanilla frosting, creating a refreshing and sweet dessert. It’s visually stunning and perfect for welcoming the New Year with a hint of nostalgia.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3-4 tbsp heavy cream
- Orange zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, milk, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough heavy cream to achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Once the cakes are cool, spread frosting between the layers and on top and sides of the cake. Garnish with orange zest if desired.
This orange creamsicle cake is a delightful way to celebrate the New Year, offering a light and refreshing taste that’s perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant flavor and beautiful presentation will surely impress your guests and create lasting memories as you toast to the new beginnings ahead!
Chocolate Hazelnut Tart
Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of a chocolate hazelnut tart, perfect for celebrating the New Year. This tart features a buttery crust filled with creamy chocolate hazelnut ganache, topped with toasted hazelnuts for an added crunch. It’s an elegant dessert that’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2-3 tbsp cold water
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup chocolate hazelnut spread
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, combine flour, powdered sugar, and butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and enough cold water to form a dough.
- Roll out the dough and press it into a tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake for 15-20 minutes, until lightly golden.
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate and hazelnut spread until smooth.
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually add the chocolate mixture to the eggs, stirring until combined.
- Pour the filling into the baked crust and sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts on top. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set. Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
This chocolate hazelnut tart is a showstopper that combines rich flavors with a delightful texture. The creamy filling and buttery crust create a heavenly treat that will elevate your New Year’s celebration. Serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence!
Raspberry Lemonade Sorbet
Cool off your New Year’s festivities with a refreshing raspberry lemonade sorbet. This vibrant and tangy dessert is easy to make and offers a delightful balance of sweet and sour flavors. It’s a light and fruity treat that’s perfect for cleansing the palate after a hearty holiday meal, making it an ideal addition to your dessert lineup.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh raspberries (or frozen)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a blender, combine raspberries, cooled sugar syrup, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Blend until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds, if desired.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze for about 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals.
- Once fully frozen, scoop into bowls or glasses and serve.
This raspberry lemonade sorbet is a delightful way to add a burst of freshness to your New Year celebration. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste will be a hit with guests of all ages. Whether served as a light dessert or a palate cleanser between courses, this sorbet is sure to impress and leave everyone feeling revitalized.
Almond Joy Cookies
These almond joy cookies are a deliciously fun twist on the classic candy bar, combining chocolate, coconut, and almonds in one delightful treat. Perfect for New Year’s gatherings, these cookies are chewy, rich, and satisfying, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped almonds
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded coconut, sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together egg whites and vanilla extract. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until combined. Fold in the chopped almonds and chocolate chips.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the edges are firm. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
These almond joy cookies are a deliciously indulgent treat that will add a touch of sweetness to your New Year celebrations. The combination of coconut, chocolate, and almonds makes for a delightful flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy them with a glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage as you celebrate new beginnings!
Note: More recipes are coming soon!