When it comes to Australian Christmas, there are few things you can’t go without—fresh seafood, the perfect glazed ham and, of course, dessert. If you’ve been asked to bring a dessert to your family Christmas, or just want to serve up a show-stopping dish, then 1 of these 5 simple Christmas dessert recipes will sure to wow your entire family.
While the Christmas pudding is always a crowd pleaser, we’ve found the best new recipes that put a spin on the traditional Christmas pavlova and trifle, as well as some not-so-traditional options even the fussy eater will love. We’ve even included some vegan options and substitutions, so everyone can dig in this Christmas.
5 Simple Christmas Desserts Even the Worst Baker can Make
1. Individual Chocolate Cherry Trifles
Dessert highlights:
- No having to evenly portion the servings.
- Silence any arguments over who gets the ‘biggest bit’.
- Making use of delicious seasonal cherries.
- Can be made ahead of time.
While the traditional English trifle uses layers of custard, cream, fruit and liquor-soaked sponge cake in a large glass bowl, this version simplifies it into delicious individual servings. This dish is perfect for making ahead of time AND it’s as simple as Christmas desserts come. So, you can focus on enjoying your Christmas Day instead of spending hours in the kitchen whipping up a dessert.
Find a delicious recipe for individual chocolate cherry trifles here.
2. Coconut & Fresh Fruit Ice Blocks
Dessert highlights:
- Can easily be made vegan.
- Gluten free.
- A cooling, yet simple, Christmas dessert.
Cool off in the summer heat with these delicious coconut milk and fruit popsicles. Easily make these ahead of time by blending together coconut milk, any fresh or frozen fruit on hand and freezing.
If you would like to make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the honey for agave syrup. The best part is, you can make any combination of flavours, so everyone is sure to be happy!
We love this recipe for Berry Popsicles by Fork Knife Swoon.
3. Vegan pavlova
Dessert highlights:
- Vegan
- Gluten free.
- Nutrients from the fresh fruit.
Pavlova has to be at the top of the favourite simple Christmas dessert list. Everyone at the table can enjoy this vegan version—and we promise it’s every bit as good as the traditional recipe! The best part is, you can switch up the fruits to suit you and your family’s favourite.
Check out this pavlova recipe by Vegan Australia.
4. Eton Mess
Dessert highlights:
- Perfect for beginner bakers.
- Looks beautiful.
- Can use up left over bits of meringue.
If you’re not exactly crafty with your dessert decorating skills, Eton mess is for you. This classic English dessert combines fresh strawberries and meringue. Add some cream and a few other ingredients and mix. That’s it…
Switch it up by using other fruit fruit on hand, nuts or biscuits. We love the combination of raspberries and pistachios.
See how easy it is to make Eton Mess with this recipe.
5. Gingerbread Doughnut Cookies
Dessert highlights:
- Icing the cookies is a good way to keep the kids occupied.
- Change the toppings to suit your tastebuds.
Spice up the traditional gingerbread cookie by turning it into an adorable doughnut shape, complete with icing and decorations. This is a great simple Christmas dessert for any little ones to help with the decorating. Try a variety of sprinkles and shavings of milk or white chocolate. You won’t be able to stop at just one!
Feature photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash
Of course, if you are not the best baker…
There are plenty of cooking classes out there to brush up your baking skills. Check out where you can get some help on Localsearch!
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