If Christmas had a flavor, it would be the mix of chocolate, citrus, and warm spices you’ll find in these 10+ Giada’s Christmas dessert recipes. These treats are cozy, beautiful, and so satisfying. From fudgy tortes to zesty cookies, they’ll fill your holiday season with sweetness and joy.
Most of these recipes are quick enough for busy days yet fancy enough to impress your guests. Enjoy them with mulled wine, hot cocoa, or your favorite holiday drink, and make every winter gathering a little more special.
1. Giada Chocolate Cake Tiramisu with Chocolate Zabaglione
This tiramisu takes the traditional dessert to a whole new level with its rich layers of moist chocolate cake, velvety mascarpone cream, and decadent chocolate zabaglione. Each bite is a heavenly blend of light, creamy textures and deep chocolatey goodness, perfect for cozying up after a Christmas feast.
Want to wow your guests? Assemble these in individual glasses for an elegant holiday presentation. Make them ahead for stress-free entertaining and top with chocolate curls for a festive flourish that’ll dazzle any winter party.
2. Giada Persimmon-Pumpkin Pie
This persimmon-pumpkin pie is the ultimate holiday mashup, combining the smooth richness of pumpkin with the delicate sweetness of ripe persimmons. A buttery mascarpone crust cradles the creamy spiced filling, while a dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy touch that’s just right for Christmas.
It’s perfect served warm or chilled and pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pro tip: Make it a day ahead to let the flavors mingle—it’s even better after a little rest.
3. Giada Spiced Apple Walnut Cake with Cream Cheese Icing
Packed with tender apples and warm spices, this cake brings all the coziness of Christmas into every bite. The crunchy walnuts add just the right amount of texture, while the cream cheese icing drizzles like a snowy blanket over the perfectly spiced bundt.
Serve this with a cup of hot cider or coffee to keep the festive vibes going. It’s a showstopper for Christmas dinner and also a comforting dessert for any winter gathering.
4. Giada Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies
These shortbread cookies are a delightful blend of bittersweet chocolate, chewy dried cherries, and a hint of warmth from pink peppercorns. The buttery texture melts in your mouth, while the cocoa flavor and fruity pops of cherry make them irresistibly festive.
Bake these for your holiday cookie tray or wrap them up as homemade Christmas gifts. They’re easy to make ahead and freeze, so you’re always ready for last-minute guests or winter party invitations.
5. Giada Lemon Ricotta Cookies with Lemon Glaze
These bright and zesty cookies are like little bites of Christmas cheer! Soft, cake-like cookies are infused with creamy ricotta and fresh lemon zest, then topped with a sweet, tangy lemon glaze that sparkles like holiday lights.
Perfect for holiday parties or winter tea-time treats, these cookies are easy to bake ahead. The lemon glaze hardens beautifully, making them ideal for gifting or adding a citrusy pop to your Christmas dessert table.
6. Giada Double-Cocoa Hot Chocolate
This is hot chocolate reimagined—velvety, indulgent, and brimming with double the cocoa flavor. The rich, dark chocolate blends with the nuttiness of almond milk for a silky winter warmer you’ll sip by the fire.
Perfect for snowy nights, this luxurious drink feels festive but works all winter long. Pair
it with cookies for a cozy Christmas movie marathon or enjoy as a solo indulgence. It’s pure holiday magic in a mug.
7. Giada Cherry Almond Thumbprint Cookies
These thumbprint cookies are a holiday favorite with a twist—rich almond flavor, toasted nuttiness, and a pop of tart cherry jam in the center. They’re buttery, chewy, and just the right amount of festive.
Ideal for cookie swaps or a Christmas dessert platter, these can be made ahead and stored for days. The hint of limoncello adds a little extra joy, making them perfect for winter celebrations.
8. Giada Chocolate Pistachio Tart
This elegant tart combines a crisp pistachio crust with silky bittersweet chocolate filling, creating a dessert as indulgent as it is festive. Chopped apricots on top add a jewel-like finish and a subtle fruity note.
Serve this showstopper with whipped cream to round out any Christmas feast or winter gathering. Its make-ahead nature makes entertaining easy while delivering a truly luxurious holiday dessert.
9. Giada White Chocolate and Hazelnut Tartlets
These delicate tartlets are a holiday dream with their crisp, golden phyllo cups and creamy white chocolate mousse. Toasted hazelnuts add a nutty crunch, while optional chocolate-hazelnut spread takes these treats to an indulgent level.
Perfect for Christmas parties or winter gatherings, they’re as stunning as they are delicious. Garnish with edible flowers and grated bittersweet chocolate for a festive, elegant finish that’s sure to impress.
10. Giada Superfood Fudge Torte
This decadent fudge torte hides a healthy twist, with vibrant blueberry and spinach puree blending seamlessly into the rich, chocolatey batter. The result? A moist, fudgy dessert that satisfies indulgence without the guilt.
Topped with creamy spiced yogurt, it’s the perfect centerpiece for a Christmas feast or winter dinner party. Make ahead to let the flavors develop and serve chilled for a refreshing twist.
11. Giada Limoncello Parfaits
Bright and tangy, these limoncello parfaits are a refreshing way to end a holiday meal. Layers of whipped mascarpone and lemon curd create a cloud-like texture, while crushed meringues add just the right crunch.
Serve these in elegant glasses for an easy yet sophisticated Christmas dessert. They’re make-ahead friendly, perfect for taking the stress out of winter entertaining.
12. Giada Chocolate Amaretti Cake
This rustic Italian cake combines the rich flavors of chocolate, almonds, and amaretti cookies for a treat that’s both comforting and elegant. The hint of orange zest adds a festive, citrusy touch perfect for Christmas.
Dust the top with cocoa powder for a simple but stunning finish. Serve alongside espresso or a splash of liqueur for a cozy, winter evening indulgence.
