My daughter is at that magical age when she wants to take part in every possible Christmas tradition. Before bed the other night, she asked me what we were going to leave for Santa in case he arrives hungry (“that’s what they do on TV, Mommy”). Having not done anything last year, I decided to come up with some easy, last-minute treats for Santa that are still totally possible to throw together, from super indulgent to a couple of healthy and allergy-friendly options.
And the best part is that these Santa snacks make plenty of leftovers for you and your little elves. Because, you know, you give away most of what you make to the big guy. Ahem.
Related: 11 of our favorite classic Christmas cookie recipes. Because we can’t choose just one.
It wouldn’t be Christmas without leaving a classic cookie like the Peanut Butter Blossoms at Dessert Now Dinner Later (above) for Santa. Soft, peanut butter-y, and sealed with a kiss; there’s no better match for a glass of milk. Plus, these are about as easy to make as cookies get.
If your Santa has a serious chocolate tooth, the rich Thin Mint Oreo Cups at Chelsea Messy Apron will make him one jolly Saint Nick. You can whip up these three-ingredient treats without even having to turn on the oven.
Just in case Santa is on Whole30 this year, let’s keep him on track with the nutritious and adorable Fruit Grinch Skewers at Clean and Scentsible. This easy-to-assemble snack also makes a fun project for antsy kids.
Clearly I can’t resist a Santa Hat treat, especially one as effortless as the Santa Hat Brownies at Daisy’s World. These can easily be made with your favorite homemade or store-bought brownies and frosting. Make extras if you’ve got family coming over on Christmas day.
Related: 5 easy cookie recipes for Santa. Or you. Or anyone on the nice list.
If you’re worried that Santa has food sensitivities, try these easy vegan, gluten- and nut-free Snowball Cookies at The Pretty Bee. Kelly includes a lot of helpful tips if some of the ingredients called for are new to you.
Santa’s Snack Mix at Mom Endeavors is the perfect salty-sweet treat. The combination of pretzels, nuts, and chocolate is addictive, so be prepared to lick the bowl clean. This recipe makes a lot, which makes it a great last minute homemade food gift option too.
All of the DIY Christmas Party Cups at My Mommy Style are clever and surprisingly doable, but I’m especially crushing on the Santa Cups made with peppers, tomatoes, and ranch dressing. If you’ve got cups and a black marker, you and the kids can make these healthy treats for Santa faster than a reindeer flies.
Related: Rich and buttery, gooey or crispy: The best toffee treats to make this season.
If you want Santa’s eyes to twinkle, put out a bowl of these super Easy Chocolate Caramel Pretzels at Crunchy Creamy Sweet. There’s a video, but lookout for the link that will take you to a printable version of the recipe. Then, yum.
If you’re the one who heads to bed early, it might be nice to leave a warming surprise for your Santa. A little pick-me-up, like this excellent small-batch Michter’s Bourbon, might be just the thing on Santa’s wish list. And if you’re not heading to bed early, well, grab another glass.
