When the temperatures drop and snowflakes start to fall, there’s something cozy about enjoying a picnic outdoors—especially with delicious desserts in tow! From warm treats to sweet surprises, we’ve rounded up 13 delightful desserts that will make your winter picnic a cozy affair. So grab your favorite blanket and let’s dig into some sweet ideas that’ll keep you smiling through the chilly weather.
Peppermint Bark
Peppermint bark is a delightful treat that perfectly blends the rich taste of chocolate with the refreshing flavor of peppermint. This dessert is especially popular during the winter months, making it an excellent choice for a cozy picnic. With its crunchy texture and sweet aroma, it’s sure to bring a festive vibe to any gathering.
The best part? Peppermint bark is incredibly easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch that is perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 12 ounces white chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (or candy canes)
Instructions
- Melt the Semisweet Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Pour it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it into an even layer.
- Chill: Refrigerate the chocolate layer for about 15 minutes or until firm.
- Melt the White Chocolate: In another bowl, melt the white chocolate using the same method as before. Stir in the peppermint extract.
- Layer the White Chocolate: Pour the melted white chocolate over the chilled semisweet chocolate and spread it evenly.
- Add Peppermint: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the top while the white chocolate is still warm. Press lightly so they adhere.
- Chill Again: Return the baking sheet to the refrigerator for another 30 minutes until the chocolate is completely set.
- Break and Serve: Once set, break the bark into pieces and enjoy!
Pecan Pie Bars
Pecan pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, making them perfect for a winter picnic. These bars feature a buttery crust topped with a rich, sweet filling filled with crunchy pecans. They have a lovely balance of sweetness and nuttiness, making each bite satisfying yet comforting. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, meaning you can whip them up quickly for any gathering.
The bars are easy to cut into squares, making them a convenient treat for sharing. With their decadent gooey filling and crisp base, they’ll surely be a hit at your picnic. Grab a napkin, as these treats are just begging to be enjoyed!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine flour, butter, brown sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly, then press into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Combine: Pour the pecan mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading evenly.
- Bake: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Cinnamon Apple Crisp
Cinnamon Apple Crisp is a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of winter with its warm, comforting flavors. This dish combines tender, juicy apples with a crunchy, cinnamon-spiced topping that creates a satisfying contrast in texture. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a cozy winter picnic.
With every bite, you get a burst of sweet and tart apple goodness, complemented by the aromatic spices. It’s a dish that invites sharing and brings warmth to chilly days. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, so you can enjoy more time outdoors with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 3/4 cup rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
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. Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in the softened butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the oat topping over the apple mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!
Gingerbread Cookies
Gingerbread cookies are a festive treat that perfectly capture the essence of winter. With their warm spices and sweet flavor, they make for a delightful addition to any picnic. Plus, they’re simple to make, which means you can whip up a batch in no time!
These cookies are not only tasty but also fun to decorate. You can let your creativity shine with colorful icing and festive sprinkles. Whether you enjoy them plain or dressed up, gingerbread cookies add a cozy touch to your winter picnic spread.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Royal icing for decorating
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg and molasses until well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, blending until a dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Roll and Cut: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters.
- Bake: Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm. Allow them to cool completely before decorating.
- Decorate: Use royal icing to decorate the cookies as you like. Get creative with colors and designs!
Rich Chocolate Brownies
Rich chocolate brownies are the ultimate sweet treat for your winter picnic. With their fudgy texture and deep chocolate flavor, these brownies deliver a comforting bite that warms you from the inside out. They’re simple to whip up and perfect for sharing with friends and family as you enjoy the crisp winter air.
These brownies are not just delicious; they’re also versatile. You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter to customize them to your liking. Dusting them with powdered sugar gives a lovely snowy finish, making them visually appealing as well. Get ready to indulge in this classic dessert!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Add in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until just blended. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let cool before cutting into squares and dusting with powdered sugar, then enjoy!
Hot Cocoa Cupcakes
Hot cocoa cupcakes combine the comforting flavors of chocolate and marshmallow into a delightful treat that’s perfect for winter picnics. These cupcakes are moist, chocolatey, and topped with a fluffy marshmallow frosting that mimics the experience of sipping a warm cup of cocoa.
Easy to make, they require simple ingredients and a quick baking time, making them a fun addition to your winter outings. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the rich taste of chocolate complemented by sweet, soft marshmallows and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. These cupcakes are sure to warm you up from the inside out!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup chocolate syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Once cooled, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Frost the cooled cupcakes generously with the whipped cream.
- Top each cupcake with mini marshmallows and drizzle with chocolate syrup before serving.
Spiced Pear Galette
A spiced pear galette is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of winter. It combines tender, juicy pears with warm spices, all wrapped in a flaky crust. This rustic dessert is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a great choice for a winter picnic.
The sweet and subtly spiced filling creates a comforting flavor, while the galette’s free-form shape adds a casual charm. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and you’ll have a dessert that everyone will enjoy, whether you’re outdoors or cozied up inside.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of refrigerated pie crust
- 3-4 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the sliced pears with granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch until well combined.
- Roll out the pie crust on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Arrange the pear mixture in the center, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges.
- Fold the edges of the crust over the pears, pleating as necessary to create a rustic look.
- Brush the crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the pears are tender.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing and enjoying warm or at room temperature.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites
These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With a creamy cheesecake filling infused with pumpkin and warm spices, they offer a rich and comforting flavor that pairs wonderfully with a crisp autumn day. Plus, they’re super easy to make, making them a great choice for a winter picnic.
The bite-sized portions make them perfect for sharing, and they’re sure to impress your friends and family. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of seasonal spice, these cheesecake bites are not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until combined. Press about a tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin liner.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in each muffin liner, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the centers are set. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Before serving, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Caramel Apple Cups
Caramel Apple Cups are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the warmth and sweetness of winter. These cups combine creamy vanilla pudding with crisp apple slices, all drizzled with rich caramel sauce. The simplicity of this recipe makes it a go-to for any picnic or gathering, allowing you to impress your friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of smooth pudding and crunchy apples creates a satisfying contrast, while the caramel adds just the right amount of indulgence. Not only is this dessert easy to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that evokes nostalgic flavors of caramel apples enjoyed at fairs and festivals.
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla pudding mix
- 4 cups milk
- 2 large apples, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding: In a bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
- Assemble the Cups: In individual serving cups, layer the pudding at the bottom, followed by a layer of apple slices.
- Add Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples, adding more to taste.
- Finish with Apple Slices: Top with additional apple slices and, if desired, a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Serve: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons are delightful little treats that bring a taste of the tropics to any winter picnic. They are chewy, sweet, and packed with coconut flavor, making them a perfect contrast to the cold weather. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to whip up, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
The texture is wonderfully chewy on the inside, while the outside gets a lovely golden crust. These treats are not only satisfying but also incredibly cute, making them a hit at gatherings. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or dessert, coconut macaroons are sure to brighten your winter day.
Ingredients
- 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut, sugar, egg whites, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
- Shape the Macaroons: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into small mounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each macaroon.
- Bake: Bake the macaroons in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels
Chocolate-dipped pretzels are a delightful blend of sweet and salty, making them an irresistible treat for any winter picnic. They are incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal time. The crunchy pretzels coated in rich chocolate create a satisfying contrast that will leave everyone wanting more.
These treats also allow for some fun creativity. You can decorate them with sprinkles, drizzle them with white chocolate, or even add a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor boost. Whether enjoyed as a snack or as part of a dessert spread, chocolate-dipped pretzels are sure to please.
Ingredients
- 1 bag of pretzel rods or regular pretzels
- 2 cups chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smooth melting)
- Sprinkles or sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
- Dip the Pretzels: Dip each pretzel rod into the melted chocolate, coating it about two-thirds of the way up. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
- Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle your choice of toppings over the chocolate before it sets.
- Let Set: Place the dipped pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to cool at room temperature or refrigerate for quicker setting.
- Serve: Once the chocolate has hardened, arrange the pretzels in a jar or on a platter for your picnic.
Fruit and Nut Energy Balls
Fruit and nut energy balls are a delightful treat that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. With a combination of nuts, dried fruits, and a touch of sweetness, these bites are both satisfying and energizing. They are simple to make, requiring no baking and only a few ingredients, making them a perfect addition to your winter picnic.
These energy balls are chewy and full of texture, offering a mix of sweetness from the fruits and a crunchy bite from the nuts. Customize them with your favorite ingredients, whether it’s adding chocolate chips or using different nuts. They are great for snacking on-the-go and can easily be stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how to whip up a batch!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup chocolate chips or dried cranberries
Instructions
- Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the dates, almonds, walnuts, rolled oats, shredded coconut, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and salt. Process until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together.
- Add Extras: If you’re using chocolate chips or dried cranberries, fold them in gently until evenly distributed.
- Form Balls: Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Chill: Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Serve: Enjoy your fruit and nut energy balls as a quick snack or a sweet treat during your winter picnic!
Molasses Cookies
Molasses cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly capture the essence of winter. They boast a warm, rich flavor with a hint of spiciness, thanks to the combination of molasses, ginger, and cinnamon. These cookies are soft, chewy, and incredibly comforting, making them a perfect companion for your winter picnic.
Making molasses cookies is quite simple, requiring basic ingredients and minimal prep time. They are an excellent choice for bakers of all skill levels. Once out of the oven, the irresistible aroma will have everyone eagerly waiting to take a bite!
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add the molasses and egg, mixing until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Form the Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop out the dough and roll it into balls. Roll each ball in the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar.
- Bake: Place the sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers are still soft.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
