Festive Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees | Easy Holiday Treat Recipe

Table of Contents: Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

Looking for a delightful, no-fuss holiday dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? These Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees are the perfect festive peanut butter treats—easy, no-bake, and guaranteed to bring holiday cheer to your table!


Introduction: Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

The holiday season is all about warmth, joy, and indulging in sweet traditions. These Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees are a must-try for anyone who loves the classic combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate. Not only are they no-bake Christmas cookies, but they also come together in minutes, making them ideal for last-minute holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or even as edible gifts.

What makes these holiday-shaped desserts so special? They’re soft, slightly crumbly, and coated in smooth Ghirardelli melting chocolate for an irresistible finish. Plus, the festive tree shape makes them a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, need a quick dessert for a potluck, or simply want to treat yourself, these peanut butter trees are the answer.

Best of all, they require no oven time—just mix, shape, dip, and enjoy!


Alternate Names & Variations

These treats go by many names, so if you’re searching for similar recipes, you might find them as:
Peanut Butter Chocolate Christmas Cookies
No-Bake Peanut Butter Trees
Festive Peanut Butter Balls (shaped as trees)

Variation Idea: For a crunchy twist, sprinkle crushed pretzels over the melted chocolate before it sets—perfect for adding texture to these festive peanut butter treats!


Ingredients: Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

½ cup unsalted butter (left out at room temperature for about 10 minutes to slightly soften)
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 cups creamy peanut butter (I used Skippy creamy PB)
½ teaspoon salt
1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
6 cups Ghirardelli melting chocolate (for dipping)

Equipment Needed:

Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter
Parchment paper
Rolling pin
Cookie sheets


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, peanut butter, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until a thick dough forms.

Chef’s Tip: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it for 10 minutes before rolling.

2. Roll & Cut into Trees
Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll to ½-inch thickness. Use the Christmas tree cookie cutter to cut out shapes, transferring them to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

3. Chill the Trees
Freeze the cutouts for 15 minutes to firm them up before dipping.

4. Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the Ghirardelli chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.

5. Dip & Decorate
Dip each peanut butter tree halfway into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place back on parchment paper and add sprinkles or crushed pretzels for decoration (optional).

6. Set & Serve
Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature (or refrigerate for faster setting). Serve and enjoy!


Recipe Card (Quick Reference)

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chill Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 24 trees | Calories per Serving: ~180 kcal


Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

No-Bake Convenience: Perfect for busy holiday bakers who want no-bake Christmas cookies without the fuss.
Perfect Texture: The powdered sugar ensures a firm yet melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Customizable: Swap peanut butter for almond butter or use dark chocolate for a richer taste.

Pro Tip: For smoother dipping, slightly warm the peanut butter trees in your hands before coating in chocolate.


Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezing: These festive peanut butter treats freeze well! Layer between parchment paper and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Not needed—enjoy straight from the fridge or freezer!


People Also Ask: Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

How do you make chocolate peanut butter Christmas trees?

These holiday-shaped desserts are simple! Mix peanut butter, butter, sugar, and powdered sugar into a dough, roll it out, cut into tree shapes, then dip in melted chocolate. No baking required—just chilling time to set the chocolate.

Can you freeze chocolate peanut butter Christmas trees?

Absolutely! These no-bake Christmas cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What kind of pretzels are best for Christmas trees?

Mini pretzel sticks or crushed pretzel pieces work best for decorating. They add a salty crunch that complements the sweet chocolate and peanut butter.

How far in advance can I make these?

You can prepare these festive peanut butter treats up to a week ahead. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer storage.


Conclusion: Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

There’s nothing quite like homemade holiday sweets, and these Chocolate Peanut Butter Christmas Trees are sure to become a new tradition. Easy, delicious, and irresistibly festive, they’re the perfect addition to your dessert table.

Have you tried making them? Share your creations with us on social media—we’d love to see your holiday-shaped desserts!


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