Ultimate Guide to No Bake Christmas Treats: The holidays are busy, and the kitchen tends to be the heart of all the chaos. That is why no bake Christmas treats have become a favorite for home cooks who want something festive without spending hours near a hot oven.
These recipes are easy to pull together, budget friendly, and perfect for gifting. Whether you are planning a holiday party, preparing teacher gifts, or simply want something sweet for a quiet evening, no bake treats will save you time and help you create something memorable.
In this guide, you will find more than 30 ideas that cover cookies, fudge, truffles, candy, healthy options, freezer-friendly treats, and fun ideas for kids. You will also learn how to store and package them, along with ways to design a holiday dessert board that looks beautiful.
Why No Bake Recipes Are Essential for the Holidays
Time saving benefits
No bake Christmas treats are the easiest way to handle last minute holiday needs. They come together quickly, often within minutes, which helps when your schedule is packed with events, errands, and family traditions.
You do not need to wait for the oven, monitor baking times, or deal with batches that take all afternoon. Most no bake desserts also require fewer steps, so cleanup is easier too.
This makes them perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks who want to simplify their holiday workflow without sacrificing flavor or presentation.
Gift friendly nature
Many no bake treats store well, hold their shape during transport, and stay fresh for longer periods. That makes them ideal for holiday gifting. Whether you are filling tins, wrapping small boxes, or creating themed gift baskets, these desserts add a handmade touch.
They also allow you to mix and match flavors so your gifts feel more personal. You can prepare these treats ahead of time and keep them chilled until you are ready to package or deliver them.
Essential Ingredients for No Bake Holiday Desserts
Pantry staples
You can use common pantry ingredients to prepare most no bake Christmas treats. Items like oats, peanut butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract act as the foundation for many recipes. Having graham crackers, pretzels, and simple cookies on hand makes it even easier. Pantry staples allow you to make desserts without extra shopping trips, which saves time during the holiday rush.
Seasonal must haves
Holiday treats feel more festive when you use seasonal ingredients. Peppermint candies, cranberries, marshmallows, white chocolate, caramel, and pecans show up often in Christmas desserts. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger add warmth and depth. Using a few holiday specific ingredients helps transform simple no bake recipes into something that fits the season.
Cost saving tips
Buying ingredients in larger quantities can help reduce costs, especially if you plan to make several treats for gifting. Store brand chocolate and nuts often work just as well as premium options. You can also substitute ingredients based on what you already have, such as using regular cookies instead of specialty varieties. Choosing recipes with overlapping ingredients will help you stretch your budget without losing quality.
Tools You Need for Easy No Bake Christmas Treats
Best kitchen equipment
You do not need special tools for no bake recipes, which keeps things simple. A good mixing bowl, a sturdy spatula, a microwave safe bowl, and parchment paper cover most needs.
If you want more precision, cookie scoops help make perfectly shaped truffles or clusters. A small saucepan is helpful for melting chocolate or making caramel. Using basic tools makes these recipes accessible for everyone.
Storage and gifting containers
Storing no bake Christmas treats is easier when you have airtight containers, cookie tins, glass jars, or cellophane bags. Parchment paper prevents layers from sticking together and keeps things neat.
Decorative boxes, ribbons, and tags add a personal touch when gifting. Choosing the right containers helps your treats stay fresh and look attractive.
No Bake Christmas Cookies
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These cookies are simple, sweet, and perfect for busy days. You can make them with oats, cocoa, butter, and sugar, which creates a soft and chewy texture. Some recipes use peanut butter to add richness. Others rely on coconut or graham crackers for a different flavor. They set quickly and store well, so they are great for holiday parties or treat bags.
No bake oatmeal cocoa cookies come together quickly and rely on ingredients that most people already have in the kitchen. You combine sugar, cocoa, butter, and milk on the stove until it reaches a gentle boil, then stir in peanut butter, vanilla, and oats.
The mixture thickens as it cools and forms soft, chewy cookies. You can spoon it onto parchment paper, shape it into small rounds, and let it firm up at room temperature. These cookies have a rich chocolate flavor that feels comforting during the holidays.
They work well for gifting because they do not crumble easily. Kids often enjoy helping since the shaping step is simple. You can add coconut or chopped nuts if you want to change the texture. The recipe doubles well, so you can make a large batch with ease.
Chocolate options
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Chocolate no bake cookies add a decadent touch to the season. They can be made with melted dark, milk, or white chocolate poured over crunchy add-ins like pretzels, nuts, or oats. They are rich, satisfying, and full of holiday flavor.
Chocolate cluster cookies require only a few minutes to prepare and always turn out delicious. You melt chocolate in the microwave, stir in pretzel pieces, peanuts, or cereal, and then scoop the mixture into small bites.
The combination of creamy chocolate and crunchy mix-ins creates a satisfying texture. You can chill them in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process. These cookies are easy to customize, which makes them great for creating mixed gift boxes. They are sturdy enough for shipping or stacking in treat containers.
Kids and adults both enjoy their sweet and salty flavor. You can use white chocolate for a snowy look, or marble two chocolates for a swirled effect. They always make a nice addition to cookie platters.
Healthy alternatives
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Healthier no bake cookies rely on natural sweeteners, nuts, oats, and dried fruits. They provide energy while still feeling festive.
Healthy almond oat cookies are a great Christmas option for anyone who wants something lighter. You mix rolled oats with almond butter, honey, cinnamon, and dried cranberries, then shape the mixture into small rounds. They firm up in the refrigerator and develop a soft, chewy texture.
These cookies do not use refined sugar, which makes them a better choice for people watching their intake. You can add chia seeds for extra nutrition. The flavor is warm and comforting due to the cinnamon.
They keep well in airtight containers, making them a smart choice for meal prep. You can prepare them in advance for holiday gatherings. They also make a thoughtful treat for friends who prefer healthier desserts.
Festive No Bake Chocolate Barks
Peppermint bark
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Peppermint bark is a classic holiday treat that looks beautiful and tastes refreshing. It has layers of dark and white chocolate topped with crushed candy canes.
Peppermint bark begins with melted dark chocolate poured onto a parchment-lined sheet and spread into an even layer. Once it sets slightly, you top it with melted white chocolate to create a smooth contrast.
Crushed candy canes scatter across the surface and add a crunchy, minty element. The bark cools quickly in the refrigerator and breaks into rustic pieces that look festive. It stores well and makes a nice gift for neighbors or coworkers.
The combination of rich chocolate and cool peppermint feels perfect for winter. You can adjust the chocolate layers based on personal preference. This treat also works well for dessert boards. It is one of the easiest holiday recipes to prepare for large groups.
Fruit and nut bark variations
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Fruit and nut bark feels elegant and adds a natural sweetness to dessert tables. It uses dried cranberries, raisins, pistachios, almonds, or cashews mixed with melted chocolate.
Fruit and nut bark starts with melted chocolate poured onto parchment paper and topped with a mix of dried fruits and nuts. The cranberries add tartness, while pistachios bring color and crunch. You can use dark chocolate for a bolder taste or milk chocolate for a softer flavor.
The mixture sets quickly and breaks into pieces that look handcrafted. This bark packs easily for gifting and keeps its texture for days. It has a wholesome feel because of the fruit and nuts.
You can create several variations by changing the toppings. It works well for holiday dessert tables because it looks beautiful with minimal effort. You can even sprinkle a bit of sea salt for extra depth.
No Bake Holiday Fudge Ideas
Classic fudge
Classic no bake fudge has a creamy texture and rich flavor that fits any holiday celebration. It often uses chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
Classic chocolate fudge begins with melting chocolate and condensed milk together until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. You pour it into a small pan lined with parchment paper and allow it to cool until it firms up. The texture is soft and luxurious, with a clean cut when sliced. You can add vanilla extract for extra warmth.
Some people like mixing in walnuts for crunch. This fudge keeps well at room temperature, which makes it perfect for gift boxes. The recipe requires only a few ingredients, so you can make it quickly without much planning. It works well for last-minute holiday needs. The rich chocolate flavor appeals to everyone.
Two ingredient fudge
Two ingredient fudge is perfect when you want something incredibly easy. Most versions rely on melted chocolate chips and frosting or melted chocolate and condensed milk.
Two-ingredient fudge is one of the simplest holiday treats you can make. You melt chocolate chips in the microwave and stir in a container of prepared frosting until the mixture comes together. The texture becomes thick and glossy within seconds. You spread it into a lined pan and let it chill until firm.
The result tastes surprisingly rich considering the minimal ingredients. You can experiment with different frosting flavors like vanilla, strawberry, or caramel.
This recipe is ideal for busy days when you need something quick. It slices neatly and packs well in holiday tins. You can sprinkle crushed peppermint or nuts on top before chilling. Kids can help with the mixing step.
Creative mix-ins
Mix-ins make fudge fun and customizable. You can add sprinkles, marshmallows, candy pieces, pretzels, or dried fruits to create unique flavors.
Christmas fudge with mix-ins lets you create personalized combinations for holiday gifting. You start with a basic fudge recipe and fold in your favorite additions like mini marshmallows, chopped candy bars, or crushed cookies.
Each ingredient adds a new texture and flavor. You can make several variations from one batch by dividing the mixture. The fudge sets well even with added mix-ins, which makes it reliable for gifting. Sprinkles on top add a cheerful holiday look.
This fudge works well for dessert boards because it adds color and variety. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It is a great way to use leftover candies from the season.
No Bake Christmas Truffles
Oreo truffles
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Oreo truffles are creamy, chocolatey, and always popular during the holidays.
Oreo truffles start with crushed cookies mixed with cream cheese until the texture becomes smooth and dough-like. You shape the mixture into small balls and chill them until firm. Once chilled, you dip them in melted chocolate to create a clean, glossy shell.
They look elegant despite being simple to prepare. Sprinkles or crushed peppermint add a festive finish. The truffles stay fresh in the refrigerator for days, which makes them great for gifting.
They have a rich, creamy center that everyone loves. Kids enjoy helping with the rolling step. You can experiment with different cookie flavors like mint or golden Oreos.
Peanut butter truffles
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These truffles taste like a homemade version of a peanut butter cup and require no baking.
Peanut butter truffles combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, and crushed graham crackers to create a soft, smooth filling. You shape the mixture into balls and chill them to help them firm up. Dipping them in melted chocolate gives them a crisp outer shell.
The sweet and salty flavor combination is irresistible during the holidays. They store well and pack perfectly into small gift boxes. You can decorate the tops with a drizzle of white chocolate for contrast.
The recipe is easy enough for beginners. It doubles well if you need a larger batch. These truffles feel homemade and comforting.
Red velvet truffles
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Red velvet truffles bring color and elegance to holiday dessert trays.
Red velvet truffles are made by mixing crushed red velvet cake or cookies with cream cheese until smooth. The mixture has a striking color that fits the holiday season. You roll the mixture into small balls and dip them in white chocolate to create a beautiful contrast. The white chocolate shell adds sweetness, while the filling stays soft and rich.
These truffles look fancy enough for parties or wedding showers. They store well in the refrigerator and maintain their shape during transport. Sprinkling them with red crumbs adds a festive touch. They also make a thoughtful handmade gift. You can prepare them a day ahead without affecting the texture.
No Bake Cheesecakes for the Holidays
Mini cheesecake bites
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Mini cheesecakes are easy to serve and perfect for parties.
Mini no bake cheesecake bites begin with crushed graham crackers mixed with melted butter to form a simple crust. You press the mixture into small cups or liners and prepare a creamy filling with cream cheese, sugar, and whipped topping. The filling sets in the refrigerator without any baking.
These bites have a smooth, velvety texture that balances well with the crunchy crust. You can top them with cherries, caramel, or chocolate. They store well and are easy to transport to holiday gatherings.
Their small size makes them convenient for dessert tables. You can prepare several flavors in one batch to offer variety. They look elegant with minimal effort.
Flavor Variations Cheesecake
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You can make peppermint, chocolate, caramel, or fruit-themed cheesecake variations.
Peppermint cheesecake bites add a refreshing twist to the traditional no bake cheesecake. The filling includes crushed peppermint candies mixed with the cream cheese base, giving it both flavor and a hint of color. You can create a chocolate version by adding melted chocolate to the filling.
Caramel swirls make another delicious option for anyone who enjoys richer flavors. Fruit lovers can top their cheesecakes with cranberry sauce or berry compote. Each variation sets well in the refrigerator and stays firm enough for serving.
The flexibility of flavors makes this recipe great for large gatherings. Guests can choose from different options. These cheesecake bites also work well for edible gift boxes.
No Bake Christmas Candy
Toffees
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No bake toffee style treats bring that buttery, crunchy texture everyone loves without needing a stovetop thermometer. These candies often use a base of crackers, melted butter, sugar, and chocolate to create a simple treat that still feels festive.
Christmas cracker toffee begins by arranging salted crackers in a single layer on a lined tray. You melt butter and brown sugar together in the microwave until smooth, then pour it over the crackers to create a sticky coating.
After a quick blast in the microwave or a short rest, the sugar mixture firms slightly. While it is still warm, you spread melted chocolate on top to form a smooth layer. Crushed nuts, peppermint, or sprinkles add color and crunch. Once cooled, the toffee breaks into uneven pieces that look handmade and charming.
The flavor is rich and sweet with a hint of salt from the crackers. It stores well in airtight containers and stays crisp for several days. This treat is a great option for gift baskets because it travels well and keeps its texture.
Chocolate clusters
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Chocolate clusters are perfect when you need a quick candy that looks impressive but requires little effort. You can mix nuts, dried fruits, pretzels, or cereal with melted chocolate to create a simple holiday candy.
Christmas chocolate clusters come together by mixing melted chocolate with almonds, cranberries, or pretzels until everything is evenly coated. You drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper to form small, rustic mounds. The chocolate firms quickly as it cools, creating a crisp shell around the mix-ins.
Each bite has a balance of textures that makes it satisfying during the holiday season. These clusters look beautiful when placed in small tins or jars. You can experiment with white chocolate for a snowy look or blend two chocolates for marbled swirls.
They hold their shape well in cold weather, which makes them great for gifting. The recipe is simple enough for kids to help. They also make a nice addition to dessert boards.
Caramel creations
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Caramel-based no bake treats offer rich sweetness without any tricky cooking steps. You can use soft caramels, sweetened condensed milk, or pre-made sauces to assemble easy Christmas candies.
No bake caramel bites use soft caramel candies melted with a little cream to create a smooth filling. You pour the mixture into a mold or silicone tray and top it with melted chocolate to create a layered treat. Sea salt adds a nice touch and balances the sweetness.
The candies pop out of the mold easily once chilled, leaving clean edges that look professional. They taste rich and buttery, making them popular during the holidays. You can sprinkle chopped nuts on top for texture.
These treats keep well in the refrigerator and stay firm when packed in small boxes. They make thoughtful homemade gifts. The recipe is forgiving and easy to adjust based on the ingredients you have.
Healthy No Bake Christmas Treats
Gluten free options
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Gluten free holiday treats often rely on oats, nut butters, coconut, seeds, and dried fruits. These ingredients help create delicious desserts without flour or baking.
Gluten-free peanut butter oat balls use certified gluten-free oats, natural peanut butter, honey, and cinnamon to create a quick snack that also feels like a dessert. You stir everything together and shape the mixture into bite-size rounds.
They firm up in the refrigerator and hold their shape without baking. The texture is soft but hearty, making them a nice option for healthy gift boxes. Cranberries add a festive touch and give each bite a burst of sweetness.
These treats store well in airtight containers and keep their flavor for days. You can add chocolate chips if you want something richer. They fit well into holiday dessert boards for guests with dietary needs. The recipe is simple and customizable.
Vegan ideas
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Vegan no bake sweets rely on plant-based ingredients like dates, nuts, coconut, maple syrup, and dairy-free chocolate.
Vegan date and nut balls blend soft dates with almonds, cocoa powder, and coconut to create a rich, fudge-like treat without any dairy. You pulse everything in a food processor until the mixture becomes thick and sticky. Rolling the mixture into small balls gives them a truffle-like appearance. A dusting of cocoa or coconut makes them look festive.
The flavor is naturally sweet from the dates, and the nuts give them structure. These treats store well in the refrigerator and travel nicely in gift boxes. They offer a healthier option that still satisfies chocolate cravings.
The recipe is easy to adapt with spices like cinnamon or ginger. They make a thoughtful treat for vegan friends during the holidays.
Low sugar solutions
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Low sugar treats use natural sweeteners, fruits, and nuts for a lighter holiday dessert.
Low sugar cranberry almond bites combine chopped almonds, dried cranberries, and a small amount of honey to create a sweet yet balanced treat. You mix the ingredients with a spoonful of almond butter to help everything stick together. Pressing the mixture into a small pan and chilling it creates a soft bar that slices neatly.
These bars offer a festive color from the cranberries and a pleasant crunch from the nuts. They hold up well in the refrigerator and make a smart option for healthier dessert platters. You can wrap individual pieces in parchment squares for gifting. The recipe requires minimal effort. It gives you a holiday treat without the heaviness of sugar-filled desserts.
Kid Friendly No Bake Treats
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Recipes kids can help with
Kids love shaping, dipping, and decorating, which makes no bake recipes perfect for family activities. Simple steps keep things fun and stress-free.
Holiday sprinkle balls combine crushed cookies, cream cheese, and sprinkles to create a colorful treat that kids enjoy making. They help crush the cookies, mix the ingredients, and roll small balls with their hands. After chilling the balls for a short time, the kids can roll them in more sprinkles to add color.
The result is a cheerful treat that fits right into Christmas celebrations. These balls hold their shape well and taste creamy without requiring any baking. They can be packed in cheerful tins for gifting to grandparents or teachers.
Kids feel proud to share something they helped create. The recipe is flexible and allows for different cookie flavors. It is a stress-free way to involve kids in holiday preparations.
Holiday crafts turned edible
Some no bake treats double as festive crafts that kids can decorate, shape, or assemble.
Marshmallow snowmen are a fun edible craft kids look forward to every holiday season. You stack marshmallows using melted chocolate as glue to form the snowman’s body. Pretzel sticks work as arms, and small candies become eyes and buttons.
Kids enjoy customizing each snowman with different colors and expressions. The treat is simple enough for young children, yet still enjoyable for older ones. Once assembled, the snowmen set quickly and can be wrapped individually.
They make playful party favors or stocking stuffers. The ingredients are inexpensive and easy to find. This cheerful craft brings creativity to the holiday kitchen.
5 Minute No Bake Christmas Treat Ideas
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Last-minute desserts
When time is short, you can still prepare festive treats with minimal effort.
Chocolate-dipped pretzels are one of the fastest holiday treats you can make. You melt chocolate in the microwave, dip pretzel rods halfway, and let the excess drip off. Sprinkles, crushed peppermint, or chopped nuts add a festive finish.
The chocolate sets quickly, especially if placed in the refrigerator for a few minutes. These pretzels look decorative despite their simplicity. They offer the perfect mix of sweet and salty, making them popular at parties.
You can bundle several pretzels together with a ribbon for gifting. Kids can help decorate them. They stay crisp for days and pack well in cellophane bags.
Ultra quick gifts
Some treats come together so fast that you can prepare them right before heading out the door.
Holiday candy cups use mini muffin liners filled with layers of melted chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. You pour a small amount of chocolate into the liner, sprinkle in your mix-ins, and top with more chocolate. They set within minutes in the refrigerator.
The cups look polished and make thoughtful last-minute gifts. Each one offers a compact bite of holiday flavors. You can make several variations using different chocolates or toppings.
They pack neatly into boxes or jars. The recipe does not require precise measurements, making it easy to prepare on busy days. They are simple, quick, and festive.
Freezer Friendly No Bake Recipes
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Storage guide
Many no bake Christmas treats freeze well and stay fresh for weeks. This saves time, especially if you want to prepare ahead for parties or gifts. Proper storage helps maintain texture and flavor.
Make ahead methods
Freeze treats in layers separated by parchment to prevent sticking. Use airtight containers or freezer bags to keep moisture out. When ready to serve, thaw treats in the refrigerator for best results.
Gifting No Bake Christmas Treats
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Packaging ideas
The presentation makes a big difference when giving handmade holiday treats. Decorative tins, glass jars, small boxes, and cellophane bags all work well. Choose festive colors or rustic styles depending on your theme.
Presentation tricks
Add parchment layers between treats to keep them clean and neat. Tie ribbons around jars or boxes to add charm. Use small dividers if you are gifting different types of treats in one package.
Printable tag ideas
Handwritten or printed gift tags make your gifts feel thoughtful. Include the treat name, ingredients, and a short holiday message. Tags with simple designs like snowflakes or holly add warmth without overwhelming the packaging.
How to Build No Bake Holiday Dessert Boards
No Bake Holiday Dessert Boards
Arrangement techniques
Start by placing larger items like fudge pieces, truffles, and barks first. Fill in the gaps with smaller items like clusters or sprinkles-covered bites. Use a mix of shapes and colors to make the board visually appealing.
Flavor pairing
Aim for a balance of chocolate, fruity treats, crunchy bites, and creamy desserts. This gives guests a good variety and helps the board feel complete.
Crowd-pleasing ideas
Add seasonal touches like candy canes, fresh cranberries, or small ornaments near the board. Use small bowls for dips or sauces. Offer a mix of indulgent and healthy treats so everyone finds something they enjoy.
Quick Fixes for No Bake Holiday Desserts
Fixing consistency issues
If mixtures feel too soft, adding more dry ingredients like oats, cookie crumbs, or nuts can help. If they are too dry, a little melted chocolate or nut butter brings everything together.
Preventing melting
Store treats in a cool place and use insulated packaging when delivering gifts. Keep chocolate-based treats chilled until serving.
Best storage temperature
Most no bake treats last longest in the refrigerator. If you’re storing them for more than a week, freezing is usually best. Always keep them in airtight containers to prevent dryness.
Conclusion
No bake Christmas treats make the holiday season easier, sweeter, and far more fun. They save time, reduce kitchen stress, and offer countless ways to mix flavors, textures, and festive colors.
You can prepare them days in advance, freeze them for later, or package them as thoughtful gifts. Whether you’re making a dessert board, preparing treats with kids, or whipping something up last minute, these recipes help you enjoy the season without worrying about oven space.
With more than 30 ideas to explore, you’re ready to create memorable desserts that fit every celebration.
FAQs
1. How long do no bake Christmas treats last?
Most keep for about a week in the refrigerator. Many can be frozen for up to two months.
2. Can I make no bake treats ahead of time?
Yes. Many recipes taste even better after chilling overnight.
3. What are the easiest no bake treats for beginners?
Chocolate-dipped pretzels, peppermint bark, Oreo truffles, and two-ingredient fudge.
4. Why are my no bake treats too soft?
Try adding extra oats, nuts, or crushed cookies. Chilling longer also helps.
5. Which treats work best for gifting?
Fudge, barks, truffles, toffees, and clusters travel well and stay fresh longer.
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