45 Great Canadian Christmas Desserts

Updated on December 6, 2017 by Jenny Potter

Celebrate the holiday season with these oh-so-Canadian Christmas desserts. Whether you want to slice up a piece of sugar pie or treat your family to decadent Nanaimo bar cheesecake, we've got all your favourite festive Canadian dessert recipes, just in time for the holidays.

  • Sugar Pie
     
    1 of 45

    Sugar Pie

    <p>This sweet maple treat comes from Québec but is enjoyed by Canadians from coast to coast.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sugar-pie/18515/" target="_blank"><strong>Ricardo’s Sugar Pie</strong></a></p>
  • Ugly Christmas Sweater Cookies
     
    2 of 45

    Ugly Christmas Sweater Cookies

    <p>Once the curse of the holidays, ugly Christmas sweaters deserve to be celebrated, whether in the form of tasty cookies, or by sporting one at your next festive get-together (or better yet, both!)</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ugly-christmas-sweater-cookies/18822/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ugly Christmas Sweater Cookies</strong></a></p>
  • Buche de Noel
     
    3 of 45

    Buche de Noel

    <p>This French-Canadian classic, traditionally served during the holiday season, is the perfect mix of festive embellishments and buttercream frosting. As far as holiday cakes go, what more could you ask for?</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/a-gorgeous-buche-de-noel-using-store-bought-cake/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Buche de Noel</a></strong></p>
  • Nanaimo Bar Trifle
     
    4 of 45

    Nanaimo Bar Trifle

    <p>You love the layers of this B.C. bar, which means you’ll love the chocolatey, creamy, coconut-filled trifled version. Dig in!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/youll-love-every-single-layer-of-this-nanaimo-bar-trifle/" target="_blank">Nanaimo Bar Trifle</a></strong></p>
  • Great Canadian Toque Cake
     
    5 of 45

    Great Canadian Toque Cake

    <p>Top off your meal with a tasty slice of this Canadian maple toque cake. Decorate the dessert with patriotic red and white icing, or go for a more festive colour combo.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/get-cozy-with-the-great-canadian-toque-cake/" target="_blank">Great Canadian Toque Cake</a></strong></p>
  • Jen Scott’s Butter Tarts
     
    6 of 45

    Jen Scott’s Butter Tarts

    <p>If you’ve taken the time to tap the trees, boil the sap and bottle your maple syrup, this delicious recipe alone is worth all your effort.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/jen-scotts-butter-tarts/16518/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Jen Scott’s Butter Tarts</strong></a></p>
  • Peppermint Nanaimo Bars
     
    7 of 45

    Peppermint Nanaimo Bars

    <p>Turn this nostalgic treat into a fancy holiday dessert with this simple recipe. A chewy cocoa graham base is topped with a creamy custard filling, a chocolate glaze hit with a splash of peppermint, and dotted with crushed peppermint candies or candy canes to complete the festive look. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/holly-jolly-peppermint-nanaimo-bars/" target="_blank"><strong>Peppermint Nanaimo Bars</strong></a></p>
  • Maple Leche Flan
     
    8 of 45

    Maple Leche Flan

    <p>A classic Filipino dessert gets the Canadian treatment. When flipped, these flans reveal a mouthwatering maple caramel on top of a light and creamy egg custard.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/maple-leche-flan/20493/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Maple Leche Flan</a></strong></p>
  • Maple Gingerbread Bûche de Noël
     
    9 of 45

    Maple Gingerbread Bûche de Noël

    <p>Spiced gingerbread cake makes a tasty base for this traditional Christmas dessert. Top with candied walnuts, almonds or your favourite nuts for a beautiful ‘bark’ for your holiday log.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/maple-gingerbread-buche-de-noel-with-salted-praline-topping/" target="_blank">Maple Gingerbread Bûche de Noël</a></strong></p>
  • Mincemeat Pie
     
    10 of 45

    Mincemeat Pie

    <p>Satisfy your sweet tooth with this <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/anna-olsons-best-pies/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Anna Olson's pie recipe</a>, packed with raisins, apples, currants, and cranberries.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mincemeat-pie/12729" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Anna Olson's Mincemeat Pie</a></strong></p>
  • Newfoundland Snowballs
     
    11 of 45

    Newfoundland Snowballs

    <p>Chocolate fudge, coconut and oats are rolled into delicious little bites, making a perfect kitchen-party treat.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/newfoundland-snowballs/19829/" target="_blank">Newfoundland Snowballs</a></strong></p>
  • The Great Canadian Gingerbread House
     
    12 of 45

    The Great Canadian Gingerbread House

    <p>You’ve spent hours decorating with delicately placed candies and royal icing details, but don’t forget to savour your baking talent by eating your gingerbread house, too!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/the-great-canadian-gingerbread-cabin/" target="_blank">The Great Canadian Gingerbread House</a></strong></p>
  • Apple Maple Poke Cake
     
    13 of 45

    Apple Maple Poke Cake

    <p>This tasty apple cake has morsels of fresh Canadian apples. Get the kids in the kitchen to help poke holes in the cake for the rich maple caramel sauce.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/apple-poke-cake/18824/" target="_blank"><strong>Apple Poke Cake</strong></a></p>
  • The Best Butter Tart Cheesecake
     
    14 of 45

    The Best Butter Tart Cheesecake

    <p>Whether you're pro-raisins or purely a pecan fan, impress the dessert lovers in your life with an incredibly indulgent cheesecake, topped with a sticky, caramel butter tart filling and salty, crunchy pecans. Swap in nuts for raisins if that’s more your jam.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/the-best-butter-tart-cheesecake/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>The Best Butter Tart Cheesecake</strong></a></p>
  • Vegan Apple Spice Cake With Maple Buttercream
     
    15 of 45

    Vegan Apple Spice Cake With Maple Buttercream

    <p>This heavenly vegan double-layered apple cake is easy to make and combines fresh apples, cinnamon, all-spice, ginger, molasses and brown sugar with a fluffy and sweet maple buttercream frosting. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/how-to-make-vegan-apple-spice-cake-with-maple-buttercream/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Vegan Apple Spice Cake with Maple Buttercream</strong></a></p>
  • Pecan Butter Tart Squares
     
    16 of 45

    Pecan Butter Tart Squares

    <p> Forget finicky pastries and whip up a batch of these simple <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/photos/best-canadian-butter-tart-recipes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">butter tart</a> squares instead. Sweet, buttery shortbread acts as the base of these delectable Canadian treats.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pecan-butter-tart-squares/19392/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pecan Butter Tart Squares</a></strong></p>
  • Giant Maple Doughnut Cake
     
    17 of 45

    Giant Maple Doughnut Cake

    <p> A fun and colourful dessert the whole family will love, this giant <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/photos/party-worthy-doughnut-recipes" rel="noopener" target="_blank">party-worthy doughnut</a> is festive, sweet and mixes vanilla cake and Canadian maple syrup. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/giant-maple-doughnut-cake/18434/" target="_blank">Giant Maple Doughnut Cake</a></strong></p>
  • Nutty Canadian Candy Bark
     
    18 of 45

    Nutty Canadian Candy Bark

    <p>Who doesn’t love chocolate bark? Make this crunchy treat part of your celebration with rich, roasted red peanuts, sweet raspberry jam and creamy milk chocolate.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/nutty-canadian-candy-bark/18518/" target="_blank"><strong>Nutty Canadian Candy Bark</strong></a></p>
  • Chocolate Bottom Butter Tarts
     
    19 of 45

    Chocolate Bottom Butter Tarts

    <p>Shake up the classic tarts by baking a crumbly, chocolatey base. There’s still your favourite sweet, gooey filling, topped with a chocolate drizzle.</p> <p>Get the recipes for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/chocolate-bottom-butter-tarts/18829/" target="_blank"><strong>Chocolate Bottom Butter Tarts</strong></a></p>
  • Maple Sponge Toffee
     
    20 of 45

    Maple Sponge Toffee

    <p>Crispy, lighter-than-air sponge toffee gets a classic Canadian twist with maple syrup! You’ll love the deep, rich caramel flavour the maple brings to this crunchy, stick-to-your-molars dessert.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/maple-sponge-toffee/19753/" target="_blank">Maple Sponge Toffee</a></strong></p>
  • Flapper Pie
     
    21 of 45

    Flapper Pie

    <p>Many Prairie families have a recipe for this much-loved pie that's thought to have originated in the 1920's. This simple vanilla custard pie has a graham cracker crust and is topped with lots of fluffy meringue.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/marilyns-flapper-pie/16516/" target="_blank"><strong>Flapper Pie<strong></a></p>
  • Maple Crêpe Cake
     
    22 of 45

    Maple Crêpe Cake

    <p>Impress your family and practice your crêpe making skills with this beautiful cake filled with layer-after-layer of maple custard.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/maple-crepe-cake-with-maple-glazed-pecans/15439/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Maple Crêpe Cake<strong></a></p>
  • Roll Kuchen
     
    23 of 45

    Roll Kuchen

    <p>Learn how to make the Mennonite classic at home with this traditional fried cookie recipe from Saskatchewan.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/roll-kuchen/16314/" target="_blank">Roll Kuchen</a></strong></p>
  • Maple Cinnamon Rolls
     
    24 of 45

    Maple Cinnamon Rolls

    <p>Slip these light and fluffy rolls into the oven before you sit down for dinner, and the smell will waft into the dining room, just in time for dessert. Don't forget to drizzle with maple glaze and serve warm.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/maple-cinnamon-rolls/18830/" target="_blank"><strong>Maple Cinnamon Rolls</strong></a></p>
  • Eggnog Cream Pie
     
    25 of 45

    Eggnog Cream Pie

    <p>Creamy, eggnog custard is the dreamy filling in this decadent dessert that starts with a sweet graham cracker crust and is topped with boozy rum whipped cream.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/eggnog-cream-pie/18819/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Eggnog Cream Pie</strong></a></p>
  • Nanaimo Ice Cream Cake
     
    26 of 45

    Nanaimo Ice Cream Cake

    <p>Turn that sweet tray favourite into a decadent True North dessert by layering the traditional base and custard filling with ice cream, then topping it off with chocolate.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/nanaimo-ice-cream-cake/18608/" target="_blank"><strong>Nanaimo Ice Cream Cake</strong></a></p>
  • Nanaimo Bar Pie
     
    27 of 45

    Nanaimo Bar Pie

    <p>A Canadian wintertime or anytime classic, the Nanaimo bar, is transformed into one big, family-style pie. All of the flavours, textures and, of course, chocolatey goodness are in-tact, staying true to the original square while bringing something brand new to the table.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/how-to-make-this-irresistible-nanaimo-bar-pie/" target="_blank"><strong>Nanaimo Bar Pie</strong></a></p>
  • Giant Jos Louis Cake
     
    28 of 45

    Giant Jos Louis Cake

    <p>Based on one of Canada's most popular treats, this giant red velvet cake sandwich is filled with a creamy marshmallow-y layer with a milk chocolate coating.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/giant-jos-louis/17912/" target="_blank"><strong>Giant Jos Louis Cake<strong></a></p>
  • Lumberjack Cookies
     
    29 of 45

    Lumberjack Cookies

    <p>You don’t need to be a lumberjack to enjoy these soft and sweet plaid sugar cookies!</p> <p>Get the recipes for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/lumberjack-cookies/18558/" target="_blank"><strong>Lumberjack Cookies</strong></a></p>
  • Nanaimo Cheesecake Bars
     
    30 of 45

    Nanaimo Cheesecake Bars

    <p>The classic Canadian layered bar gets a <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/35-most-decadent-cheesecake-recipes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">cheesecake</a> twist in this delicious treat that will quickly become a family favourite.</p> <p>Get the recipe <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/nanaimo-cheesecake-bars/18517/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Nanaimo Cheesecake Bars</strong></a></p>
  • Canadian No-Bake Cheesecake Bars
     
    31 of 45

    Canadian No-Bake Cheesecake Bars

    <p>You don’t even need to turn on the oven to whip up a batch of these no-bake desserts. A red graham cracker base and a few sprinkles make these creamy cheesecake bites celebration-worthy. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/canadian-no-bake-cheesecake-bars/18521/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Canadian No-Bake Cheesecake Bars</strong></a></p>
  • Pouding Chomeur
     
    32 of 45

    Pouding Chomeur

    <p>Ironically, this super rich, golden dessert is known as poor man’s pudding in Quebec. What makes it seriously sweet is pouring maple syrup on on top of the cake batter. As the cake bakes, it rises to the top, soaking in the sweet, syrup flavour, leaving a creamy cake on top and a pool of thick maple syrup underneath. Talk about decadent.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pouding-chomeur/10255/" target="_blank">Pouding Chomeur</a></strong></p>
  • "Blue Ribbon" Apple Pie
     
    33 of 45

    "Blue Ribbon" Apple Pie

    <p>The ultimate sweet tooth-satisfying comfort food, Anna's no-fail apple pie recipe is sure to please.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/blue-ribbon-apple-pie/12728/">Anna Olson's "Blue Ribbon" Apple Pie</a></strong></p>
  • Saskatoon Berries
     
    34 of 45

    Saskatoon Berries

    <p>If you're from the Prairies, you’ll know these luscious little berries as ‘Saskatoons.' Similar to blueberries, these tiny purple jewels are found by the bushel in the wild. Their sweet, nutty flavour make them perfect for jams, sauces, pies, crisps and crumbles.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/saskatoon-rhubarb-pie/18068/" target="_blank"><strong>Saskatoon Rhubarb Pie</strong></a></p>
  • Vegan Apple Crumble Tart With Salted Caramel
     
    35 of 45

    Vegan Apple Crumble Tart With Salted Caramel

    <p>This delicious and decadent vegan salted caramel apple crumble tart is absolutely perfect for fall, but definitely one to add to your arsenal year round.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/vegan-apple-crumble-tart-with-salted-caramel-37866/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Vegan Apple Crumble Tart with Salted Caramel</strong></a></p>
  • Rum and Eggnog Loaf
     
    36 of 45

    Rum and Eggnog Loaf

    <p>This rum and eggnog-infused loaf will satisfy your holiday cravings all winter long.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/rum-and-eggnog-loaf/17258/" target="_blank"><strong>Rum and Eggnog Loaf</strong></a></p>
  • British Columbia: Nanaimo Bars
     
    37 of 45

    British Columbia: Nanaimo Bars

    <p>This bake-sale classic is popular around the country now, but its name is all B.C.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="//www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-ultimate-nanaimo-bar/16810/"><strong>The Ultimate Nanaimo Bar</strong></a></p>
  • Chocolate Pumpkin Piecaken
     
    38 of 45

    Chocolate Pumpkin Piecaken

    <p>Considered the ‘turkducken’ of desserts, this chocolate cake with a whole pumpkin pie baked inside is a fun way to surprise your guests with a double dose of dessert.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/behold-the-chocolate-pumpkin-piecaken/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Chocolate Pumpkin Piecaken</strong></a></p>
  • Double Chocolate Pear Trifle
     
    39 of 45

    Double Chocolate Pear Trifle

    <p>This decadent trifle is the perfect end to any party. Layers of rich chocolate cake are nestled between silky white chocolate cream and vanilla poached <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/best-fall-pear-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pears</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/double-chocolate-pear-trifle/16926/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Anna Olson’s Double Chocolate Pear Trifle</strong></a></p>
  • Giant Portuguese Custard Tart
     
    40 of 45

    Giant Portuguese Custard Tart

    <p>Pastel de nata is already a delicious treat, but imagine your company's reaction when you bring out a giant version of this Portuguese favourite. A touch of cinnamon in the creamy filling is what gives it the signature and addictive hint of spice to every bite.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/giant-portuguese-custard-tart/19793/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Giant Portuguese Custard Tart</a></strong></p>
  • Spicy Maple Pumpkin Pie
     
    41 of 45

    Spicy Maple Pumpkin Pie

    <p>Use less brown sugar and go straight for the maple syrup to sweeten up your pumpkin pie.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spicy-maple-pumpkin-pie/3446/" target="_blank"><strong>Spicy Maple Pumpkin Pie<strong></a></p>
  • Maple Eggnog Crème Brûlée
     
    42 of 45

    Maple Eggnog Crème Brûlée

    <p>Infused with <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/photos/sweet-and-savoury-maple-syrup-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Canadian maple syrup</a> and festive eggnog, this decadent dessert is easier to make than you think.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/maple-eggnog-creme-brulee/18814/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Maple Eggnog Crème Brûlée</a></strong></p>
  • Biscotti, 6 Ways
     
    43 of 45

    Biscotti, 6 Ways

    <p>There are countless ways to customize this super simple biscotti recipe. Try cranberry and lemon, hazelnut and pretzel, cinnamon roll, or mix in your own festive flavours.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/blog/1-easy-biscotti-recipe-6-tasty-holiday-cookies/" target="_blank">Biscotti, 6 Ways</a></strong></p>
  • Giant Coconut Raspberry Thumbprint Cake
     
    44 of 45

    Giant Coconut Raspberry Thumbprint Cake

    <p>Customize this cake with holiday flavours for an impressive festive treat. This creamy coconut cake would pair perfectly with a maple-caramel or chocolate filling, or try a sweetened cranberry jam. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/giant-coconut-raspberry-thumbprint-cookie-cake/" target="_blank">Giant Coconut Raspberry Thumbprint Cake</a></strong></p>
  • Cherry Cheese Cake Babka
     
    45 of 45

    Cherry Cheese Cake Babka

    <p>A tasty treat to slice and serve with coffee after a big meal. Cherry pie filling and cream cheese help make this beautiful braided bread a real holiday star.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/take-babka-to-the-next-level-with-3-twists/" target="_blank">Cherry Cheese Cake Babka</a></strong></p>
  • Start Over
    Next Gallery

    No-Bake Recipes Starring Peanut Butter, From Cookies to Cheesecake

    More Galleries

You Might Also Like

Food Network Member