Welcome to your new favorite holiday treat! This Christmas White Christmas recipe is a cherished Aussie classic, bringing festive cheer with minimal effort. Its delightful simplicity and vibrant colors make it a perfect addition to any holiday table. Get ready to create a truly irresistible, no-bake dessert that everyone will adore this festive season!
This beloved treat gained popularity in Australia during the 1940s and 1950s, often featuring a traditional coconut fat product called Copha.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas White Christmas Recipe
This delightful no-bake Christmas White Christmas recipe offers so many reasons to become your go-to holiday dessert.
- No-Bake Wonder: Perfect for busy parents and beginners, it frees up oven space during the hectic holidays.
- Healthier Twist: Opting for organic coconut oil makes this treat a slightly lighter choice.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Little helpers can easily assist with mixing and pressing, making it a wonderful family activity.
- Visually Appealing: The vibrant red cherries and white coconut create a beautiful, festive display.
- Classic Comfort: This recipe captures the nostalgic taste of the Kellogg’s-inspired original.
Ingredients
Here are the simple ingredients you will need to create this fantastic no-bake treat. Gather these pantry staples, and you are well on your way to a delicious Christmas White Christmas recipe.
- 3 cups White Chocolate Melts (chopped)
- 150 grams Organic Coconut Oil or Copha (5½ oz Crisco)
- 2 cups Rice Bubbles cereal (or Rice Krispies)
- ½ cup Candied Cherries (halved)
- 1 cup Desiccated Coconut
- 1 cup Dried Cranberries
Notes & Substitutions
For the white chocolate, use high-quality melts for the best flavor and texture. You can also chop a block of white chocolate if melts aren’t available. Coconut oil offers a lighter flavor profile, but Copha or Crisco work perfectly for a more traditional texture. Feel free to swap Rice Bubbles with cornflakes or crushed biscuits if preferred. Choose bright red candied cherries for a vibrant festive look, or use green if you like!
Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools for this easy dessert.
- 20cm x 20cm (8×8 inch) Square Baking Pan
- Baking Paper
- Heatproof Bowl
- Saucepan (for double boiler)
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
Instructions
Making this Christmas White Christmas recipe is incredibly straightforward, perfect for beginners. Follow these simple steps for a perfect no-bake treat every time.
Prepare Pan: First, line your square baking pan with baking paper. Ensure the paper overhangs the sides; this creates “handles” for easy removal later. Lightly grease the pan first to help the paper stick.
Melt: Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Make sure the bowl does not touch the water. Add the organic coconut oil and chopped white chocolate to the bowl. Gently heat until both are completely melted and smoothly blended together. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Remove the bowl from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large separate bowl, combine the Rice Bubbles cereal, desiccated coconut, dried cranberries, and halved candied cherries. Stir these ingredients well with your spatula or spoon to ensure an uniform distribution.
Mix Wet and Dry: Pour the slightly cooled melted coconut oil and white chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients. Use your spatula to thoroughly mix everything together. Keep stirring until all the dry components are fully coated in the luscious white chocolate mixture. This ensures every bite is equally delicious.
Transfer: Spoon the entire mixture into your prepared square pan. Using the back of your spoon or a clean hand, press the mixture down very firmly. Compacting it well is key for the slices to hold their shape.
Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2-3 hours. The mixture needs to be firmly set before you can slice and serve it. Once firm, lift the dessert out using the baking paper handles. Slice into desired squares or rectangles and enjoy this delightful no-bake treat!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieve the perfect no-bake dessert with these helpful hints. For easy removal, always line your pan with baking paper and leave an overhang. Press the mixture very firmly into the pan; this prevents crumbling when sliced. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined for consistent texture and flavor. Warm your knife under hot water before slicing to get perfectly clean cuts. Always keep your finished Christmas White Christmas recipe refrigerated due to the coconut oil, especially in warmer climates.
Serving, Storage & Variations
Serve your Christmas White Christmas recipe chilled for the best firm texture and refreshing taste. Arrange slices on a festive platter for an impressive display. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze individual slices for up to a month; simply thaw in the fridge before serving. For a tropical twist, add some finely diced dried mango or pineapple. Introduce a festive peppermint crunch by folding in crushed candy canes. Mix in chopped pistachios, almonds, or pumpkin seeds for added texture and nutrition.
Nutrition
Homemade treats like this Christmas White Christmas recipe offer the advantage of knowing exactly what goes into them. While this recipe is a festive indulgence, using organic coconut oil can be a slightly healthier choice. Research suggests that coconut oil may offer benefits such as increasing good cholesterol and supporting blood sugar control. Always check the specific nutrition labels of your chosen white chocolate and cereals for precise information. Remember, moderation is key, especially during the holidays!
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Est.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18-22g |
| Saturated Fat | 14-17g |
| Carbohydrates | 20-25g |
| Sugars | 15-20g |
| Protein | 2-3g |
Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.
FAQ
What is White Christmas?
White Christmas is a popular Australian no-bake slice, traditionally made with white chocolate or Copha, rice bubbles, dried fruit, and coconut. It’s a festive treat enjoyed particularly around the holidays.
Can I use other cereals?
Absolutely! While Rice Bubbles (or Krispies) are classic, you can substitute with cornflakes, crushed plain biscuits, or even puffed quinoa for a different texture. This Christmas White Christmas recipe is very adaptable.
How long does it last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your White Christmas will stay fresh for up to one week. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free rice cereal and ensure your white chocolate and other ingredients are also gluten-free, this recipe can be made entirely gluten-free. Always check labels carefully.
Why does mine fall apart?
It’s likely the mixture wasn’t pressed firmly enough into the pan or wasn’t chilled long enough. Ensure you compact it well and allow sufficient refrigeration time for it to set properly.
Conclusion
This Christmas White Christmas recipe truly embodies the spirit of easy, festive baking. Its no-bake nature, simple ingredients, and delightful taste make it a perfect holiday project for busy families and beginners alike. You’ve now mastered a classic treat that brings joy and deliciousness with minimal effort. Go ahead, make this a cherished part of your holiday traditions! Happy holidays and enjoy every sweet, coconut-infused bite!
