It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas — and a whole lot earlier, too! If you’ve started looking for ways to lift everyone’s spirits and spread a bit of cheer, then you already know that this holiday season is a little different. But that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate safely. Many of us have indulged in our favorite traditions early this year — like playing carols, baking cookies, drinking eggnog and decorating. And, that means there are already lots of Christmas lights brightening the outsides of our homes. It just wouldn’t be the holidays without an extravagant amount of lights!

Now, more than ever, driving around the neighborhood to look at these spectacular displays is the perfect way to celebrate the holidays. And, just like any other show or performance, it wouldn’t be complete without a few snacks to munch on along the ways. That’s why I’ve rounded up some of my favorite cookies and treats — that are sure to light up your holiday drive.

Cookies

When it comes to the holidays, cookies are high on the list of must-have desserts. No one can seem to resist them! Festive cookies like Peppermint Candy Double-Chocolate Cookies (pictured above) or Macadamia-Almond Christmas Cookies bring extra jolliness to the holidays and are best for the car because they’re not powdery or topped with sprinkles — so you should have a mess-free ride!

Sweet & Salty

Driving through these light shows is like the Christmas version of a drive-in movie theater. And when I think of movies, I think of popcorn! This Chocolate-Peppermint Popcorn combines salty with sweet and some bonus crushed peppermint ties it all together. Feeling nuttier? Try Trail Mix Cereal Treats and add all your favorite nuts, seeds and cereals. You can even Christmas-ify this snack by including cranberries, cherries and red and green M&M’s! These crunchy treats are perfect for a family car ride because everyone gets their own individual cup!

Hot Chocolate

Don’t forget to pack your thermos for hot chocolate! The holidays wouldn’t be complete without sipping on this classic beverage, topped with marshmallows, candy canes — or both! Our Slow-Cooker Hot Chocolate is perfectly creamy, extra sweet and so easy to make! Plus, you make a big batch in your slow cooker which means you’ll have extra cocoa waiting for you when you get home!

Don’t want to spill? These Hot Chocolate Brownies are a yummy substitute when you have little ones in the car. You’ll have the flavor of hot chocolate in every bite of these chocolatey treats.

Snack Bars/Bark

It’s always good to have variety and adding these M&M Magic Bars or some White Chocolate Holiday Bark to the list of snacks will help mix things up. Everyone can nosh on colorful chunks of candy, nuts and cranberries — and enjoy a little bit of everything!

Candy Galore

Making your own candy is so much easier than you might think! These white chocolate Candy Cane Heart Pops are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth — and come together with just a few ingredients. Another easy-to-make treat is Cookie Dough Truffles. With so many different variations you’re sure to find a recipe that’s perfect for your family! Want something a little healthier? Try Ellie’s Fig and Ginger Truffles or Cherry Almond Clusters instead; they use better-for-you ingredients and are still full of chocolatey flavor!

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