DivinityParty customs dictate that we slave over a hot stove, rush around, and have everything prepared by the time our guests arrive to party. But that's not the only way a holiday shindig can roll.

This season, spend a day, half day, or handful of hours baking. It's an excuse to indulge in mass amounts of sugar in the name of the holiday season. It's a party that needs very little planning. Better yet, it's a way to be productive while spending QT with your loved ones. Bake up a storm, eat some of it, and package the rest for sugary gifts -- a heck of a lot better than slaving away by yourself for a day.

Just send around some e-mails to plan the recipes, gather the ingredients, and then have everyone descend upon the kitchen with extra bowls, mixers, and baking supplies. A few hours later, your home will smell like sugary goodness, your stomach will be sated, and you'll have a pile of sweets to share.

Need help picking things to bake? Check out the gallery below!

Gallery

Essential Christmas Treats

(click thumbnail to view photo)

  • Candy Cane Latte
  • Gingerbread House
  • Chocolate Mint Brownies
  • Cranberry Biscotti
  • Christmas Sugar Cookies