The holiday season brings so much joy and warmth! I believe food truly brings us all closer. It creates lasting memories around the table. Did you know 32% of us prioritize making a memorable homemade feast for our festive gatherings? That’s why I’ve put together nine delightful and easy holiday recipes for you. This collection will add sparkle to your christmas celebrations. You’ll find everything from delicious appetizers and main dishes to comforting sides, sweet treats, and festive drinks for your christmas. Let’s embrace the spirit of holiday cooking and make this christmas season extra special. Your holiday menu will shine!
Key Takeaways
Holiday cooking creates joy and lasting memories. It brings people closer together.
The blog offers nine easy recipes. These recipes cover appetizers, main dishes, sides, desserts, and drinks.
You can make impressive dishes with simple steps. Examples include Cranberry Brie Bites and Herb Butter Roast Turkey.
Classic holiday sides like Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Green Bean Casserole can be made from scratch. They taste much richer.
Making holiday treats like Gingerbread Cookies and Peppermint Bark is easy and fun. They are perfect for gifts or parties.
Cranberry Brie Bites: Easy Appetizer
I love starting a festive gathering with something simple yet impressive, and these Cranberry Brie Bites are one of my favorite holiday recipes! They are incredibly easy to make and always disappear fast. I find them perfect for any christmas party because they look so elegant but take hardly any effort. These little bites are a fantastic way to kick off your holiday meal.
What You’ll Need
For these delightful appetizers, I gather a few key ingredients. You’ll need some puff pastry, which is a real time-saver. Then, grab a wheel of creamy brie cheese. For the cranberry element, I often use a good quality cranberry sauce, but you can also make your own with fresh cranberries, water, and sugar, perhaps with a hint of cinnamon or orange zest. I also like to have some candied pecans and fresh thyme leaves on hand for garnish. Sometimes, I even add a drizzle of honey right before serving. If you prefer, pistachios also make a great addition!
How to Make It
Making these Cranberry Brie Bites is so easy, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried them sooner! First, I preheat my oven and unroll the puff pastry. I cut it into small squares, usually about 2×2 inches. Then, I press each square into the cups of a mini muffin tin. Next, I place a small piece of brie cheese into each pastry cup. On top of the brie, I spoon a little cranberry sauce. This is where the magic happens! I bake them until the pastry is golden brown and the brie is wonderfully melted and bubbly. Once they come out of the oven, I like to garnish them with a sprinkle of chopped candied pecans or a few fresh thyme leaves. These easy appetizers are best served warm, and they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any holiday celebration. They are truly an easy to make treat that adds a special touch to your christmas spread.
Herb Butter Roast Turkey
For me, a christmas celebration just isn’t complete without a show-stopping turkey. This herb butter roast turkey is one of my favorite holiday recipes. It’s a centerpiece that brings everyone to the table. I love how the herb butter makes the skin crispy and the meat incredibly juicy. It truly elevates the entire holiday meal.
What You’ll Need
To make this amazing turkey, I gather a few key ingredients. First, you need a whole turkey. The size depends on how many people you’re feeding. I always pick a good quality one. Then, I grab some softened butter. Salted butter works best, but you can use unsalted and add a pinch of salt. For the herbs, I love a mix of fresh rosemary, sage, parsley, and thyme. These herbs give the turkey such a wonderful aroma and flavor. I also include aromatics like fresh lemon and garlic. These really brighten up the herb butter. Sometimes, I even add a little black pepper to the mix. These simple ingredients come together for a truly special dish.
How to Make It
Making this herb butter roast turkey is simpler than you might think. First, I pat the turkey dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get nice and crispy. Then, I mix the softened butter with all the chopped herbs, minced garlic, and lemon zest. I gently rub this herb butter all over the turkey, especially under the skin of the breast. This infuses so much flavor! I also stuff the turkey cavity with some lemon halves, onion, and extra herb sprigs.
I roast the turkey in a preheated oven. During cooking, I baste it occasionally to keep it moist. The most important part is knowing when it’s done. I always use a meat thermometer. I remove the turkey from the oven when the breast reaches 160°F. Don’t worry, it’s not undercooked! The temperature will continue to rise during resting. It will reach the safe minimum of 165°F before I carve it. This resting period is crucial for juicy meat. This recipe makes my christmas dinner unforgettable.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Classic Side
No christmas dinner is complete without a generous serving of creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes. For me, garlic mashed potatoes are one of those classic christmas dishes that just make the meal feel special. They are a comforting and essential part of our holiday spread, and I love how they complement almost any main course. These potatoes are one of my favorite holiday sides.
What You’ll Need
To make my perfect garlic mashed potatoes, I gather a few key ingredients. I always start with about three pounds of starchy potatoes, like Yukon Golds or Russets. They give you the best fluffy texture. Then, I grab a stick of good quality butter, about half a cup of heavy cream, and some fresh garlic cloves. I also make sure I have salt and pepper on hand to season them just right. Sometimes, I even add a little garlic powder for an extra punch of flavor.
How to Make It
Making these mashed potatoes is pretty straightforward, but I have a few tricks to make them absolutely perfect. First, I peel the potatoes and cut them into roughly equal-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly. I always start them in cold, salted water and bring them to a gentle boil. This prevents them from cooking too quickly on the outside and staying hard in the middle. I boil them until they are fork-tender, then I drain them really well. You don’t want soggy potatoes!
While the potatoes cook, I gently warm the heavy cream and butter together in a small saucepan. This is a crucial step because adding cold liquids to hot potatoes can make them gummy. For the garlic, I love to roast a few cloves until they are soft and sweet. Roasting the garlic gives you a wonderful, mellow flavor without the harsh bite that raw garlic can sometimes have. Chef Michael Handal notes that roasting garlic adds a “wonderful and softening effect.” I mash the potatoes with a potato ricer or a hand masher, then I stir in the warm cream mixture, the roasted garlic, salt, and pepper. I taste as I go, adjusting the seasoning until it’s just right. I avoid overmixing, which can also lead to gummy potatoes. These are always a hit at our christmas table!
Homemade Green Bean Casserole
For me, a christmas dinner isn’t truly complete without a classic green bean casserole. It’s one of those comforting sides that just feels like home. I love making it from scratch because the flavors are so much richer than the canned soup versions. This recipe brings a fresh, creamy taste to your holiday table. It’s a definite crowd-pleaser every christmas.
What You’ll Need
To make my homemade green bean casserole, I gather fresh ingredients. I start with about a pound and a half of fresh green beans, trimmed and ready. For the creamy sauce, I use unsalted butter, a large yellow onion (thinly sliced), and cremini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced. I also need minced garlic, all-purpose flour for thickening, and a splash of dry sherry or chicken broth. Whole milk and heavy cream make the sauce extra rich. I season it with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Of course, I can’t forget the crispy French’s fried onions for the topping! Sometimes, I also add panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra crunchy, cheesy crust.
How to Make It
Making this casserole from scratch is a labor of love, but it’s totally worth it! First, I blanch the green beans until they are tender-crisp. Then, I make the creamy mushroom sauce. I melt butter in a large skillet and sauté the sliced onions until they are soft and caramelized. Next, I add the mushrooms and cook them until they release their liquid and brown. I stir in the minced garlic for a minute, then sprinkle in the flour to create a roux. Slowly, I whisk in the sherry (or broth), milk, and heavy cream, letting the sauce thicken. I season it with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Once the sauce is ready, I combine it with the blanched green beans in a baking dish. I top it generously with French’s fried onions. If I want to get fancy, I mix some panko and Parmesan with a little melted butter for an extra crispy topping. I bake it until it’s bubbly and the topping is golden brown. You can even get creative with variations! Some people add bacon and Parmesan for a cheesy bacon green bean casserole, or even caramelized onions and beef broth for an au gratin style. This dish is always a hit at our christmas gathering.
Christmas Comfort Food: Prime Rib Roast
When I think of a truly special holiday meal, my mind immediately goes to a prime rib roast. This is the ultimate christmas comfort food, a show-stopping main course that brings so much comfort and joy to the table. It’s one of those holiday recipes that makes everyone feel extra special. I love how it creates a sense of warmth and comfort during the festive season. This food is truly a centerpiece, and it’s one of my favorite comfort food recipes to prepare for my family. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that always gets rave reviews.
What You’ll Need
To make this incredible christmas comfort food, I gather a few key ingredients. You’ll need a beautiful bone-in prime rib roast. I usually aim for about 5-6 pounds, which serves a good number of people. For the seasoning, I use fresh rosemary and thyme, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. I also like to use a little olive oil or even bacon grease for extra flavor and to help the seasoning stick. Sometimes, I add a touch of whole grain mustard for a bolder taste and a nice crust. These simple ingredients create such rich, crowd-pleasing flavors. This food is all about quality ingredients.
How to Make It
Making this prime rib is easier than you might think, and the result is pure comfort. First, I let the roast come to room temperature for a couple of hours. This helps it cook more evenly. Then, I rub it all over with the olive oil (or bacon grease), followed by a generous coating of the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. I preheat my oven to a high temperature, usually around 450°F, and sear the roast for about 15-20 minutes. This creates a fantastic crust. After searing, I reduce the oven temperature to a lower setting, around 325°F, and continue to roast it until it reaches my desired doneness.
I always use a meat thermometer to ensure perfection. For a medium-rare prime rib, I pull it out when the internal temperature reaches about 120-125°F. The most crucial step for this christmas comfort food is letting it rest! I tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat incredibly tender and full of comfort. This food is a true celebration. It’s a comfort food recipes staple for our christmas dinner, bringing so much comfort and joy. This holiday food is always a hit.
Gingerbread Cookies: Festive Holiday Desserts
I love making gingerbread cookies! They are a true symbol of the holiday season. These cookies fill my home with the most amazing aroma. They are also so much fun to decorate. Making them is a cherished holiday tradition for me. These gingerbread cookies are perfect for any christmas gathering or a christmas cookie exchanges. They are a delightful part of our christmas desserts.
What You’ll Need
To make these classic gingerbread cookies, I gather a few key ingredients. I use 2¾ cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of baking soda. For the spices, I need 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground allspice, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves. I also add ⅛ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. For the wet ingredients, I use 1½ sticks (12 tablespoons) of softened unsalted butter. I also need ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and the same amount of packed dark brown sugar. One large egg and 6 tablespoons of unsulphured molasses, like Grandma’s Original, complete the dough. For decorating, I always have royal icing or store-bought icing ready.
How to Make It
Making these cookies is a joyful process. First, I mix the dry ingredients in one bowl. Then, I cream the butter and sugars together until they are light and fluffy. I beat in the egg and molasses. After that, I slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ones, mixing until a soft dough forms. I chill the dough for at least an hour. This makes it easier to roll.
When I am ready to bake, I roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface. I love using different christmas cookie cutters! We use gingerbread men, stars, trees, and even reindeer shapes. I bake them until they are firm. Once they cool, the real fun begins: decorating!
I use royal icing for classic lines and outlines. It dries firm and is great for details. Sometimes, I use seasonal candies like M&M’s or gumdrops. I use the icing as “glue” to stick them on. Chubby sprinkling sugars are also a favorite. I sprinkle them onto the uncooked dough before baking. This adds texture and color. I also use rubber stamps or fancy rolling pins to create cool impressions on the dough before baking. For more intricate designs, I melt candy melts and paint them onto the cookies with a clean paintbrush. Cute sprinkles are also easy to press into the dough before baking. These festive holiday desserts are always a hit!
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm Drink Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a warm, fragrant drink to make the holidays feel extra special. For me, spiced apple cider is a must-have during the christmas season. It fills my home with the most incredible aroma. This drink is so comforting and easy to make. It’s perfect for cozy evenings or serving guests at a festive gathering.
What You’ll Need
To make this delightful spiced apple cider, I gather a few simple ingredients. I start with one gallon of good quality apple juice or fresh apple cider. You can use either, but fresh cider often gives a richer flavor. For sweetness, I usually add about half a cup of brown sugar or pure maple syrup. You can adjust this to your taste.
Now for the spices! These are what make it truly special. I always include a few cinnamon sticks and some whole cloves. I also love adding allspice berries and a couple of star anise pods. Sometimes, I throw in a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth. If I have them, I also add a few fresh orange slices and apple slices to the pot. They look pretty and add a subtle citrusy note.
How to Make It
Making spiced apple cider is incredibly easy. First, I pour the apple juice or cider into a large pot. Then, I add all the spices: the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice berries, star anise, and nutmeg. If I’m using sugar or maple syrup, I stir that in now too. I also add the orange and apple slices if I have them.
Next, I bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. I make sure not to let it boil rapidly. I just want it to get nice and hot. I let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful spice flavors to really blend into the cider. The longer it simmers, the more intense the flavor becomes. My kitchen smells amazing during this time! I serve it warm in mugs, sometimes with an extra cinnamon stick for garnish. It’s the perfect warm drink for any christmas party or a quiet winter evening. This drink always brings a smile to everyone’s face during the christmas holidays.
Pineapple Honey-Glazed Ham
I love a good ham for a festive meal, and this pineapple honey-glazed ham is a real showstopper! It’s one of my favorite holiday recipes. The sweet and tangy glaze makes the ham incredibly flavorful and juicy. This dish always brings a special touch to our christmas dinner.
What You’ll Need
To make this delicious ham, I start with a fully cooked bone-in ham. For the glaze, I gather several key ingredients. I use packed brown sugar, sweet pineapple juice, and a touch of Dijon mustard. The pineapple juice is a key ingredient. It gives the glaze a fruity sweetness and a little tartness that pairs so well with the ham. The Dijon mustard adds a tangy flavor and helps cut through the sweetness. I also use honey, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Sometimes, I might even skip the cloves if I don’t prefer their strong flavor. To thicken the glaze, I need cornstarch and water. I mix these two to form a slurry. This slurry is crucial for making sure the sauce sticks to the ham.
How to Make It
Making this glazed ham is quite simple. First, I preheat my oven and prepare the ham according to its package directions. While the ham warms, I make the glaze. I combine the brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, honey, cinnamon, and cloves in a saucepan. I bring this mixture to a simmer. Then, I slowly whisk in the cornstarch and water slurry. I cook it until the glaze thickens. It should be able to coat the back of a spoon.
Once the ham is warm, I start brushing it with the glaze during the last hour or so of cooking. I brush it every 15-20 minutes. This helps build up that beautiful, sticky crust. For cooking time, I usually follow the ham’s instructions. However, African Bites suggests about 10-12 minutes per pound for a pineapple honey-glazed ham. Food Network recommends approximately 15 minutes per pound. I always make sure the ham is heated through. This sweet and savory ham is perfect for any christmas gathering. It’s a wonderful addition to our christmas feast.
Peppermint Bark: Simple Holiday Treat
Peppermint bark is one of my favorite holiday treats to make. It’s so incredibly easy, and it looks beautiful. I love making these delicious bars for christmas gifts or just to have around the house. This simple recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a festive dessert.
What You’ll Need
To make this delightful christmas confection, I gather a few key ingredients. First, you need good-quality semisweet chocolate for the base layer. I often choose brands like Guittard or Ghirardelli. Then, you’ll need white chocolate for the top layer. Again, I prefer high-quality white chocolate bars over most white chocolate chips for a smoother finish. Crushed peppermint candy, like candy canes or round peppermints, provides that signature crunch and flavor. Finally, pure peppermint extract enhances the minty taste, mimicking the oil found in store-bought versions. These simple items create a truly special holiday treat.
How to Make It
Making peppermint bark is surprisingly easy. First, I melt the semisweet chocolate. For a quick method, I place the chocolate in a glass bowl and microwave it in 30-second intervals. I stir it until it’s smooth. You can also use a seeding method by adding small pieces of unmelted chocolate to melted chocolate.
If you want to get fancy, you can try the classic tabliering method on a marble surface. Once melted, I spread the dark chocolate thinly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. I let it set completely. Next, I melt the white chocolate, using the same easy microwave method. I stir in the pure peppermint extract. Then, I spread this white chocolate layer over the set dark chocolate. While the white chocolate is still wet, I generously sprinkle it with the crushed peppermint candy. I let the entire sheet set until firm. Once it’s completely hardened, I break it into irregular bars. These make wonderful christmas gifts or a perfect addition to your dessert spread. It’s a truly simple and satisfying holiday project!
I hope you feel the joy and satisfaction of preparing homemade holiday food! These holiday recipes are more than just ingredients; they are about creating comfort and lasting memories. I encourage you to try one or all of these delicious recipes to make your christmas season extra special. Remember, holiday cooking is about sharing love and building traditions, not just perfect results. It fosters intergenerational bonding and preserves family wisdom. What are your favorite christmas recipes or traditions for your holiday menu? Share them in the comments! I wish you a happy and delicious holiday season. May your menu bring much comfort this season.
