The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than with a delicious spread of festive foods? Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering at home or bringing a dish to share with friends and family, these 18 easy Christmas recipes are sure to impress. From sweet treats like Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies and Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies to savory delights like Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Turkey and Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions, there’s something for everyone on this merry list.
Start your holiday cooking off right with our tried-and-true recipes, featuring a mix of classic Christmas flavors and modern twists. From breakfast treats to dinner mainstays, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, put on some festive tunes, and get ready to make this the most delicious Christmas yet!
Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread
Get into the holiday spirit with this festive bread that’s sure to be a showstopper at your Christmas gathering! This pull-apart bread is filled with sweet and savory flavors, perfect for snacking or serving as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon green food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a Christmas tree shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the egg over the bread, then sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the warmth of hot chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint, perfect for a chilly winter evening or a holiday party.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 1 cup hot chocolate mix (dry)
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in hot chocolate mix and flour mixture.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Turkey recipe. A perfect blend of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme.
4. Rub the garlic butter mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for approximately 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Cranberry Brie Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for your holiday party or gathering. The combination of creamy brie cheese, tangy cranberries, and crunchy crackers is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 package of water crackers (about 20-25 crackers)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cranberries, honey, and salt.
3. Roll out the softened brie cheese into a log shape, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the cranberry mixture along the center of the cheese log, leaving a 1/2 inch border on either side.
5. Fold the cheese over the filling to form a compact cylinder.
6. Cut into 20-25 bite-sized pieces.
7. Place each piece on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
8. Serve warm with water crackers and garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Easy Gingerbread House
Create a charming gingerbread house with this simple recipe. Perfect for the holiday season, it’s an easy and fun project to make with kids or on your own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add water as needed to form a dough.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Use cookie cutters or a knife to create shapes for the house and decorations.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until firm to the touch.
7. Allow to cool completely before assembling and decorating your gingerbread house.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect combination of creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs. It’s an ideal side dish or main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with milk and butter.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the grated cheese and crushed crackers.
4. Combine the mashed potatoes and cheese mixture; season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole
Start your holiday morning off right with this sweet and savory casserole that combines the best of breakfast and brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of frozen hash browns, thawed
– 2 cups cubed French toast
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, cubed French toast, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Drizzle melted butter over the top of the casserole.
5. Sprinkle ground cinnamon evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Mulled Wine
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this simple and aromatic slow cooker mulled wine recipe. Perfect for cold winter nights, it’s a delightful blend of spices, fruit, and rich red wine that will leave your guests cozy and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle (750ml) of red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add the sliced oranges and lemons to the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon sticks, cloves, brown sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the wine into the slow cooker with the orange and lemon slices.
4. Add the spice mixture to the wine.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Snowman Cheese Ball
Snowman Cheese Ball Recipe
Gather your family and friends to enjoy this fun and easy-to-make Snowman Cheese Ball, perfect for a winter party or holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (white)
– Black olives, for eyes; red bell pepper strips, for nose
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, chopped nuts, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Roll the mixture into a ball shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese (white) over the top of the cheese ball.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until slightly puffed.
6. Allow to cool before decorating with black olives, for eyes, and red bell pepper strips, for nose.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: 1 large snowman cheese ball
Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the flavors of pecan pie with the fun of thumbprint cookies, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Stir in chopped pecans.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
9. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
10. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions Recipe
This classic casserole is a staple of American comfort food, featuring green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 5-7 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium heat until caramelized and crispy, stirring occasionally. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine milk, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the cooked green beans in an even layer.
6. Pour the creamy sauce over the green beans, followed by the crispy onions and melted butter.
7. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars: A Creamy Holiday Treat
These rich and creamy cheesecake bars are infused with the warm spices of eggnog, perfect for a festive holiday gathering. With a buttery shortbread crust and a velvety cheesecake filling, these bars are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Stir in eggnog, nutmeg, and salt. Pour over crust.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until set. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Christmas Wreath Salad
Ring in the holiday season with this vibrant and flavorful salad that’s as festive as it is delicious! This Christmas Wreath Salad is a show-stopping side dish or main course that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped pecans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle dried cranberries over the top of the salad.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Stuffed Mushrooms with Spinach and Cheese
Elevate your gathering with these scrumptious stuffed mushrooms, bursting with fresh spinach and melted cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (Button or Crimini work well)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach mixture, then top with grated cheese.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the filling.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Transform your holiday season with this refreshing and decadent treat! Combine the richness of dark chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint for a bark that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 tablespoon crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
• 1 tablespoon white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract.
4. Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the top of the chocolate.
6. Melt the white chocolate chips and drizzle over the top of the bark in a zigzag pattern.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an assembled recipe.
Puff Pastry Christmas Stars
Get ready to impress your holiday guests with these elegant Puff Pastry Christmas Stars. Made with simple ingredients and minimal effort, they’re the perfect addition to any festive spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut out star shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife. You can also use a star-shaped pastry cutter for a more precise shape.
4. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the stars.
5. Place the stars on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each star.
6. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
A delicious and savory side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky goodness of bacon, all in one easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
6. After the Brussels sprouts have roasted for 15-18 minutes, add the cooked bacon to the baking sheet with the sprouts.
7. Continue roasting for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Yule Log Cake
Celebrate the holiday season with a classic dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious – the Easy Yule Log Cake! This moist and flavorful sponge cake, smothered in rich chocolate buttercream and decorated with holly-green frosting, is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons instant coffee powder (optional)
– Chocolate buttercream frosting (recipe below)
– Holly-green frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, oil, and coffee powder (if using).
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cake is firm to the touch.
6. Let cool completely before filling with chocolate buttercream and decorating.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these delicious and easy Christmas recipes! From sweet treats like Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies and Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies, to savory dishes like Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Turkey and Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions, there’s something for everyone. Impress your guests with a stunning Christmas Wreath Salad or satisfy their sweet tooth with Eggnog Cheesecake Bars. Don’t miss out on these 18 festive recipes that are sure to make your holiday season merry and bright!
