19 Festive Fun Christmas Recipes for a Joyful Holiday

‘Tis the season for cozy kitchens, twinkling lights, and delicious holiday magic! Whether you’re hosting a festive feast or whipping up quick comfort food between celebrations, we’ve rounded up 19 merry must-try Christmas recipes—from showstopping mains to sweet treats—that’ll make your holidays extra joyful. Grab your apron and let’s dive into these flavorful favorites that are sure to delight every guest at your table!

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies

These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies are like a cozy winter night in dessert form—chewy, chocolatey, and kissed with peppermint for a festive twist.

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (plus extra for topping)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in 2 eggs and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
3. Whisk together 2 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt in a separate bowl. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients.
4. Fold in 1 cup chocolate chips and 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies.
5. Scoop dough into 1-tbsp balls, place 2 inches apart on baking sheets, and gently press extra peppermint pieces on top.
6. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are set but centers are still soft. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring.

The crackly tops and melty chocolate pockets make these cookies irresistible, while the peppermint adds a cool, festive crunch.

Tip: For extra gooeyness, slightly underbake the cookies—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Gingerbread House Cupcakes

These adorable cupcakes bring all the cozy spice of gingerbread in a fun, festive package—perfect for holiday baking with kids!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 batch cream cheese frosting (about 2 cups)
• 24 mini gingerbread cookies (for decoration)
• Assorted sprinkles (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with festive liners.
2. Whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 1/2 tsp ginger, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp cloves, and 1/4 tsp salt in a bowl.
3. In another bowl, beat 1/2 cup butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in 1/3 cup molasses and the egg until smooth.
4. Alternately add the dry ingredients and 1/2 cup milk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among liners (about 2/3 full). Bake for 18–20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
6. Frost cupcakes with cream cheese frosting. Press two mini gingerbread cookies into each to form a “roof,” then add sprinkles as “snow.”

The molasses gives these cupcakes a deep, caramelized warmth, while the cream cheese frosting balances the spice with a tangy sweetness.

Tip: For sturdier “houses,” attach cookies with a dab of frosting and let set for 10 minutes before serving.

Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread

This festive pull-apart bread is as fun to make as it is to eat—soft, buttery layers shaped into a cheerful Christmas tree, perfect for sharing (or not!).

Ingredients:

• 1 lb store-bought pizza dough (thawed if frozen)
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Cut into 1-inch strips, then cut each strip into 2-inch pieces (you’ll have ~40 small rectangles).
3. In a bowl, mix melted butter, Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, oregano, and salt. Toss dough pieces in the mixture until coated.
4. Arrange pieces in a tree shape on the baking sheet: Start with a row of 5 pieces at the base, then layer upward with 4, 3, and 2 pieces, finishing with 1 at the top. Use scraps for a trunk.
5. Bake for 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden. Serve warm with marinara for dipping.

The magic? Each piece pulls apart with buttery, herby layers—ideal for holiday snacking while decorating the tree!

Tip: For extra sparkle, sprinkle with flaky salt right after baking.

Santa Hat Cheesecake Bites

These adorable Santa Hat Cheesecake Bites are the perfect festive treat—easy to make and guaranteed to steal the show at any holiday gathering!

• 12 fresh strawberries, hulled
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• Mini marshmallows (for hat pom-poms)

1. Slice the pointed tops off the strawberries so they sit flat, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping.
3. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag (or zip-top bag with a corner snipped) and pipe a small dollop onto each strawberry base.
4. Press a mini marshmallow onto the tip of each strawberry to create the “hat pom-pom.” Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

The creamy cheesecake filling balances the juicy strawberry, while the marshmallow adds a playful touch—ideal for holiday cookie swaps or a fun dessert platter!

Tip: For extra stability, pipe a tiny dot of cream cheese mixture under the marshmallow to help it stick.

Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls

These decadent cinnamon rolls get a festive twist with rich eggnog in the dough and glaze—perfect for cozy holiday mornings.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup warm eggnog (110°F)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup softened butter (for filling)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp eggnog (for glaze)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 packet yeast, and 1/2 tsp salt. Pour in 1 cup warm eggnog, 1/4 cup melted butter, and the egg. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
2. Roll dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread 1/4 cup softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with 1/2 cup brown sugar and 2 tsp cinnamon. Tightly roll into a log, slice into 12 pieces, and arrange in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and let rise 30 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake rolls for 20–22 minutes until golden. Meanwhile, whisk 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tbsp eggnog until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.

The eggnog adds a subtle custardy richness to the dough, while the spiced glaze ties everything together like a holiday hug.

Tip: For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the filling or glaze!

Snowman Pizza Bagels

These adorable snowman pizza bagels are a playful twist on a classic snack—perfect for cozy winter lunches or kid-friendly holiday parties!

Ingredients:

• 4 plain bagels, halved
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (for eyes/buttons)
• 1 small carrot, cut into 16 tiny triangles (for noses)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread 2 tbsp marinara sauce on each bagel half, then sprinkle evenly with mozzarella.
3. Arrange olives in pairs (for eyes) and three in a row (for buttons) on the cheese. Add a carrot triangle nose above the eyes.
4. Sprinkle each bagel with 1/8 tsp oregano and 1/8 tsp garlic powder.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and edges are crisp.

The melty cheese pulls apart in strings just like scarf yarn, making these as fun to eat as they are to decorate!

Tip: For extra color, swap olives with bell pepper slices or pepperoni “hats.”

Candy Cane Brownies

These festive brownies are fudgy, rich, and swirled with pepperminty goodness—perfect for holiday cookie swaps or cozy winter nights.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup melted butter and 2 cups granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in 4 large eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.
3. Sift in 1 cup flour, 3/4 cup cocoa powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Fold until just combined, then gently stir in 1/2 cup crushed candy canes and 1/2 cup white chocolate chips.
4. Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
5. Let cool completely, then sprinkle with extra crushed candy canes before slicing.

The crackly top and cool peppermint crunch make these brownies irresistible—plus, they’re even better the next day as the flavors meld!

Tip: For cleaner slices, chill the brownies for 30 minutes before cutting.

Reindeer Chow Snack Mix

This sweet-and-salty snack mix is a holiday favorite, packed with crunchy cereal, pretzels, and a dusting of powdered sugar for that irresistible snowy finish.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 2 cups mini pretzel twists
• 1 cup peanuts (salted or unsalted)
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup holiday sprinkles (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine Rice Chex, mini pretzels, and peanuts. Set aside.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth (about 1–1.5 minutes total). Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Pour melted mixture over the dry ingredients and gently fold until evenly coated.
4. Transfer mix to a large resealable bag, add powdered sugar, and shake vigorously until fully coated. Spread on parchment paper to cool for 15 minutes.
5. Sprinkle with holiday sprinkles (if using) before serving.

The magic here? The powdered sugar clings to every nook, creating that iconic “reindeer tracks” look while balancing the rich peanut butter and white chocolate.

Tip: For extra crunch, let the mix sit uncovered for an hour before storing in an airtight container.

Festive Christmas Wreath Salad

This vibrant, edible wreath is as stunning as it is delicious—packed with crisp greens, juicy pomegranates, and creamy goat cheese for a holiday showstopper.

Ingredients:

• 8 cups mixed baby greens (spinach, arugula, butter lettuce)
• 1 cup pomegranate arils
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/3 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. On a large round platter, arrange the mixed greens in a wreath shape (about 10 inches in diameter), leaving a 4-inch empty circle in the center.
2. Scatter pomegranate arils evenly over the greens, followed by goat cheese and pecans.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Drizzle over the salad just before serving.

The sweet-tart crunch of pomegranates against the creamy goat cheese makes every bite feel like a holiday celebration. Tip: For extra sparkle, tuck in a few edible gold leaf flakes or rosemary sprigs between the greens!

Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Pops

These adorable pops combine the cozy richness of hot cocoa with the gooey fun of toasted marshmallows—perfect for dunking or gifting!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 12 large marshmallows
• 6 lollipop sticks (or paper straws)
• 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or sprinkles (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth (about 1–2 minutes total). Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
2. Skewer each marshmallow onto a lollipop stick, leaving 1 inch exposed at the bottom. Dip marshmallows into the chocolate mixture, swirling to coat completely. Let excess drip off.
3. Immediately roll pops in crushed peppermint candies (if using), then place upright in a mug or stand. Chill for 20 minutes until set.

The magic here? The marshmallow stays soft inside while the chocolate shell cracks like a winter-worthy dessert snow globe.

Tip: For a fun twist, warm the pops briefly under the broiler (5 seconds!) before serving—just like a campfire treat.

Christmas Pudding Truffles

These decadent truffles pack all the cozy flavors of Christmas pudding into bite-sized treats—perfect for gifting or holiday snacking!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups crumbled leftover Christmas pudding (or store-bought)
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp dark brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips, melted
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 2 tbsp crushed pistachios (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix crumbled Christmas pudding, cream cheese, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Roll into 12 even balls (about 1 tbsp each) and freeze for 15 minutes.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt dark chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
3. Using a fork, dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place on parchment paper and immediately sprinkle with crushed pistachios.
4. Chill truffles for 20 minutes or until chocolate sets. Serve cool or store in the fridge for up to 1 week.

The magic here? The cream cheese adds a luscious richness that balances the pudding’s spiced depth—like holiday nostalgia in every bite.

Tip: For extra shine, add a pinch of flaky sea salt to the melted chocolate before dipping.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Pancakes

These adorable holiday pancakes turn breakfast into a festive celebration—perfect for Christmas morning with kids (or kids at heart)!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter, plus extra for cooking
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 6 strawberries, halved (for “noses”)
• 12 mini chocolate chips (for “eyes”)
• 6 pretzel twists (for “antlers”)

Instructions:

1. Whisk together flour, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt in a bowl. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, 2 tbsp melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla.
2. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, stirring just until combined (small lumps are okay).
3. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and brush with butter. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake, cooking for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on top. Flip and cook 1–2 minutes more until golden.
4. Transfer pancakes to plates. While warm, press two mini chocolate chips into each for eyes, a strawberry half for the nose, and pretzel twists above for antlers.

The buttermilk keeps these pancakes fluffy yet sturdy enough to hold Rudolph’s cheerful toppings without crumbling.

Tip: For extra sparkle, drizzle pancakes with maple syrup “scarves” and dust with powdered sugar “snow.”

Snowball Rice Krispie Treats

These adorable snowball treats are a playful twist on classic Rice Krispie squares, with a fluffy marshmallow center and a snowy coconut coating.

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cups mini marshmallows
• 5 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut

Instructions:

1. Melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter in a large pot over low heat. Add 4 cups mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract. Fold in 5 cups Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
3. Let mixture cool slightly (2–3 minutes), then roll into 2-inch balls with lightly greased hands. Press firmly to hold shape.
4. Roll each ball in 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut until fully covered. Place on parchment paper to set, about 15 minutes.

The coconut adds a tropical crunch while keeping these treats mess-free—perfect for holiday cookie swaps or lunchbox surprises!

Tip: For extra sparkle, toss coconut with edible glitter before rolling.

Christmas Star Sugar Cookies

These festive star cookies are buttery, crisp, and perfect for holiday cookie swaps—decorate them simply with sparkling sugar or go all out with royal icing!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Coarse sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened butter and 3/4 cup granulated sugar until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add 1 egg and 1 tsp vanilla extract; mix until combined.
2. Whisk together 2 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together.
3. Divide dough into 2 disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
4. Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface and cut into star shapes. Transfer to parchment-lined sheets, sprinkle with coarse sugar (if using), and bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
5. Cool on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

The secret to these cookies’ delicate texture? Chilling the dough ensures they hold their sharp star shape while baking. For extra sparkle, brush unbaked cookies with a light egg wash before adding sprinkles!

Tip: Cookie cutters sticking? Dip them in flour between cuts for clean edges every time.

Frosted Cranberry Bliss Bars

These buttery, spiced bars are studded with tart cranberries and topped with a dreamy cream cheese frosting—perfect for holiday gifting or a cozy afternoon treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp orange zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13″ baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Beat 1 cup butter and 1 1/2 cups brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then 1 tsp vanilla.
3. Whisk together flour, 1 tsp ginger, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually mix into wet ingredients. Fold in cranberries.
4. Spread dough evenly in pan. Bake 20–22 minutes until edges are golden. Cool completely.
5. Beat 4 oz cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 1 tbsp orange zest until smooth. Frost bars and slice into triangles.

The bright citrus-kissed frosting cuts through the rich, spiced base for a flavor that’s festive but never cloying.

Tip: For cleaner slices, chill frosted bars for 30 minutes before cutting.

Elf-Inspired Popcorn Balls

These whimsical popcorn balls are bursting with holiday cheer—think marshmallow sweetness, a hint of peppermint, and a sprinkle of festive color!

Ingredients:

• 10 cups freshly popped popcorn (plain, unsalted)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cups mini marshmallows
• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
• 1/4 cup red and green sprinkles

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the popcorn in a large bowl, picking out any unpopped kernels.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Add the 4 cups mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the 1/4 tsp peppermint extract.
3. Pour the marshmallow mixture over the popcorn and gently fold with a spatula until evenly coated. Let cool for 1 minute (so sprinkles don’t melt).
4. Quickly mix in the 1/2 cup crushed candy canes and 1/4 cup sprinkles. With lightly greased hands, shape into 12–14 palm-sized balls, pressing firmly so they hold together. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Let set at room temperature for 30 minutes until firm. Serve or wrap individually in cellophane for gifting.

The candy cane crunch and marshmallow-gooey texture make these irresistible—like edible holiday ornaments!

Tip: For extra sparkle, roll the shaped balls in additional sprinkles before they set.

Spiced Christmas Punch

Nothing warms up a holiday gathering like this fragrant, spiced punch—loaded with citrus, cinnamon, and just the right amount of sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cups cranberry juice
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 star anise pod
• 1 orange, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, combine apple cider, cranberry juice, orange juice, and 1/4 cup honey. Stir until honey dissolves.
2. Add 2 cinnamon sticks, 4 whole cloves, and 1 star anise pod. Bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil) and let steep for 15 minutes to infuse the spices.
3. Remove from heat and strain out the whole spices. Ladle into mugs and garnish with orange slices and fresh cranberries.

The blend of tart cranberry, sweet honey, and warming spices makes this punch feel like a festive hug in a mug—perfect for sipping by the fire.

Tip: For an adult version, spike with 1/2 cup bourbon or spiced rum before serving.

Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole

This hearty, make-ahead casserole is packed with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese—perfect for feeding a crowd while you sip coffee in your PJs.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb breakfast sausage, casings removed
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 (1-lb) loaf French bread, cubed (about 8 cups)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp dry mustard
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Brown the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage, breaking it into crumbles, until no pink remains (about 6 minutes). Drain fat.
2. Whisk the custard: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth.
3. Layer the casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread bread cubes evenly. Top with cooked sausage and 1 1/2 cups cheese. Pour custard over everything, pressing bread gently to soak.
4. Chill & bake: Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 2 hours). Preheat oven to 350°F. Uncover, sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese, and bake 45–50 minutes until golden and set in the center.
5. Garnish & serve: Let rest 5 minutes, sprinkle with parsley, and slice into squares.

The overnight soak gives this casserole its signature custardy texture, while the crispy cheese topping adds a satisfying crunch.

Tip: For a lighter version, swap half the milk for evaporated milk and use turkey sausage.

Fruitcake Energy Bites

These no-bake energy bites pack all the cozy flavors of fruitcake into a wholesome, bite-sized snack—perfect for holiday gifting or a quick energy boost!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
• 1/2 cup walnuts
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
• 2 tbsp almond butter
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, blend dates, walnuts, cranberries, apricots, almond butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until a sticky dough forms (about 1–2 minutes).
2. Scoop 1-tbsp portions of the mixture and roll into balls with damp hands.
3. Roll each ball in shredded coconut until evenly coated.
4. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up before serving.

The chewy texture and warm spice make these bites taste indulgent, but they’re secretly packed with fiber and healthy fats!

Tip: For extra holiday flair, swap the coconut for a dusting of cocoa powder or crushed pistachios.

Conclusion

With these 19 festive Christmas recipes, your holiday table will be brimming with joy and flavor! Whether you’re baking cookies, whipping up a cozy main, or mixing a merry drink, there’s something here for every home cook. We’d love to hear which recipes you try—leave a comment with your favorites, and don’t forget to share the holiday cheer by pinning this roundup on Pinterest. Happy cooking!