The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious feast? Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just want to treat yourself and your loved ones, these 20 festive Christmas recipes are sure to impress. From classic roast turkey to decadent chocolate yule logs, and from savory stuffing to sweet peppermint hot chocolate, we’ve got everything you need to make this holiday season one to remember.
In the coming pages, we’ll be sharing our favorite recipes for a stress-free and mouth-watering Christmas dinner. From appetizers to desserts and everything in between, we’ve curated a list of must-try dishes that are sure to become new traditions in your household. So grab your apron, put on some festive tunes, and let’s get cooking!
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter: A timeless holiday centerpiece that’s sure to impress your guests. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful turkey with a deliciously aromatic crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, thyme, and garlic until well combined.
4. Loosely fill the turkey cavity with aromatics like onion, carrot, and celery, if desired.
5. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Season the turkey with salt and pepper, to taste.
7. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: approximately 4-4 1/2 hours.
Homemade Gingerbread Cookies
Brighten up your holiday season with a classic treat that’s sure to become a favorite: homemade gingerbread cookies. Made with simple ingredients and a touch of spice, these chewy cookies are perfect for snacking, gifting, or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Decorations of your choice (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, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Garlic
This classic comfort food recipe combines the simplicity of mashed potatoes with the pungency of garlic, resulting in a rich and satisfying side dish. Perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the minced garlic, softened butter, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream or whole milk, stirring until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Festive Cranberry Sauce
A sweet and tangy sauce perfect for the holiday season! This recipe is a classic combination of fresh cranberries, sugar, and spices that’s easy to make and delicious on turkey, ham, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice
– 1/4 cup (15g) orange zest
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.
3. Add the cinnamon stick and nutmeg to the mixture.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Decadent Chocolate Yule Log
Experience the magic of a classic Christmas dessert with this show-stopping Decadent Chocolate Yule Log. Rich, mocha-flavored chocolate cake, enrobed in velvety chocolate ganache and decorated with festive holly sprigs, is sure to impress your holiday guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Holly sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; pour into prepared pan.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cake is firm to the touch.
6. Allow cake to cool completely.
7. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
8. Dip cooled cake in melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
9. Pipe ganache borders and decorate with holly sprigs.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A deliciously savory and sweet side dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove from heat and set aside.
7. After the Brussels sprouts have roasted for 15 minutes, add the cooked bacon to the baking sheet.
8. Continue roasting for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the flavors are fully combined.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Traditional Christmas Pudding
A classic British dessert, Christmas pudding is a rich and fruity treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful pudding that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon mixed spice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup brandy or other liquor (optional)
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, flour, salt, mixed spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Stir in brandy or liquor, if using.
3. Beat in egg and milk until well combined.
4. Add melted butter and mix until smooth.
5. Transfer mixture to a greased 1-pint pudding basin or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Cover with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
7. Steam pudding for 2-3 hours, or bake at 300°F (150°C) for 45-50 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (steaming) or 45-50 minutes (baking)
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
This classic ham recipe gets a tropical twist with the addition of sweet pineapple rings, creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile that’s sure to please. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon pineapple juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup pineapple rings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, pineapple juice, cloves, and pepper.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Top with pineapple rings.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Warm Mulled Wine
Cozy up with a warm and comforting mug of mulled wine on a chilly evening. This classic winter drink is perfect for social gatherings or a relaxing night at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cloves
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the wine, sliced orange, cloves, and cinnamon stick.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Stir in the brown sugar and water until dissolved.
5. Taste and adjust the sweetness and spice level to your liking.
6. Serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick and orange slice if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
A comforting side dish that’s sure to please, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are a staple of many family gatherings and holiday meals. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that’s both flavorful and impressive.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and salt. Toss to coat.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
4. Create a layer of potatoes in the dish, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and a drizzle of heavy cream. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Warm up with this festive and flavorful hot chocolate recipe infused with the invigorating zing of peppermint. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or white)
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the hot milk, stirring constantly.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove from heat.
5. Stir in peppermint extract and chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
6. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spiced Apple Cider
As the temperature drops, cozy up with this deliciously spiced apple cider recipe that’s sure to become a fall favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and some aromatic spices, you’ll be sipping on a flavorful brew in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 liters apple cider
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cinnamon stick, and whole cloves.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and add ground nutmeg and ginger. Stir well to combine.
5. Let the cider cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Savory Stuffing with Sage and Onion
Elevate your holiday table with this savory stuffing recipe infused with the earthy flavors of sage and onion. Perfect for roasted meats or as a standalone side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and melted butter until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chopped sage and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine the bread, sautéed onion mixture, salt, and pepper. Toss until the bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a turkey cavity (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Carrots with Thyme
This recipe transforms ordinary carrots into a richly flavored side dish, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a standalone vegetable option. With the subtle aroma of thyme, these caramelized carrots are sure to elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced carrots and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to caramelize.
4. Add the honey, butter, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggnog Cheesecake
Get ready to celebrate the holiday season with this rich and creamy eggnog cheesecake. This decadent dessert combines the warm, spicy flavors of eggnog with the tanginess of cream cheese for a truly unforgettable treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggnog, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with a bowl of creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup, perfect for cozying up on a chilly fall or winter day. This comforting soup is packed with the sweet and nutty flavors of roasted butternut squash, onions, and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs like parsley or sage for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and caramelized.
4. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a large pot over medium heat until softened.
5. Add the roasted butternut squash, broth, and heavy cream (if using) to the pot. Blend until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Festive Cheese Ball with Crackers
Get ready to impress your guests with this creamy, crunchy, and deliciously festive cheese ball perfect for holiday gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, parsley, crushed crackers, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape mixture into a ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mini Mince Pies
Mini Mince Pies Recipe
These bite-sized mince pies are perfect for a festive treat or a sweet surprise. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delightful treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup mincemeat filling (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and cold butter. Use a pastry blender or fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add granulated sugar and mix until just combined.
4. Spoon in mincemeat filling and gently fold until just combined.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into small squares, about 2 inches (5 cm) per side.
7. Place a spoonful of mincemeat in the center of each square. Fold edges over filling, forming a triangle or a square shape.
8. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Glazed Christmas Cookies
Brighten up your holiday gatherings with these tender and flavorful glazed Christmas cookies. With a simple glaze recipe, you can transform classic sugar cookies into a sweet and sticky delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or holly-shaped cookies for decoration (optional)
– Glaze ingredients:
+ 1 cup powdered sugar
+ 2 tablespoons milk
+ 1 tablespoon honey
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 powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing.
Glaze:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and honey until smooth.
2. Dip cooled cookies in the glaze or drizzle over the top.
Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this simple yet impressive appetizer, combining the richness of baked brie cheese with the tanginess of cranberry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
– 1/4 cup of cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the brie cheese on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the cranberry sauce over the brie, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the honey and thyme over the cranberry sauce.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is softened and the cranberry sauce is caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the festive spirit with these mouthwatering Christmas recipes! From classic roast turkey with herb butter and homemade gingerbread cookies to decadent chocolate yule log and warm mulled wine, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at creamy mashed potatoes with garlic, roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, or savory stuffing with sage and onion. Don’t forget the sweet treats like eggnog cheesecake and caramelized carrots with thyme. These 20 recipes are sure to make your holiday season merry and bright!
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