The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious spread of festive recipes? Whether you’re hosting a intimate gathering or a grand bash, these 20 mouthwatering dishes are sure to impress your guests. From sweet treats like Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies and Eggnog Cheesecake Bars to savory delights like Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey and Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple, we’ve got you covered.
Get ready to indulge in a culinary winter wonderland with recipes that are sure to become new holiday traditions. So go ahead, don your festive apron, and get cooking!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the classic flavors of chocolate and mint, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a hint of peppermint and crunchy chocolate chips, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cranberry Brie Bites
Elevate your party repertoire with these sweet and savory Cranberry Brie Bites, perfect for holiday gatherings or impromptu get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberry sauce, honey, and thyme.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Place the softened brie cheese in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the cheese.
5. Spoon the cranberry-honey mixture over the brie, making sure to stay within the borders.
6. Fold the pastry up over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey
Impress your family and friends with this aromatic and flavorful roasted turkey recipe, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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 olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for about 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-4 1/2 hours
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
This classic combination of flavors and textures is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. A sweet and sticky honey glaze pairs perfectly with the savory ham, while fresh pineapple adds a pop of juicy sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed
– 1 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and pineapple juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan, fat side up. Score the top of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Bake the ham for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until heated through and caramelized. Baste with pan juices every 30 minutes.
6. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, top the ham with chopped pineapple.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this addictive spinach and artichoke dip! Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Dates
This sweet and savory appetizer combines the natural sweetness of dates with the smokiness of bacon and a hint of cheddar cheese. Perfect for parties or as a quick snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted Medjool dates
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon into thin strips and wrap each date with a strip of bacon.
3. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the dates.
5. Drizzle the brown sugar over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars: A Creamy Holiday Treat
These rich and creamy bars combine the flavors of eggnog with a velvety cheesecake, all wrapped up in a buttery shortbread crust. Perfect for the holiday season!
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 granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Prepare the cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Pour eggnog into the cheesecake mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour batter over crust and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Rosemary Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your roasted potato game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the earthy aroma of rosemary and the savory richness of parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the potatoes.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Beef Wellingtons
These individual Beef Wellingtons are perfect for parties or special occasions. With a tender beef and mushroom filling wrapped in flaky puff pastry, they’re sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (such as shiitake or cremini)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon a small amount of the beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the filling.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg and fold pastry in half over the filling.
6. Place mini Wellingtons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
7. Brush tops with remaining egg and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Get ready to cozy up with these deliciously moist pumpkin spice cupcakes topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
7. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Maple Glazed Carrots
Sweeten up your side dish game with this simple and delicious recipe for Maple Glazed Carrots.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch thick slices
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with salt and set aside.
3. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, butter, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium heat until the butter has melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Add the carrot slices to the glaze and toss to coat evenly.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrots in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
As the seasons change, a cup of warm spiced mulled wine is just what you need to cozy up by the fireplace. This flavorful drink is perfect for holiday gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cloves
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine wine, orange slices, cloves, and cinnamon stick in a large pot or saucepan.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and fragrant (about 10-15 minutes).
3. Add nutmeg and ginger to the pot and stir well.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the wine into mugs or cups and add honey to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gingerbread Truffles
These bite-sized treats combine the spices of gingerbread with a rich chocolate coating, perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup crumbled gingerbread (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crumbled gingerbread and cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until smooth.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and confectioners’ sugar.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Dip each gingerbread ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool, allowing excess to drip off.
8. Place the coated truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None, as these are no-bake treats!
Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage
A flavorful twist on a classic appetizer or side dish, this recipe combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the spicy kick of sausage. Perfect for a cozy gathering or game day party.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as cremini or portobello), cleaned and stemmed
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the sausage mixture, dividing evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of each mushroom and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peppermint Mocha Hot Chocolate
Elevate your hot chocolate game with this refreshing twist on the classic. A perfect blend of rich, creamy milk, velvety chocolate, and invigorating peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon instant coffee powder (optional, but adds depth)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, salt, peppermint extract, and coffee powder (if using).
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and maintain for 5-7 minutes or until desired temperature is reached.
5. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream or half-and-half (if using).
6. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes (if desired). Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple Cider Sangria
Elevate your fall gatherings with this refreshing Apple Cider Sangria, perfect for crisp autumn nights or Thanksgiving celebrations. This easy-to-make drink combines the warmth of apple cider with the tanginess of white wine and the sweetness of citrus fruits.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
– 2 cups of apple cider
– 1 cup of mixed citrus juice (orange, lemon, lime)
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1 cinnamon stick
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine and apple cider. Stir to combine.
2. Add the mixed citrus juice, sugar, sliced apples, and cinnamon stick to the pitcher.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies
A delicious twist on traditional thumbprint cookies, these pecan pie-inspired treats combine the flavors of gooey caramel and crunchy pecans with a buttery cookie base.
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 packed light brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tbsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Caramel sauce for filling
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 butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and immediately press a thumbprint into the center of each cookie. Fill with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky, savory flavor of crispy bacon, creating a dish that’s both healthy and indulgent. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with bacon, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until sprouts are evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Elevate your holiday treats with this easy-to-make Chocolate Peppermint Bark recipe. Perfect for gifting or snacking, this peppermint-infused chocolate bark is a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract and salt.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies evenly over the top of the white chocolate.
6. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Pour the melted dark chocolate over the white chocolate and candy cane mixture.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes melting time)
Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs
A twist on traditional meatballs, these slow-cooked treats combine the savory flavors of beef and pork with the sweet and tangy notes of cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 onion, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them in the slow cooker.
4. Add chopped onion on top of the meatballs.
5. Pour cranberry sauce over the meatballs and onions.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve:
Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy!
Summary
Get ready to impress your holiday guests with these 20 delicious and festive Christmas party recipes! From sweet treats like Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies, Eggnog Cheesecake Bars, and Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies, to savory delights like Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey, Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple, and Mini Beef Wellingtons. Plus, enjoy a variety of appetizers and snacks, including Cranberry Brie Bites, Spinach and Artichoke Dip, and Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Dates. These recipes are sure to make your holiday gathering a hit!