As the winter solstice approaches, many cultures around the world celebrate the longest night of the year with warm and comforting meals. In this season of cozy nights by the fire, there’s nothing like a hearty feast to bring people together. Whether you’re hosting friends and family or simply looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered.
Here are 18 delicious and cozy Winter Solstice recipes to try:
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Spiced Mulled Wine with Citrus and Cloves
Warm up with a cup of Spiced Mulled Wine with Citrus and Cloves, perfect for chilly winter nights. This aromatic drink combines the spices of mulled wine with the brightness of citrus and warmth of cloves.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 6 whole cloves
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine wine, sliced citrus, cloves, and cinnamon stick.
2. Add brown sugar and water to the pot.
3. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves (about 10 minutes).
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Strain the spices from the wine before serving.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Slow-Cooked Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
This slow-cooked beef stew is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for a chilly evening. The tender chunks of beef and soft root vegetables are cooked to perfection in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, brown the beef cubes in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are slightly tender.
3. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low (or slow cooker setting) and simmer for 2-3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours or overnight
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sage
Warm up on a chilly day with this creamy and aromatic soup, featuring roasted butternut squash and the earthy flavor of sage. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a comforting solo meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
5. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor with the onion, garlic, and sage.
6. Blend until smooth then add broth and cream (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve warm, garnished with additional sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple and Cloves
This classic recipe combines the rich flavor of a glazy ham with the sweetness of pineapple and the warmth of cloves. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and pineapple juice until smooth.
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, then sprinkle with chopped pineapple and ground cloves.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the ham and cover with foil.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Remove foil and continue roasting for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours
Creamy Potato and Leek Gratin
A rich and comforting side dish perfect for any occasion, this creamy potato and leek gratin is a delicious twist on the classic potato gratin. Thinly sliced potatoes and sweet caramelized leeks are layered with a velvety cream sauce and baked until golden brown.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, thinly sliced
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, cook sliced leeks in butter until caramelized and tender.
3. In a separate pot, boil sliced potatoes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of leeks followed by a layer of potatoes.
5. Pour over the cream sauce (made with heavy cream and cheddar cheese) and season with salt and pepper.
6. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing
These classic cookies are infused with the warmth of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, perfect for the holiday season. Pair them with a rich royal icing for an extra-special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Royal icing (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before icing.
Royal Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
– Food coloring (optional)
Mix all ingredients together until smooth and thick. Adjust consistency as needed. Use to ice cooled cookies.
Warm Apple Cider with Cinnamon Sticks
Elevate your fall festivities with this simple and inviting Warm Apple Cider recipe, infused with the warmth of cinnamon sticks. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a refreshing drink at outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 liters apple cider
– 4-6 cinnamon sticks
– Optional: sugar or honey to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider and cinnamon sticks.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cider is warm but not boiling (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the cider into a serving vessel to remove the cinnamon sticks.
5. Add sugar or honey to taste, if desired.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (includes steeping time)
Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce
A classic dish that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in, braised short ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and richly flavored. This recipe yields a deep red wine sauce to accompany the tender meat.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs in batches, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
7. Remove from heat; let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
A traditional Thanksgiving dessert, this pumpkin pie recipe is a staple of the holiday season. With its creamy filling and flaky crust, it’s sure to be a hit at your family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour filling into crust.
6. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until filling is set.
7. Allow pie to cool before serving with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Brie with Cranberry Compote
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this elegant and flavorful appetizer featuring creamy brie cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the brie cheese on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, cranberries, orange juice, and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the compote cook for 10-15 minutes or until the cranberries have popped and the mixture has thickened slightly.
5. Remove the brie from the oven after 8-10 minutes or until softened but still slightly firm in the center.
6. Serve the baked brie with the warm cranberry compote spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (brie), 15-20 minutes (compote)
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple Glaze
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple Glaze: A sweet and savory twist on a classic dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy; remove from heat and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add maple syrup; simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Toss roasted Brussels sprouts with cooked bacon and maple glaze; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Eggnog with Nutmeg
A classic holiday treat, this homemade eggnog recipe is a staple for any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs until well-beaten.
4. Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly.
5. Stir in ground nutmeg and vanilla extract.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! Let it chill in the fridge before serving.
Wild Mushroom and Barley Risotto
This hearty risotto is a celebration of earthy flavors, featuring a medley of wild mushrooms and nutty barley. A perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (e.g., chanterelle, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 1/2 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Add barley and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, then add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of total cooking time, remove from heat and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peppermint Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows
Warm up with this festive and refreshing twist on classic hot chocolate. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, peppermint flavor and fluffy marshmallows make this treat a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Marshmallows for topping (mini or regular)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, peppermint extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer again, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream (if using).
6. Pour into mugs and top with marshmallows.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and festive Peppermint Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows!
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
Elevate your entertaining game with this sweet and savory tart that’s sure to impress. The caramelized onions add a depth of flavor, while the goat cheese provides a tangy contrast.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to desired thickness. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Brush pastry with olive oil and top with caramelized onions, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar.
5. Sprinkle goat cheese evenly over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Cookies
Savor the combination of buttery shortbread and rich chocolate with these decadent treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely before dipping in melted chocolate (microwave or double boiler).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter
Elevate your holiday meal with this delectable roasted turkey recipe, paired with a rich and aromatic herb butter. This show-stopping dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 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 butter, parsley, thyme, and lemon zest until well combined.
4. Rub the herb butter 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 put it in the oven.
7. Roast for about 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Cranberry Orange Bread with Walnuts
This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for the holiday season, combining the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange zest and the crunch of walnuts. It’s a delicious addition to any breakfast or brunch spread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this winter solstice with these 18 festive recipes! From spiced mulled wine and slow-cooked beef stew to roasted butternut squash soup and warm apple cider, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in sweet treats like gingerbread cookies and pumpkin pie, or try savory dishes like braised short ribs and roasted turkey. Add some holiday flair with honey-glazed ham, caramelized onion tart, and peppermint hot chocolate. These recipes will make your winter solstice feast one to remember.