As the snowflakes fall and the fireplace crackles to life, there’s nothing quite like cozying up with a warm, comforting dish on a cold winter night. To help you make this holiday season even more special, we’ve gathered 20 delicious and festive December recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From sweet treats like Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies and Gingerbread Pancakes, to hearty main courses like Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Rosemary Roasted Turkey, there’s something for everyone on this list. And don’t even get us started on the sides – think Cranberry Orange Bread, Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and Maple Glazed Carrots.
In the coming pages, we’ll dive into each of these recipes in detail, sharing tips, tricks, and inspiration to help you create a truly unforgettable holiday season. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy by the fire, and let’s get cooking!
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
Warm up with a festive twist on classic cookies! These soft and chewy treats combine the comfort of hot chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint.
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
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or chopped pecans 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. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto 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.
7. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This hearty slow cooker beef stew recipe is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and rich broth, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and cubed potatoes to the slow cooker.
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then add it to the slow cooker.
3. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. About an hour before serving, stir in the frozen peas and carrots.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Cranberry Orange Bread
Brighten up your breakfast or brunch with this deliciously moist Cranberry Orange Bread, infused with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• Zest of 1 orange (about 1 tablespoon)
• Juice of 1 orange (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine butter, egg, Greek yogurt, cranberries, orange zest, and juice. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes with the rich flavor of roasted garlic! This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place garlic cloves on a piece of foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold into a packet.
3. Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed-like.
4. Boil chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Drain potatoes and add roasted garlic, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Honey Glazed Ham
Sweet and Savory Honey Glazed Ham Recipe
Elevate your holiday gathering with this mouthwatering honey glazed ham recipe, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
3. Place the ham on a rimmed baking sheet or in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly.
5. Bake for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours, depending on size of ham.
Gingerbread Pancakes
Start your day with a delightful twist on traditional pancakes. These gingerbread-infused treats are perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to add some spice to your morning routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, and egg.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Spiced Mulled Wine
Spiced Mulled Wine Recipe
As the weather cools down, warm up with a rich and aromatic Spiced Mulled Wine that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cloves
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the sliced orange, cloves, cinnamon stick, and spices.
2. Pour in the red wine and add the brown sugar.
3. Add the water to the mixture and stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Serve warm, garnished with additional orange slices if desired. This Spiced Mulled Wine is perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or as a cozy treat on a chilly winter evening.
Baked Brie with Fig Jam
Transform a classic French cheese into a sweet and savory masterpiece by baking it with fig jam. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for your next gathering or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
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 fig jam and honey over the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is softened and slightly puffed.
5. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices until lightly browned.
6. Assemble by placing toasted bread on a serving platter and topping with baked brie and fig jam mixture.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Eggnog Cheesecake
Warm up with a creamy and indulgent eggnog cheesecake, 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
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and eggnog.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until center is set.
7. Let cool completely before serving. Optional: top with whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Moist and flavorful, this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is a perfect treat for the fall season. With notes of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, it’s sure to become a new autumn tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Rosemary Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this aromatic and flavorful Rosemary Roasted Turkey recipe. The combination of tender turkey, fragrant rosemary, and savory garlic will leave your guests wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, garlic, 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 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.
Caramel Apple Pie
A classic pie recipe gets a sweet twist with the addition of caramel sauce, creating a rich and indulgent dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with apple mixture.
4. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling.
5. Roll out remaining pie crust and use to cover pie. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Maple Glazed Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the richness of maple syrup. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these glazed carrots are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, honey, and olive oil.
3. Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the glazed carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peppermint Bark Brownies
Transform your brownie game with these refreshing Peppermint Bark Brownies, featuring a rich chocolate base topped with peppermint-infused white chocolate and crushed candy canes.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter (12 tablespoons), plus more for greasing
– 2 cups of sugar
– 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup of crushed candy canes (optional)
– 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips, peppermint-flavored
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cocoa powder until combined.
4. Let cool slightly, then whisk in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Stir in flour until just combined, then fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Melt white chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
8. Spread melted white chocolate over brownies and sprinkle with crushed candy canes (if using).
9. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Winter Vegetable Soup
Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe
As the temperatures drop, warm up with a comforting bowl of Winter Vegetable Soup, packed with tender vegetables and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 4 cups mixed winter vegetables (such as kale, spinach, and sweet potatoes)
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add mixed winter vegetables, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are very tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies
These classic Scottish shortbread cookies get an indulgent twist with the addition of rich, dark chocolate. Perfect for a sweet treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sea salt for garnish
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 softened butter; mix until crumbly.
3. Press dough into a disk; wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
4. Roll out chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate; let excess chocolate drip off.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Roasted Chestnut Stuffing
Roasted Chestnut Stuffing Recipe: A Delicious Twist on Traditional Holiday Fillings
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of roasted chestnuts with traditional stuffing ingredients, resulting in a unique and flavorful side dish perfect for your holiday table.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh or dried chestnuts
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
- Roast chestnuts according to package instructions. Peel and chop into small pieces.
- In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in melted butter until softened.
- Add chopped chestnuts, sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine bread, chicken broth, and chestnut mixture. Mix well to combine.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these soft and fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts. Perfectly balance of sweet and savory, these bite-sized treats are sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 egg
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add milk, oil, egg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Cover dough and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down dough and shape into donuts.
6. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil and immediately sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture (2:1 ratio of sugar to cinnamon).
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your donuts.
Enjoy your scrumptious Cinnamon Sugar Donuts!
Pomegranate Glazed Salmon
Pomegranate Glazed Salmon Recipe
This recipe combines the sweetness of pomegranate with the richness of salmon, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and visually appealing. This glaze is perfect for special occasions or as a delicious addition to your weekly meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh pomegranate seeds and chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Hot Buttered Rum
Warm up with a classic winter drink: Hot Buttered Rum!
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of dark rum (1 1/2 ounces)
– 4 cups hot water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug or heat-proof glass, add the shot of rum and hot water.
2. Place the butter pieces in the mug and let them melt, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until the butter is fully incorporated into the liquid.
3. Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. If desired, add a cinnamon stick to the mug for an extra touch of warmth and spice.
5. Stir well and enjoy your hot buttered rum!
Cooking Time: None needed! Just let the butter melt and the flavors mingle.
Summary
Get ready to cozy up this December with these 20 festive recipes perfect for winter nights. From sweet treats like Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies and Eggnog Cheesecake, to savory delights like Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in holiday classics like Honey Glazed Ham and Caramel Apple Pie, or try something new with Spiced Mulled Wine and Pomegranate Glazed Salmon. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to bring joy and warmth to your winter gatherings.