The holiday season is upon us! As we prepare to celebrate two beloved holidays – Thanksgiving and Hanukkah – our thoughts turn to family, friends, and of course, delicious food. This year, why not try something new and exciting in the kitchen? We’ve curated a list of 20 festive recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
From classic roast turkey with herb butter to sweet potato latkes with apple sauce, we’ve got you covered for Thanksgiving. And for Hanukkah, try your hand at making sufganiyot (jelly donuts) or matzo ball soup with fresh dill. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday gatherings.
Stay tuned for the rest of our recipe roundup!
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
This timeless recipe yields a succulent, golden-brown turkey with a rich, aromatic herb butter that’s sure to impress your guests. Perfect for holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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 the softened butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb butter 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 approximately 4-4 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: 4-4 1/2 hours
Sweet Potato Latkes with Apple Sauce
Sweet Potato Latkes with Apple Sauce: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
These sweet potato latkes offer a delicious and unique twist on the traditional potato latke. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the tangy apple sauce, making for a perfect fall or winter treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Apple sauce, warmed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, flour, onion, eggs, and salt. Mix well until a thick batter forms.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the sweet potato batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with a spatula.
4. Cook the latkes for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve the warm latkes with warmed apple sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (depending on the size of your latkes)
Brisket with Honey and Spices
Transform a classic brisket recipe into a sweet and savory masterpiece by adding honey and a blend of spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket, fat side up
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the brisket in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a lid.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Braise the brisket for 3-1/2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 3-1/2 hours
Cranberry Challah Stuffing
A sweet and savory twist on traditional stuffing, this Cranberry Challah Stuffing combines the flaky goodness of challah bread with the tangy flavor of cranberries. Perfect for your holiday table!
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf challah bread, cubed
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the melted butter, cranberries, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until cranberries have popped.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked onion mixture with the cubed challah bread.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and toss until the bread is evenly coated.
6. Transfer the stuffing to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sufganiyot (Hanukkah Jelly Donuts)
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with these sweet and tender jelly-filled donuts, a classic Hanukkah treat. This recipe yields 12-15 donuts, perfect for sharing (or not!) with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– Jelly or jam filling (such as raspberry or strawberry)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a smooth batter forms.
3. Add vegetable oil, beaten egg, and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Using a piping bag or spoon, drop the dough into hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
7. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and fill with jelly or jam.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the green beans in a little water until tender.
3. In a separate pan, cook the sliced onions over medium heat until caramelized and crispy.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with the crispy onions and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Potato Kugel with Caramelized Onions
A sweet and savory twist on the classic Jewish dish, this potato kugel is infused with the deep flavor of caramelized onions. Perfect as a side dish or a main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper. Stir in grated potatoes, sugar, and cooked onions.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the potato mixture into the dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the kugel is golden brown and set.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Gingersnap Crust
Elevate your pumpkin pie game with a unique twist – a crunchy gingersnap crust that complements the warm spices and creamy filling. This recipe is perfect for the fall season, combining classic flavors with a delightful textural contrast.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups gingersnap cookies, crushed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crushed gingersnap cookies, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth.
5. Beat in eggs until well combined.
6. Pour filling into prepared crust and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C).
7. Reduce heat to 350°F (180°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-40 minutes or until the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Matzo Ball Soup with Fresh Dill
Warm up with a classic Jewish comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe adds a bright and refreshing twist to the traditional matzo ball soup, featuring fresh dill as a key ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup matzo meal
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together matzo meal, salt, and pepper.
3. Add oil, garlic, and dill to the mixture; stir until combined.
4. Gradually add eggs and water, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough into boiling chicken broth.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until matzo balls are cooked through.
7. Serve hot with chopped fresh dill as garnish.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Apple Cider Glazed Ham
Transform your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory Apple Cider Glazed Ham recipe. A perfect combination of tender ham and caramelized apple cider glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until glaze has thickened slightly.
4. Place ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
5. Brush the apple cider glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly.
6. Bake for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate Recipe
A sweet and savory twist on a classic side dish, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts with the tartness of pomegranate.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate seeds and balsamic vinegar.
5. Toss roasted Brussels sprouts with the pomegranate mixture and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Latkes
Elevate your latke game with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious variation that combines the flavors of spinach, artichoke hearts, and cheddar.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, grated
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated onion, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add warm water, melted butter, and mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, chopped artichoke hearts, and spinach leaves.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes for 8-10 latkes.
Maple-Glazed Carrot Tzimmes
This sweet and savory carrot tzimmes recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the richness of maple syrup, creating a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, honey, and cinnamon.
3. Add sliced carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the carrot mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a ceramic skillet.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Herb-Roasted Chicken with Garlic
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this aromatic and savory recipe, infused with the warmth of garlic and herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chocolate Babka for Dessert
This decadent chocolate babka recipe yields a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, cooled slightly
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
– Chocolate chips or shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and cocoa powder to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and roll out into a rectangle shape. Spread melted butter and chocolate chips or shavings evenly over the dough.
7. Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each babka.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cornbread and Sausage Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory and aromatic stuffing recipe, featuring crispy cornbread and flavorful sausage.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add butter, onion, garlic, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. In a large bowl, combine cornbread, sausage mixture, and chicken broth. Toss until the bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Root Vegetables with Thyme
Roasted Root Vegetables with Thyme: A Delicious and Easy Side Dish
Perfect for any meal, these roasted root vegetables are infused with the warmth of thyme and a hint of sweetness from the natural sugars that develop during roasting. This simple recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the carrots, sweet potato, and parsnips.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with honey, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss until the vegetables are evenly coated.
4. Spread the mixture out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hanukkah Gelt Hot Chocolate
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a rich and creamy hot chocolate infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of Hanukkah gelt (chocolate coins). This festive drink is perfect for sipping on chilly winter nights or as a special treat during your menorah lighting.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup Hanukkah gelt (chocolate coins), crushed or finely chopped
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the warmed milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Stir in crushed Hanukkah gelt until melted and fully incorporated.
6. Remove from heat and pour into mugs. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Rugelach
Wake up to the sweet aroma of freshly baked rugelach and start your day off right with this classic treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. If using walnuts, sprinkle them over the sugar mixture.
6. Roll the pastry into a tight log, starting from one of the long edges.
7. Cut the log into 8-10 equal pieces.
8. Place the rugelach on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each piece.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes
Add a flavorful twist to classic mashed potatoes with this simple recipe that combines the pungency of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet or Idaho potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
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, butter, heavy cream or whole milk, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a delicious holiday season with these 20 festive Thanksgiving and Hanukkah recipes. From classic roast turkey and sweet potato latkes to brisket, challah stuffing, and jelly donuts, there’s something for everyone. Additional highlights include green bean casserole with crispy onions, pumpkin pie with gingersnap crust, and chocolate babka for dessert. Whether you’re celebrating Turkey Day or Hanukkah, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to make your holiday meals unforgettable.