Christmas is the perfect time to gather around the table and indulge in the season’s most delightful flavors. Whether you’re planning a festive feast or looking for quick, cozy dishes to warm up your holiday nights, our roundup of 20 Delicious Best Christmas Recipes has something for every home cook. From timeless classics to creative twists, these recipes are sure to make your celebrations extra special. Let’s dive in!
Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Savory and succulent, this roast turkey with herb butter is a showstopper. Perfect for holidays or any gathering, it’s straightforward yet impressive.
Ingredients
- For the herb butter:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- For the turkey:
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs), thawed
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter, rosemary, thyme, sage, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp pepper until well combined.
- Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. This ensures the skin crisps up nicely.
- Season the turkey inside and out with 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp pepper.
- Gently loosen the skin over the turkey breast and thighs with your fingers.
- Spread half of the herb butter under the skin directly on the meat.
- Rub the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the turkey.
- Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan, breast side up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F.
- Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute.
Delightfully juicy with a crispy, golden skin, this turkey is infused with aromatic herbs. Serve with a side of cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
Honey Glazed Ham
Every holiday table deserves a show-stopping centerpiece, and this honey glazed ham delivers. It’s sweet, savory, and impossibly juicy.
Ingredients
- For the ham:
- 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked, bone-in ham
- 1 cup water
- For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Place ham in a roasting pan, flat side down. Add 1 cup water to the pan.
- Cover ham tightly with foil. Bake for 10 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 140°F.
- While ham bakes, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes. Tip: For a smoother glaze, strain it before applying.
- Remove ham from oven. Increase oven temperature to 425°F.
- Brush half of the glaze over the ham. Return to oven, uncovered, for 10 minutes.
- Brush remaining glaze over ham. Bake for another 10 minutes, or until glaze is bubbly and caramelized. Tip: Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Let ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Tip: For easier slicing, use a sharp, thin-bladed knife.
Luscious and sticky, this ham pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp salad. The glaze forms a glossy crust that cracks with each slice, revealing tender meat beneath.
Classic Beef Wellington
Every home chef needs a showstopper dish, and Classic Beef Wellington fits the bill perfectly. It’s rich, flavorful, and impressive on any table.
Ingredients
- For the beef:
- 1.5 lbs beef tenderloin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the mushroom duxelles:
- 8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 shallot, minced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- For the wrapping:
- 6 slices prosciutto
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Season beef tenderloin with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over high heat. Sear beef on all sides until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove and let cool.
- In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add shallot and garlic, sauté until soft, about 2 minutes.
- Add mushrooms, cook until all moisture evaporates, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Let cool.
- Lay out prosciutto slices on plastic wrap, slightly overlapping. Spread mushroom mixture over prosciutto.
- Place beef in the center, roll prosciutto and mushrooms around beef using the plastic wrap to help. Chill for 15 minutes.
- Roll out puff pastry on floured surface. Unwrap beef and place in the center of the pastry. Fold pastry over beef, sealing edges with beaten egg.
- Place seam side down on a baking sheet. Brush with remaining egg.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until pastry is golden and beef reaches 125°F for medium-rare.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
This dish offers a perfect contrast between the crispy pastry and tender beef. Try serving it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ready to elevate your side dish game? These creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a foolproof crowd-pleaser, blending rich flavors with a velvety texture.
Ingredients
- For the potatoes:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp salt
- For finishing:
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp chopped chives
Instructions
- Place potatoes and garlic in a large pot. Cover with cold water by 1 inch.
- Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain well. Return potatoes and garlic to the pot.
- Heat milk and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until butter melts. Do not boil.
- Mash potatoes and garlic with a potato masher until smooth.
- Gradually add warm milk mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Stir in heavy cream until potatoes reach desired creaminess.
- Season with salt. Adjust to preference.
- Garnish with chopped chives before serving.
Garlicky and rich, these mashed potatoes boast a smooth, luxurious texture. Serve them alongside roasted meats or fold in some roasted garlic for an extra flavor punch.
Green Bean Casserole
Nothing beats the comfort of a classic Green Bean Casserole, especially when it’s packed with flavor and topped with a crispy crust. This dish is a must-have for any gathering, offering a perfect blend of creamy and crunchy textures.
Ingredients
- For the casserole:
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the topping:
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, mix the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a 1.5-quart baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly around the edges.
- Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown.
Fresh out of the oven, this casserole boasts a creamy interior with a satisfying crunch from the onions. Serve it alongside roasted meats or as a standout side at your next potluck.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Ready to dive into a classic comfort dish that’s both sweet and savory? This sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering. Simple to make, it’s a staple that never disappoints.
Ingredients
- For the sweet potato base:
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the topping:
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the edges start to pull away from the dish.
- Remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the mini marshmallows and chopped pecans evenly over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the marshmallows to set slightly.
Golden marshmallows create a crispy top layer, contrasting beautifully with the creamy sweet potato beneath. Serve warm for the best texture, or pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Zesty and vibrant, homemade cranberry sauce is a must-have for any festive table. This version balances sweet and tart with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- For the sauce:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp orange zest
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries under cold water and discard any soft or bruised ones.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the orange zest.
- Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving. It will thicken further as it cools.
Yield a sauce that’s glossy and thick with a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Serve it chilled or at room temperature alongside roasted meats or spread on toast for a quick treat.
Buttery Dinner Rolls
You’ll find these buttery dinner rolls are a game-changer for any meal. They’re soft, fluffy, and melt in your mouth.
Ingredients
- For the dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For finishing:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add flour, salt, and 1/4 cup melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball.
- Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake rolls for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Brush hot rolls with 2 tbsp melted butter. Serve warm.
Enjoy these rolls fresh out of the oven for the best experience. Their buttery flavor pairs perfectly with soups or as a standalone treat.
Eggnog Cheesecake
Get ready to indulge in a creamy, festive dessert that combines the rich flavors of eggnog with the smooth texture of cheesecake.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- For the filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup eggnog
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Tip: Use a flat-bottomed cup to evenly press the crust.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps.
- Add eggnog, eggs, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Beat until just combined. Tip: Overbeating can incorporate too much air, causing cracks.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly wobbly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool slowly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Light and creamy with a hint of spice, this cheesecake is perfect for holiday gatherings. Serve with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flair.
Peppermint Bark
Zesty and refreshing, peppermint bark is a holiday favorite that combines creamy chocolate with a crisp peppermint crunch. It’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
Ingredients
- For the chocolate layer:
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- For the peppermint layer:
- 12 oz white chocolate chips
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Spread the melted chocolate evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes until set.
- Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Stir peppermint extract into the melted white chocolate.
- Pour the white chocolate over the set semi-sweet chocolate layer, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the white chocolate layer while still soft.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until fully set.
- Break into pieces and serve.
Rich layers of chocolate and peppermint create a delightful contrast in every bite. Serve as a festive gift or a sweet treat after dinner.
Gingerbread Cookies
Nothing beats the warm, spicy aroma of gingerbread cookies baking in the oven. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, these cookies are a timeless treat.
Ingredients
- For the dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup molasses
- For decorating (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Tip: Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Add egg and molasses to the butter mixture, beating until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Tip: Dough should be firm but pliable; if too sticky, chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
- Place cookies 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are firm. Tip: Cookies will firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake.
- Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- For icing, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Decorate cooled cookies as desired.
Out of the oven, these gingerbread cookies boast a crisp edge with a chewy center, packed with spicy-sweet flavors. Serve them stacked high on a plate or hang them as edible ornaments for a festive touch.
Christmas Pudding
Dive into the festive spirit with this classic Christmas Pudding, a rich, moist dessert that’s a holiday staple. Perfect for sharing, it’s packed with flavors that mature beautifully over time.
Ingredients
- For the pudding:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup suet
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- For the sauce:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup brandy
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, breadcrumbs, suet, brown sugar, dried fruits, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Beat eggs and milk together, then stir into the dry ingredients until well combined.
- Tip: For extra moisture, soak the dried fruits in brandy overnight before using.
- Grease a pudding basin and pour the mixture in, filling it two-thirds full.
- Cover with a lid or foil, then steam for 5 hours, checking the water level occasionally.
- Tip: Keep the water at a gentle simmer to prevent the pudding from drying out.
- For the sauce, melt butter in a pan, stir in powdered sugar until smooth, then add brandy.
- Tip: Warm the sauce slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Remove the pudding from the steamer, let it cool slightly, then turn it onto a plate.
- Serve warm with the brandy sauce drizzled over the top.
Great for making ahead, this pudding’s deep, spiced flavors develop further if stored. Serve with a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Mulled Wine
Ready to warm up your evenings? Mulled wine combines rich flavors and spices for a cozy drink.
Ingredients
- For the base:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine
- 1/4 cup honey
- For the spices:
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole cloves
- 1 star anise
- 1 orange, sliced
Instructions
- Pour the red wine into a large pot over medium heat.
- Add honey to the pot, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Insert the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and orange slices into the pot.
- Heat the mixture until it reaches a simmer, not a boil, to preserve the alcohol content.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it steep for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Strain the mulled wine into mugs, discarding the solids.
Serve it hot for the best experience. The aroma of spices fills the air, while the orange adds a subtle citrus note. Perfect for chilly nights or holiday gatherings.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Kick off your meal with this savory side that’s both simple and satisfying. Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon combine crisp textures and rich flavors for a dish that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients
- For the sprouts:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the bacon:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until sprouts are golden and tender.
- While sprouts roast, cook chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- Remove sprouts from oven. Toss with crispy bacon. Serve immediately.
Offer this dish warm for the best flavor and texture. The sprouts should be crispy on the outside, tender inside, with smoky bacon bits throughout. Try topping with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra flavor boost.
Baked Brie with Cranberries
Delightfully simple yet impressively elegant, this baked brie with cranberries is a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s a dish that combines creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
- For the brie:
- 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- For serving:
- Crackers or sliced baguette
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the brie wheel on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Tip: Leaving the rind on helps the brie hold its shape.
- Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the top of the brie.
- Drizzle honey over the cranberry sauce. Tip: Warm the honey slightly for easier drizzling.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the brie is soft to the touch but not melted through. Tip: Watch closely to avoid over-baking.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 2 minutes before serving.
Just out of the oven, the brie is luxuriously creamy, contrasting beautifully with the crunchy pecans and sweet-tart cranberry sauce. Serve it with crisp crackers or a warm baguette for dipping.
Pumpkin Pie
Warm up to the classic flavors of fall with this simple pumpkin pie recipe. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy night in.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup ice water
- For the filling:
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Mix flour and salt in a large bowl.
- Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, stirring until dough forms. Tip: Handle dough as little as possible to keep it flaky.
- Roll dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie plate.
- Place dough in pie plate, trim edges, and crimp.
- Whisk pumpkin puree, sugar, spices, and salt in a large bowl.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in evaporated milk. Tip: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Pour filling into crust.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes until filling is set. Tip: Check doneness by inserting a knife near the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool on a wire rack for 2 hours before serving.
Creamy and spiced, this pumpkin pie is a holiday staple. Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Apple Cider Donuts
Just imagine biting into a warm, spiced apple cider donut on a crisp fall morning. These donuts are a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, with a moist texture that’s irresistible.
Ingredients
- For the donuts:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- For the coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a donut pan with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, mix apple cider, milk, egg, and melted butter until combined.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Tip: Overmixing leads to tough donuts.
- Fill each donut cavity 2/3 full with batter. Use a piping bag for neatness.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Tip: Donuts should spring back when touched.
- Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon for coating in a shallow bowl. Brush each donut with melted butter, then dip in cinnamon sugar. Tip: Coat while warm for best adherence.
Kickstart your day with these apple cider donuts, featuring a tender crumb and a crispy sugar coating. Serve them alongside a hot cup of coffee for a match made in heaven.
Chocolate Yule Log
Perfect for holiday gatherings, this Chocolate Yule Log combines rich flavors with a festive look. It’s easier to make than you might think.
Ingredients
- For the cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- For the filling:
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the ganache:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs and granulated sugar on high speed until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.
- Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold into egg mixture.
- Spread batter evenly into prepared pan. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until cake springs back when touched.
- Immediately invert cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off parchment paper.
- Roll cake and towel together from the short end. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the filling, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Unroll cooled cake. Spread filling evenly over cake. Re-roll without towel.
- For the ganache, heat heavy cream until simmering. Pour over chocolate chips. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Spread ganache over cake. Use a fork to create bark-like texture. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
A slice of this Chocolate Yule Log reveals a moist, fluffy interior with a creamy filling. The rich ganache adds a decadent finish. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for extra holiday cheer.
Spiced Nuts
For a quick snack that packs a punch, spiced nuts are your go-to. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- For the nuts:
- 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts)
- For the spice mix:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the nuts with olive oil until evenly coated.
- Add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, sea salt, and brown sugar to the nuts. Toss well to ensure all nuts are coated with the spice mix.
- Spread the nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then stir the nuts to ensure even cooking. Bake for another 5-10 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Let the nuts cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. They will crisp up as they cool.
Crunchy and flavorful, these spiced nuts offer a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Serve them at your next gathering or pack them for a healthy snack on the go.
Snowball Cookies
Let’s dive into making Snowball Cookies, a festive treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. These buttery, nutty delights are perfect for holiday gifting or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- For the dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
- For coating:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat butter, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in flour and salt until just combined. Fold in walnuts.
- Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place 1 inch apart on baking sheets.
- Bake for 12 minutes, or until bottoms are lightly golden. Tip: Don’t overbake; cookies should remain pale.
- Cool cookies on baking sheets for 5 minutes. Tip: They’re fragile when hot, so handle with care.
- While still warm, roll cookies in remaining powdered sugar. Tip: For extra sweetness, roll again once cooled.
- Cool completely on wire racks.
Delightfully crumbly and rich, these cookies melt in your mouth. Serve them on a vintage plate for a nostalgic touch or pack them in a decorative box as a heartfelt gift.
Conclusion
Let these 20 Delicious Best Christmas Recipes Festive be your guide to a holiday filled with joy and flavor! From savory mains to sweet treats, there’s something for every home cook to love. We invite you to try these recipes, share your favorites in the comments, and spread the festive cheer by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking and merry Christmas!