As the holiday season approaches, many of us start thinking about hosting or attending Christmas parties. One of the most crucial aspects of these gatherings is, of course, the food! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipe ideas that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their cravings.
From classic cookies like Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies and Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies, to savory dishes like Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey and Savory Sausage Stuffing, our collection of recipes is designed to cater to a variety of tastes. We’ll also be featuring some sweet treats, such as Eggnog Cheesecake Bars and Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Whether you’re looking for something to serve at your holiday party or just want to enjoy some festive flavors in the comfort of your own home, we’ve got you covered.
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the invigorating flavor of peppermint and the richness of dark chocolate chips. Perfect for a holiday treat or a pick-me-up any time of the year!
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 white 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. 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 eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce
Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this elegant and flavorful appetizer, featuring creamy brie cheese wrapped in puff pastry and served with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 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 oven to 400°F.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place the brie cheese in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
4. Fold the pastry over the cheese, pressing gently to seal edges.
5. Brush the top with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with sugar.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, combine cranberries, orange juice, and honey in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Serve warm brie with cranberry sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey
Add a savory twist to your holiday turkey with this flavorful recipe that combines the pungency of garlic and the freshness of herbs. Perfect for special occasions, this roasted turkey is sure to impress!
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
– 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 olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season 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).
Cooking Time: approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Transform a classic ham into a show-stopping centerpiece with this easy-to-make recipe featuring sweet honey glaze and juicy pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 fresh pineapple ring, cut into chunks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, mustard, cloves, and salt.
3. Place the ham on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Brush the honey glaze all over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Place the pineapple chunks on top of the ham, slightly off-center.
6. Bake for 2 hours and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Cranberry Orange Punch
This fruity punch combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange, perfect for a holiday gathering or party. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be sipping on this delicious drink in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sparkling water
– Slices of orange and lime for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice, orange juice, and pineapple juice.
2. Stir in the granulated sugar until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with slices of orange and lime if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This punch is ready to serve in just a few minutes.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This classic party favorite combines the rich flavors of artichokes, spinach, and cream cheese for a deliciously addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: Serves 8-10 people
Enjoy your delicious Spinach and Artichoke Dip!
Mini Beef Wellingtons
Elevate your dinner party with these delectable Mini Beef Wellingtons, featuring tender beef fillets wrapped in flaky puff pastry and packed with rich flavors. Perfect for a special occasion or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mushroom duxelles, cheddar cheese, and butter.
3. Place a beef strip in the center of each puff pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the meat.
4. Spoon the mushroom-cheddar mixture over the beef, then fold the pastry to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
5. Brush edges with water and press gently to seal.
6. Place Mini Wellingtons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
This savory bread recipe is a game-changer for any meal or gathering. With its gooey cheese and aromatic garlic, it’s sure to become a crowd favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, garlic, and 1/2 cup of the grated cheese to the bowl; mix until combined.
3. Knead dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough; divide into 8 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
7. Place disks onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
8. Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top of each bread; bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
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, cheesecake, and graham cracker crust for a perfect holiday treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter; stir until combined. Press into prepared pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggnog, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; beat until well combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
5. Let cool completely in pan. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
These moist and flavorful gingerbread cupcakes are perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a festive treat during the holiday season. The tangy cream cheese frosting adds a delightful contrast to the spicy-sweet cupcake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, ginger, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, and molasses. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until combined.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A Deliciously Savory Side Dish
Elevate your mealtime with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky richness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
5. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with the cooked bacon, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Glazed Carrots
Sweet and sticky maple glaze elevates humble carrots to a new level of deliciousness. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight side dish or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized sticks
– 1/2 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the glaze mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the glazed carrots in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the rich flavors of pecan pie, featuring a gooey filling and a crunchy texture. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)
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 eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chopped pecans.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in each cookie. Fill with a small amount of maple syrup (if using).
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
As the weather cools down, there’s no better way to warm up and cozy up than with a glass of spiced mulled wine. This traditional recipe combines the rich flavors of red wine with aromatic spices and citrus for a deliciously comforting drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Combine the wine, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and citrus slices in a large pot or Dutch oven.
2. Add the brown sugar and ground ginger to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it mulled for at least 30 minutes.
5. Strain the spices from the wine before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Festive Christmas Tree Brownies
A delightful dessert perfect for your holiday gatherings! These brownies are infused with the festive spirit, featuring a tree-shaped design and a rich, fudgy texture.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
• Green or red frosting, for tree design
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, sugar, and cocoa powder. Beat until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Allow brownies to cool completely in pan before cutting into tree shapes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
Perfect for chilly days or cozy gatherings, this slow cooker hot chocolate recipe is easy to make and can be enjoyed by all ages. Simply add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together milk, coffee, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until smooth.
2. Add cinnamon if desired for an extra boost of flavor.
3. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
4. Stir well before serving.
5. Pour into mugs and top with your favorite whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate chips.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Cranberry Brie Bites
These bite-sized appetizers combine the creaminess of brie cheese with the tanginess of fresh cranberries, perfect for your next gathering or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 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. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
3. Place a small spoonful of softened brie cheese onto each piece of pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the cheese.
4. Top the brie with a few cranberries and drizzle with honey. Sprinkle with thyme.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Bark
This classic holiday treat combines the richness of chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint. Perfect for gift-giving or a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) milk chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup (30g) crushed candy canes
– 1 tablespoon shortening
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the crushed candy canes and peppermint extract.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick.
5. Melt the milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Drizzle the melted milk chocolate over the white chocolate layer.
7. Allow the bark to set at room temperature or refrigerate for about 30 minutes before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: None (melting and setting only)
Savory Sausage Stuffing
This hearty stuffing recipe combines the flavors of savory sausage, fresh herbs, and toasted bread for a delicious side dish perfect for holidays or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 melted butter, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, bread cubes, chicken broth, and sage. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer stuffing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Snowball Cookies with Powdered Sugar
These classic cookies are a staple of holiday baking, with their crunchy exterior and soft interior coated in powdered sugar. This recipe makes about 2 dozen cookies that are perfect for gift-giving or snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor
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.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll balls of dough about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly browned.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 delicious and festive Christmas party recipes! From sweet treats like Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies and Eggnog Cheesecake Bars, to savory dishes like Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey and Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy classics like Cranberry Orange Punch and Spinach and Artichoke Dip, or try new twists on old favorites with recipes like Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies and Festive Christmas Tree Brownies. Whatever your party theme, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday gathering.
