It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas! A time for joy, giving, and of course, delicious food. Whether you’re hosting a big holiday bash or a cozy night in with loved ones, having a spread of tasty treats to share is essential. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the holidays with 20 festive Christmas recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends.
From classic comfort foods like roast turkey and mashed potatoes, to sweet treats like gingerbread cookies and peppermint bark, our collection has something for everyone. And let’s not forget the drinks – we’ve got spiced mulled wine and hot chocolate with peppermint stirrers to keep you warm and cozy throughout the season.
So grab your apron and get cooking! In this article, we’ll share all 20 of our favorite festive Christmas recipes, from savory main dishes to sweet treats and everything in between. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some holiday inspiration, you won’t want to miss these delicious and easy-to-make dishes.
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
A traditional holiday centerpiece, this classic roast turkey recipe features a flavorful herb butter that adds a rich and aromatic twist to the traditional roasted turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 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 butter, parsley, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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 30 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 4-4 1/2 hours
Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
This comforting side dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Fluffy mashed potatoes infused with the rich flavor of garlic, topped with a savory gravy that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth or chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and mash with a potato masher or fork until smooth.
3. Add the minced garlic, milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix well.
4. In a separate pan, whisk together the flour and broth over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
5. Serve the mashed potatoes topped with the warm gravy.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham
This sweet and tangy glaze adds a delicious twist to a classic ham, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree cranberries, orange marmalade, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly.
5. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce
This traditional Christmas pudding recipe combines moist fruitcake with a rich brandy sauce, perfect for the holiday season. A staple of British Christmas celebrations, this dessert is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
For the pudding:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (currants, raisins, cranberries)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup suet or vegetable shortening
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brandy or other liquor (optional)
For the sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brandy or other liquor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine dried fruits, brown sugar, suet, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix in brandy, if using.
4. Pour mixture into a greased pudding basin or mold.
5. Cover with parchment paper or cheesecloth.
6. Steam for 8 hours or bake for 2-1/2 hours.
7. For the sauce, combine cream, butter, and brandy in a small saucepan.
8. Heat over low heat until warm and smooth.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (steaming) or 2-1/2 hours (baking)
Peppermint Chocolate Bark
Get ready to brighten up your holiday season with this refreshing and decadent Peppermint Chocolate Bark recipe! This easy-to-make treat combines the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate for a perfect wintertime snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the semisweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract and melted white chocolate chips until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. If using, sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top of the bark.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is quick and easy, with a total prep time of about 15-20 minutes.
Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Chocolate Bark!
Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing
These classic cookies are a staple of the holiday season, and when paired with royal icing, they’re transformed into a sweet and sophisticated treat. Perfect for decorating or snacking, this recipe yields soft, chewy gingerbread cookies that are bursting with warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Royal icing (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into shapes and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Royal Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
– Food coloring (optional)
Mix powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water until smooth. Add food coloring if desired.
Eggnog Cheesecake with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Eggnog Cheesecake with Cinnamon Whipped Cream Recipe
This creamy cheesecake combines the flavors of eggnog and cinnamon, topped with a dollop of whipped cream infused with warm cinnamon. 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 eggnog
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggnog, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until combined.
3. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
4. Allow cheesecake to cool completely. Top with Cinnamon Whipped Cream (recipe below).
Cinnamon Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Beat heavy cream, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until stiff peaks form.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A Simple yet Delicious Side Dish
Elevate your meal game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky goodness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook the diced bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with the cooked bacon, red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping: A classic Southern side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a toasted marshmallow topping, perfect for holidays and family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add melted butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is set.
6. Remove from oven and top with mini marshmallows.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until marshmallows are toasted.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef Wellington with Mushroom Duxelles
This show-stopping Beef Wellington recipe combines tender beef fillet with a rich mushroom duxelles and flaky puff pastry. Perfect for special occasions or dinner parties, this elegant dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef fillet
– 1/2 cup mushroom duxelles (see below)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 puff pastry sheet, thawed
Mushroom Duxelles:
– 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (such as shiitake or cremini)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season beef with salt, pepper, and flour.
3. Spread mushroom duxelles over the beef, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll out puff pastry sheet to a large rectangle. Place the beef in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
5. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg and fold over the beef, pressing gently to seal.
6. Place Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Christmas Trifle with Berries and Custard
A classic Christmas dessert that combines moist sponge cake, sweet berries, and creamy custard.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-16 slices of store-bought or homemade sponge cake
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup heavy whipped cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Cut sponge cake into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes.
5. In a large serving dish, create layers of cake, berries, and custard. Finish with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
As the weather cools down, a cup of spiced mulled wine is just what you need to brighten up your winter nights. This classic recipe combines rich flavors of spices and fruit with the warmth of red wine.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of full-bodied red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup brandy or other dark liquor (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine wine, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and citrus slices in a large pot.
2. Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has reached your desired level of spiciness.
5. Strain the mulled wine into mugs or glasses.
6. If using brandy, add a splash to each mug (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Festive Stuffed Bell Peppers
A colorful and flavorful side dish perfect for the holiday season. These stuffed bell peppers are a delightful twist on traditional recipes, bursting with savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and top with shredded cheese (if using); return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baked Brie with Cranberry Compote
This recipe combines the creamy richness of baked brie cheese with the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberry compote, perfect for a quick and elegant appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (8 oz)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the brie cheese wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, cranberries, orange juice, and honey. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the cranberries pop (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Spread the cranberry compote over the brie cheese wheel.
5. Dot the top of the brie with softened butter.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the compote is bubbly.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Snowball Cookies with Powdered Sugar
These classic cookies are a staple of holiday baking, with their sweet powdered sugar coating and soft, chewy centers. Perfect for gift-giving or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 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 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in powdered sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yule Log Cake with Chocolate Ganache
A classic Christmas dessert that’s sure to impress, this Yule Log Cake is a showstopper. Moist and flavorful, it’s topped with a rich chocolate ganache for an extra-decadent treat.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
For the ganache:
– 1 cup (250g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 10×15-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, and milk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cake cool completely before slicing and serving with chocolate ganache.
Ganache Instructions:
1. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval.
2. Stir in heavy cream until smooth.
3. Pour over cooled cake and let set before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls
Start your holiday season off right with these sweet and indulgent cinnamon rolls, infused with the warm spices of Christmas morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Spread melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg evenly over the dough.
7. Roll up the dough tightly, cut into 12-15 rolls, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
This timeless dessert is a staple of autumn celebrations, combining the warmth of pumpkin puree with the sweetness of whipped cream. With this simple recipe, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and comforting pie in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 3 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Beat in eggs until well combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and fill with pumpkin mixture.
5. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce heat to 350°F (180°C) and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until filling is set.
6. Allow pie to cool before serving with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Glazed Carrots with Honey and Thyme
This simple yet impressive side dish brings together the natural sweetness of carrots, the warmth of thyme, and the richness of honey. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chopped carrots and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Spread the carrot mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Stirrers
Cozy up with a rich and creamy hot chocolate infused with the refreshing zing of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the warmed milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly, until the hot chocolate is smooth and creamy.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream for an extra-rich treat.
7. Pour into mugs and garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a festive holiday spread with these 20 delicious Christmas recipes! From classic roast turkey with herb butter to peppermint chocolate bark, gingerbread cookies with royal icing, and eggnog cheesecake with cinnamon whipped cream, there’s something for everyone. Other mouth-watering dishes include cranberry orange glazed ham, beef wellington with mushroom duxelles, and sweet potato casserole with marshmallow topping. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a quick and easy snack, these recipes are sure to make your holiday gathering merry and bright!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
