As the winter months approach, there’s nothing like cozying up with a warm cup of coffee or tea and indulging in some festive flavors. To help you make the most of the season, we’ve gathered 18 delicious December recipes that are sure to become new holiday traditions.
From sweet treats like Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies and Eggnog Cheesecake Bars, to savory dishes like Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham and Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just looking for some inspiration to spice up your winter meals, these recipes are sure to bring cheer and warmth to your table.
In the following pages, we’ll explore each of these festive December recipes in detail, including ingredient lists, step-by-step instructions, and gorgeous photos to inspire your cooking. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy, and let’s dive into the most wonderful time of the year!
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the classic flavors of peppermint and hot chocolate, perfect for a festive holiday treat or a cozy winter evening.
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
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic glazed ham, this recipe combines the flavors of cranberries and orange to create a deliciously unique holiday dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange marmalade, brown sugar, honey, garlic, and mustard.
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 glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover every surface.
6. Cover ham with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Gingerbread Spice Latte
Get cozy with this warm and inviting latte that combines the comforting flavors of gingerbread and spices with a rich espresso shot.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong brewed coffee or espresso
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy alternative)
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Whipped cream and crushed gingersnap cookies for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of strong coffee or make two espresso shots.
2. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
3. Add the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves to the warmed milk. Whisk until well combined.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the brown sugar until dissolved.
5. Pour the milk mixture into a large mug with the coffee or espresso shots.
6. Top with whipped cream and crushed gingersnap cookies, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including brewing time)
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Elevate your mashed potato game with the rich flavor of roasted garlic!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place garlic cloves on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
3. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to pot.
4. Add roasted garlic, broth, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with grated cheese or chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars: A Creamy and Dreamy Treat
These Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are a festive twist on the classic cheesecake, infused with the warm and comforting flavors of eggnog. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a special treat any time of year.
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 granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into prepared pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and eggnog; mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Glazed Carrots with Thyme
A classic side dish gets a flavorful twist with the addition of maple syrup and thyme. This sweet and savory glaze brings out the natural sweetness of carrots, while thyme adds a hint of earthy depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby carrots
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss carrots with olive oil, garlic, and thyme until evenly coated.
4. Roast carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While carrots are roasting, whisk together maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl.
6. After 15 minutes of roasting, brush the maple glaze over the carrots.
7. Return to oven and continue roasting for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Elevate your slow cooker game with this rich and flavorful Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon recipe, a classic French dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
3. Add the seasoned beef to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the sauce.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Stir in the butter until melted.
6. Serve hot over egg noodles or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Spiced Mulled Wine
As the temperature drops, gather friends and family around the fireplace with a glass of warm, spiced mulled wine. This classic winter drink is perfect for cozying up on chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cups water
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine red wine, water, sliced oranges and lemons, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and cardamom.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it mull for 20-30 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the drink has reached your desired temperature.
4. Strain the wine into a warm serving vessel and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Baked Brie with Fig Jam
Baked Brie with Fig Jam: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic
This recipe takes the classic baked brie to new heights by pairing it with sweet and tangy fig jam. The result is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Place the brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the fig jam over the brie, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the honey evenly over the fig jam.
5. Arrange the baguette slices around the brie, overlapping them slightly to create a “nest” for the cheese.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the brie is softened and the bread is toasted.
7. Garnish with chopped thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding
This autumnal treat combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice and bread pudding, perfect for a chilly fall evening. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a warm, aromatic dessert in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, pumpkin puree, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients; stir until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with chopped walnuts (if using).
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your side dish game with this simple recipe for Honey Glazed Brussels Sprouts. A drizzle of warm honey and a sprinkle of thyme add depth and complexity to these caramelized cruciferous veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle honey over the sprouts and sprinkle with Dijon mustard, thyme, and a pinch of salt.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Brighten up your holiday season with this refreshing twist on classic chocolate bark.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional)
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 peppermint extract and salt.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Allow it to set at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes or until slightly firm to the touch.
6. Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Spread the melted dark chocolate over the white chocolate layer.
8. If using, sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top.
9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
10. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: None
Rosemary Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this aromatic and flavorful rosemary roasted turkey recipe. This classic dish is sure to please a crowd!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for about 3-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/2 hours
Cinnamon Apple Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast treat – Cinnamon Apple Stuffed French Toast! This indulgent breakfast features crispy, buttery bread filled with tender apples and a hint of warm cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or Brioche work well)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs and sugar until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix chopped apples with cinnamon and softened butter in a small bowl.
6. Once toast is cooked, spread a tablespoon of apple mixture onto each slice.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup or honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Apple Stuffed French Toast!
Caramel Pecan Pie
A twist on the classic pecan pie, this caramel pecan pie combines gooey caramel with crunchy pecans and a flaky crust. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 2 cups pecan halves
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and melted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
4. Arrange pecans in the pie crust. Pour the caramel mixture over the pecans.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
6. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Mushroom Risotto
Experience the rich flavors of the forest with this creamy Wild Mushroom Risotto recipe. A perfect dish for mushroom enthusiasts and risotto lovers alike, this hearty meal is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add wine; cook until absorbed.
4. Add 1/2 cup broth; stir until absorbed. Repeat process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Stir in sliced mushrooms; cook until tender.
6. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peppermint Mocha Fudge
Create a refreshing and decadent treat with this Peppermint Mocha Fudge recipe, perfect for the holiday season or anytime you crave a sweet pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– Crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, butter, peppermint extract, and coffee powder. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in confectioners’ sugar and salt.
4. Let cool slightly before whisking in heavy cream.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
6. Cut into squares and garnish with crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (includes cooling time)
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the butternut squash, blending seamlessly with aromatic spices to create a deliciously savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, cumin, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
4. Roast for 45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor, add chopped onion, garlic, broth, and heavy cream (if using). Blend until smooth.
6. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these 18 festive December recipes! From sweet treats like Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies and Eggnog Cheesecake Bars, to savory dishes like Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham and Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon, there’s something for everyone. Warm up with a mug of Gingerbread Spice Latte or Spiced Mulled Wine, and indulge in decadent desserts like Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding and Caramel Pecan Pie. These recipes are sure to make your winter nights 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.
