Getting into the holiday spirit just got a whole lot tastier! As the snowflakes start to fall and the twinkling lights go up, it’s time to break out the cookbooks and get baking. This year, we’re making the season bright with 18 fun and festive Christmas recipes that are sure to delight your family, friends, and even Santa himself.
From sweet treats like Peppermint Chocolate Bark and Gingerbread House Cookies, to savory dishes like Reindeer Chow Snack Mix and Roasted Chestnut Soup, there’s something for everyone on this merry menu. So grab a cup of Candy Cane Hot Chocolate and get ready to deck the halls with these delightful holiday recipes.
Peppermint Chocolate Bark
Brighten up your snack time with this easy-to-make Peppermint Chocolate Bark, perfect for the holiday season or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (or peppermint candies)
– Optional: chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or other mix-ins
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes (or peppermint candies) on top of the white chocolate.
6. If desired, add chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or other mix-ins.
7. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a separate double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth.
8. Pour the melted dark chocolate over the white chocolate and candy canes.
9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
10. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to make.
Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread
Get ready to impress your holiday guests with this stunning Christmas tree-shaped pull-apart bread! This sweet and buttery treat is perfect for snacking or serving as a show-stopping centerpiece.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups warm water
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon green food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut out shapes resembling Christmas trees.
6. Place the trees on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each tree.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gingerbread House Cookies
Create a whimsical treat that’s perfect for the holiday season with these classic Gingerbread House Cookies. Soft, chewy, and infused with warm spices, these cookies are a delicious way to get into the festive spirit.
Ingredients:
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• Decorations of your choice (icing, candies, etc.)
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, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (houses, trees, etc.).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before decorating.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
Experience the flavors of the holiday season with these creamy and indulgent Eggnog Cheesecake Bars. Perfect for a festive gathering or as a special treat, these bars combine the richness of cheesecake with the warm spices of eggnog.
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 granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into prepared pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, eggnog, heavy cream, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
5. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Santa Hat Brownies
These Santa Hat Brownies are a fun and easy twist on traditional brownies. With their red and white frosting, they’re perfect for holiday parties or as a special treat for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
– 2 cups of sugar
– 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Red and white frosting for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
3. Whisk together sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add flour and melted chocolate to the sugar mixture. Stir until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before frosting with red and white swirls to resemble Santa’s hat.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Festive Cranberry Brie Bites
Elevate your holiday party with these sweet and savory bites, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. Combining creamy brie cheese, tangy cranberries, and crunchy crackers, these festive treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 package of crackers (such as water crackers or wheat thins)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries and honey until well combined.
3. Roll out the softened brie cheese into a log shape, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the cranberry mixture on top of the brie, leaving a 1-inch border at each end.
5. Wrap the log with crackers, starting from one end and working your way around.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crackers are lightly toasted.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Snowman Cupcakes
Snowman Cupcakes Recipe
Bring a touch of winter wonderland to your holiday celebrations with these adorable Snowman Cupcakes! Made with moist vanilla cake, creamy frosting, and topped with edible decorations, these treats are sure to delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– White frosting (recipe below)
– Edible markers or small candies for decorations
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat butter until creamy. Add milk and eggs, beating until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
White Frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2-3 tablespoons whole milk
Combine butter and powdered sugar in a bowl. Gradually add milk, beating until smooth.
Reindeer Chow Snack Mix
Get ready to jingle all the way with this tasty and addictive snack mix perfect for the holiday season!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Chex cereal (any variety)
– 1 cup pretzels, broken into pieces
– 1 cup mixed nuts (such as peanuts, almonds, and cashews)
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine Chex cereal, pretzels, and mixed nuts.
2. In a separate bowl, melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Pour melted chocolate over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Drizzle caramel sauce over the mixture and toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle with salt and vanilla extract.
Cooking Time: None! This snack mix is ready to devour as soon as it’s assembled.
Candy Cane Hot Chocolate
Cozy up with this festive hot chocolate recipe, infused with the sweet and spicy flavors of candy canes. Perfect for a winter wonderland gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– 2-3 candy canes, crushed or 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Whipped cream and additional crushed candy canes for topping (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 mixture 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 hot chocolate reaches desired temperature.
5. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream (if using).
6. Add crushed candy canes or peppermint extract to taste.
7. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and additional crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Christmas Wreath Salad
A festive twist on traditional greens, this Christmas Wreath Salad is a colorful and delicious addition to your holiday menu. Fresh vegetables, fruits, and nuts come together to create a visually appealing dish that’s perfect for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
Warm up with a delicious and aromatic Spiced Mulled Wine perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
• 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
• 2 cups of water
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 6 whole cloves
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, water, orange and lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the brown sugar and ground ginger.
5. Strain the mulled wine into a serving pitcher or individual mugs.
6. Serve warm, garnished with an orange slice or cinnamon stick if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Snowball Cookies
Warm up with a sweet treat that’s perfect for any time of the year! These classic snowball cookies are soft, chewy, and coated in powdered sugar, making them an irresistible snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (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 sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in confectioners’ sugar.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. If using walnuts, fold them into the dough.
6. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Christmas Morning Pancakes
These fluffy pancakes are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, making them a perfect treat for Christmas morning. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful breakfast that’s sure to put everyone in a festive mood.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter, cooled
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Stir in cinnamon and nutmeg.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes for all the pancakes.
Festive Jello Shots
Kick off your holiday party with these colorful and festive Jello shots! Made with cranberry juice, lime sherbet, and a splash of grenadine, these mini treats are perfect for serving at gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup lime sherbet
– 1 tablespoon grenadine syrup
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1 cup of boiling water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine cranberry juice, lime sherbet, and grenadine syrup. Stir until the sherbet is fully dissolved.
3. Add the bloomed gelatin to the juice mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into small cups or shot glasses.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of edible glitter or a cranberry slice if desired.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Peppermint Mocha Truffles
Coat your taste buds with the perfect blend of peppermint and mocha flavors in these bite-sized truffles. Perfect for a holiday party or a special treat, these chocolatey delights are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup instant coffee powder
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together softened butter and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
3. Add peppermint extract and instant coffee powder to the butter mixture and whisk until combined.
4. Fold in whipped cream into the butter mixture until well combined.
5. Cover mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Roll chilled mixture into small balls and dip into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
8. Garnish with crushed candy canes or chopped pecans, if desired.
9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including refrigeration time)
Christmas Pudding Trifle
Add a touch of festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with this rich and indulgent Christmas pudding trifle. Layers of moist cake, sweet custard, and tangy fruit come together in a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup cubed Christmas pudding (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup whipped cream, sweetened with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 12-16 ladyfingers
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper the yolk mixture by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Cut the Christmas pudding into 1-inch cubes.
4. Assemble the trifle by spreading a layer of custard on the bottom of a large serving dish. Top with ladyfingers, then Christmas pudding cubes, and finally mixed berries.
5. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with whipped cream on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Roasted Chestnut Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup made with roasted chestnuts, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or dried chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the chestnuts in half, removing any stems or debris.
3. In a large bowl, toss chestnuts with olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until chestnuts are tender and caramelized.
4. Transfer roasted chestnuts to a blender or food processor. Add vegetable broth and coconut milk. Blend until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Gingerbread Latte
Warm up with a cozy and comforting Gingerbread Latte this holiday season!
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon gingerbread syrup (or to taste)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of espresso or make two cups of strong coffee.
2. In a large mug, combine the coffee, milk, gingerbread syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness and spice level to your liking.
4. Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 delightful Christmas recipes! From sweet treats like Peppermint Chocolate Bark and Santa Hat Brownies to savory delights like Festive Cranberry Brie Bites and Roasted Chestnut Soup, there’s something for everyone. Impress your guests with Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread or Snowman Cupcakes, or indulge in festive drinks like Candy Cane Hot Chocolate and Spiced Mulled Wine. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast treat or a fun snack to enjoy while decorating the tree, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday celebrations.
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.
