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Veena Azmanov

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    Christmas Recipes

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    What if someone told you that Christmas doesn’t have to be a stressful time in the kitchen? Here are 100 plus recipes that are simple, easy, and the most delicious along with tips, ideas, and menus to plan your holiday dinner.

    A collage of holiday recipes.
    101 Christmas Recipes Collections.
    Table of Content

    Holidays are always overwhelming with food related questions. What to make? What to give? And what should we cook for the holiday dinner? Here are my recipes that I use throughout the holiday season, including cookies, truffles, and bars that you can use as holiday gifts. Also, I have Christmas recipes for entertaining, as well as what to cook for Christmas dinner from starters, appetizers, and main-course to sides and desserts. There's something for everyone.

    How to plan a festive dinner?

    • Plan your Thanksgiving menu before you start shopping. That way, you avoid over-shopping or forgetting to buy the necessary items. 
    • Also, decide how many people are going to be at the dinner table so you don't have to recalculate your menu over and over again. In addition, plan for at least 2 extra servings, so you don't run short. It's always better to have a few leftovers than to run short at dinner.
    • Then, choose a theme or style that is not too contrasting. For example, if you choose to make a Middle Eastern style main course, don't make a French-style side dish or appetizer. Because, while they may be absolutely delicious on their own, often these flavors don't complement each other.
    • And choose dishes that look pretty, colorful, and offer a variety of textures and tastes.
    • Also, make a few classics for those who are more conservative. And try a few new recipes so people get something different. As a result, they will remember it a long time later.
    • Don't repeat the main ingredients. For example,if you are making one main-course lamb (red meat), make the other turkey, chicken, or fish.
    • Or, if you choose one pumpkin pie, don't make the second dessert with pumpkin or pie. Instead, try an apple cake, brownies, etc.
    • Also, give a mix of different textures. For example, if you make mashed potatoes don't make mashed peas. Rather, try oven-baked casseroles or roasted asparagus or sautéed carrots.
    • Try to use as many make-ahead dishes as you can such as desserts, side dishes, and appetizers. That way, you can concentrate on the main course and set the table.
    • Most importantly, make sure to take into account those in the family with special dietary needs, and allergies, such as vegan, or egg and dairy allergies.
    • And, if you are new to cooking, choose recipes that are easy and you are confident making or have tried before. And if you are a seasoned cook, choose 70% tried and tested recipes. In addition, choose two to three that will stretch your cooking skills.
    • Don't skip salads, bread, and condiments. In fact, bread is easy to make or buy ahead. And salads add color and texture to the dinner table. Also, condiments are often what people need to add a little something to their main dishes, like cranberry sauce with roast turkey or chicken.
    • Lastly, make sure to offer your guests drinks and appetizers that will encourage mingling. This is especially important when you have guests that don't know each other. For example, pre-snacks such as chips with salsa, cheese and crackers are a great way to build an appetite. But too much of that can also become unnecessary fillers.
    • If you have guests that like to keep things healthy, try substituting some of the dishes with healthier options. For example, instead of making mashed potatoes make skinny mashed potato or a sweet potato casserole. Try roasted squash salad or green bean casserole. And, when possible, use yogurt instead of sour cream, or maple and honey instead of sugar. Try cranberries instead of raisins. 
    • And if you are a small family, make turkey breast instead of the whole roast turkey. Or make a roast chicken or roast beef. 

    Since we always start with baking Christmas cookies first. I have over 50 wonderful holiday cookie recipes and many of those are great for the Christmas cookie platter.
    But, let me share with you my favorite collection of holiday cookie recipes.

    The Best Sugar Cookies Recipe

    This sugar cookies recipe has a classic taste, crispy texture, and perfect sweetness. This recipe uses less sugar and butter than other recipes, but the end result is a soft, fluffy, tasty sugar cookie that’s just as pleasing to the palate.
    Check out this recipe
    A stack of sugar cookies.

    No Chill Sugar Cookies

    This is one of my favorite sugar cookie dough recipes because they are my no-spread, no-chill sugar cookies. Soft, chewy cookies made with just four main ingredients that take 10 minutes to prep, 10 minutes to cut shapes, and 10 minutes to bake.
    Check out this recipe
    Cookies spread on a table.

    No-Spread Sugar Cookies

    If you are looking for the best no-spread sugar cookie that bakes perfectly every single time, this is it!! These cookies do not spread no matter what the shape. They are soft and chewy with a shortbread texture that melts in your mouth. A simple and easy recipe with just 5 ingredients, 5 minutes to mix, and 10 minutes to bake.
    Check out this recipe
    Sugar cookies that do not spread on a black board.

    Gingersnap Cookies

    This recipe for gingersnap cookies makes the most delicious crisp on the outside but soft and chewy cookies because we use molasses. These cookies take just 10 mins to prep and 10 minutes to bake a batch. Perfect to add to your holiday cookies platter
    Check out this recipe
    Stack of ginger cookies and a jar.

    Snickerdoodle Cookies

    This snickerdoodle cookies recipe is soft, chewy, with the wonderful flavor of cinnamon. And they are perfect with a glass of cold milk. They are so easy to make, you'll have to make another batch.
    Check out this recipe
    A snickerdooldle cookie cut in half.

    Christmas M & M Cookies

    If you are looking for some treats to bake this Christmas, try these Christmas M&M cookies that are easy to make and loaded with green and red M&M candy. These cookies are hard to resist so make sure to double the batch.
    Check out this recipe
    MM Cookies on a table for Christmas .

    Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies

    Homemade gingerbread cookies are just not the same if you can’t cut them into adorable shapes. Find out the trick to making the best gingerbread sandwich cookies—shaped and decorated just like Christmas.
    Check out this recipe
    Sandwich gingerbread cookies.

    Gingerbread Sugar Cookies

    Do you want sugar cookies with a wonderful gingerbread flavor? Then these gingerbread sugar cookies are for you. While they are delicious on their own they are also the perfect canvas to decorate with royal icing or fondant.
    Check out this recipe
    fondant decorated sugar cookies on a table

    Raspberry Linzer Cookies

    This is a simple cookie that makes an elegant presentation as well as a scrumptious treat. This raspberry Linzer cookie recipe pairs buttery shortbread cookies with raspberry jam for a pop of flavor.
    Check out this recipe
    Raspberry jam cookies on the table.

    Melting Moments Cookies

    Melting moments cookies are simple and easy shortbread cookies that have a crumbly melt in your mouth texture. A simple and easy butter cookie that is perfect to add to your holiday baking during the festive season.
    Check out this recipe
    Melting moments dusted with powdered sugar.

    Whipped Shortbread Cookies

    Flour, butter, sugar, and salt blend into a light and puffy whipped shortbread cookie recipe that is easy to make and oh-so-delicious. A simple and easy holiday recipe that takes just 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to bake.
    Check out this recipe
    Whipped shortbread on a wooden board.

    Cranberry Pecan Snowball Cookies

    These cranberry pecan snowball cookies are buttery shortbread cookies with ground pecans and cranberries. They are baked then coated with powdered sugar. You won't find a recipe easier than this because all you need is a bowl and spatula. The dough takes 5 minutes to combine and 10 minutes to bake. Easy peasy and perfect for the holiday season.
    Check out this recipe
    A plate with snowball cookies.

    Old-Fashion Molasses Cookies

    Considered the poor man's candy, molasses transforms into delicious homemade cookies in this easy recipe. Grandma's old fashion soft molasses cookies do not need any chilling time. They are soft, chewy, and packed with the flavors of warm spices. Perfect to add to your holiday baking this Christmas.
    Check out this recipe
    Stack of molasses cookies.

    Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

    These cinnamon sugar cookies are buttery, sugary with a hint of vanilla and just the right amount of cinnamon. Baked until crisp on the outside but soft on the inside. The recipe is surprisingly simple and easy to make too. A perfect cookie flavor to add to your cookie jars during the festive or holiday season.
    Check out this recipe
    A stack of cookies on a table.

    Gingerbread Cookies Recipe

    Learn how to make the best, softest, and most delicious gingerbread cookies. I'll share my best recipe and give you all sorts of tips, tricks, and ideas to decorate them. These do not spread, so you will have perfectly shaped cookies to add to you your holiday platter.
    Check out this recipe
    Gingerbread cookies on a table.

    Linzer Cookies

    Linzer cookies are the best addition to the holiday cookies collection. This recipe uses my shortbread cookie dough as a base that has a buttery, crumbly texture. Today, I sandwiched these with strawberry jam but you can use other jams or fillings too
    Check out this recipe
    Jam cookeis on a table

    Candy Christmas Cookies

    These candy Christmas cookies are fun and festive with crushed red and green candy over each cookie. Kids love candy so this cookie gets kids' attention immediately. You can add as much or as little candy as you prefer. A simple and easy butter dough recipe that just melts in the mouth instantly. These are highly addictive so make sure to keep extra in the cookie jar. 
    Check out this recipe
    A stack of Christmas cookies on a round board.

    Cranberry Pistachio Cookies

    Buttery cranberry pistachio cookies are the perfect gifts for the holiday season or just when you want to enjoy pistachios. This simple and easy cookie recipe takes 5 minutes to prep and 12 minutes to bake with no chilling time required.
    Check out this recipe
    Cookies on a table with some pistachios and cranberries.

    Stained Glass Cookies

    Whether you’re making craft cookies or preparing for an upcoming holiday party, consider decorating your cookies with stained glass designs. Kids can get in on the fun by making their favorite gingerbread flavor cookies and decorating them with hard candy for the stained glass effect.
    Check out this recipe
    Cookies on the table with glass effect.

    Almond Linzer Cookies

    Almond Linzer cookies are as tasty as they are beautiful. This recipe makes enough cookies to share. Sandwiched with an assorted delicious filling of jams and chocolate these are the perfect treat any time of the year, especially during the holiday season.
    Check out this recipe
    Cookies on a large platter

    Date Roll Cookies

    Shortbread cookie dough wrapped around a sweet filling made with dates and nuts is what makes these date roll cookies perfect for the holiday cookies platter. Today, I'm using macadamia, and yet, pecans or walnuts make an equally delicious combination with dates. Also, a few red and green stripes give this a festive look.
    Check out this recipe
    A cookie box with date roll cookies

    White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

    Use white chocolate and dried cranberries to make the most delicious cookies ever! These white chocolate cranberry cookies are surprisingly simple and easy to make in less than 30 minutes.
    Check out this recipe
    White chocolate cranberry cookies on a table.

    Soft Ginger Cookies

    These gooey, aromatic, and tender ginger cookies are buttery and chewy. They melt in your mouth the second you bite into them. This is how to make soft ginger cookies or ginger molasses cookies
    Check out this recipe
    A stack of cookies on a white plate.

    Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

    Homemade peanut butter chip cookies can be just as good as the bakery variety. Bake these soft, chewy cookies at home using peanut butter chips and chocolate chips in less than 30 minutes.
    Check out this recipe
    Stack of cookies on a plate.

    The BEST Thumbprint Cookies Eggless Jam Cookies Recipe

    These thumbprint cookies, made with a shortbread cookie base and homemade strawberry jam centers, just melt in the mouth. This simple, easy and effortless recipe can have fresh hot cookies on the table in 20 minutes. Also, no special equipment or skill needed. So, they make great kids projects as well as delicious food gift ideas for the festive season.
    Check out this recipe
    A tray of thumbprint cookies with jams and chocolates.
    A collage of Christmas recipes.
    101 Christmas Recipes Collections.

    8 Christmas truffles and fudge recipes

    Next, I want to share with you my truffles and fudge recipes. These are perfect holiday recipes to use as Christmas gifts and some take as little as 3 minutes to make.

    Homemade Marzipan Truffles

    These are some of the best homemade marzipan truffles you will ever make. The best part is that they take no more than 15 minutes to make. Made with homemade marzipan these make perfect holiday gifts to family and friends.
    Check out this recipe
    A bowl with truffles with marzipan.

    Coconut Balls - White Chocolate Truffles

    These coconut balls, or white chocolate coconut truffles, make perfect edible Christmas gifts for family and friends. The white chocolate combined with coconut and cookie crumbs makes for a less sweet, and yet, delicious cookie truffle.
    Check out this recipe
    Mini truffle cups with coconut balls

    Microwave Chocolate Fudge

    Making chocolate fudge is as easy as just 3 minutes in the microwave by using condensed milk. This simple, easy, and effortless recipe for microwave chocolate fudge is perfect for a quick holiday treat as well as to give as gifts to family and friends. Made with dark chocolate and mixed nuts this is an addiction.
    Check out this recipe
    A stack of chocolate Fudge squares

    Coconut Chocolate Truffles

    These coconut chocolate truffles are a treat at any time of the year. This simple and easy recipe made with coconut cream and rich dark chocolate then coated in crisp desiccated coconut that just melts in the mouth.
    Check out this recipe
    A stack of coconut truffles

    Chocolate Marzipan Truffles

    These chocolate marzipan truffles made with homemade chocolate marzipan take just 5 minutes. While you can dip them in chocolate, we dusted them with cocoa powder and powdered sugar for a quick and easy treat.
    Check out this recipe
    Stuffed marzipan truffles on a black board

    Chocolate Coconut Fudge - Microwave

    A chocolate coconut fudge square is the ultimate treat to bring to friends and family. This simple and easy recipe makes the most amazing combination of chocolate and coconut. The recipe is vegan, gluten-free, eggless, and also dairy-free!
    Check out this recipe
    A stack of fudge on a plate

    Pecan Marzipan Truffles

    Celebrate the festive season with truffles. These pecan marzipan truffles are a beautiful twist to the traditional almond-based marzipan. Dipped in melted chocolate and chopped nuts, these take just 15 minutes to make.
    Check out this recipe
    A stack of marzipan truffles

    10 Easy Christmas bars & squares recipes

    Christmas bars and Christmas squares are perfect to give as gifts as well as to serve guests during the festive season. Of course, they are great holiday recipes to take with you when invited over by family and friends.

    Snickerdoodle Bars Recipe

    Homemade bars and blondies are always so much better than store-bought, and these soft and chewy snickerdoodle bars are no exception. Try this simple and easy recipe based on the classic snickerdoodle cookies and you'll never go back to store-bought again.
    Check out this recipe
    Stack of snickerdoodle bars on the table.

    M&M Cookie Bars

    M&M Cookie Bars are an easy-to-make dessert that is delicious and satisfying. Making these bars ahead of time will save time and effort when you are ready to eat them. These take just 10 minutes to mix and 20 minutes to bake.
    Check out this recipe
    Cookie bars with M&Ms on a wooden board.

    Gingerbread Bars

    Gingerbread is a holiday classic but can be complicated. That's why these simple gingerbread bars with cream cheese frosting are the perfect gingerbread recipe for beginner bakers.
    Check out this recipe
    Gingerbread cookie bars on a wooden board.

    Dried Cranberry Shortbread Bars

    These shortbread bars with dried cranberries are sweet and crumbly, biscuit-like, squares with a crumbly texture that just melts in your mouth. Made with simple and easy ingredients, these take five minutes to mix and 20 mins to bake
    Check out this recipe
    Shortbread squares on a black board

    White Chocolate Cranberry bars

    A combination of dried cranberry and white chocolate makes a perfect treat for the holidays. These white chocolate cranberry bars are a unique twist on the classic white chocolate cranberry cookie recipe that is tangy and delicious.
    Check out this recipe
    Stack of bars on a cranberry and white chocolate.

    Ginger Shortbread Bars with Molasses

    Welcome the season of fall with these melt in your mouth spiced ginger shortbread bars. Made with molasses and warm spices these are a perfect treat on with a cup of tea on a cold rainy day. A step by step video for these gingerbread bars show how simple and easy these are to make from scratch in less than 40 minutes. 
    Check out this recipe
    A stack of shortbread bars on a table.

    Ultimate Pecan Blondies

    These pecan blondies are a fun twist to the classic pecan pie. The vanilla base soaks up all the pie filling beautifully to give you a moist slice of heaven. Easier than a pie this will soon become a family favorite.
    Check out this recipe
    Blondies stacked on a wooden board.

    Ultimate Pecan Pie Brownies

    A rich, moist, and decadent chocolate brownie baked with a pecan pie filling on top makes the best recipe for pecan pie brownies. A simple and easy recipe that's quick to mix and easy to bake in just 40 minutes.
    Check out this recipe
    Sliced brownies on a table.

    Apple Pie Bars with Crumble

    This easy apple pie-inspired dessert is a great way to use your autumn apple bounty and is especially wonderful during the holiday season. Learn how to make these easy-to-make apple pie bars with a crumble top at home.
    Check out this recipe
    Apple pie bars stacked on a wooden board.

    Candied Fruit Shortbread or Tutti Frutti Bars

    These candied fruit shortbread, also called tutti frutti shortbread, are an absolute treat to bake and eat. It takes 5 minutes to mix and 20 minutes to bake
    Check out this recipe
    Candied fruit shortbread squares on a board.

    12 Christmas cakes and cupcakes

    Cakes and cupcakes are perfect when entertaining. I often start with Christmas entertaining early because kids keep inviting friends over. Most of these holiday recipes can be made up to a day or two in advance. And they are great when you have to take a treat with you to visit someone.

    Rum and Eggnog Bundt Cake

    This rum and eggnog bundt cake makes a perfect Christmas cake. A butter-based vanilla cake with spiked eggnog and rum. Then, frosted with my spiked cream cheese eggnog frosting with more rum.
    Check out this recipe
    An eggnog bundt cake on a cake stand.

    Ice Cream Cone Christmas Tree Cupcakes

    These Christmas tree cupcakes baked in an ice cream cone can be a fun way to get kids excited about Christmas. These cupcakes are simple and easy to make as well as cute and fun to eat. Perfect to take with you for a kids Christmas theme party. Make them festive with holidays flavors such as eggnog or peppermint and frost them with my five-minute buttercream frosting recipe. 
    Check out this recipe
    Cupcakes in ice cream cones with green frosting.

    Recipe for Fruitcake

    This is the best recipe for fruitcake. It is rich, moist, and loaded with dry fruit and nuts. Unlike traditional holiday fruit recipes, this one does not need any maturing or feeding. Hence, it can be made just in time for the holidays for that perfect Christmas fruitcake.
    Check out this recipe
    Sliced fruitcake on a cake stand.

    The BEST Rich Fruit Cake Recipe

    This is the best rich fruit cake recipe. The perfect balance of fruit and nuts in a cake batter using brown sugar, butter, and spices. Traditionally, alcohol is used in fruitcakes but orange juice works great too.
    Check out this recipe
    A fruit cake topped with almonds.

    Eggnog Cupcakes with Eggnog Buttercream Frosting

    Give your classic vanilla cupcakes a Christmas make-over with these rich, creamy, light and airy eggnog cupcakes topped with an eggnog buttercream frosting. The classic flavor of eggnog is a great way to celebrate the holidays with family and friends. This simple and easy recipe takes 5 minutes to mix and 20 minutes to bake. Celebrations don't get easier than this. Do they? 
    Check out this recipe
    Eggnog cupcakes on the board.

    Cherry Pound Cake with Pistachios

    A deliciously rich, moist cherry fruitcake recipe uses red glace cherries and green pistachio nuts to make it Christmasy. Using my light and airy vanilla cake recipes as a base with sour cream for a tender crumb.
    Check out this recipe
    Slices of cherry cake on a black plate.

    Spiced Gingerbread Loaf Cake Recipe

    Enjoy a slice of soft, moist, light and airy gingerbread cake this fall with this simple, easy and effortless recipe for a spiced gingerbread loaf cake. Spiced with ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg this cake makes perfect holiday treat or gifts for family and friends. This step by step video recipe shows just how easy this recipe can be.  
    Check out this recipe
    Sliced gingerbread loaf cake.

    Cranberry Cake

    This cranberry cake is made with fresh cranberries in a bundt pan and dressed with vanilla glaze. Using my moist vanilla pound cake as a base this is the perfect cake for Christmas
    Check out this recipe
    A bundt cake on a cake stand.

    Old Fashioned Gingerbread Cupcakes with Chocolate Fudge Frosting

    These old-fashioned gingerbread cupcakes are perfect for the cold weather. Flavored with warm spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, along with the rich and robust flavor of molasses. Then topped with an equally delicious melt in the mouth chocolate fudge frosting. They make perfect food gift ideas or treats for the holiday celebrations.
    Check out this recipe
    A cupcake with chocolate frosting.

    Candied Fruit Fruitcake

    This candied fruit fruitcake is known as tutti frutti cake. Packed with lots of candied fruit peel and mixed nuts. Baked in a bundt pan with cream cheese and buttermilk batter for a moist and tender crumb. Perfect edible gift for the holidays too.
    Check out this recipe
    Fruitcake slices on a black plate

    Classic Gingerbread Cake Recipe

    This holiday season place this classic gingerbread cake at the center of the dessert table. It's a perfect cake to serve during the fall and winter months. Infused with warm gingerbread spice and the rich flavor of molasses. Sweet vanilla buttercream between layers and a light chocolate ganache frosting makes an elegant presentation to impress guests or serve as a celebration cake.
    Check out this recipe
    A slice of layer gingerbread cake on a plate.

    10 Festive Christmas drinks

    I'm a huge fan of eggnog. And I grew up with eggnog as the perfect Christmas drink. But alcoholic cocktails, as well as non-alcoholic mocktails, are also perfect for celebrations.

    Recipe for Eggnog (Spiked or Non-alcoholic)

    This is the easiest recipe for eggnog whether you make it spiked with alcohol or non-alcoholic. With this one-pot method, there is no need for tempering the eggs or fear of overcooking the eggs. Also, we do not consume any raw eggs. Isn't this the perfect holiday drink?
    Check out this recipe
    A glass with Christmas eggnog.

    Homemade Eggless Eggnog

    Celebrate Christmas Eve with delicious eggnog. This eggless eggnog is just as delicious as the classic eggnog. Rich, creamy, custardy and flavored with nutmeg and cinnamon. Have it with or without alcohol or try different flavors like eggless chocolate eggnog, eggless hot cocoa eggnog, eggless sugar-free eggnog
    Check out this recipe
    A glass of eggless eggnog.

    Best Mulled Wine Recipe

    If you're looking for a great recipe for mulled wine, check out this recipe. A red wine mulled with oranges, clementines, cinnamon, and nutmeg—it’s a rich and flavorful cozy drink and a perfect cocktail for winter holiday parties.
    Check out this recipe
    Mulled wine in two glasses.

    Strawberry Vodka Cocktail

    A simple strawberry vodka cocktail can give you a great new way to enjoy a favorite drink. It is a drink that combines strawberry puree, vodka, and citrus juice. This is a more alcoholic version of the strawberry daiquiri, a simple, fruity cocktail
    Check out this recipe
    Two cocktail glasses with drinks.

    Homemade Caramel Eggnog

    Eggnog is an absolute Christmas classic, with or without alcohol. And, this one has a twist of caramel. Made from scratch, this homemade caramel eggnog has the perfect balance of rich, creamy, frosty, and sweet.
    Check out this recipe
    A tall glass with caramel eggnog.

    Sugar-Free Maple Eggnog

    Eggnog is a perfect holiday drink to celebrate with family and friends. This twist on the classic is my sugar-free maple eggnog.
    Check out this recipe
    A glass of maple eggnog.

    Baileys Irish Cream Recipe

    This recipe for homemade Baileys Irish Cream makes a rich, creamy version of the cream liqueur that's similar in flavor to the commercial version. Rich, creamy, and luxurious this homemade Baileys is made with condensed milk, whipping cream, coffee, and a splash of chocolate syrup.
    Check out this recipe
    A glass with ice and baileys Irish cream

    Butterscotch Irish Cream Recipe

    Take the classic Irish cream recipe to a whole new level with this butterscotch Irish cream. Rich, creamy and smooth, loaded with butterscotch flavor, and yet not too sweet. This is going to be your next favorite drink.
    Check out this recipe
    A person pouring Irish cream into a glass.

    Baileys Chocolate Martini

    A martini is by far the most popular drink no matter what the variation. This baileys chocolate martini is thick and creamy made with Irish cream, vodka, a splash of espresso and dash of chocolate. It takes just 5 minutes to make, but so delicious you can’t stop drinking.
    Check out this recipe
    A glass of Baileys chocolate martini on a table.

    Homemade Rich Chocolate Eggnog

    Give the classic eggnog a chocolate twist with this rich chocolate eggnog recipe. Perfect to celebrate the festive season with family and friends. Made with egg yolks, fresh cream, and chocolate this is an absolute treat spiked or not spiked.
    Check out this recipe
    A glass of chocolate eggnog with whipped cream on top.

    Homemade Hot Cocoa Eggnog

    Give your classic eggnog a cocoa twist with this homemade hot cocoa eggnog. It's made with a homemade hot chocolate mix in a creamy, custardy egg-based drink. A simple and easy recipe that works great with or without alcohol.
    Check out this recipe
    A glass of hot chocolate eggnog.
    A collage of Christmas recipes.
    101 Christmas Recipes Collections.

    Christmas dinner

    Planning a big festive dinner can be a huge task especially if you have a large family. But planning ahead with the right holiday recipes can help. Here are a few of my personal picks that I think are perfect for this time of the year, starting from appetizers, sides, bread, main course as well as desserts.

    • Butter - I think you must use butter to flavor and keep that turkey or chicken moist. Butter also gives the whole bird that wonderful color that looks great on the holiday table.
    • Of course, add a little butter to that gravy too. After all, it's a holiday feast. 
    • Onion, garlic, ginger, and fresh herbs such as fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, and parsley are essential to flavoring your main course and vegetables. 
    • Use spices that give the warmth of fall such as earthy cinnamon, pumpkin spice, or gingerbread spice.
    • And while vanilla extracts are the most popular in most desserts try using citrus flavors such as orange and lemon.
    • Buy extra bread if you plan to make stuffing and cornmeal, or if you plan to make cornbread.
    • Potatoes and sweet potatoes to make mashed or roasted potatoes.
    • Vegetables for your side dish - Fresh green beans, Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, mushrooms, cauliflower.
    • Pumpkin puree to if you plan to make a pumpkin pie or pumpkin desserts. 
    • Pecans to make a pecan pie or tart and apples to make an apple pie or tart.  Of course, walnuts, almonds, macadamia are a great addition for those who do not like pecans. 

    6 Salad recipes for Christmas

    Easy Celery Salad Recipe

    Celery contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, with few calories. A crunchy, slightly sweet celery salad is a great addition to any meal! Find out how to make a simple and tasty salad here.
    Check out this recipe
    Celery salad in a bowl with cranberries.

    Fresh Carrot Salad

    Most carrot salads use only carrots and are served as a side dish. This fresh carrot salad is much more by using raisins, cranberries, nuts, and a honey-lemon vinaigrette that keeps it refreshing, light, and tastes great
    Check out this recipe
    Bowl with carrot salad made of cranberries, raisins, walnuts.

    Easy Cabbage Salad

    This cabbage salad makes a nice accompaniment to a variety of main dishes. It's got a tangy taste and is loaded with fiber, making it a healthy addition to your diet
    Check out this recipe
    A bowl with salad made with cabbage, carrots, dried fruits.

    Easy Beet Salad

    Beets are a healthy, inexpensive, and versatile root vegetable.  They are easy to use and taste good on their own boiled or roasted. This beet salad recipe combines the beets with a few other simple vegetables in refreshing lemon dressing.
    Check out this recipe
    A wooden bowl with beet salad and lemon dressing.

    Chickpeas Salad

    This simple and easy chickpea salad is the best salad you will make. Loaded with proteins, veggies, and spices, this gets done in less than 10 minutes. Serve it as a meal or as a side dish.
    Check out this recipe
    A wooden bowl with chickpeas salad.

    Cherry Tomato Salad

    Prepare to be dazzled by this cherry tomato salad that gets ready in less than 10 minutes. Its fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and sweet-and-sour dressing make this salad a hit for get-togethers on the patio
    Check out this recipe
    A wooden bowl with tomato salad.
    A collage of Christmas recipes.
    101 Christmas Recipes Collections.

    20 Easy Christmas main courses

    Roast Chicken in Oven

    Here's how to make whole roast chicken in the oven perfectly every single time. This chicken is juicy on the inside with a crisp golden skin on the outside that looks perfect on the center of any festive dinner. The best part is it's using simple and easy-to-find ingredients. Leftovers are perfect for sandwiches and wraps.
    Check out this recipe
    A roasted chicken on a wooden board.

    Maple Roast Chicken with Fruits and Veggies

    This roast chicken is flavored with maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. Accompanied by baby potatoes and grapes, which add a wonderful fruity flavor to the final gravy. Also, the leftover chicken, if any, makes the most delicious sandwiches and wraps.
    Check out this recipe
    A roast chicken on a board

    Cast-Iron Roast Chicken

    This cast-iron roast chicken is marinated with garlic butter and cooked on high until golden on the outside while still tender and juicy on the inside. Perfect when you want a simple fuss-free dinner. Serve it with mashed potatoes or roast potatoes along with a side of veggies. Leftovers make delicious sandwiches and wraps
    Check out this recipe
    A cast iron skillet with whole roasted chicken.

    Cast-Iron Roast Chicken

    This cast-iron roast chicken is marinated with garlic butter and cooked on high until golden on the outside while still tender and juicy on the inside. Perfect when you want a simple fuss-free dinner. Serve it with mashed potatoes or roast potatoes along with a side of veggies. Leftovers make delicious sandwiches and wraps
    Check out this recipe
    A cast iron skillet with whole roasted chicken.

    Standing Prime Rib Roast

    This prime rib roast or standing rib roast is seasoned with a dry spice rib marinade. Then, cooked to a perfect medium-rare, and served with pomegranate gravy. The perfect roast to serve on special occasions
    Check out this recipe
    A sliced standing rib on a wooden board.

    Roast Leg of Lamb - Garlic Butter Marinade

    This is how to roast a leg of lamb perfectly every single time. With a simple garlic butter marinade, this meat is tender, juicy, and cooked to perfection. Serve with a side and bread for a complete meal. Leftovers are great for sandwiches and wraps
    Check out this recipe
    A sliced leg of lamb.

    Leg of Lamb (garlic herb marinade)

    This leg of lamb is simple, easy, and uses my fool-proof method of roasting. If you are new to cooking meat, this is the recipe you can make to impress family and friends.
    Check out this recipe
    Lamb leg on a serving platter.

    Roast Leg of Lamb with Red Wine Gravy

    This roast leg of lamb is marinated with garlic and fresh herbs, roasted alongside baby potatoes and finished with a delicious red wine gravy. The perfect dish to make for the weekend or when entertaining family and friends.
    Check out this recipe
    A white platter with a leg of lamb and potatoes

    Roast Lamb Shoulder in Red Wine

    This roast lamb shoulder is marinated with garlic, ginger, and fresh herbs. It's roasted alongside veggies, then served with a rich red wine gravy. Perfect for the weekend or festive dinner with family and friends.
    Check out this recipe
    A platter with a leg of lamb on a platter

    Perfect Lamb Chops with Sauce (Balsamic)

    These simple lamb chops with balsamic glaze get ready in less than 20 minutes. A perfect dish to make when you want something quick and easy but still elegant and holiday-worthy. Serve over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
    Check out this recipe
    Lamb Chops over mashed potatoes served with balsamic sauce.

    Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint

    There is no doubt that the quickest dinner is grilled lamb chops. Marinated and served with a classic mint sauce in less than 20 minutes. Ideal for an elegant or festive dinner when you have guests. Also, the lamb can be marinated overnight leaving you enough time to take care of other things.
    Check out this recipe
    A plate with lamb chops over mashed potato.

    Braised Lamb in Red Wine

    This braised lamb in red wine, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs is slow-cooked for almost two hours until the meat is fork-tender. Serve over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles for a complete meal.
    Check out this recipe
    A Dutch oven with braised lamb

    Slow Cooked Lamb with Creamy Polenta

    This slow-cooked lamb is cooked to a fork-tender in a tomato and caramelized onion-based gravy with spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. Today, I served it over a bed of creamy Parmesan polenta, and yet, mashed potatoes, and steamed rice would also be perfect.
    Check out this recipe
    A plate of slow cooked lamb with polenta.

    Beef Chuck Roast

    This beef chuck roast is tender, juicy, and delicious. It's cooked in the oven using a marinade made with garlic and cayenne. And, served with a gravy made with pan drippings. A simple and easy recipe perfect main dish for entertaining guests.
    Check out this recipe
    A wooden board with sliced chuck roast.

    Braised Lamb Shanks in the Oven

    These braised lamb shanks are slow-cooked in the oven with red wine gravy. A delicious and simple recipe that needs only 20 minutes to prep and 2 hours to cook. Served over mashed potato and sides for a complete meal.
    Check out this recipe
    Shanks of lamb in a Dutch oven.

    Easy Braised Lamb Shanks Stovetop - 2 hrs

    Braised lamb shanks are delicious and fairly easy to prepare. Indeed, it’s perhaps the perfect cut for those who like their meat cooked long, fork-tender, and full of flavor. This is slow-cooked on the stovetop for 2 hours.
    Check out this recipe
    A dutch oven pan with braised lamb shanks.

    Slow Cooker Veal Shanks Recipe

    This slow cooker veal shanks, or osso buco, cooked in a tomato gravy until fork-tender. The recipe is as simple as adding everything to your slow cooker with no sauteing or searing required.
    Check out this recipe
    A slow cooker with veal shanks.

    Beef in Red Wine

    Fork-tender piece of beef cooked in a rich red wine gravy make this simple and easy recipe for beef in red wine the best dinner. Serve over steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
    Check out this recipe
    A pot with beef in red wine gravy.

    The BEST Beef Burgundy aka Beef Bourguignon

    This Beef Burgundy or Beef Bourguignon is beef pieces bathed in burgundy wine cooked long and slow with herbs and mushrooms until they are fork-tender. This ultimate comfort food can be made in the slow cooker, stovetop as well as the oven.
    Check out this recipe
    Beef burgundy in a serving bowl.

    Slow Cooker Beef in Red Wine Sauce

    This beef in red wine stew is absolute comfort food. Slow-cooked in a slow-cooker this produces fork-tender meat that falls off the bones. The thick creamy red-wine based gravy is perfect over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or couscous.
    Check out this recipe
    Slow cooked beef in a serving bowl.

    Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

    This is probably the best Mongolian beef recipe you will make. Sirloin beef cubes flavored with ginger, garlic, paprika in a tomato, soy, and brown sugar gravy in a slow cooker or stovetop until it is fork-tender and delicious. Serve it over noodles, steamed rice, or just plain crusty bread
    Check out this recipe
    A bowl of Mongolian beef stew.

    10 Easy potato side dishes

    Mashed Potatoes Recipe

    This homemade mashed potatoes recipe is rich, creamy, and easy to make in less than 20 minutes. Perfect to serve with any main course and definitely a crowd-pleaser.
    Check out this recipe
    A bowl filled with side dish - potatoes.

    Skinny Mashed Potatoes

    These skinny mashed potatoes are so much lighter than traditional mashed potatoes. Made with less butter and milk this one is creamy, buttery, and delicious. Perfect to accompany any main course from the leg of lamb, roast chicken, or fish fillets.
    Check out this recipe
    A plate of mashed potatoes

    Stovetop Melting Potatoes

    This is the best recipe for melting potatoes in less than 20 minutes. Made on the stovetop, these are soft as a mashed potato on the inside but crisp and crunchy as baked potatoes on the outside. A great side dish with any main course.
    Check out this recipe
    Cooked potatoes in a serving dish.

    Hasselback Potatoes

    Baked Hasselback potatoes have thin, crispy edges and soft, creamy centers. They take some time and finesse to make, but the results are well worth it! The perfect side to impress guests on special occasions
    Check out this recipe

    Roast Potatoes(Rosemary and Lemon)

    These roast potatoes are a perfect side dish to serve alongside any dinner, be it festive or weekday meal.  Flavored with rosemary and lemon these baby potatoes are especially moist and tender in just 45 minutes.
    Check out this recipe
    A white bowl with roast potatoes

    Roasted Potatoes (Lemon and Dill)

    The roasted potatoes make a great side dish with any main course from a leg of lamb, roast beef, or roast chicken. Sweet red onions, zesty lemon flavor, and fresh dill perfume the potatoes beautifully.
    Check out this recipe
    A casserole dish with roasted potatoes

    Baked Potato Chips

    Crispy, crunchy, and very addictive, baked potato chips are a perfect late-night snack. Learn how to make your very own baked potato chips. Served with your burgers, fish and chips, roast chicken, or just as a snack when you are craving some fried potato chips.
    Check out this recipe
    Baked potato chips on a plate.

    Baked Potato Wedges

    Baked Potato wedges are a delicious, healthy, and nutritious side dish or snack. Parboiling the potatoes in water cuts down on baking time and keeps them soft on the inside. A good source of fiber. Easy to make and delicious to eat
    Check out this recipe
    Stack of baked fried standing in the glass.

    Leek and Potato Patties

    These leek and potato patties make delicious appetizers or an ideal side dish. This simple and easy recipe will have you making these in less than 20 minutes. Very traditionally made during Passover or Easter across the Middle East. Delicious moist and tenderly cooked till golden brown.
    Check out this recipe
    Patties on a wooden platter.

    The BEST Potato Latkes Recipe

    Potato latkes are simply thin, crispy potatoes pancakes made with grated potatoes. They are very popular during Hanukkah but are also eaten on many other occasions. Here's my secret to making the most delicious and super crispy latkes.
    Check out this recipe
    Latkes on a wooden board with yogurt dip.

    6 quiche recipes as sides

    Mushrooms Ricotta Cheese Tart

    This savory tart is perfect for brunch or late breakfast as well as a great way to impress with your baking skills. Similar to a homemade quiche this mushroom ricotta tart has everything you want. Buttery, flaky pie crust filled with mushrooms in a creamy rich, cheese filling made with ricotta, eggs, and milk.
    A mushrooms and cheese tart.

    The BEST Mushroom Quiche

    This is the BEST mushroom quiche recipe made from scratch using homemade quiche crust. The filling is soft, creamy, flavored with garlic, onions, and cheese. A perfect make-ahead dish for entertaining whether it's breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.
    Check out this recipe
    Quiche on a table with mushrooms.

    Leek and Asparagus Quiche

    Quiche is a perfect side dish for breakfast, brunch, or a festive meal. This quiche is made with leek and asparagus and is simple and easy. And yet, it's also a dish that can be made ahead of time. Asparagus quiche is a great way to enjoy asparagus in season. I'm using a homemade quiche crust, but ready-to-roll store-bought works just as well.
    Check out this recipe
    A quiche in a pie pan.

    Caramelized Onions Roasted Red Peppers Quiche

    A tender, flaky, buttery homemade pie crust filled with caramelized onions and roasted red peppers. Topped with an egg custard mixture and baked until set. Perfect for brunch or entertaining family and friends.
    Check out this recipe
    Quiche with red peppers on a cake stand.

    8 more veggie side dishes

    Oven-Baked Carrot Sticks

    The oven-baked carrot sticks are an easy way to eat heart-healthy veggies more often. Baking veggies make them sweeter and more delicious. This simple and easy recipe will have you and the family eating carrots often because they take less than 30 minutes to make.
    Check out this recipe
    A plate of baked carrots.

    Butternut Squash Fries

    Vegetables when baked, bring out their natural sweetness. This simple and easy recipe for butternut squash fries will have you making this nutritious vegetable more often than you planned. It takes less than 30 minutes and is a kids' favorite
    Check out this recipe
    vegetable fries on a plate

    Chicken Croquettes

    Chicken croquettes are always pretty on the dinner table, especially when you have guests. These are little balls of minced chicken and potatoes coated in breadcrumbs, then, shallow fried until crisp and golden.
    Check out this recipe
    Chicken croquettes with dipping sauces on a wooden board.

    Sautéed Mushrooms - Garlic Butter Mushrooms

    This garlic and butter sauté recipe is a quick and flavorful way to serve mushrooms. These sautéed mushrooms make a great side dish with any main course or topping for a steak. Learn how to make this simple sauté with this step-by-step and video recipe.
    Check out this recipe
    A bowl with sautéed mushrooms.

    Sautéed Broccoli Recipe

    This easy sautéed broccoli is both delicious and nutritious, making it the perfect way to get your vegetables in for the day. It needs just 5 ingredients and 10 minutes to make. Serve it as a side with any main course be it pasta, rice, chicken, or meat.
    Check out this recipe
    Broccoli side dish in a bowl.

    Garlic Sautéed Asparagus with sesame seeds

    Sauteed asparagus in sesame is simple and easy to make in less than 15 minutes. It is the perfect side dish to serve with the main course such as roast chicken, roast ribs, or roast lamb. The sprinkle of garlic, lemon makes these aromatic, and refreshing.
    Asparagus on a white plate

    Sautéed Sesame Green Beans

    This green bean dish uses fresh green beans, sesame seeds, and garlic. Sesame Green Beans are served warm and can be an entree or a side dish. This recipe is also gluten-free and dairy-free.
    Check out this recipe
    A plate with green beans and sesame seeds.

    6 Patty starters or sides

    Crispy Corn Fritters

    These little corn nuggets are soft and juicy on the inside but crisp on the outside. My simple and easy recipe for crispy corn fritters uses canned corn, a little cheese, and few other pantry staples. This kids-favorite snack is quick, easy and gets done in just 15 minutes.
    Check out this recipe
    A stack of corn fritters on a wooden board.

    Spinach Potato Patties

    These spinach potato patties or cakes, make amazing appetizers or sides. This recipe is a simple and easy recipe but so versatile it can be served with any meal from breakfast to dinner. You can serve them on their own, as a snack or in sandwiches and wraps too.
    Check out this recipe
    Spinach potato patties.

    Swiss Chard Patties

    Whether you call these Swiss chard patties, cakes, or fritters these make amazing appetizers or sides. This recipe is a simple and easy recipe but so versatile it can be served with any meal from breakfast to dinner. You can serve them on their own, as a snack or in sandwiches too.
    Check out this recipe
    A plate with patties made with Swiss chard.

    Carrot Zucchini Fritters Recipe

    A good appetizer or side dish served with the main course can often be the star at the table. Make these carrot zucchini fritters the next start at your dinner table. Simple, easy and effortless with step by step recipe and video on how to make it. No oven needed and not loaded with cheese, these zucchini fritters are light and perfect served with a meal or as a light snack.
    Check out this recipe
    Carrot zucchini patties on a wooden board.

    15 Bread & rice recipes for Christmas

    While you don't want to fill up on bread, you sure want bread for any dinner. I have many bread recipes but I use the following recipes for the holidays with a festive menu.

    Soft Dinner Rolls - Homemade

    Buttery, fluffy, and soft dinner rolls are the best to have with any main course. This bread recipe needs only 6 ingredients, 10 minutes to prep, and 20 minutes to bake with some proofing time in between
    Check out this recipe
    Baked rolls in a pan brushed with butter

    Whole Wheat Rolls

    These whole wheat dinner rolls are light and airy and made with 70% whole wheat flour. The recipe is simple and easy to make and much healthier than most other bread rolls.
    Check out this recipe
    A bunch of mini bread loaves

    Parmesan Garlic Rolls

    You must love garlic to enjoy these Parmesan garlic bread rolls. Soft, light, and fluffy bread drenched with garlic herb butter. These crescent-shaped beauties are also simple and easy to make.
    Check out this recipe
    Garlic bread rolls on a wooden board.

    Garlic Rolls

    If you love garlic bread, then you must try these herbed garlic rolls from scratch. My light and fluffy dinner rolls are infused with garlic butter and Italian herbs. A simple and easy recipe that takes 10 minutes to prep the dough, 20 minutes to bake the rolls with some proofing time in between.
    Check out this recipe
    A pan of garlic dinner rolls.

    Raisin walnut bread - Whole wheat

    These raisin and walnut bread are made with a combination of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour. It has a lovely crust on the outside with a soft chewy texture on the inside. Perfect for breakfast or dinner.
    Check out this recipe
    Raisin walnut bread on a wooden board.

    Yeast Beer Bread - No-Knead

    This no-knead beer bread is an absolute classic. Yeast risen, filled with black and green olives this rustic bread takes only 10 minutes hands-on and 45 minutes to bake. A simple and easy basic yeast beer bread that’s versatile and can be used with many different filling variations.
    Check out this recipe
    A sliced beer bread with olives on a cutting board.

    Challah Bread Recipe - 3 Braids

    Have you been intimidated by the pretty challah? Not any more. Today, I share with you the easiest three-braid challah bread recipe you will ever make. This recipe uses just six ingredients, which are regular pantry staples and the process is surprisingly simple and easy.
    Check out this recipe
    A challah bread on a cutting board.

    Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Rolls

    These sun-dried tomato and olive rolls are delicious on their own. Perfect with soups and salads or alongside the main course. Lightly crisp on the outside, yet soft and fluffy on the inside. And these bread rolls are made with easy-to-find ingredients.
    Check out this recipe
    Olive rolls on a table with sun dried tomatoes.

    Soft Brioche Buns Homemade

    This brioche buns recipe is a great way to show off your bread baking skills. These soft, buttery, rich and delicious buns make perfect companions to any meal. Serve them with any main course in place of dinner rolls or use them in sandwiches or as burger buns.
    Check out this recipe
    A basket with brioche buns.

    Rosemary Focaccia Bread

    A light and airy focaccia bread dotted with rosemary and red onions is the perfect companion to any main course. Serve it with balsamic vinegar and olive oil for a quick appetizer. It takes just 10 minutes to prep the dough and 30 minutes to bake this bread.
    Check out this recipe
    Sliced focaccia on a wooden board.

    4 rice dishes for Christmas

    Rice Pilaf with Fruit and Nuts

    This fragrant basmati rice pilaf with fruit and nuts is the perfect rice to dress a dinner table. Jeweled with almond, cashews, raisins, apricots and lightly flavored with spices of cinnamon and cardamom. Serve it on its own or alongside other main courses for a festive flare. This simple and easy rice takes only 20 minutes to cook.
    Check out this recipe
    A bowl with basmati rice pilaf.

    Coconut Turmeric Rice

    Coconut turmeric rice is a simple yellow rice dish with the delicious flavors of coconut milk and turmeric! Not only is this rice dish simple to prepare, but it also has incredible health benefits. Learn how to make it in just 20 minutes
    Check out this recipe
    A white bowl with turmeric yellow rice.

    Rice Pilaf

    This rice pilaf is perfect to serve on its own or as a side dish alongside any main course with chicken, beef, lamb, or pork. Today, I served it along with baked chicken drumsticks. And this pilaf takes less than 30 minutes to make.
    Check out this recipe
    A saute pan with rice pilaf

    Quick One Pot Vegetable Rice

    This one-pot vegetable rice is a kids' absolute favorite dish. A simple and easy recipe that can be served on its own, or with the main course. The best part is, it takes only 15 minutes to cook, uses only one pot, and is a great healthy rice dish for the family.
    Check out this recipe
    A bowl with rice and veggies

    20 Christmas dessert recipes

    No festive meal is complete without a holiday dessert. While I have an overwhelming list of desserts recipes for the holidays, here are a few that would be perfect holiday dessert recipes.

    Yule Log Cake - Bûche De Noël

    There is no better way to celebrate Christmas than with a cake shaped like a yule log and decorated like a Christmas tree! Here is my recipe and tips to bake an eggnog yule log cake using a homemade Swiss roll.
    Check out this recipe
    Christmas log cake on a wooden board.

    Christmas Wreath Cake

    This wreath Christmas cake is the perfect centerpiece during the holiday season. This simple and easy recipe uses my butter-based vanilla bean cake along with French buttercream and stiff buttercream for piping the wreath.
    Check out this recipe
    A frosted cake with holly leaves and berries on a cake stand

    Christmas Pavlovas Wreath

    This Christmas theme pavlova is a light and refreshing dessert. The pavlova can be made ahead of time and assembled in less than 10 minutes. I dressed this one with strawberries, blueberries, and mint leaves to resemble a wreath
    Check out this recipe
    A pavlova wreath on a cake stand

    Best Apple Pie Cake Recipe

    This delicious apple pie cake is an absolute treat and the perfect combination of my three favorite things. Syrupy apple pie filling, moist vanilla cake batter, and buttery crumble topping.
    Check out this recipe
    A cake on a cake stand.

    BEST Ever Pumpkin Cream Cake

    This pumpkin cream cake recipe is rich, moist, and delicious. Made with whipping cream in the batter as well as in the buttercream. A light and airy butter-based cake with pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice mix. Perfect layer cake to adorn a festive dinner table, birthday cake, or to impress family and friends.
    Check out this recipe
    A frosted cake with fondant pumpkins on top

    Upside Down Pecan Cake

    This upside-down pecan cake has a layer of pecans caramelized on the bottom of a light and fluffy vanilla batter. When turned upside down, the caramelized juices sink into the baked sponge. The luxury of pie and cake all in one.
    Check out this recipe
    An inverted pecan pie cake on a cake stand.

    Vanilla Cafe Latte Cake with Coffee Buttercream

    Add your favorite vanilla cafe latte beverage to cake and make this cafe latte cake. And to enhance the coffee flavor, even more, frost it with coffee buttercream. This cake is a coffee lovers cake using light and airy vanilla based cake that simple and easy to make. The cake takes only 35 minutes to bake, and the coffee frosting takes as little as five minutes to whip. Layer cakes don't get easier than that. Do they?
    Check out this recipe
    A plate with a slice of a layer cake with buttercream frosting.

    Best Pavlova Recipe

    Crisp outside with a soft marshmallow-like inside is what makes the pavlova so unique. Topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits this naturally gluten-free dessert uses my no-fail recipe and method.
    Check out this recipe
    pavlova with whipped cream on the table.

    Chai Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

    Bring your favorite chai latte beverage to your cake with this chai cake. A light and fluffy vanilla cake batter infused with perfectly balanced chai spice mix and freshly prepared tea. Accompanied by vanilla buttercream frosting to enhance and preserve the chai flavors. The recipe is surprisingly simple and easy to make too.
    Check out this recipe
    A layer cake with buttercream frosting and whole chai spices on top.

    Easy Apple Strudel Recipe with Filo Pastry

    This Easy Apple Strudel recipe is simple and delicious. The sweet apples flavored with warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon; then wrapped in filo pastry that bakes into a flaky delicious dessert you will love. The warm spices and abundance of apples in fall make this a perfect dessert for Thanksgiving or holiday celebrations. 
    Check out this recipe
    A sliced apple strudel on the table.

    Classic Gingerbread Cake Recipe

    This holiday season place this classic gingerbread cake at the center of the dessert table. It's a perfect cake to serve during the fall and winter months. Infused with warm gingerbread spice and the rich flavor of molasses. Sweet vanilla buttercream between layers and a light chocolate ganache frosting makes an elegant presentation to impress guests or serve as a celebration cake.
    Check out this recipe
    A slice of layer gingerbread cake on a plate.

    Mascarpone Cream Cake

    This mascarpone cream cake is a creamy, rich and indulgent affair. Light sponge cake layers topped with a rich vanilla pastry cream, layers of mascarpone cream, and whipped cream. A delicate yet exotic and perfect entremet type dessert when you need to celebrate.
    Check out this recipe
    A mascarpone cream cake on a cake stand.

    Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

    The rich flavor of pumpkin spice latte beverage in a cake makes a delicious pumpkin spice-latte cake. Frosted with maple buttercream this is a light and airy oil-based cake with pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and coffee. Perfect layer cake to adorn a festive dinner table, birthday cake, or to impress family and friends.
    Check out this recipe
    A frosted spice latte cake with fondant pumpkins.

    Pumpkin Spice Caramel Apple Dessert

    Winter is almost upon us and apples are in abundance why not make some spiced up warm caramel apple dessert? Top it with a delicious scoop of vanilla ice cream for that ultimate comfort food. Serve this on a cold weekend or entertain with family and friends. With or without ice cream this dessert is an absolute treat that gets ready in 20 minutes or less.
    Check out this recipe
    A bowl of ice cream with caramel apples.

    The BEST Skinny Tiramisu EVER

    This skinny tiramisu is a rich and elegant dessert, bold in flavors of coffee and liqueur to warm you up in winter. Creamy and light layers of luxury that melt in the mouth make this a perfect crowd-pleasing dessert. The recipe tries to keep it simple, easy, effortless as close to Classic Tiramisu as possible.
    Check out this recipe
    A slice of tiramisu,

    Vanilla Kahlua Cake with Kahlua Chocolate Buttercream

    This Vanilla Kahlua cake is rich, creamy and decadent frosted with a Kahlua chocolate buttercream. A surprisingly easy recipe, perfect for a weekend dessert or special celebration.
    Check out this recipe
    A sliced cake with frosting.

    Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

    Celebrate this holiday season with this pumpkin spice cake frosted with delicious no-butter cream cheese frosting that just melts in your mouth. A rich butter-based cake made with pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice. Perfect layer cake to adorn a festive dinner table, birthday cake, or to impress family and friends.
    Check out this recipe
    A frosted cake with cream cheese and fondant pumpkins.

    Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

    This rich, moist red velvet cake has a hint of cocoa and deep rich red color. An oil-based cake baked from scratch using buttermilk with baking soda, making it extra light and airy. A simple and easy recipe frosted with a light and fluffy cream cheese frosting.
    Check out this recipe
    A slice of red velvet cake on a plate.

    Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

    Delicious moist carrot cake baked from scratch with crisp walnuts and sweet raisins, layered with rich delicious cream cheese frosting. A simple, easy and effortless one bowl recipe that you will enjoy making over and over again. Delicious on its own as a tea time snack or dressed for any celebration with my luscious cream cheese frosting to create an exotic dessert.
    Check out this recipe
    A moist carrot cake.

    Espresso Cake with Whipped Chocolate Ganache

    This is the ultimate espresso cake. Moist, rich vanilla cake layers infused with espresso and frosted with a light and fluffy whipped espresso chocolate ganache. Perfect for weekend dessert, entertaining with friends or as a celebration cake. A surprisingly simple and easy recipe with everything you can make ahead of time so you don't have to rush. 
    Check out this recipe
    A cake glazed with ganache.

    Christmas menu I

    Drinks - Cranberry margarita, wine
    Appetizer - Roasted red pepper goat cheese crostini
    Salad - Make-ahead cherry tomato mozzarella salad
    Main-course - Roast turkey & Beef in red wine
    Side dish - Mashed potatoes, oven-baked carrot sticks, and corn fritters
    Condiments - Cranberry sauce, red pepper tamponade, roasted garlic
    Bread - Pumpkin dinner rolls and whole wheat walnut raisin bread
    Dessert - Apple pie and chocolate chip pumpkin cake
    Aperitif or after-dinner drinks - mulled wine,  Baileys, Butterscotch baileys or bailey's chocolate martini, pumpkin spice latte, chai spice latte, hot chocolate (kids)

    Christmas menu II

    Drinks - Strawberry vodka cocktail, wine
    Appetizer - Roasted red pepper goat cheese crostini
    Salad - Make-ahead celery salad
    Main-course - Roast Chicken & Beef Burgundy
    Side dish - Lemon dill roasted potatoes, carrot zucchini fritters, sauteed asparagus
    Condiments - Cranberry sauce, red pepper tamponade, roasted garlic,
    Bread - Soft dinner rolls and no-knead crusty bread OR Cloverleaf rolls and no-knead beer bread
    Dessert
    Apple crumble pie and pumpkin cake or pumpkin souffle Or Pumpkin pie and pecan blondies or pecan pie brownies
    Aperitif or after-dinner drinks -
    Mulled wine, Baileys, Butterscotch baileys or bailey's chocolate martini, pumpkin spice latte, chai spice latte, hot chocolate (kids)

    Christmas menu III

    Drinks - Strawberry vodka cocktail, wine
    Appetizer - Roasted red pepper goat cheese crostini
    Salad - Make-ahead cranberry cabbage salad,
    Main course - Roast leg of lamb & chicken in mushroom sauce
    Side dish - Butternut squash fries, Crispy garlic roasted potatoes, sauteed sesame green beans
    Condiments - cranberry sauce, red pepper tamponade, roasted garlic,
    Bread - Braided challah and skillet buttermilk cornbread
    Dessert - Pecan pie and Caramel apple cake
    Aperitif or after-dinner drinks - Mulled wine,  Baileys, Butterscotch baileys or bailey's chocolate martini, pumpkin spice latte, chai spice latte, hot chocolate (kids)

    Hungry for more?

    A glass with Christmas eggnog.Easiest Recipe for Eggnog A frosted bundt cake on a cake standEggnog Bundt Cake A tall glass with caramel eggnog.Homemade Caramel Eggnog A tall glass of eggnog with whipped cream on top.Homemade Eggless Eggnog Recipe A sliced standing rib on a wooden board.Standing Rib Roast Log cake on a board dusted with cocoa powder.Yule Log Cake -Bûche De Noël

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    Author - Veena Azmanov

    A photo of Veena Azmanov.

    Veena is the author of three blogs - Veena Azmanov, Cake Decorating Tutorials, and East Indian Recipes.
    She writes about cooking, baking, desserts, and cake decorating. Being a professional cake decorator and food blogger for over ten years she has been featured in many online magazines and publications around the world. On her blogs, you will find delicious, easy and practical recipes often with instructional videos and tutorials for the home cook.

     

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    1. Eliza

      What an absolutely wonderful and timely roundup of fantastic Christmas recipes. There is something for everyone here! Thank you so much and happy holidays!

      Reply

    2. Mandy Applegate

      Such a great variety of recipes!

      Reply

    3. Kristen Wood

      This is the best collection of holiday recipes I've come across! Thanks for putting this together. 🙂

      Reply