As the snowflakes start to fall and the fireplace crackles with warmth, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with loved ones on a cozy winter night. To make these moments even more special, we’ve rounded up 18 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to become new holiday traditions. From sweet treats like Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies and Gingerbread Latte Cheesecake, to savory dishes like Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham and Slow Cooker Beef Stew, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a way to add some festive flair to your holiday gatherings, these recipes are sure to impress. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy by the fire, and let’s dive into the magic of December cooking.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the classic flavors of hot chocolate and peppermint to create a unique and delicious treat perfect for the holiday season.
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
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and tangy cranberry orange glazed ham recipe, perfect for a festive gathering or special occasion. This glaze combines the flavors of fresh cranberries, orange zest, and spices to create a deliciously moist and flavorful ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree cranberries, marmalade, honey, mustard, cinnamon, and cloves until smooth.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the surface in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Cover the ham with foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Gingerbread Latte Cheesecake
Elevate your holiday gathering with this unique and delicious dessert that combines the flavors of gingerbread latte with a creamy cheesecake.
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 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and crystallized ginger.
4. Pour batter into prepared crust.
5. Drizzle brewed coffee over the cheesecake.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before topping with whipped cream and crushed candy canes (if desired).
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Transform regular mashed potatoes into a rich and savory dish by incorporating the deep flavors of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. While the potatoes cook, toss the garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the garlic is caramelized and tender.
4. Drain the cooked potatoes and add them to a bowl with the roasted garlic, broth, and butter. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is a classic winter warmer that’s perfect for cozying up by the fireplace or sharing with friends at a holiday gathering. This spiced mulled wine recipe combines rich, bold flavors with warm spices to create a delicious and inviting beverage.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 orange slices
– 1 lemon slice
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, orange and lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has warmed through.
4. Stir in the brown sugar and water until dissolved.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional orange slices and cinnamon sticks if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggnog French Toast Casserole
Start your holiday season with a delicious and comforting breakfast casserole that combines the flavors of eggnog, cinnamon, and maple syrup. This Eggnog French Toast Casserole is perfect for a crowd or a cozy morning at home.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1 cup eggnog
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggnog, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Dip each bread slice into the eggnog mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the bread, then sprinkle with maple syrup.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baked Brie with Fig Jam
Elevate your gathering game with this easy-to-make baked brie, perfectly paired with sweet fig jam. This indulgent appetizer is sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 1 pound)
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the brie wheel from its packaging and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the fig jam over the top of the brie, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Dot the top of the brie with the softened butter.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly puffed.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes.
7. Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
A flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, these honey glazed carrots are infused with the warmth of thyme. A simple yet impressive addition to your next meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-22 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. While carrots are roasting, mix honey and thyme sprigs in a small saucepan over medium heat.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the honey is warm and fragrant.
7. Remove carrots from oven and toss with honey-thyme glaze to coat.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-27 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful slow cooker beef stew, perfect for a cozy evening meal. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal attention, making it ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, potatoes, mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Place beef stew meat on top of the vegetables.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding
Elevate your fall festivities with this indulgent pumpkin spice bread pudding, infused with the aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Perfect as a dessert or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale pumpkin spice bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/8 tsp ground ginger
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Add bread cubes and toss until evenly coated with the egg mixture.
4. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and savory recipe that brings out the best in Brussels sprouts. With a hint of maple syrup and a caramelized finish, these roasted sprouts are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
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 the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Drizzle maple syrup over the sprouts and toss to combine.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
6. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peppermint Bark Fudge
This creamy fudge combines the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate to create a festive and delicious treat perfect for holiday gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 12 ounces white chocolate chips
– 1 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, sugar, and corn syrup. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract.
5. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
6. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Spread melted white chocolate over fudge layer and sprinkle with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (if using).
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a delicious twist on traditional French toast by filling it with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of apples. This recipe is perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or Brioche work well)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Gala)
– 2 large eggs
– Maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Dip each bread slice into the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Place a few pieces of diced apple in the center of each bread slice.
4. Fold the bread over the apples to form a triangle or a square shape.
5. In a separate dish, whisk together eggs.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Dip each stuffed bread slice into the egg mixture, coating evenly.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
9. Serve warm with maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chestnut Soup with Crispy Pancetta
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, featuring the rich taste of roasted chestnuts and crispy pancetta. Perfect for a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or dried chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 slices pancetta, cut into thin strips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss chestnuts with olive oil, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until chestnuts are tender.
2. Remove chestnuts from the oven and let cool slightly. Peel and chop into large pieces.
3. In a pot, combine roasted chestnuts, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until soup has thickened slightly.
4. Meanwhile, pan-fry pancetta strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve warm soup with crispy pancetta on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these buttery shortbread cookies smothered in rich chocolate. Perfect for a special treat or gift-giving, these indulgent treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 1/2 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
8. Place dipped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Prime Rib
This classic prime rib recipe is elevated with the aromatic flavors of rosemary and garlic, perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-7 pound) prime rib roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Rub the mixture all over the prime rib roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: approximately 2-3 hours
Winter Spice Granola
Winter Spice Granola: A warm and aromatic snack perfect for the cold winter months.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, vegetable oil, ginger, cloves, and salt.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups of granola
Pomegranate Glazed Salmon
Pomegranate Glazed Salmon Recipe
Experience the sweet and tangy combination of pomegranate juice, honey, and soy sauce as you elevate your salmon dish with this simple and flavorful recipe.
- Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
- Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flaky, and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this December with these festive recipes perfect for cold winter nights. From sweet treats like Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies and Gingerbread Latte Cheesecake to savory dishes like Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham and Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, there’s something for everyone. Warm up with Spiced Mulled Wine or indulge in Eggnog French Toast Casserole. These 18 recipes will help you create a festive atmosphere and satisfy your cravings all season long.
