15 Christmas Recipes to Delight Your Holiday Gatherings

Christmas is a magical time filled with joy, family, and celebration. Finding the perfect recipes to share with your loved ones can make your holiday gatherings even more special.

From classic dishes to modern twists, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

As you plan your festive meals, consider the variety of flavors and traditions that can bring your table to life. Cooking together can create lasting memories, so get ready to embrace the warmth and happiness that Christmas recipes can bring to your home.

1) Roast Turkey with Herb Butter

Roast turkey with herb butter is a delicious choice for your Christmas dinner. The herb butter adds flavor and moisture, making the turkey juicy and tender.

Start by mixing softened butter with fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme. Rub this mixture under the skin of the turkey to ensure great taste.

You can also add garlic and lemon juice to enhance the flavor.

Roast the turkey at 325°F (165°C) and use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

Enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste as it cooks!

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the butter, herbs, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb butter under the skin of the turkey.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.

2) Honey-Glazed Ham

Honey-glazed ham is a classic dish that’s perfect for Christmas. The sweet glaze adds great flavor and makes the ham look festive.

To prepare, you’ll need to score the ham and stud it with cloves. This helps the glaze soak in better.

For the glaze, mix honey, brown sugar, and butter in a double boiler. Heat it until smooth, then brush it on the ham.

Bake the ham at 325°F (about 165°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, basting every 15 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked ham (6-8 pounds)
• 1 cup honey
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• Whole cloves

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Score the ham and stud it with cloves.
3. Combine honey, brown sugar, and butter in a double boiler.
4. Heat until smooth, then brush over the ham.
5. Bake the ham for 1 hour and 15 minutes, basting every 15 minutes.

3) Classic Stuffing with Sage

Classic stuffing with sage is a must-have for your holiday meals. It pairs perfectly with turkey and adds a warm, comforting flavor to your plate.

To make this stuffing, you’ll need simple ingredients like bread, onions, celery, and, of course, sage. The sage gives it that classic holiday taste that everyone loves.

Start by mixing dried bread cubes with sautéed onions and celery. Then, add in your sage and seasonings. Pour in some broth to keep it moist.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) until it’s golden and crispy on top. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home as it cooks!

Ingredients

• 8 cups bread cubes
• 1 cup diced onions
• 1 cup diced celery
• 2 tablespoons dried sage
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sauté onions and celery until soft.
3. Combine bread cubes, sautéed veggies, and sage.
4. Add broth and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.

4) Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a tasty side dish perfect for Christmas. You can make them creamy and flavorful easily. The garlic adds a wonderful taste that pairs well with many holiday meals.

Start by choosing the right potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes are great for their creamy texture. You can also use russet potatoes if you prefer fluffiness.

To make your mashed potatoes, you will need garlic, milk, butter, and salt. These ingredients enhance the potatoes’ flavor, making them truly delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of Yukon Gold or russet potatoes
• 5 cloves of garlic
• ½ cup of milk
• ¼ cup of butter
• Salt, to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Peel and chop the potatoes into quarters.
2. Boil the potatoes and garlic in salted water for about 15 minutes or until tender.
3. Drain the water and return the potatoes and garlic to the pot.
4. Add the milk and butter. Mash until creamy.
5. Season with salt to taste and serve warm.

5) Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze make a delightful side dish for your Christmas meal. They offer a perfect balance of flavors and are easy to prepare.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Trim the Brussels sprouts and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, adding salt and pepper to taste.

In a small bowl, mix balsamic vinegar and honey or brown sugar. Pour this mixture over the sprouts. Toss well so every piece is coated.

Roast for about 20 to 25 minutes until they’re crispy and golden.

These sprouts pair wonderfully with any holiday main course. Enjoy your festive cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) Brussels sprouts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Trim and wash the Brussels sprouts.
3. Place them on a baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, then add salt and pepper.
5. Mix balsamic vinegar and honey or brown sugar.
6. Pour the mixture over the sprouts and toss.
7. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes until crispy and golden.

6) Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest

Cranberry sauce with orange zest is a delightful addition to your holiday meals. The combination of tart cranberries and bright orange creates a fresh flavor that enhances any dish.

Making this sauce is simple and quick. Just cook the cranberries with sugar and fresh orange zest. Let it simmer until the cranberries pop and the sauce thickens.

You can enjoy it warm or chilled. It pairs perfectly with turkey, ham, or even on a holiday sandwich.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces (340 grams) fresh cranberries
• 1 cup (200 grams) sugar
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 cup (240 ml) water

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the cranberries and put them in a saucepan.
2. Add sugar, orange zest, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, until cranberries pop.
5. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

7) Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream

Pumpkin pie is a classic dessert that brings warmth to any holiday gathering. The creamy filling combined with a flaky crust makes it a favorite. Topping it with whipped cream adds a light sweetness that perfectly complements the spices.

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need canned pumpkin puree, sugar, and a mix of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Bake the pie until it’s set, then let it cool so the flavors can develop.

Once it’s ready to serve, add a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. You can even sprinkle a little ground cinnamon for extra flavor.

Enjoy each slice as a special treat at your holiday feast!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 pie crust

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugars, spices, and salt.
3. Beat in the eggs until smooth.
4. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
5. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes.
6. Let it cool, then top with whipped cream before serving.

8) Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that everyone loves. Their warm spices and sweet flavor make them perfect for Christmas.

To start making your gingerbread cookies, gather your ingredients like flour, brown sugar, and spices such as ginger and cinnamon. You can also use cookie cutters to create fun shapes.

Once your dough is ready, chill it before rolling it out. This helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.

Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. After they cool, you can decorate them with icing or powdered sugar.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup molasses

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
2. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy.
3. Add egg and molasses to the butter mixture.
4. Gradually add flour mixture to the wet ingredients.
5. Chill the dough for at least 1 hour.
6. Roll out the dough and cut into shapes.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.
8. Let cool and decorate as desired.

9) Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a warm and cozy drink perfect for holiday gatherings. It’s made by heating red wine with a mix of spices and fruits that bring out rich flavors.

To make your mulled wine, start with high-quality red wine. Add spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise for that holiday aroma. You can also include orange slices for a fruity touch.

Warm the mixture gently on the stove, stirring in some sugar or brandy to enhance the taste. Keep it on low heat so it doesn’t boil, which can alter the flavors.

Serve the mulled wine in mugs, allowing your guests to enjoy a comforting sip as they gather around.

Ingredients

• 750ml red wine
• 150ml ruby port
• 125g soft brown sugar
• 2-3 star anise
• ½ tsp cloves
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 thumb-sized piece fresh ginger
• 1 orange, cut into segments

Cooking Instructions

1. Pour the wine and port into a large pan.
2. Add sugar and spices.
3. Warm gently on low heat (about 160°F or 70°C).
4. Stir occasionally and taste.
5. Serve the mulled wine warm in mugs.

10) Eggnog Delight

Eggnog Delight is a festive treat that brings the classic eggnog flavor into a delicious dessert. It is creamy, sweet, and perfect for your Christmas celebrations. This no-bake dessert is easy to make and sure to impress your guests.

To prepare this dish, start by layering shortbread cookies soaked in eggnog. Add a layer of vanilla pudding and cherry pie filling for a burst of flavor. Top it off with whipped cream for a delightful finish.

You can serve this dessert chilled for a refreshing holiday treat. It’s a sweet way to enjoy the season without all the fuss.

Ingredients

• Shortbread cookies
• Eggnog
• Cherry pie filling
• Vanilla instant pudding mix
• Whipped cream

Cooking Instructions

1. Soak shortbread cookies in eggnog.
2. Layer the cookies in a dish.
3. Mix vanilla pudding with cold milk and pour over cookies.
4. Add cherry pie filling on top.
5. Finish with a layer of whipped cream.
6. Chill before serving.

11) Yule Log Cake

A Yule Log Cake, or Bûche de Noël, is a classic holiday dessert. It resembles a log and is often enjoyed during Christmas celebrations. You can make it with a chocolate sponge cake filled with creamy frosting.

To start, you’ll need to bake the cake in a jelly roll pan. Once it’s done, roll it while it’s still warm to shape it. After cooling, unroll it to add filling and roll it back up again.

Next, frost the outside with chocolate icing. Use a fork to create a tree bark effect. Decorate with festive touches like marzipan leaves or tiny snowmen for a cheerful look.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chocolate frosting
• Optional: marzipan decorations

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
3. Beat eggs and sugar until fluffy.
4. Slowly add cocoa powder and flour, mixing until combined.
5. Spread the batter in the pan and bake for about 15 minutes.
6. Roll the cake while still warm and let it cool completely.
7. Unroll, add cream filling, and re-roll.
8. Frost with chocolate icing and decorate as desired.

12) Baked Brie with Cranberries

Baked Brie with Cranberries is a delicious and festive dish perfect for Christmas gatherings. The warm, melted cheese pairs wonderfully with the tartness of cranberries.

To prepare, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Start by scoring the top of the brie cheese in a crisscross pattern. This helps the toppings soak in and allows the cheese to melt nicely.

Next, mix fresh cranberries, honey, olive oil, thyme, and garlic in a bowl. Spoon this mixture onto the brie before baking. Place the brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is gooey and golden. Serve immediately with crackers or bread for a delightful appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 round Brie cheese
• 3 tablespoons fresh cranberries, chopped
• 1½ tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon chopped thyme
• ½ teaspoon chopped rosemary
• 1 minced garlic clove

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Score the top of the brie.
3. Mix cranberries, honey, olive oil, thyme, and garlic.
4. Spoon mixture over the brie.
5. Place brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes.
7. Serve warm with crackers or bread.

13) Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are a delightful appetizer perfect for Christmas gatherings. You can use large, fresh mushrooms like portobellos or button mushrooms. These are easy to prepare and always a crowd favorite.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and remove their stems. Chop the stems finely and sauté them with garlic in olive oil until softened.

Next, mix the chopped stems with breadcrumbs, cheese, and your favorite herbs. Stuff this mixture into the mushroom caps. Bake them for about 20 minutes until they are golden brown.

These stuffed mushrooms will add a savory touch to your holiday table!

Ingredients

• Large mushrooms (portobellos or button)
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Breadcrumbs
• Cheese (like Parmesan or mozzarella)
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean and stem the mushrooms.
3. Sauté chopped stems and garlic in olive oil.
4. Mix sautéed stems with breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs.
5. Stuff the mushrooms with the mixture.
6. Bake for 20 minutes until golden.

14) Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup is a creamy and comforting dish perfect for the holidays. It’s great as a starter or a side for your festive meals. This soup is not only delicious but also healthy.

To make it, start by roasting the butternut squash. This brings out its sweet flavor. You can blend it with broth, onions, and spices for a rich taste.

Feel free to top it with some cream or toasted seeds for added texture.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: cream for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and place them cut-side down on a baking tray.
4. Bake for 45 minutes or until tender.
5. In a pot, sauté the onion in olive oil until soft.
6. Scoop the squash out of its skin and add it to the pot with the broth.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Blend until smooth. Heat again if needed and enjoy!

15) Christmas Pudding

Christmas pudding is a classic holiday dessert enjoyed in many homes. It’s rich and flavorful, often made with dried fruits, spices, and sometimes a splash of alcohol. This pudding is traditionally served after the main meal on Christmas Day.

You make it by mixing ingredients like breadcrumbs, flour, and eggs. It’s also common to add spices that create a warm flavor. Many families have their own special recipe, passed down through generations.

A fun tradition is to light the pudding before serving. This creates a beautiful flame effect that delights everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried fruit
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon mixed spices
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk or brandy

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix all the dry ingredients in a bowl.
3. Then, add the eggs and milk (or brandy) and stir well.
4. After that, pour the mixture into a greased pudding mold.
5. Finally, steam for about 2 hours, or bake until firm.