15+ Xmas Recipes to Brighten Your Holiday Celebrations

The holiday season is a time for joy, family gatherings, and delicious meals. Festive recipes play a key role in creating memorable moments around the dinner table. From savory main dishes to sweet treats, there are countless options to delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones.

Exploring new recipes can make your holiday cooking experience even more exciting. You can enhance classic dishes or try something completely different, ensuring that this Christmas is filled with flavor and joy. Whether you’re hosting a large feast or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, the right recipes can elevate your celebration.

1) Christmas Roast Turkey

Cooking a Christmas roast turkey is a time-honored tradition. You’ll enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home. Start with a good quality turkey for the best flavor.

For a simple recipe, consider a turkey with onion and sage pork stuffing. This stuffing adds moisture and taste, ensuring your turkey is juicy. You can also try different flavors, like lemon and garlic, for a zesty twist.

Bake your turkey at 325°F (165°C). Cooking time will vary based on the size, usually around 13-15 minutes per pound. Make sure to let the turkey rest before carving for the best results.

Ingredients

• 1 turkey (10-12 pounds)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Onion, chopped
• Fresh herbs (sage, thyme)
• Stuffing of your choice

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the turkey with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the turkey with your chosen stuffing.
4. Place in a roasting pan and cover with foil.
5. Roast for several hours, removing foil for the last 30 minutes.
6. Check for doneness (165°F or 75°C internally).
7. Let it rest before carving.

2) Honey-Glazed Christmas Ham

A honey-glazed Christmas ham is a festive favorite. Its sweet and savory flavor brings joy to any holiday table. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving the ham a shiny finish.

To make this dish, you will need some simple ingredients. Brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard blend together perfectly. Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar gives it a nice zing.

For the cooking process, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Score the ham’s surface in a diamond pattern, then coat it generously with the glaze. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting occasionally.

The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

Ingredients

• 1 ham (about 4 kg)
• 100 g brown sugar
• 125 g honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 50 ml apple cider vinegar

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Score the ham in a diamond pattern.
3. Combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
4. Coat the ham with the glaze.
5. Place the ham in the oven and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours.
6. Baste the ham every 30 minutes.
7. Check for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

3) Eggnog Cheesecake

Eggnog cheesecake is a delightful holiday dessert. It’s rich, creamy, and full of festive flavor. This treat combines traditional eggnog tastes with a smooth cheesecake texture, making it perfect for your Christmas gatherings.

To make this cheesecake, you will need a gingersnap crust or a classic graham cracker crust. The creamy filling usually includes cream cheese, eggnog, and a touch of nutmeg. For a special touch, top it with whipped cream!

Ingredients

• 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup white sugar
• 3/4 cup eggnog
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• Gingersnap or graham cracker crust

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add sugar and mix well.
4. Gradually beat in eggnog, flour, and nutmeg.
5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
6. Pour the mixture into the crust.
7. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until set.
8. Let cool and chill in the fridge before serving.

4) Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a fun and festive treat to bake during the holidays. Their warm spices fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma. You can enjoy them soft, or let them cool for a crispier bite.

To decorate, use royal icing, colorful sprinkles, or even melted chocolate. Get creative with shapes and designs that will bring joy to your gatherings.

Here’s what you will need:

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 large egg

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.
3. Beat butter and sugar until smooth, then add molasses and egg.
4. Gradually stir in the flour mixture.
5. Roll out the dough, cut shapes, and place them on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes until firm. Cool before decorating.

5) Yule Log Cake

The Yule Log Cake, or Bûche de Noël, is a festive dessert that looks like a log. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings and brings a lot of cheer to the table.

This chocolate sponge cake is rolled and filled with creamy goodness, often made with mascarpone or whipped cream. You can cover it with rich chocolate ganache for a beautiful finish.

Decorating your Yule Log can be a fun creative project. You can use powdered sugar to mimic snow or add decorations like berries and chocolate shavings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (50 g) cocoa powder
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 8 oz (225 g) mascarpone cheese
• 1/2 cup (90 g) chocolate chips
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and eggs.
4. Combine milk and vanilla, then add to the dry ingredients.
5. Pour the mixture into the baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
6. Let it cool slightly, then roll into a log shape.
7. Whip heavy cream and mascarpone together until thick.
8. Unroll the sponge, fill with cream, and re-roll.
9. Coat the cake with chocolate ganache and decorate as desired.

6) Spiced Mulled Wine

Spiced mulled wine is a warm and comforting drink, perfect for holiday gatherings. It combines rich red wine with wonderful spices and fruits.

To make this drink, start by simmering the wine with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. You can also add slices of oranges and apples for extra flavor.

Heat the mixture slowly to about 160°F (70°C) but do not let it boil. This ensures the best taste without losing the wine’s flavor.

Serve it hot in mugs, and enjoy the cozy aroma as you sip. Spiced mulled wine is sure to be a hit at your festive celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle red wine
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 orange, sliced

Cooking Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a pot.
2. Heat over medium heat until warm, about 160°F (70°C).
3. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Serve hot in mugs.

7) Classic Stuffing

Classic stuffing is a must-have for any holiday meal. It adds flavor and texture that complements your main dish perfectly. You can use bread, herbs, and a mix of spices to create a delicious filling.

Start with some toasted bread to give it a nice crunch. Mix in celery, onions, and a blend of your favorite herbs. Don’t forget the broth to moisten it all!

This dish can be baked in the turkey or cooked separately. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit on your table.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of bread, toasted
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon sage
• 1 tablespoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt butter in a pan and sauté celery and onions until soft.
3. In a bowl, combine toasted bread, herbs, and sautéed vegetables.
4. Pour in broth until moistened, mixing well.
5. Place in a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes. Enjoy!

8) Candied Yams

Candied yams are a sweet and comforting side dish perfect for holiday meals. They are made from sweet potatoes. You can often top them with a sugary glaze that gives them a delicious flavor.

You can prepare candied yams with just a few simple ingredients. The buttery, caramelized sweetness pairs perfectly with savory dishes. Many recipes use spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance the taste.

You can bake them until tender and let the sweet aroma fill your kitchen. They become a beautiful centerpiece on your holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Miniature marshmallows (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Peel and slice the sweet potatoes.
3. In a baking dish, layer the sweet potatoes.
4. Melt the butter and mix in the brown sugar and spices.
5. Pour the mixture over the sweet potatoes.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes until tender, adding marshmallows in the last 10 minutes if desired.

9) Pecan Pie

Pecan pie is a classic dessert that many people enjoy during the holiday season. It features a sweet filling made with pecans, sugar, and eggs, all baked in a flaky crust.

To make this pie, you need just a few simple ingredients. The taste is rich and satisfying, making it a favorite at any dessert table.

You can customize your pecan pie by adding ingredients like chocolate or bourbon for an extra kick. It pairs well with a scoop of ice cream, which makes it even more delightful.

Ingredients

• 2 and 1/2 cups (250g) pecan halves
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) dark corn syrup
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed sugar (light or dark)
• 1/4 cup (57g) melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pie crust

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, sugar, eggs, and melted butter.
3. Stir in the vanilla and pecans.
4. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
5. Bake for 60-70 minutes until set.
6. Let it cool before serving. Enjoy!

10) Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

This roasted Brussels sprouts recipe with bacon is simple and delicious. The crispy bacon adds a rich flavor that blends perfectly with the earthy taste of the Brussels sprouts.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Then, trim and halve the Brussels sprouts and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Next, chop some bacon and add it to the mix for extra flavor. Spread everything on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. The sprouts should be golden brown, and the bacon should be crispy.

Enjoy your tasty side dish with any holiday meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts
• 4 slices of bacon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts and bacon with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway.

11) Christmas Pudding

Christmas pudding is a classic dessert enjoyed during the holidays. This rich, fruity pudding is traditionally made with dried fruits, nuts, and spices. It has a warm flavor that pairs well with cream or brandy sauce.

To make a delightful Christmas pudding, gather your ingredients like dried apricots, raisins, and nuts. Many people enjoy adding a hint of citrus, such as candied peel.

Cooking this pudding involves steaming it for several hours. This method helps to create a moist and flavorful dessert.

Ingredients

• 50g blanched almonds
• 200g dried raisins
• 200g dried apricots
• 100g candied peel
• 200g breadcrumbs
• 200g brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon mixed spice

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare your pudding basin by greasing it well.
2. In a large bowl, mix all the dry ingredients.
3. Add the eggs and mix until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into the basin.
5. Cover with parchment paper and foil.
6. Steam for 6 hours at 250°F (120°C).

12) Buttered Rum

Hot Buttered Rum is a warm, cozy drink perfect for the holiday season. It combines the rich flavors of butter, sugar, and spices with rum for a delightful treat.

To make this drink, you’ll need unsalted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger. Each ingredient adds a unique flavor that warms you inside and out.

Start by mixing the butter, sugar, and spices until smooth. Then, add hot water and rum to this blend. Stir well and enjoy it hot!

Ingredients

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• ½ cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 oz rum
• Hot water

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the butter, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and ginger until smooth.
2. In a mug, add 2 oz of rum.
3. Fill the mug with hot water, leaving some space at the top.
4. Stir in the butter mixture until well combined.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

13) Red Velvet Snowball Cookies

Red Velvet Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat for the holiday season. They are soft and tender with a rich flavor. Coated in powdered sugar, they look festive and taste amazing.

To make these cookies, you will need some basic ingredients. The combination of red velvet and a snowy dusting makes them a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Extra confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and confectioners’ sugar together.
3. Add vanilla extract and red food coloring, mixing well.
4. Combine flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
5. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined.
6. Shape dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until set.
8. Cool slightly, then roll in powdered sugar before serving.

14) Prime Rib Roast

Prime rib roast makes for a perfect holiday centerpiece. It’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor, sure to impress your guests.

Start with a good cut of prime rib, about 6 pounds. Season it with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs for extra taste.

Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Sear the roast for 20 minutes at this high heat. Then, lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness.

Let the roast rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices locked in.

Ingredients

• 1 (6 pound) boneless prime rib roast
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C).
2. Season the roast with salt, pepper, and herbs.
3. Sear the roast for 20 minutes.
4. Reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C).
5. Roast until desired doneness is reached.
6. Let rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

15) Panettone

Panettone is a traditional Italian Christmas bread. It has a soft, fluffy texture and a sweet, rich flavor. Often, it includes dried fruits like raisins and candied orange peel.

Making panettone at home can be a fun project for the holidays. You’ll enjoy the delightful aroma as it bakes in the oven. This festive bread pairs perfectly with coffee or hot chocolate.

Ingredients

• 5 cups (600g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1 cup (230g) butter, softened
• 8 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits

Cooking Instructions

1. Mix flour and yeast in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, combine warmed water, sugar, and butter.
3. Then, add eggs and vanilla to the wet mixture.
4. Slowly blend the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
5. Knead the dough until smooth. After that, let it rise for about 2 hours.
6. Next, fold in dried fruits and shape the dough.
7. Place the dough in a panettone mold and let it rise again for about 1 hour.
8. Finally, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 40-50 minutes.