36+ Simple Christmas Recipes to Delight Your Holiday Gatherings
The holiday season is a magical time filled with joy, laughter, and of course, delicious food. As we gather with friends and family, the kitchen becomes a hub of creativity and warmth. Here are thirteen recipes that will make your Christmas celebrations even more special, each one bursting with flavor and easy enough to whip up!
These little bites are a perfect blend of creamy brie and tart cranberry sauce, all wrapped in flaky pastry. They bake to golden perfection, creating a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the gooey cheese inside.
1 package of puff pastry
1 wheel of brie cheese
1 cup cranberry sauce
1 egg (for egg wash)
Fresh rosemary (for garnish)
What makes these bites so popular is their charming presentation and the balance of flavors. They’re great as a starter or party snack, and your guests will love popping them in their mouths. Plus, they look fancy but are super simple to make!
This dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s quick to prepare and makes an impressive addition to your holiday table, perfect for seafood lovers.
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
The simplicity of this recipe allows the fresh flavors to shine through. The garlic butter sauce is heavenly when served over rice or pasta, making it a versatile dish. It’s a wonderful way to add a touch of elegance without much fuss!
This warm drink is like a hug in a mug, filled with the cozy spices of the season. It’s incredibly easy to make and fills your home with a delightful aroma that will draw everyone to the kitchen.
What sets this cider apart is its ability to warm both the body and spirit. It’s perfect for holiday parties or a quiet evening by the fire. Plus, you can easily adjust the spices to suit your taste!
This comforting dish is all about creamy potatoes topped with melted cheese, making it a favorite at any family gathering. It’s baked until golden and bubbly, creating a crispy top layer that everyone loves.
4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
This casserole is special because it brings everyone together at the table, and it’s so satisfying! It’s a great make-ahead dish, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests. The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness is simply irresistible!
This ham is sweet, tangy, and caramelized to perfection with a luscious pineapple glaze. It’s the star of many holiday feasts, providing a beautiful centerpiece that will impress your guests.
1 fully cooked ham (about 5-7 pounds)
1 cup pineapple juice
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
Whole cloves (optional, for decoration)
The combination of the sweet glaze and savory ham creates a flavor explosion that everyone will adore. It’s an easy recipe that allows you to focus on other dishes while the ham bakes away in the oven. Plus, the leftovers are fantastic for sandwiches!
This festive treat is a delightful mix of rich chocolate and cool peppermint, making it perfect for the holidays. It’s incredibly simple to make and can be packaged beautifully for gift-giving.
12 ounces dark chocolate chips
12 ounces white chocolate chips
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Candy canes, crushed (for topping)
Pinch of sea salt (optional)
This bark is special because it combines the flavors of Christmas in a fun and easy way. You can customize the toppings or even mix in nuts or dried fruit! It’s a great treat to share or keep for yourself during the holiday season.
These bite-sized delights are filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. They’re a fantastic appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.
1 pound mushrooms, stems removed
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
What makes these stuffed mushrooms a hit is their versatility. You can easily add in your favorite ingredients, like sausage or spinach, to make them your own. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings and make for a finger-food favorite!
This side dish transforms Brussels sprouts into a sweet and savory treat, caramelized with maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. It’s a fantastic way to add some veggies to your holiday spread without sacrificing flavor.
1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Olive oil (for drizzling)
The combination of the maple glaze and roasted Brussels sprouts is simply mouthwatering. This dish is not only delicious but also brings a vibrant color to your table. It’s a great way to impress even those who think they don’t like Brussels sprouts!
Rating: 4.5 (13 reviews). Total Time: 11 hr 35 min.
Links open in new window. Source: Google.com
This rich and creamy cheesecake is infused with the classic flavors of eggnog, making it a delightful dessert for your holiday gatherings. It’s smooth, decadent, and a wonderful way to end any meal.
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese
1 cup eggnog
This cheesecake stands out because it combines two beloved holiday treats into one! It’s perfect for sharing, and the flavors really capture the spirit of the season. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dessert that tastes even better after sitting overnight!
These classic sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and perfect for decorating with festive icing. They’re a fun holiday tradition that everyone can enjoy, especially the little ones!
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
What makes these cookies special is the chance to get creative with decorations. You can use different colored icing and sprinkles to make each cookie unique! They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family, making sweet memories together.
Total Time: cool whip, crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, miniature marshmallows.
Links open in new window. Source: Google.com
This colorful and refreshing fruit salad is a bright addition to any holiday meal. It’s a mix of seasonal fruits, tossed in a light honey-lime dressing that brings everything together beautifully.
2 cups strawberries, sliced
2 cups grapes, halved
1 pineapple, diced
1 cup blueberries
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon lime juice
This fruit salad is a hit because it’s light and refreshing, balancing out heavier holiday dishes. It’s also super easy to prepare, making it a great side dish or dessert option. The bright colors and natural sweetness make it a joy to serve!
Rating: 4.9 (22 reviews). Total Time: 5 hr 55 min.
Links open in new window. Source: Google.com
These flaky, buttery croissants are filled with rich chocolate, creating a delightful breakfast or dessert treat. They’re perfect for holiday brunches and will impress anyone who takes a bite.
1 package of croissant dough
1 cup chocolate chips or chocolate bars
1 egg (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
What makes these croissants so special is how easy they are to make while still looking gourmet. They’re perfect for treating your family or guests to a little something special in the morning. Plus, who can resist warm, melty chocolate wrapped in flaky pastry?
