It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas party season! As you start planning your holiday gatherings, you’re probably thinking about what delicious dishes to serve your guests. Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together with friends or a big bash with family and coworkers, having a spread of tasty treats is sure to make your event merry and bright.
To help you get started, we’ve gathered 20 festive Christmas party recipes that are sure to delight your guests. From sweet treats like peppermint chocolate crinkle cookies and eggnog cheesecake bars, to savory options like garlic herb butter roast turkey and prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So go ahead, get cooking, and make this holiday season one to remember!
Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Add some festive flair to your holiday baking with these Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. The combination of peppermint and chocolate is a classic for a reason!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. 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. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make baked brie recipe, perfectly paired with a tangy cranberry sauce. This sweet and savory combination is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup orange juice (optional)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Place the brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and honey until well combined.
4. Spread the sugar mixture evenly over the top of the brie cheese.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is softened and the edges are lightly browned.
6. While the brie is baking, combine cranberries, orange juice (if using), and vanilla extract (if using) in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the cranberries have popped and the mixture has thickened slightly.
7. Serve the baked brie with warm cranberry sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Garlic Herb Butter Roast Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful and aromatic roasted turkey recipe, infused with the savory goodness of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme until well combined.
4. Rub the garlic-herb butter mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for approximately 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours.
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
This classic recipe combines the richness of ham with the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of pineapple, creating a perfect glaze for your next gathering. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously glazed ham in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon pineapple juice
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Top with pineapple slices, arranging them in a decorative pattern.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This addictive dip combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and cream cheese to create a perfect party snack. With its rich and creamy texture, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Mix until well combined.
4. Add mayonnaise, garlic, salt, and pepper; mix until smooth.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Orange Punch
Add a touch of festive flair to your holiday gatherings with this refreshing Cranberry Orange Punch! This easy-to-make recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange, perfect for sipping on a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slices of orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice, orange juice, and ginger ale.
2. Stir in the simple syrup until dissolved.
3. Add freshly squeezed orange juice and stir to combine.
4. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with orange slices.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you are.
Mini Beef Wellingtons
Mini Beef Wellingtons: A Delicious Bite-Sized Twist on a Classic Dish
These bite-sized beef wellingtons are perfect for parties or special occasions. With tender beef, mushrooms, and puff pastry, they’re sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a pan over medium heat, cook the beef until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushroom duxelles to the pan and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around it.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges together with a fork.
7. Brush tops with butter and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: Mushroom duxelles is a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and herbs. You can make your own or use store-bought.
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and savory recipe that brings out the natural flavor of Brussels sprouts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, shaking the pan halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with maple syrup. Toss to coat.
6. If desired, add red pepper flakes and toss again.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars: A Delicious Holiday Treat
These creamy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for your holiday gathering. With a crunchy graham cracker crust and a rich eggnog-infused cheesecake filling, these bars will be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz (340g) cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese and eggs together until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, eggnog, and salt. Mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
Create a cozy atmosphere this winter with a batch of warm, spiced mulled wine perfect for sipping by the fire or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 whole allspice berries
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the sliced orange, minced garlic, cinnamon stick, and allspice berries.
2. Add the red wine, brown sugar, and water to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it mull for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Appetizers
Add a touch of festive flair to your holiday gatherings with these adorable Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Appetizers. Perfect for a quick and easy snack or as a charming addition to your party platter.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into triangles, using a knife or pizza cutter. You should end up with around 12-15 triangles.
4. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Place a small dollop of the cheese mixture onto the center of each triangle, leaving a 1/2 inch border around it.
6. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a Christmas tree shape, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with a little water and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
Perfect for chilly days or cozy gatherings, this slow cooker hot chocolate recipe is a simple yet indulgent treat. With its rich and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
2. Stir until the cocoa powder is well combined with the mixture.
3. Add vanilla extract and stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
5. Just before serving, add mini marshmallows if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Gingerbread Trifle
A show-stopping dessert perfect for the holiday season, this Gingerbread Trifle combines moist gingerbread cake with creamy custard, sweet strawberries, and crunchy whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gingerbread cake mix
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup vanilla custard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare the gingerbread cake mix according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and softened butter until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, and vanilla custard until smooth.
4. Cut the cooled gingerbread cake into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes.
5. Assemble the trifle by layering the gingerbread cake, whipped cream, strawberries, and custard in a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None needed; all layers can be assembled ahead of time.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Elevate your vegetable side dish with the salty sweetness of prosciutto and the tender crunch of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6-8 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Place a prosciutto slice around each asparagus spear, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until asparagus is tender and prosciutto is crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: Hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Peppermint White Chocolate Fudge
Brighten up your holiday season with this refreshing and creamy peppermint white chocolate fudge recipe! Made with crushed candy canes, this treat is perfect for gift-giving or snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) crushed candy canes
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and salt. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in crushed candy canes and butter until well combined.
4. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
5. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (melting) + 2 hours (setting)
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup made by roasting butternut squash to bring out its natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
• 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Place squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt.
4. Roast squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Scoop flesh into a blender or pot and add broth, onion, garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika.
7. Blend until smooth, then season with salt to taste.
8. If desired, stir in heavy cream for a creamy texture.
9. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Christmas Sugar Cookies
Add some festive cheer to your holiday season with these classic sugar cookies. Perfectly soft and chewy on the inside, with a delicate crunch on the outside, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any Christmas gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (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 powder, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters or a glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before decorating with colored sugar or sprinkles (if desired).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Elevate your snack game with this unexpected yet delightful combination of sweet dates and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon slices in half and wrap each date with a piece of bacon.
3. Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. If using, sprinkle brown sugar over the dates.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pomegranate Glazed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the tanginess of pomegranate with the richness of beef. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice and honey. Brush the glaze over the meatballs.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Transform your holiday gathering with this festive and delicious Chocolate Peppermint Bark recipe. Perfect for a quick treat or gift-giving, this sweet and refreshing dessert is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (about 8-10 canes)
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract and crushed candy canes.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a separate microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the white chocolate layer, allowing it to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: None (assembled)
Tips:
– For a more festive touch, add red and green sprinkles on top before the dark chocolate sets.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Summary
Get ready to deck the halls with these 20 delightful Christmas party recipes! From sweet treats like Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies and Eggnog Cheesecake Bars, to savory delights like Garlic Herb Butter Roast Turkey and Pomegranate Glazed Meatballs, there’s something for everyone. Plus, don’t miss festive favorites like Cranberry Orange Punch, Spiced Mulled Wine, and Mini Beef Wellingtons. These recipes are sure to make your holiday gathering a hit!
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