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17 Classic Christmas Recipes | Martha Stewart

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Martha Stewart
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Golden Bow Cookies are a festive treat often associated with holiday celebrations in the United States. Their charming bow shape and vibrant colors make them a favorite for parties and gatherings. Traditionally, these cookies are made with simple ingredients, allowing for creativity in decoration. Today, variations abound, with bakers experimenting with flavors and colors, making them a delightful addition to any cookie platter.

Ingredients

  • butter
  • sugar
  • brown sugar
  • eggs
  • vanilla extract
  • all-purpose flour
  • baking powder
  • salt
  • powdered sugar
  • food coloring
  • sprinkles
  • almond extract
  • milk
  • cocoa powder
  • chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2Cream together butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. 3Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
  4. 4In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  6. 6Divide the dough into two portions; leave one plain and color the other with food coloring.
  7. 7Roll out each portion to about 1/4 inch thick on a floured surface.
  8. 8Cut into shapes using a cookie cutter, making sure to create a bow shape.
  9. 9Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  10. 10Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
  11. 11Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  12. 12Once cooled, drizzle with milk and sprinkle powdered sugar on top.
  13. 13If desired, melt chocolate chips and drizzle over cookies for decoration.

Ingredient Alternatives

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option while margarine is often less expensive.

chocolate chips

Healthier: dark chocolate

Cheaper: chocolate bar

Dark chocolate can offer health benefits while a chocolate bar can be more economical.

Techniques

creamingrollingcuttingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking sheetparchment papercookie cutterwire rack
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairyeggsgluten

Also Known As

Butter Bow CookiesRibbon Cookies
veganplant-basedgluten-freenut-free

Holiday Punch has its roots in festive celebrations across the United States, often served at gatherings during Christmas and New Year. This vibrant drink brings together seasonal flavors, creating a joyful atmosphere. Today, variations abound, with many families adding their unique twist, making it a beloved tradition during the holiday season.

Ingredients

  • fruit juice
  • sparkling water
  • sugar
  • fresh fruit
  • spices
  • herbs
  • ice
  • optional alcohol

Instructions

  1. 1Mix fruit juice and sugar in a large bowl until sugar dissolves.
  2. 2Add sparkling water and stir gently to combine.
  3. 3Incorporate fresh fruit slices into the mixture.
  4. 4Add spices and herbs for flavor enhancement.
  5. 5Fill glasses with ice and pour the punch over it.
  6. 6Garnish with additional fruit or herbs as desired.

Ingredient Alternatives

sparkling water

Healthier: club soda

Cheaper: tap water

Club soda offers fizz without added sugars.

sugar

Healthier: honey

Cheaper: agave syrup

Honey adds sweetness with a unique flavor.

fresh fruit

Healthier: frozen fruit

Cheaper: canned fruit

Frozen fruit is often more affordable and retains flavor.

optional alcohol

Healthier: non-alcoholic wine

Cheaper: ginger ale

Non-alcoholic options provide festive flavor without alcohol.

Techniques

mixing

Equipment

large bowlspoonglassesice tray
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

Christmas PunchFestive Punch

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup green buttercream frosting
  • 1/4 cup edible glitter
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup red candy melts

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
  2. 2In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. 3Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined and smooth.
  4. 4Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter.
  5. 5Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. 6Remove from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. 7Once cooled, use a piping bag to pipe green buttercream frosting on top of each cupcake to resemble a Christmas tree.
  8. 8Sprinkle edible glitter over the frosting for a festive touch.
  9. 9Decorate with mini chocolate chips as ornaments and melted red candy melts as stars on top.
  10. 10Serve and enjoy your festive Christmas Tree Cupcakes!

Equipment

cupcake pancupcake linersmixing bowlwhiskpiping bagtoothpickwire rack

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. 1In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. 2Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
  3. 3Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  4. 4Shape the dough into a log, about 2 inches in diameter, and wrap it in plastic wrap.
  5. 5Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours or until firm.
  6. 6Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. 7Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/4 inch thick rounds.
  8. 8Place the cookie slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  9. 9Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  10. 10Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. 11Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.

Equipment

mixing bowlwhiskplastic wrapbaking sheetparchment paperwire rack

Ingredients

  • 2 cups mixed nuts (peanuts, almonds, cashews)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it.
  2. 2In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt over medium heat.
  3. 3Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves and it comes to a boil.
  4. 4Continue to boil without stirring for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture reaches a golden amber color.
  5. 5Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up.
  6. 6Add the mixed nuts to the saucepan and stir until they are well coated with the syrup mixture.
  7. 7Pour the nut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
  8. 8Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature, about 1-2 hours.
  9. 9Once cooled, break the brittle into pieces and store in an airtight container.

Equipment

saucepanbaking sheetspatulaparchment paper
vegetariangluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. 2Add a few popcorn kernels to the pot and cover it with a lid.
  3. 3Once the test kernels pop, add the rest of the popcorn kernels to the pot and cover it again.
  4. 4Shake the pot occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even popping.
  5. 5Once the popping slows down to about 2 seconds between pops, remove the pot from heat.
  6. 6In a small bowl, mix together the salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  7. 7If using, drizzle the melted butter over the popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
  8. 8Sprinkle the spice mixture over the popcorn and toss again to ensure even distribution.
  9. 9Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy popcorn!

Equipment

large potlidsmall bowlspoon
🌶️🌶️🌶️Medium

Ingredients

  • 2 cups vanilla ice cream
  • 1 cup chocolate syrup
  • 1 cup whipped cream
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts
  • 1/2 cup maraschino cherries
  • 1/2 cup sprinkles
  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce

Instructions

  1. 1Scoop the vanilla ice cream into serving bowls or cups.
  2. 2Drizzle chocolate syrup generously over the ice cream scoops.
  3. 3Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the chocolate syrup.
  4. 4Sprinkle chopped nuts over the whipped cream.
  5. 5Place a maraschino cherry on top of the whipped cream.
  6. 6Add colorful sprinkles over the entire sundae.
  7. 7Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for extra sweetness.
  8. 8Serve immediately with a spoon.

Equipment

scoopsserving bowlsspoon

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 pre-made pie crust
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (for brûlée topping)

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  3. 3Pour the pumpkin mixture into the pre-made pie crust, spreading it evenly.
  4. 4Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. 5Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
  6. 6Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to set further.
  7. 7Before serving, sprinkle an even layer of brown sugar over the top of the pie.
  8. 8Using a kitchen torch, carefully brûlée the sugar until it melts and forms a crispy, caramelized layer. If you don't have a torch, you can place the pie under a broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  9. 9Allow the brûléed topping to cool slightly before slicing the pie.
  10. 10Serve and enjoy your brûléed pumpkin pie!

Equipment

mixing bowlwhiskpie dishkitchen torch or broiler

Chocolate chip cookies are a quintessential American treat, invented in the 1930s by Ruth Wakefield. They have become a beloved dessert worldwide, often associated with home baking and comfort food. Their popularity has led to numerous variations, including different types of chocolate and add-ins like nuts or dried fruit.

Ingredients

  • all-purpose flour
  • baking soda
  • salt
  • butter
  • brown sugar
  • granulated sugar
  • vanilla extract
  • eggs
  • chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  3. 3In another bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
  4. 4Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time.
  5. 5Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just combined.
  6. 6Fold in the chocolate chips.
  7. 7Drop spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets.
  8. 8Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.
  9. 9Remove from oven and let cool on sheets for a few minutes.
  10. 10Transfer cookies to wire racks to cool completely.

Ingredient Alternatives

all-purpose flour

Healthier: whole wheat flour

Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients.

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is a healthier fat option, while margarine can be more budget-friendly.

chocolate chips

Healthier: dark chocolate chips

Cheaper: chocolate chunks

Dark chocolate has less sugar and more antioxidants, while chocolate chunks can be less expensive.

Techniques

mixingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlswhiskbaking sheetsovenspatulawire racks
glutendairyeggs

Also Known As

Choco Chip CookiesCC Cookies

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Set aside.
  3. 3In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. 4Add the molasses and egg to the butter mixture, and mix until well combined.
  5. 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. 6Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
  7. 7Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
  8. 8Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  9. 9Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
  10. 10Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Equipment

mixing bowlswhiskbaking sheetparchment paperwire rack
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Ingredients

  • 3 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
  • 1 cup seeds (pumpkin or sunflower)
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, nuts, and seeds.
  3. 3In a small saucepan, heat the honey (or maple syrup) and coconut oil over low heat until melted and combined.
  4. 4Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
  5. 5Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
  6. 6Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  7. 7Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown.
  8. 8Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet.
  9. 9Once cooled, stir in the dried fruit.
  10. 10Store in an airtight container or package in jars for gifting.

Equipment

large mixing bowlsmall saucepanbaking sheetparchment paperspatulaairtight container

Candied walnuts have their roots in American cuisine, often found in salads or as a snack. Traditionally enjoyed during holiday gatherings, they symbolize warmth and hospitality. Today, these sweet treats are popular in various dishes worldwide, showcasing their versatility and appeal.

Ingredients

  • walnuts
  • sugar
  • butter
  • vanilla extract
  • salt
  • cinnamon

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. 3Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  4. 4Stir in sugar, salt, and cinnamon until combined.
  5. 5Add walnuts to the saucepan and mix until evenly coated.
  6. 6Spread the walnuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. 7Bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown.
  8. 8Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet.
  9. 9Break apart any clusters before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

sugar

Healthier: honey

Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey adds natural sweetness, while brown sugar provides a similar flavor profile.

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is dairy-free and adds a subtle flavor.

walnuts

Healthier: almonds

Cheaper: peanuts

Almonds are a healthier nut option, while peanuts are more affordable.

vanilla extract

Healthier: vanilla bean

Cheaper: vanilla essence

Vanilla bean offers a more intense flavor, while essence is more budget-friendly.

Techniques

toastingmixingbaking

Equipment

baking sheetparchment papersaucepanspatula
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lownuts

Also Known As

Glazed WalnutsCaramelized Walnuts

Christmas cookies are a beloved tradition in the United States, often made during the holiday season. Families and friends gather to bake and decorate these cookies, which come in various shapes and flavors. They are commonly exchanged as gifts or served at festive gatherings, symbolizing joy and celebration during the holidays.

Ingredients

  • all-purpose flour
  • sugar
  • butter
  • eggs
  • vanilla extract
  • baking powder
  • salt
  • decorative sprinkles

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. 3Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. 4In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  6. 6Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
  7. 7Flatten each ball slightly and add decorative sprinkles on top.
  8. 8Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  9. 9Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.
  10. 10Store in an airtight container for freshness.

Ingredient Alternatives

all-purpose flour

Healthier: whole wheat flour

Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients.

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is a healthier fat option, while margarine can be more budget-friendly.

Techniques

mixingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking sheetwire rackoven
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowglutendairyeggs

Also Known As

Holiday CookiesFestive Cookies

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. 3Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
  4. 4Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
  5. 5Fold in the finely chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  6. 6Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a log about 2 inches in diameter.
  7. 7Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  8. 8Once chilled, slice the log into 1/4 inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  9. 9Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  10. 10Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking sheetparchment paperplastic wrapwire rack

Panettone is a traditional Italian sweet bread loaf originally from Milan, typically enjoyed during the Christmas season. Its rich history dates back to the Renaissance, and it has become a symbol of Italian festive celebrations. The bread is characterized by its tall, dome shape and is often filled with candied fruits and raisins, making it a beloved treat during holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

  • flour
  • sugar
  • eggs
  • butter
  • yeast
  • milk
  • candied fruit
  • raisins
  • vanilla
  • salt

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare the dough by mixing flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
  2. 2Dissolve yeast in warm milk and add to the flour mixture.
  3. 3Incorporate eggs and melted butter, mixing until smooth.
  4. 4Knead the dough on a floured surface until elastic.
  5. 5Add candied fruit and raisins, folding them into the dough.
  6. 6Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
  7. 7Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a panettone mold.
  8. 8Allow the dough to rise again until it reaches the top of the mold.
  9. 9Preheat the oven and bake the panettone until golden brown.
  10. 10Cool the panettone on a wire rack before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is lower in saturated fat.

sugar

Healthier: honey

Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey is a natural sweetener.

Techniques

mixingkneadingrisingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking panwire rack
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowglutendairyeggs

Also Known As

Italian Christmas BreadMilanese Bread

Eggnog has its roots in medieval Europe, where it was enjoyed as a warm drink made with milk and eggs. It became popular in America during the colonial period, often spiced with rum or bourbon for festive occasions. Today, eggnog is a staple during the holiday season, celebrated for its rich, creamy texture and warming spices, and is enjoyed in various forms around the world.

Ingredients

  • eggs
  • granulated sugar
  • milk
  • heavy cream
  • vanilla extract
  • nutmeg
  • cinnamon
  • rum
  • bourbon
  • whipped cream
  • salt

Instructions

  1. 1Separate the egg yolks from the whites in two bowls.
  2. 2Whisk the egg yolks with granulated sugar until pale and creamy.
  3. 3Add milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon to the yolk mixture; stir to combine.
  4. 4In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
  5. 5Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture until combined.
  6. 6Stir in the rum and bourbon until well blended.
  7. 7Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  8. 8Serve in chilled glasses, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
milkeggs

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