12 Christmas Recipes & Ideas To Cook This Year
Recipes in this Video
Ingredients
- ●1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
- ●2 cups bread crumbs
- ●1 cup diced onions
- ●1 cup diced celery
- ●1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- ●1/2 cup melted butter
- ●1 tsp salt
- ●1/2 tsp black pepper
- ●1 tsp dried sage
- ●1 tsp dried thyme
- ●1/2 tsp garlic powder
- ●2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- 1Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- 2In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3In a large bowl, combine the bread crumbs, sautéed onions and celery, parsley, salt, pepper, sage, thyme, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- 4Gradually add the chicken broth to the bread crumb mixture until it is moist but not soggy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 5Rinse the turkey inside and out, and pat dry with paper towels. Season the cavity with salt and pepper.
- 6Stuff the turkey cavity with the prepared stuffing, packing it lightly. Do not overstuff.
- 7Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body.
- 8Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. Cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- 9Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to brown the skin.
- 10Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Equipment
Christmas Pudding, with roots tracing back to medieval England, was originally a savory dish served during the festive season. Over time, it evolved into a sweet dessert, symbolizing good fortune and prosperity. Traditionally, families would stir the mixture together, each making a wish, and it is often served flambéed with brandy on Christmas Day. Today, variations abound, and it remains a beloved holiday staple in many English-speaking countries.
Ingredients
- ●suet
- ●flour
- ●sugar
- ●breadcrumbs
- ●mixed dried fruit
- ●candied peel
- ●spices
- ●eggs
- ●milk
- ●beer
- ●brandy
- ●zest of lemon
- ●zest of orange
Instructions
- 1Combine suet, flour, sugar, and breadcrumbs in a large bowl.
- 2Stir in mixed dried fruit, candied peel, and spices until evenly mixed.
- 3Beat eggs in a separate bowl and add to the dry mixture.
- 4Pour in milk and beer, mixing until combined.
- 5Add brandy and zests of lemon and orange, stirring well.
- 6Grease a pudding basin and pour the mixture inside, smoothing the top.
- 7Cover the basin with a layer of parchment paper and then foil, securing tightly.
- 8Place the basin in a large pot of boiling water, ensuring water reaches halfway up the sides.
- 9Steam for about 6-8 hours, checking water levels occasionally.
- 10Remove the pudding from the pot and let it cool completely before storing.
- 11To serve, re-steam for 2 hours before inverting onto a plate.
Ingredient Alternatives
suet
Healthier: coconut oil
Cheaper: butter
Coconut oil is plant-based and lower in saturated fat.
mixed dried fruit
Healthier: fresh fruit
Cheaper: raisins
Fresh fruit can reduce sugar content and cost.
brandy
Healthier: apple juice
Cheaper: rum
Apple juice is non-alcoholic and lower in calories.
flour
Healthier: whole wheat flour
Cheaper: all-purpose flour
Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.
Techniques
Equipment
Also Known As
Ingredients
- ●4 cups turkey drippings
- ●1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- ●1/4 cup unsalted butter
- ●2 cups chicken broth
- ●1 tsp salt
- ●1/2 tsp black pepper
- ●1/2 tsp garlic powder
- ●1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- 1In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- 2Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it turns golden brown.
- 3Gradually add the turkey drippings while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- 4Pour in the chicken broth and continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- 5Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens.
- 6Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste.
- 7Remove from heat and serve hot over turkey or mashed potatoes.
Equipment
Ingredients
- ●1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- ●4 slices bacon, chopped
- ●2 tbsp olive oil
- ●1/2 tsp salt
- ●1/4 tsp black pepper
- ●1/4 tsp garlic powder
- ●1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- 1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 2In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- 3Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- 4Sprinkle the chopped bacon over the Brussels sprouts.
- 5Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and the bacon is crispy, stirring halfway through.
- 6If using, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- 7Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Equipment
Honey glazed carrots are a popular side dish in American cuisine, often served during holiday meals and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- ●1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- ●1/4 cup honey
- ●2 tbsp butter
- ●1/2 tsp salt
- ●1/4 tsp black pepper
- ●1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ●1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- 1In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- 2Add the carrot sticks to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- 3Pour in the honey and stir to coat the carrots evenly.
- 4Season with salt, black pepper, and ground cinnamon.
- 5Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and glazed with honey.
- 6Remove from heat and transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish.
- 7Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Equipment
Ingredients
- ●1 cup all-purpose flour
- ●1 cup milk
- ●4 large eggs
- ●1/2 tsp salt
- ●1/4 cup beef drippings or vegetable oil
Instructions
- 1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- 2In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- 3In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, mixing well.
- 4Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth.
- 5Let the batter rest for about 30 minutes at room temperature.
- 6In a muffin tin or a baking dish, add a small amount of beef drippings or vegetable oil to each cup (about 1 tsp).
- 7Place the tin in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes until the oil is hot and shimmering.
- 8Quickly pour the batter into the hot oil, filling each cup about halfway.
- 9Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puddings are puffed and golden brown.
- 10Serve immediately as a side dish with roast beef or gravy.
Equipment
Originating in ancient Rome, mulled wine was a way to warm up during cold winters. In Europe, particularly in Germany and Belgium, it became a festive drink during Christmas markets, symbolizing warmth and togetherness. Today, variations exist worldwide, with spices and sweetness tailored to local preferences.
Ingredients
- ●red wine
- ●cinnamon sticks
- ●star anise
- ●cloves
- ●orange
- ●lemon
- ●sugar
- ●nutmeg
- ●ginger
- ●vanilla bean
Instructions
- 1Combine red wine, sugar, and spices in a large pot.
- 2Add sliced orange and lemon.
- 3Heat over medium-low until warm, about 10-15 minutes.
- 4Stir occasionally to dissolve sugar completely.
- 5Do not let it boil to preserve the wine's flavor.
- 6Taste and adjust sweetness or spices as desired.
- 7Strain the mixture to remove solids before serving.
- 8Serve warm in heatproof glasses or mugs.
Ingredient Alternatives
red wine
Healthier: non-alcoholic red wine
Cheaper: white wine
Non-alcoholic versions provide a similar flavor profile.
sugar
Healthier: honey
Cheaper: brown sugar
Honey adds sweetness with a unique flavor.
cinnamon sticks
Healthier: ground cinnamon
Cheaper: cinnamon powder
Ground cinnamon is more accessible and still flavorful.
star anise
Healthier: fennel seeds
Cheaper: anise extract
Fennel seeds mimic the flavor of star anise.
Techniques
Equipment
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Gingerbread cookies have a long history in American holiday traditions, often associated with Christmas. They are typically decorated with icing and candies, making them a festive treat. The practice of baking gingerbread dates back to ancient times, but the modern cookie form became popular in the 19th century. Today, they are enjoyed not only as a dessert but also as a fun activity for families during the holiday season.
Ingredients
- ●all-purpose flour
- ●ginger
- ●cinnamon
- ●nutmeg
- ●brown sugar
- ●molasses
- ●baking soda
- ●butter
- ●eggs
- ●vanilla extract
- ●salt
Instructions
- 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 2In a bowl, mix flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
- 3In another bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- 4Beat in the eggs and molasses, then add vanilla extract.
- 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
- 6Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
- 7Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- 8Cut out shapes using cookie cutters and place them on a baking sheet.
- 9Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are firm.
- 10Let cool on a wire rack before decorating.
Ingredient Alternatives
all-purpose flour
Healthier: whole wheat flour
More nutritious option.
brown sugar
Healthier: coconut sugar
Lower glycemic index.
butter
Healthier: coconut oil
Cheaper: margarine
Healthier fat option or budget-friendly alternative.
Techniques
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Roasted potatoes have a long-standing tradition in many cultures, often served as a comforting side dish. They are a staple in American homes, particularly during family gatherings and holidays. The simplicity of roasting potatoes allows for endless variations, making them popular worldwide, from French-style herb-roasted versions to spicy Indian masala potatoes.
Ingredients
- ●potatoes
- ●olive oil
- ●garlic
- ●rosemary
- ●salt
- ●black pepper
- ●paprika
- ●parmesan cheese
Instructions
- 1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- 2Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly.
- 3Cut the potatoes into even-sized cubes or wedges.
- 4In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- 5Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- 6Sprinkle paprika over the potatoes for added flavor.
- 7Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- 8If desired, sprinkle with parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- 9Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Ingredient Alternatives
olive oil
Healthier: avocado oil
Cheaper: canola oil
Avocado oil is healthier with a higher smoke point.
parmesan cheese
Healthier: nutritional yeast
Cheaper: grated cheddar cheese
Nutritional yeast is lower in calories and dairy-free.
Techniques
Equipment
Also Known As
Pigs in blankets are a beloved snack in the UK, often served during festive occasions like Christmas and parties. These bite-sized treats combine the savory goodness of sausages wrapped in flaky pastry, making them a favorite finger food. Variations exist globally, with similar dishes appearing in different cultures, showcasing the universal appeal of combining meat and pastry.
Ingredients
- ●puff pastry
- ●sausages
- ●egg
- ●flour
- ●mustard
- ●pepper
- ●salt
- ●sesame seeds
- ●parmesan cheese
- ●garlic powder
- ●onion powder
- ●paprika
- ●parsley
Instructions
- 1Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- 2Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
- 3Cut the pastry into strips wide enough to wrap around the sausages.
- 4Wrap each sausage in a strip of puff pastry, sealing the edges with a little water.
- 5Place the wrapped sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 6Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the pastry for a golden finish.
- 7Sprinkle sesame seeds and grated parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
- 8Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- 9Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- 10Serve with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredient Alternatives
puff pastry
Healthier: whole wheat pastry
Cheaper: homemade dough
Whole wheat pastry adds fiber while homemade dough can be more economical.
sausages
Healthier: chicken sausages
Cheaper: hot dogs
Chicken sausages are lower in fat, while hot dogs can be a cost-effective option.
parmesan cheese
Healthier: nutritional yeast
Cheaper: grated cheddar
Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free option while cheddar is often less expensive.
egg
Healthier: flax egg
Cheaper: water
Flax egg is a vegan alternative while water can be used for egg wash.
Techniques
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Originating in the UK, Christmas Cake is a traditional festive dessert often enjoyed during the holiday season. Traditionally made in advance and matured over weeks, it symbolizes the abundance of the season and is often decorated with marzipan and icing. Today, variations exist globally, with many cultures incorporating their local flavors and ingredients into the festive cake, making it a beloved holiday treat worldwide.
Ingredients
- ●mixed dried fruit
- ●unsalted butter
- ●brown sugar
- ●eggs
- ●all-purpose flour
- ●baking powder
- ●ground spices
- ●milk
- ●zest of lemon
- ●zest of orange
- ●chopped nuts
- ●brandy
- ●marzipan
- ●royal icing
Instructions
- 1Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F).
- 2Line a cake tin with parchment paper and grease it.
- 3Mix the dried fruit, chopped nuts, and brandy in a bowl; let it soak for several hours or overnight.
- 4Cream the butter and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- 5Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- 6Sift together the flour, baking powder, and ground spices; gradually fold into the butter mixture.
- 7Stir in the soaked fruit mixture, lemon zest, and orange zest until well combined.
- 8Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top.
- 9Bake in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
- 10Let the cake cool in the tin for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- 11Once cooled, cover the cake with marzipan and then with royal icing if desired.
- 12Allow the cake to mature for several days before serving.
Ingredient Alternatives
mixed dried fruit
Healthier: fresh fruit
Cheaper: raisins and sultanas
Using fresh fruit can reduce sugar content and cost.
unsalted butter
Healthier: coconut oil
Cheaper: margarine
Coconut oil offers a dairy-free alternative.
brandy
Healthier: apple juice
Cheaper: grape juice
Apple juice provides moisture without alcohol.
royal icing
Healthier: whipped cream
Cheaper: store-bought frosting
Whipped cream is lighter and easier to prepare.
Techniques
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