20 Christmas Recipes That Will Make Your Taste Buds Dance with Joy

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I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Christmas is a time for joy, family, and delicious food. The right recipes can make your holiday meal special and memorable. From classic roast turkey to festive cookies, you’ll find plenty of tasty options to please everyone at your table.

Whether you’re cooking for a big family gathering or a small intimate dinner, there are Christmas recipes for every occasion. You can try traditional favorites like honey-glazed ham or prime rib, or experiment with new dishes to add some variety to your holiday spread. Don’t forget the sides and desserts – they’re just as important as the main course!

Roast Turkey

You’ll need:

  • 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 lemon, quartered
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

  2. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.

  3. Mix butter with herbs, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture under the skin and all over the turkey.

  4. Stuff the turkey cavity with lemon and onion quarters.

  5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast side up.

  6. Pour chicken broth into the pan.

  7. Roast for about 3-4 hours, or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.

  8. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with pan juices.

  9. If the skin browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

  10. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

Your turkey will be juicy and flavorful, perfect for your Christmas feast!

Honey-Glazed Ham

You’ll need:

  • 1 fully cooked ham (about 8-10 lbs)
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 cup orange juice

Let’s make this tasty ham!

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a roasting pan.

Mix honey, brown sugar, butter, mustard, cloves, and orange juice in a saucepan. Heat until the mixture is smooth and the sugar dissolves.

Score the ham’s surface in a diamond pattern. Brush half the glaze over the ham.

Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Brush with the remaining glaze every 15-20 minutes.

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

Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your sweet and savory honey-glazed ham!

Mashed Potatoes

You’ll need:

  • 5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Here’s how to make them:

  1. Peel and chop the potatoes into 1-inch cubes.

  2. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

  3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

  4. Add the cream, butter, and sour cream to the pot.

  5. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  7. For extra smoothness, you can pass the potatoes through a ricer before adding the other ingredients.

  8. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy holiday mashed potatoes!

These potatoes are perfect for your Christmas dinner. They’re rich, creamy, and sure to please everyone at your table.

Stuffing

Here’s a tasty stuffing recipe for your Christmas dinner!

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups cubed white bread
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. In a large bowl, mix the bread cubes, onion, celery, mushrooms, cranberries, and walnuts.

  3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and sprinkle with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.

  4. Transfer the stuffing to a baking dish.

  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Your homemade stuffing is ready to serve! It’s crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. Enjoy this delicious side dish with your roast turkey or chicken.

Cranberry Sauce

Ready to make some tasty cranberry sauce for your Christmas dinner? Here’s a simple recipe you’ll love!

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
  • Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Directions:

  1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or bad berries.

  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

  3. Add the cranberries to the saucepan. If you’re using cinnamon or orange zest, add them now too.

  4. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. You’ll hear the cranberries pop as they cook.

  5. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. It will thicken as it cools.

  6. Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy it.

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That’s it! Your homemade cranberry sauce is ready to brighten up your Christmas table. It’s so much better than the canned stuff, and your guests will love it!

Green Bean Casserole

You’ll need these ingredients for this yummy Christmas side dish:

  • 2 cans green beans, drained
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup crispy fried onions
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix the green beans, soup, and milk in a large bowl.

  3. Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.

  4. Sprinkle cheese on top.

  5. Bake for 25 minutes.

  6. Add the crispy onions and bake for 5 more minutes.

  7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Your family will love this creamy, crunchy casserole! It’s perfect for your Christmas dinner table.

Gingerbread Cookies

You’ll need:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Let’s get baking! First, mix the dry ingredients in a bowl. Set it aside.

In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla. Mix well.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until you have a smooth dough.

Chill the dough for at least 2 hours. This helps with handling and shaping.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough and cut into fun shapes.

Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly browned.

Let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Decorate as you like with icing or leave plain. Enjoy your homemade gingerbread cookies!

Sugar Cookies

You’ll need these ingredients for yummy Christmas sugar cookies:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Now let’s make the cookies! Here are the steps:

  1. Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.

  2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until creamy.

  3. Add the eggs and vanilla. Mix well.

  4. Slowly add the flour mixture. Mix until combined.

  5. Divide the dough in half. Wrap in plastic and chill for 1 hour.

  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  7. Roll out the dough and cut into fun shapes.

  8. Place cookies on baking sheets.

  9. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.

  10. Let cool, then decorate with your favorite icing and sprinkles!

These cookies are perfect for leaving out for Santa or sharing with friends and family. Happy baking!

Christmas Pudding

You’ll need these ingredients for your Christmas pudding:

  • 1 cup mixed dried fruit
  • 1/2 cup brandy or rum
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 tsp mixed spice
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Soak the dried fruit in brandy overnight.

  2. Mix butter and sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well.

  3. Stir in the soaked fruit, flour, spices, and baking powder.

  4. Grease a pudding basin and pour in the mixture.

  5. Cover with parchment paper and foil, securing tightly.

  6. Steam the pudding for 4-5 hours in a large pot filled with water.

  7. Let it cool, then store in a cool place for up to a month.

  8. On Christmas Day, steam for another hour before serving.

  9. Serve warm with custard, brandy butter, or cream.

Your homemade Christmas pudding will be a hit! The rich, fruity flavor gets better with time. Enjoy this classic holiday treat with your loved ones.

Fruitcake

Ready to make a delicious fruitcake for Christmas? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups mixed dried fruits (cranberries, currants, cherries, mango)
  • 1/2 cup candied citron
  • 1/2 cup rum
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pie spice

Directions:

  1. Soak the dried fruits and citron in rum overnight.

  2. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

  3. Mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pie spice in a bowl.

  4. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.

  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

  6. Fold in the soaked fruit and any remaining liquid.

  7. Pour the batter into your prepared pan.

  8. Bake for about 1 hour or until a toothpick comes out clean.

  9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

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Your homemade fruitcake is ready! It’s perfect for gifting or enjoying with your family during the holidays.

Eggnog

Ready to whip up some festive cheer? Let’s make a classic eggnog!

Ingredients:

  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup rum (optional)

Directions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and fluffy.

  2. Heat milk, cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon in a saucepan over medium heat. Don’t let it boil!

  3. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.

  4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens.

  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and rum (if using).

  6. Let it cool, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

  7. Serve your eggnog cold, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Enjoy your homemade eggnog! It’s perfect for sipping by the fire or serving at your holiday gatherings.

Mulled Wine

Here’s a cozy mulled wine recipe to warm you up this Christmas:

Ingredients:

  • 1 bottle red wine (Merlot works well)
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 5 whole cloves
  • 2 star anise pods
  • 1/4 cup brandy (optional)

Directions:

  1. Pour the wine and apple cider into a large pot.

  2. Add honey, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.

  3. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Don’t let it boil!

  4. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes.

  5. If using brandy, stir it in now.

  6. Ladle the warm mulled wine into mugs.

  7. Garnish with an orange slice and cinnamon stick if you’d like.

Enjoy your homemade mulled wine while it’s nice and warm! It’s perfect for sipping by the fire or sharing with friends during holiday gatherings.

Pumpkin Pie

Ready to make a delicious pumpkin pie for Christmas? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 unbaked pie crust
  • 15 oz canned pumpkin
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.

  3. Pour the mixture into your unbaked pie crust.

  4. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C).

  5. Lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35-40 minutes.

  6. Your pie is done when a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

  7. Let the pie cool on a wire rack for 2 hours before serving.

Enjoy your homemade pumpkin pie! It’s perfect with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Pecan Pie

You’ll love this classic pecan pie recipe! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 unbaked pie crust
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges.

  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until well combined.

  4. Spread the pecans evenly in the bottom of the pie crust.

  5. Pour the egg mixture over the pecans.

  6. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly browned.

  7. Let the pie cool completely before slicing, at least 4 hours or overnight.

Your pecan pie is ready to serve! Enjoy this sweet and nutty treat with your loved ones.

Yule Log (Bûche de Noël)

Get ready to wow your holiday guests with this festive Yule Log cake! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chocolate chips

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.

  2. Beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Fold in cocoa powder and flour gently.

  3. Spread the batter evenly in the pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes.

  4. While it’s still warm, roll the cake in a clean kitchen towel. Let it cool completely.

  5. Whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

  6. Unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream inside. Roll it back up.

  7. Melt chocolate chips and spread over the cake. Use a fork to create a bark-like texture.

  8. Chill the log for at least 2 hours before serving.

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You can add meringue mushrooms or dust with powdered sugar “snow” for extra flair. Enjoy your delicious Yule Log!

Prime Rib Roast

You’ll need:

  • 1 prime rib roast (5-7 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

Let’s get cooking!

  1. Take your roast out of the fridge 2 hours before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.

  2. Mix the salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic in a small bowl.

  3. Rub the olive oil all over the roast, then coat it with the herb mix.

  4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

  5. Place the roast in a roasting pan, fat side up.

  6. Cook for 20 minutes at 450°F to form a crust.

  7. Lower the oven to 325°F (165°C) and continue cooking.

  8. For medium-rare, cook until the internal temperature reaches 125°F (52°C). This takes about 15 minutes per pound.

  9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before slicing.

  10. Carve and serve your delicious prime rib roast!

Remember, a meat thermometer is your best friend for perfect doneness. Enjoy your festive feast!

Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

You’ll need:

  • 2 lbs Brussels sprouts
  • 1/2 lb bacon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: cranberries, pecans

Let’s make this tasty Christmas side dish!

  1. Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Wash and halve the Brussels sprouts.

  3. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  4. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet, cut-side down.

  5. Cut the bacon into small pieces and sprinkle over the sprouts.

  6. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.

  7. If you like, add cranberries and pecans in the last 5 minutes.

Your Brussels sprouts should be golden and crispy. The bacon will be perfectly cooked too.

This dish is sure to be a hit at your Christmas dinner table. It’s easy to make and full of flavor.

Enjoy your delicious roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon!

Sweet Potato Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 4 large sweet potatoes
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup white sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the topping:

  • 1/3 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions:

  1. Peel and cut sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them until tender, about 15 minutes.

  2. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

  3. In a large bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes. Mix in milk, melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth.

  4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  5. In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir in the pecans.

  6. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.

  7. Bake for 25-35 minutes until the top is golden brown.

  8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious sweet potato casserole!

Mince Pies

Want to make tasty mince pies for Christmas? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup ice water
  • 2 cups mincemeat filling
  • Milk for brushing
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions:

  1. Mix flour and butter until crumbly. Add sugar and water to form dough. Chill for 30 minutes.

  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin.

  3. Roll out 2/3 of the dough. Cut circles to line muffin cups.

  4. Fill each cup with mincemeat.

  5. Roll remaining dough for lids. Cut smaller circles and place on top.

  6. Seal edges and brush with milk. Snip three small cuts on top.

  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

  8. Cool on a wire rack and dust with powdered sugar.

Enjoy your homemade mince pies! They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holidays.

Chocolate Truffles

You’ll love these easy homemade chocolate truffles for Christmas! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 tsp peppermint extract (optional)
  • Cocoa powder for coating

Directions:

  1. Heat the cream in a small pot until it just starts to simmer.

  2. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for 2 minutes.

  3. Stir until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Add the butter and peppermint extract if using.

  4. Chill the mixture in the fridge for about 2 hours until firm.

  5. Scoop small balls of the chocolate and roll them in cocoa powder.

  6. Keep your truffles chilled until ready to serve.

You can get creative with coatings too! Try crushed candy canes, chopped nuts, or powdered sugar for festive variations.