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35 Festive Recipes Your Family Rates Higher Than Their Stocking Stuffers

Holiday treats should come with a warning label: “May cause recipe requests.” This lineup of 35 festive recipes is packed with family-approved dishes that disappear faster than wrapping paper on Christmas morning. From classics with a twist to new favorites, these recipes outshine even the flashiest stocking stuffers. It’s the kind of festive lineup that keeps everyone lingering around the table, plates in hand, and eyes on the serving platter for seconds.

A piece of eggnog tres leches cake on a black plate with a fork.
Eggnog Tres Leches Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Red Velvet Christmas Truffles

Red velvet Christmas truffles sprinkled with sugar.
Red Velvet Christmas Truffles. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Expect requests for more! Red Velvet Christmas Truffles are bite-sized bursts of festive flavor, wrapped in a creamy coating. Their rich texture and vibrant color make them the perfect addition to any holiday dessert platter. These truffles quickly become a holiday favorite, often disappearing before the other desserts are even touched.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Christmas Truffles

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Au Gratin Potato Stacks on a white plate.
Au Gratin Potato Stacks. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

With layers of creamy potatoes, Au Gratin Potato Stacks are the ultimate comfort food for your holiday dinner. These individual servings make plating simple, and the crispy edges add a perfect texture contrast. They pair well with almost any main dish, making them a go-to side for festive meals. It’s a dish that everyone wants to try.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma

An  winter vanilla thyme vanilla paloma mocktailwith a sprig of thyme.
Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Guests will definitely be asking for more! Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma gives your holiday gatherings a refreshing twist with a seasonal touch. This drink combines the bright, citrusy flavor with subtle herbal notes that everyone will love. It’s a festive and light option perfect for toasting and celebrating with friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma

Cranberry Bars

Two squares of cranberry bars on a slate plate.
Cranberry Bars. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

They’re a hit with both kids and adults, so be ready to make a second batch. Cranberry Bars provide a sweet and tart balance, making them an irresistible holiday treat. Perfect for snacking, they bring a festive vibe without overwhelming your dessert spread. The bars have just the right amount of sweetness, making them easy to grab and go.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Bars

Mistletoe Mule

A copper glass filled with mule and with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.
Mistletoe Mule. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a splash of festive cheer with Mistletoe Mule, a seasonal twist on the classic cocktail. It’s refreshing, slightly spicy, and the perfect way to raise a glass with friends and family. This drink sets the mood for the evening and goes down easy, making it the go-to drink for any holiday party. Be prepared to mix more as the night goes on.
Get the Recipe: Mistletoe Mule

Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup

A bowl of Red Pepper and Tomato Soup with a spoon and a bread plate.
Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Warm up with Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup, a comforting and flavorful dish for any cold winter day. This soup is perfect for serving as a starter or paired with a sandwich for a cozy lunch. It’s the kind of soup that brings everyone together, perfect for dipping or enjoying by the bowlful. Your guests will be asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup

Traeger Smoked Turkey

A smoked turkey on a wooden cutting board.
Traeger Smoked Turkey. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Traeger Smoked Turkey isn’t just a main dish—it’s an experience. Slow-cooked with wood for a deep, smoky flavor, this turkey always steals the spotlight. It pairs well with just about anything on the table, and its juicy, tender meat will have everyone asking for seconds. Leftovers, if any, will be the highlight of the next day.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey

Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned

A glass of Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned garnished with sliced apples on a skewer.
Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Guests won’t be able to resist asking for seconds. Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned blends the warmth of apple pie with the richness of a classic cocktail. It’s a drink that’s perfect for sipping while relaxing by the fire or enjoying at a holiday dinner. A little bit of spice and sweetness makes this drink stand out as a holiday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

A plate of chocolate cookies topped with white icing and green sprinkles. A red and white striped cloth is in the background.
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Prepare for them to be gone in minutes. Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are a seasonal treat that combines the boldness of dark chocolate with a refreshing peppermint kick. These cookies are the perfect balance of indulgence and holiday cheer. Whether shared at a party or enjoyed alone, they add the right touch to any dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Crab Stuffed Mushroom

Close-up of Crab Stuffed Mushrooms garnished with chopped parsley on a slate plate.
Crab Stuffed Mushroom. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Expect everyone to go back for seconds. Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are the ideal appetizer that adds a touch of elegance to your holiday spread. These bite-sized treats pack a punch of flavor and make for easy eating during any celebration. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings where guests want something special without too much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Crab Stuffed Mushroom

Canadian Coffee

A canadian coffee with a whipped cream and cinnamon sticks.
Canadian Coffee. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Your guests will love how it adds something extra to their holiday celebrations. Canadian Coffee offers a warm, rich drink that’s perfect for holiday nights. It’s cozy, inviting, and makes the perfect way to end any evening. Whether served as a nightcap or enjoyed with dessert, this drink brings comfort to the table.
Get the Recipe: Canadian Coffee

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds in a shallow yellow bowl.
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A side that everyone raves about and comes back for more. No one can resist seconds. Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds are a delicious, simple side dish that turns a classic vegetable into something special. The rich, nutty flavor of brown butter pairs perfectly with the crunch of almonds, making it a standout on any plate.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Triple Ginger Cake

A plate with four squares of triple ginger cake bars on it.
Triple Ginger Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Everyone will ask for the recipe. Triple Ginger Cake packs three different kinds of ginger into a moist, flavorful cake that brings all the warmth of the season. It’s the perfect dessert for those who love a bit of spice with their sweetness. This cake pairs beautifully with a warm drink and becomes the highlight of any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Triple Ginger Cake

Cranberry Cosmosa

Two glasses of cranberry cosmosa and a christmas tree on a table.
Cranberry Cosmosa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Keep the mimosas flowing all season long! Cranberry Cosmosa offers a refreshing twist on the classic mimosa, perfect for your holiday brunch or toast. It’s light, sparkling, and beautifully festive, making it the drink everyone reaches for. This drink is as easy to make as it is to drink, and it’s guaranteed to add fun to any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Cosmosa

Smoked Ribeye Roast

Sliced smoked ribeye beef on a cutting board.
Smoked Ribeye Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Don’t expect leftovers—it’s that good! Smoked Ribeye Roast is the kind of dish that transforms any holiday meal into an event. The smoky flavor and tender meat make it the perfect centerpiece for your festive feast. It pairs well with all kinds of sides and keeps everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Ribeye Roast

Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies

Gingerbread cookies with candy canes on a table.
Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Your family will look forward to these every year, so make extras! Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies are a festive spin on a classic favorite. With a perfect balance of spices and chocolate, they make for a deliciously fun treat. These cookies aren’t just a tasty snack—they’re a fun way to celebrate the season.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies

Sausage Stuffing

Sausage stuffing in a red pot.
Sausage Stuffing. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish is so full of flavor that it might just outshine the main course. Sausage Stuffing is a savory side dish that brings a satisfying richness to any holiday meal. It’s hearty and flavorful, making it a perfect complement to your holiday meats. Be prepared to make a second batch for the next holiday!
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffing

Eggnog Cookies with Spiced Rum Glaze

A plate of eggnog cookies with with spiced rum glaze on top.
Eggnog Cookies with Spiced Rum Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The perfect indulgence this season. Eggnog Cookies with Spiced Rum Glaze are a festive treat that combines the classic flavor of eggnog with a sweet, spiced rum glaze. These cookies add a rich, seasonal touch to your dessert table. They’re soft, flavorful, and are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves holiday flavors.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Cookies with Spiced Rum Glaze

Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

A glass of whiskey with oranges and a wooden stick.
Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail is the ideal drink for holiday gatherings that need a touch of sophistication. The smoky flavor adds depth to this classic cocktail, giving it a new holiday spin. It’s easy to prepare but feels special, making it perfect for any occasion. Guests will appreciate the effort and the taste.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

Peanut butter cookies with a face made of pretzels and dried cranberries to look like a reindeer.
Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

They quickly become a holiday tradition. Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies are a fun, festive treat that the whole family will love. The rich peanut butter flavor pairs perfectly with chocolate and a sprinkle of holiday cheer. These cookies are easy to make, but their appeal lasts through the season.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

White Christmas Cocktail

A cocktail with a cucumber garnish on a table.
White Christmas Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

White Christmas Cocktail brings a creamy, festive twist to your holiday celebrations. This drink offers just the right balance of smooth and refreshing, making it perfect for toasting to the season. Whether served at a party or enjoyed by the fire, it’s a drink that invites celebration. Your guests will want more!
Get the Recipe: White Christmas Cocktail

Bourbon Balls with White Chocolate

Bourbon balls with white chocolate and powdered sugar.
Bourbon Balls with White Chocolate. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. Bourbon Balls with White Chocolate are a sweet and boozy treat that brings holiday cheer to any gathering. These indulgent little bites are the perfect mix of rich chocolate and the warmth of bourbon. They’re easy to make, and everyone will love popping one in their mouth.
Get the Recipe: Bourbon Balls with White Chocolate

Eggnog Sugar Cookies

Eggnog sugar cookies on a plate with santa claus figurines.
Eggnog Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Expect them to disappear quickly! Eggnog Sugar Cookies capture the warmth and spice of the season in every bite. These cookies are light and soft, making them an ideal treat for holiday dessert tables. They pair perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa, making them a go-to dessert for cozy gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Sugar Cookies

Crab Spanakopita

Crab Spanakopita triangles on a cutting board.
Crab Spanakopita. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crab Spanakopita is a savory, flaky appetizer that brings a bit of elegance to your holiday spread. The delicate pastry crust combined with the flavorful crab filling makes it a treat everyone will love. These bite-sized wonders are perfect for any party or gathering where you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer. They disappear fast!
Get the Recipe: Crab Spanakopita

White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A jar of White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies next to lavender flowers.
White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

They’re easy to make but have a festive appeal that makes them seem more complicated. White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies add a sweet, delicate touch to any dessert table. With a crinkled surface and a smooth, sweet interior, these cookies are the perfect holiday treat. Your guests will be back for seconds—and thirds!
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon

A bowl of potatoes with sour cream & bacon.
Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Be prepared to go back for seconds! Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon are the ultimate comfort food for any holiday meal. The crispy bacon and creamy potatoes make for a perfect side dish that’s satisfying without stealing the show. This dish complements everything from turkey to ham, making it a must-have at the table.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans bring a delicious, savory flavor to any holiday spread. Cooking them low and slow ensures they’re tender and packed with flavor, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. These beans complement just about every main dish, making them an easy but essential side. Your guests will ask for the recipe!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

A black plate with bacon and mushroom tartlets on it.
Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Your guests will be reaching for seconds. Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets are the ideal bite-sized appetizers for any holiday celebration. These mini tarts are packed with savory flavors and crispy textures, making them impossible to resist. Perfect for grazing, they add a bit of elegance without requiring a ton of effort.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

Lemon-Ginger Hot Toddy Mix

A mug of hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks and lemon slices.
Lemon-Ginger Hot Toddy Mix. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Lemon-Ginger Hot Toddy Mix is a warm, soothing drink that’s perfect for those cold holiday nights. This drink offers a refreshing balance of lemon and ginger, making it a cozy way to end any celebration. Whether served hot or cold, it adds a comforting touch to any winter gathering. Your guests will love this one.
Get the Recipe: Lemon-Ginger Hot Toddy Mix

Smoked Carver Ham

Smoked sliced ham on a cutting board.
Smoked Carver Ham. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Leftovers, if there are any, are just as good. Smoked Carver Ham is the kind of dish that makes any holiday meal a standout. With its tender meat and rich smoky flavor, it’s the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast. This ham pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile dish that works every time.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham

Hot Chocolate Board

A wooden platter with hot cocoa, candy canes, and marshmallows.
Hot Chocolate Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

It’s the perfect addition to any holiday gathering, bringing both a visual treat and a delicious experience. Hot Chocolate Board offers a fun, interactive way to enjoy the ultimate winter drink. Guests can customize their cups with a variety of toppings, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Don’t forget to refill!
Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Board

Baked Brie with Apple-Ginger Chutney

A chunk of oozing brie with apple chutney on a board.
Baked Brie with Apple-Ginger Chutney. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Baked Brie with Apple-Ginger Chutney is a showstopper that adds a savory and sweet combination to your appetizer table. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings where everyone loves a warm, gooey bite. The chutney gives the dish a sweet kick that keeps people coming back for more. It’s always gone before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie with Apple-Ginger Chutney

Christmas Morning Casserole

A closeup shot of breakfast casserole on a plate with berries.
Christmas Morning Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Perfect for a family breakfast, Christmas Morning Casserole is a hearty, satisfying dish that keeps everyone full and happy. It’s an easy way to start the day off right without a ton of prep work. Whether you’re diving into presents or just relaxing, this casserole makes mornings feel a bit more festive. Everyone will ask for the recipe!
Get the Recipe: Christmas Morning Casserole

Tomato Bruschetta Board

Tomato bruschetta board on a table.
Tomato Bruschetta Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This appetizer disappears quickly, so don’t be surprised when it’s gone in no time. Tomato Bruschetta Board brings color and flavor to your holiday spread with minimal effort. It’s fresh, fun, and perfect for grazing between meals. Guests can customize each bite, making it an interactive dish everyone enjoys.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board

Eggnog Tres Leches Cake

A piece of eggnog tres leches cake on a black plate with a fork.
Eggnog Tres Leches Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

With the rich, creamy flavor of eggnog, Eggnog Tres Leches Cake stands out as a festive favorite. This cake brings all the best of holiday indulgence in a light, spongy treat. Its sweet, soaked layers make it a hit at any celebration. Prepare for your family to start asking for this cake every holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Tres Leches Cake

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