Home » Recipe Index » Spread Holiday Cheer With These 21 Festive Creations

Spread Holiday Cheer With These 21 Festive Creations

Jump to Recipe Add Us as a Preferred Source

The holidays are the perfect time to treat everyone to something special. With 21 festive creations at your fingertips, you’ll be the one spreading cheer with every bite. These recipes are all about bringing joy to your kitchen and your table, from the first stir to the final sprinkle of garnish.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my Affiliate Disclosure.

A loaf of pumpkin bread on a cutting board.
Pumpkin Swirl Bread. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Potatoes au Gratin

Overhead shot of potatoes au gratin cooked in an oval baking dish.
Potatoes au Gratin. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Holiday meals often call for comforting side dishes that everyone can enjoy. Potatoes au Gratin fits this bill perfectly, offering a creamy and indulgent complement to your main course. This classic French dish is sure to become a family favorite during festive gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes au Gratin

Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked salmon dip in a bowl with crackers and veggies for dipping.
Smoked Salmon Dip. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Appetizers are a crucial part of holiday entertaining, and this one is sure to impress. Smoked Salmon Dip brings a touch of elegance to your spread without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for guests to nibble on while mingling before the main meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip

Apple Galette

Overhead shot of an apple galette on parchment with fresh apples on the side.
Apple Galette. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Sometimes, the simplest desserts are the most memorable. Apple Galette offers a rustic charm that’s perfect for casual holiday get-togethers. This French-inspired treat is a great alternative to traditional pies and can be customized with your favorite spices.
Get the Recipe: Apple Galette

Instant Pot Shrimp

Cooked shrimp in a green and white striped bowl, garnished with parsley.
Instant Pot Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Quick and easy dishes are a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. Instant Pot Shrimp comes to the rescue when you need a fast, impressive main course. It’s versatile enough to pair with various sides, making it suitable for different holiday menus.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp

Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies

Stack of hot cocoa cookies on a plate.
Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Cookies are a holiday staple, and this recipe puts a fun twist on a classic flavor. Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies combine two winter favorites into one treat. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges or as a sweet ending to your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies

Green Bean Salad

Low angle shot of green bean salad with fried onions and dry ricotta on a white plate.
Green Bean Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Lighten up your holiday spread with a fresh and crisp option. Green Bean Salad offers a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes typically found at festive gatherings. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your holiday menu without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Salad

Egg Nog Bundt Cake

Low angle shot of a wedge of eggnog cake on a glass plate.
Egg Nog Bundt Cake. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Transform a beloved holiday beverage into a stunning dessert centerpiece. Egg Nog Bundt Cake captures the essence of the season in a slice. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with after-dinner coffee or tea.
Get the Recipe: Egg Nog Bundt Cake

Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce in a white bowl garnished with orange zest and star anise pods.
Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

No holiday table is complete without cranberry sauce, and this version makes preparation a breeze. Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce allows you to create a homemade version with minimal effort. It’s a great way to add a personal touch to your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon wrapped jalapenos on a white plate.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice up your holiday appetizer game with these crowd-pleasing bites. Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers offer a crispy exterior and a creamy, spicy interior. They’re perfect for those who like a little heat in their holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole

Masshed potato casserole in a baking dish with a cracker crumb topping.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Take your mashed potatoes to the next level with this indulgent variation. Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole combines comfort food with holiday flair. It’s a great make-ahead option that reheats well, saving you time on the big day.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole

Pumpkin Swirl Bread

A loaf of pumpkin bread on a cutting board.
Pumpkin Swirl Bread. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Want to save this recipe?

✨ We'll sent it straight to your inbox! ✨

Bring the flavors of fall to your holiday brunch or dessert table. Pumpkin Swirl Bread offers a beautiful presentation and a warm, spiced flavor. It’s versatile enough to serve as a breakfast treat or a sweet end to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Swirl Bread

Instant Pot Duck Confit

Overhead shot of a confit duck leg with orange sauce and star anise pods.
Instant Pot Duck Confit. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Looking for a luxurious holiday main course? Instant Pot Duck Confit offers a surprisingly easy option. This French classic typically takes hours, but the pressure cooker method significantly reduces cooking time. Your guests will be impressed by the tender meat and crispy skin.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Duck Confit

Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes

Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes with whipped cream stars on top.
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bring fall flavors to your dessert table with these individual treats. Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes are perfect for those wanting a little indulgence. They’re easy to serve and can be made ahead, ideal for busy holiday hosts. The creamy texture and warm spices are sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Low angle shot of an air fried whole chicken.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Want crispy-skinned, juicy chicken without the hassle? Air Fryer Whole Chicken might be your new go-to. This technique produces a perfectly cooked bird faster than oven roasting and frees up oven space. It’s great for smaller gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Pommes Duchesse

Pommes duchesse on a white plate wiht parsley.
Pommes Duchesse. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Add elegance to your holiday spread with this French side. Pommes Duchesse are mashed potatoes piped into decorative shapes and baked until golden. They’re visually impressive and offer a contrast of crispy exterior and creamy interior.
Get the Recipe: Pommes Duchesse

Green Bean Stuffing Casserole

Green Bean Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.
Green Bean Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Combine two holiday favorites with this clever creation. Green Bean Stuffing Casserole merges classic green bean casserole with traditional stuffing. It’s a great way to streamline your menu while providing familiar flavors. This dish is sure to become a new family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Stuffing Casserole

Salted Toffee Cookie Bars

Stack of 3 toffee cookies.
Salted Toffee Cookie Bars. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Love sweet and salty? These bars are a must-try. Salted Toffee Cookie Bars offer layers of flavor and texture. They’re easy to make in large batches, perfect for cookie exchanges or homemade gifts. The rich toffee flavor is nicely balanced by sea salt.
Get the Recipe: Salted Toffee Cookie Bars

Instant Pot Ham

Sliced ham with oranges and mint.
Instant Pot Ham. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Simplify holiday cooking with this time-saving main course. Instant Pot Ham cooks quickly and evenly, retaining moisture and flavor. The pressure cooker helps the ham absorb glaze more effectively. It’s great for those who want to spend less time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Ham

Rocky Road Cookies

A close-up of a chocolate cookie topped with marshmallows, chopped nuts, and drizzled with chocolate. Background includes other cookies and scattered marshmallows.
Rocky Road Cookies. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

These cookies are a fun twist on the classic ice cream flavor. Rocky Road Cookies incorporate chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts into a chewy, gooey cookie. They’re perfect for holiday platters or after-dinner treats. Kids and adults will enjoy the nostalgic flavors.
Get the Recipe: Rocky Road Cookies

Air Fryer Turkey Legs

Roasted turkey legs on a cutting board with a knife.
Air Fryer Turkey Legs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Cooking for a smaller crowd? Consider Air Fryer Turkey Legs. They cook up crispy outside and juicy inside, without needing a whole bird. They’re a fun option for game day or a laid-back holiday meal. Plus, they’re ready much faster than a whole turkey.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Legs

Swirled Garlic Bread

A loaf of bread with garlic and onions on a cutting board.
Swirled Garlic Bread. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Upgrade your bread basket with this eye-catching variation. Swirled Garlic Bread combines garlic bread flavors with a cinnamon roll presentation. The swirled design looks impressive and ensures even garlic distribution. It’s a creative addition to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Garlic Bread

Founder, Writer, Recipe Developer at All The Noodles

Robin Donovan is an AP syndicated writer, recipe developer, food photographer, and author of more than 40 cookbooks including the bestsellers Ramen Obsession and Ramen for Beginners. Her work is featured by major media outlets including Huffington Post, MSN, Chicago Sun-Times, Orlando Sentinel, Buzzfeed, Cooking Light, Mercury News, Seattle Times, Pop Sugar, and many others. More about Robin

By on December 28th, 2024

Leave a Comment