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.
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Potatoes au Gratin
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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