December, the month of twinkling lights, cozy evenings, and, of course, delectable feasts! As the year winds down, our culinary imaginations ramp up, dreaming of the delicious dishes that will grace our holiday tables and warm our hearts. This year, we’ve curated a collection of recipes that we simply can’t wait to make, from comforting classics with a twist to exciting new creations that are sure to impress. Get ready to embrace the holiday spirit and tantalize your taste buds with these incredible December recipes!
**1. Cranberry Brie Bites with Honey-Glazed Pecans**
These elegant appetizers are the perfect way to kick off any holiday gathering. The combination of creamy brie, tart cranberries, and crunchy, sweet pecans is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 sheet (14.1 oz) frozen puff pastry, thawed
* 8 oz brie cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
* 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
* 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 1 tablespoon butter
* Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pecans:** In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the pecans and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring constantly, until the pecans are lightly toasted and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Drizzle the honey over the pecans and stir to coat. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
2. **Prepare the Puff Pastry:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter (or a knife) to cut out circles of pastry.
3. **Assemble the Bites:** Place the pastry circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top each circle with a cube of brie, a spoonful of cranberry sauce, and a sprinkle of the honey-glazed pecans.
4. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the brie is melted and bubbly.
5. **Serve:** Let the bites cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh cranberries or a sprig of rosemary, if desired.
**Why We Can’t Wait to Make It:** These bites are visually stunning, incredibly flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. They’re the ideal appetizer for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
**2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze and Bacon**
Transform these often-overlooked vegetables into a holiday favorite! Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while balsamic glaze and crispy bacon add layers of savory and sweet flavors.
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
* 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 3 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
* 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. **Roast:** Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned, flipping halfway through.
3. **Prepare the Balsamic Glaze:** While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
4. **Assemble:** Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer them to a serving bowl. Drizzle with the balsamic glaze and toss to coat. Sprinkle with the crumbled bacon.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Why We Can’t Wait to Make It:** This recipe is a game-changer for Brussels sprouts skeptics. The balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the savory bacon and roasted vegetables. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
**3. Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons**
On a chilly December evening, nothing is more comforting than a bowl of creamy tomato soup. This recipe takes it to the next level with the addition of adorable grilled cheese croutons.
**Ingredients (Soup):**
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 (28 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
* 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Ingredients (Croutons):**
* 4 slices bread (such as sourdough or country white)
* 2 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
* 2 tablespoons butter, softened
**Instructions (Soup):**
1. **Sauté Vegetables:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. **Add Tomatoes and Broth:** Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. **Blend:** Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend in batches. Return the soup to the pot.
4. **Add Cream:** Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through, but do not boil.
**Instructions (Croutons):**
1. **Assemble Sandwiches:** Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Top each slice with a slice of cheese and the remaining slice of bread, butter-side up.
2. **Grill:** Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
3. **Cut into Croutons:** Cut the grilled cheese sandwiches into small squares or triangles to create croutons.
4. **Serve:** Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the grilled cheese croutons.
**Why We Can’t Wait to Make It:** This is pure comfort food elevated to a gourmet level. The creamy tomato soup is rich and flavorful, and the grilled cheese croutons add a playful touch and a satisfying crunch. It’s perfect for a cozy night in.
**4. Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with Rosemary Potatoes**
For a truly impressive holiday centerpiece, look no further than a herb-crusted rack of lamb. This elegant dish is surprisingly easy to prepare and is guaranteed to wow your guests.
**Ingredients (Lamb):**
* 1 (2-3 lb) rack of lamb, frenched
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
* 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Ingredients (Potatoes):**
* 1.5 lbs small red potatoes, halved or quartered
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions (Lamb):**
1. **Prepare the Lamb:** Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the rack of lamb dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
2. **Sear:** Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the rack of lamb on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
3. **Prepare the Herb Crust:** In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, breadcrumbs, rosemary, thyme, and garlic. Spread the mixture evenly over the meaty part of the rack of lamb.
4. **Roast:** Place the skillet with the rack of lamb in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare or 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium.
5. **Rest:** Remove the rack of lamb from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
**Instructions (Potatoes):**
1. **Prepare the Potatoes:** While the lamb is roasting, toss the potatoes with olive oil, rosemary sprigs, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
2. **Roast:** Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
3. **Serve:** Carve the rack of lamb into individual chops and serve with the rosemary potatoes.
**Why We Can’t Wait to Make It:** This recipe is all about impressing your guests with minimal effort. The herb crust adds a burst of flavor, and the rosemary potatoes are the perfect complement. It’s a sophisticated and satisfying holiday meal.
**5. Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze**
No December recipe collection is complete without a gingerbread treat! This Bundt cake is moist, flavorful, and beautifully decorated with a creamy cream cheese glaze.
**Ingredients (Cake):**
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 cup molasses
* 1 cup buttermilk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Ingredients (Glaze):**
* 4 oz cream cheese, softened
* 2 cups powdered sugar
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions (Cake):**
1. **Preheat and Prepare Pan:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan.
2. **Whisk Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Eggs and Molasses:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the molasses and vanilla extract.
5. **Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Beat until just combined.
6. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and spread evenly.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. **Cool:** Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
**Instructions (Glaze):**
1. **Beat Cream Cheese:** In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. **Add Sugar and Milk:** Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. **Drizzle:** Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
4. **Serve:** Slice and serve.
**Why We Can’t Wait to Make It:** This gingerbread Bundt cake is the epitome of holiday baking. The aroma alone is enough to fill your home with festive cheer. The cake is incredibly moist and flavorful, and the cream cheese glaze adds the perfect touch of sweetness. It’s the perfect dessert to share with loved ones.
**6. Peppermint Bark Brownies**
Combine two holiday favorites – peppermint bark and brownies – into one irresistible treat. These brownies are fudgy, chocolatey, and loaded with peppermint flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 4 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
* 4 oz white chocolate, chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare Pan:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Melt Butter:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat.
3. **Stir in Sugars:** Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Whisk Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
6. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
7. **Stir in Peppermint Candies:** Stir in 1/4 cup of the crushed peppermint candies.
8. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
9. **Sprinkle with White Chocolate and Peppermint:** Sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint candies and the chopped white chocolate over the top of the batter.
10. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
11. **Cool:** Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
**Why We Can’t Wait to Make It:** These brownies are the perfect combination of rich chocolate, refreshing peppermint, and satisfying crunch. They’re easy to make and are always a hit at holiday gatherings. Plus, the red and white peppermint candies make them extra festive.
**7. Spiced Apple Cider Sangria**
For a festive and flavorful holiday drink, try this spiced apple cider sangria. It’s perfect for serving at parties or enjoying on a cozy night in.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
* 4 cups apple cider
* 1/2 cup brandy
* 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
* 2 apples, cored and sliced
* 1 orange, sliced
* 2 cinnamon sticks
* 4 whole cloves
* Star anise (optional, for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the red wine, apple cider, brandy, and orange liqueur.
2. **Add Fruit and Spices:** Add the apple slices, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
3. **Chill:** Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
4. **Serve:** Serve chilled over ice. Garnish with star anise, if desired.
**Why We Can’t Wait to Make It:** This sangria is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and fruity flavors. It’s a festive and refreshing drink that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, making it perfect for entertaining.
**8. Butternut Squash Risotto with Sage and Parmesan**
This creamy and comforting risotto is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall and winter. The butternut squash adds a touch of sweetness, while the sage and Parmesan provide a savory balance.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
* 6 cups vegetable broth
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1 cup Arborio rice
* 1/2 cup dry white wine
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Roast Butternut Squash:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. **Heat Broth:** In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth to a simmer. Keep warm.
3. **Sauté Onion:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. **Add Rice:** Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, until the rice is translucent.
5. **Deglaze with Wine:** Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring constantly, until the wine is absorbed.
6. **Add Broth Gradually:** Add 1 cup of the warm vegetable broth to the rice and cook, stirring constantly, until the broth is absorbed. Continue adding broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next, until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 20-25 minutes.
7. **Stir in Butternut Squash, Parmesan, Butter, and Sage:** Stir in the roasted butternut squash, Parmesan cheese, butter, and sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Why We Can’t Wait to Make It:** This risotto is the epitome of comfort food. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. The butternut squash adds a touch of sweetness that is perfectly balanced by the savory sage and Parmesan. It’s a satisfying and elegant dish that is perfect for a holiday meal.
**9. Prime Rib Roast with Garlic Herb Butter**
For a truly show-stopping holiday dinner, consider a prime rib roast. This succulent and flavorful roast is surprisingly easy to prepare with the help of a flavorful garlic herb butter.
**Ingredients:**
* 4-5 lb Prime Rib Roast (standing rib roast)
* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Bring Roast to Room Temperature:** Remove the prime rib roast from the refrigerator 2-3 hours before cooking. This allows the roast to cook more evenly.
2. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
3. **Prepare Garlic Herb Butter:** In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. **Rub with Butter:** Pat the prime rib roast dry with paper towels. Generously rub the garlic herb butter all over the roast.
5. **Sear Roast:** Place the roast, bone-side down, in a roasting pan. Sear the roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to develop a crust.
6. **Reduce Oven Temperature:** Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting for approximately 13-15 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F (54-57°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate temperature reading.
7. **Rest Roast:** Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the roast, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Tent the roast loosely with foil during the resting period.
8. **Carve and Serve:** Carve the prime rib roast against the grain into thin slices. Serve with your favorite sides.
**Why We Can’t Wait to Make It:** The Prime Rib Roast with Garlic Herb Butter is the epitome of a celebratory meal. The combination of perfectly cooked, tender beef and the aromatic garlic herb butter creates an unforgettable dining experience. It’s the ultimate centerpiece for a special occasion.
**10. Eggnog French Toast Casserole**
Start your Christmas morning off right with this decadent Eggnog French Toast Casserole. It’s the perfect make-ahead breakfast that will impress your family and friends.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 8 large eggs
* 2 cups eggnog
* 1 cup milk
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* Pinch of salt
* Butter, for greasing the pan
* Optional toppings: whipped cream, fresh berries, maple syrup, chopped nuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Grease Pan:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
2. **Arrange Bread:** Arrange the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish.
3. **Whisk Eggnog Mixture:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, eggnog, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. **Pour Over Bread:** Pour the eggnog mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all the bread is soaked.
5. **Refrigerate (Optional):** Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the eggnog mixture.
6. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. **Bake:** Bake the casserole for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
8. **Serve:** Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Top with whipped cream, fresh berries, maple syrup, chopped nuts, or your favorite toppings.
**Why We Can’t Wait to Make It:** This Eggnog French Toast Casserole is the ultimate holiday breakfast treat. The combination of rich eggnog and warm spices creates a cozy and festive flavor. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and is a great way to start Christmas morning on a sweet note.
These are just a few of the recipes that we’re excited to make this December. From appetizers to desserts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create some delicious holiday memories!