Top 10 More Classic Christmas Recipes to Complete Your Holiday Feast

Just when you thought your holiday menu couldn't get any better, we're back with ten more classic Christmas recipes to elevate your festive feast. You've mastered the initial lineup, but there's always room for more dishes that bring joy and warmth to your table. From time-honored mains to indulgent desserts, these recipes are the perfect additions to make your Christmas celebration truly extraordinary. So let's dive in and explore these culinary delights that are sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories.

1. Honey Glazed Ham
2. Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
3. Yorkshire Pudding
4. Mulled Wine (Glühwein)
5. Classic Pecan Pie
6. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
7. Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans
8. Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
9. Sticky Toffee Pudding
10. Chocolate Peppermint Bark

1. Honey Glazed Ham

The aroma of a honey-glazed ham wafting through the house is a surefire sign that Christmas has arrived. This recipe transforms a simple ham into a festive masterpiece with a sweet and savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It's a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings, laughter, and the joy of sharing a meal together.

A centerpiece that's both visually stunning and delectably satisfying. The sweet and savory glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving the ham a glossy finish that's irresistible. It's a straightforward recipe that delivers big on flavor, making it a hassle-free addition to your holiday menu.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2–3 hours (depending on ham size)
• Total Time: Approximately 2.5–3.5 hours

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8–10 pounds)
• 1 cup honey
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• Whole cloves for studding (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ham:
   • Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
   • Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan. Score the surface in a diamond pattern and, if desired, stud with whole cloves.
2. Make the Glaze:
   • In a saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and ground cloves.
   • Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally.
3. Glaze and Bake:
   • Brush a third of the glaze over the ham.
   • Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1.5 hours.
4. Continue Glazing:
   • Remove the foil and brush with another third of the glaze.
   • Bake uncovered for another 30 minutes.
5. Final Glaze and Finish:
   • Brush with the remaining glaze and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
   • Bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the glaze is caramelized.
6. Rest and Serve:
   • Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before carving.
   • Serve slices with any remaining glaze on the side.

2. Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest

Homemade cranberry sauce adds a personal touch to your holiday meal. This version, infused with orange zest and a hint of cinnamon, strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. It's a vibrant side that complements roasted meats and brings a burst of color to your table.

Elevate the traditional cranberry sauce by infusing it with fresh orange zest and a hint of cinnamon. This homemade version strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart, adding a vibrant splash of color and flavor to your plate.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• Zest and juice of one orange
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, orange juice, and cinnamon.
2. Cook the Sauce:
   • Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
   • Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
3. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
   • Transfer to a serving dish and refrigerate until ready to serve.

3. Yorkshire Pudding

A traditional British side dish, Yorkshire pudding is perfect for soaking up gravy from your roast. These fluffy, oven-baked delights are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Making them is a cherished ritual, and they always bring smiles when they puff up beautifully in the oven.

These fluffy, oven-baked delights are perfect for soaking up gravy from your roast. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, Yorkshire puddings are a British classic that pairs wonderfully with beef or lamb.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Rest Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Beef drippings or vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter:
   • In a bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until frothy.
   • Gradually add flour and salt, whisking until smooth.
   • Let the batter rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Oven and Pan:
   • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Place a muffin tin with a teaspoon of beef drippings or oil in each cup into the oven to heat up.
3. Bake:
   • Carefully remove the hot muffin tin.
   • Quickly pour batter into each cup, filling them about halfway.
   • Bake for 20–25 minutes without opening the oven door, until puddings are puffed and golden brown.
4. Serve Immediately:
   • Remove from the oven and serve hot alongside your roast.

4. Mulled Wine (Glühwein)

Mulled wine is a festive beverage that warms both body and soul. Steeped with spices and citrus, it's a staple at holiday markets and gatherings. Sharing a mug of this aromatic drink with friends and family encapsulates the cozy spirit of the season.

Warm up your guests with a pot of spiced mulled wine. Steeped with aromatic spices and citrus notes, this festive beverage embodies the cozy spirit of the holidays. It's the perfect drink to serve at gatherings or to enjoy by the fire.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 bottle red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
• ¼ cup brandy (optional)
• ¼ cup honey or sugar
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 5 whole cloves
• 3 star anise pods
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large pot, combine wine, brandy, honey or sugar, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and vanilla extract.
2. Heat Gently:
   • Heat over medium-low heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling.
   • Simmer gently for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Serve Warm:
   • Remove spices if desired.
   • Ladle into mugs and garnish with additional orange slices or cinnamon sticks.

5. Classic Pecan Pie

Pecan pie is a Southern favorite that's found its way into holiday traditions across the country. Its rich, nutty filling and flaky crust make it a decadent dessert that's hard to resist. Baking this pie fills your home with the comforting aroma of toasted pecans and caramelized sugar.

A rich, nutty pie with a buttery crust that's a staple in many households during the holidays. The caramelized pecan filling offers a delightful crunch and sweetness that's hard to resist. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Crust:
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 4–5 tablespoons ice water
• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup corn syrup
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups pecan halves

Instructions

1. Make the Crust:
   • In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
   • Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Add ice water one tablespoon at a time until dough forms.
   • Roll into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Roll out the dough and fit into a 9-inch pie dish.
   • Pour the filling into the crust.
   • Arrange pecan halves on top.
4. Bake:
   • Bake for 60–70 minutes until the filling is set.
   • If the crust browns too quickly, cover edges with foil.
5. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the pie cool completely before slicing.
   • Serve with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

6. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

This creamy roasted butternut squash soup is a bowl of comfort perfect for chilly evenings. Its velvety texture and rich flavor make it an elegant starter for your Christmas dinner. Garnished with a swirl of cream or toasted seeds, it's as beautiful as it is delicious.

Start your meal with a bowl of creamy roasted butternut squash soup. Its velvety texture and rich flavor make it an elegant and comforting appetizer. Garnish with a swirl of cream or toasted seeds to add a gourmet touch.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Roast the Squash:
   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Toss squash cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   • Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 30–40 minutes until tender.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a large pot, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat.
   • Sauté onion until translucent.
   • Add garlic and thyme; cook for 1 minute.
3. Combine and Simmer:
   • Add roasted squash and broth to the pot.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Blend the Soup:
   • Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth.
   • Stir in heavy cream if using.
   • Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve:
   • Ladle into bowls.
   • Garnish with a drizzle of cream or sprinkle of herbs.

7. Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans

When you need a quick yet impressive appetizer, baked brie is the answer. The combination of warm, melty cheese with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans is irresistible. It's a crowd-pleaser that's always one of the first dishes to disappear at gatherings.

An easy yet impressive appetizer that combines the gooey richness of melted Brie with the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans. It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to be one of the first dishes to disappear.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (8-ounce) wheel of Brie cheese
• ¼ cup cranberry sauce
• ¼ cup chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
• Crackers or sliced baguette for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Brie:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Place the Brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Add Toppings:
   • Spread cranberry sauce over the top of the Brie.
   • Sprinkle with chopped pecans.
   • Drizzle honey over the toppings.
3. Bake:
   • Bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is soft and starting to ooze.
4. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired.
   • Serve warm with crackers or bread.

8. Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes

Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs are a simple yet satisfying side dish. They pair well with any main course and are loved by adults and kids alike. The golden edges and tender centers make them utterly addictive.

These crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and fresh herbs are a versatile side that complements any main course. Golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they're a simple dish that delivers big on flavor.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the Potatoes:
   • In a bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast:
   • Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
   • Roast for 45 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp.
4. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
   • Serve hot.

9. Sticky Toffee Pudding

This indulgent dessert hails from the UK and has become a festive favorite. The moist date cake soaked in a rich toffee sauce is comfort food at its finest. It's a sweet finale that will have your guests savoring every last bite.

A classic British dessert featuring a moist date cake drenched in a warm toffee sauce. It's a sweet finale that's comforting and utterly satisfying, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

• For the Pudding:
  • 1 cup chopped dates
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Toffee Sauce:
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Soak the Dates:
   • Combine dates and baking soda in a bowl.
   • Pour boiling water over them and let sit for 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Batter:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Beat in eggs one at a time.
   • Stir in vanilla.
   • Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Fold in soaked dates along with the liquid.
3. Bake the Pudding:
   • Pour batter into a greased 9-inch baking dish.
   • Bake for 35–40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Make the Toffee Sauce:
   • In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, and cream.
   • Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly.
   • Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Serve:
   • Cut warm pudding into squares.
   • Pour warm toffee sauce over each serving.
   • Serve with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

10. Chocolate Peppermint Bark

This festive treat combines layers of dark and white chocolate topped with crushed peppermint candies. It's easy to make and perfect for gifting or as a delightful addition to your dessert table.

Chocolate peppermint bark is a holiday treat that's fun to make and even more fun to eat. The combination of dark and white chocolate with crunchy peppermint pieces is both festive and delicious. It's perfect for gifting or as a sweet addition to your dessert table.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 12 ounces white chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• ½ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base Layer:
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave.
   • Stir in ½ teaspoon peppermint extract.
   • Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Refrigerate for 15 minutes until firm.
2. Add the White Chocolate Layer:
   • Melt white chocolate chips using the same method.
   • Stir in the remaining ½ teaspoon peppermint extract.
   • Spread over the firm dark chocolate layer.
3. Add Toppings:
   • Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the white chocolate.
   • Gently press down to adhere.
4. Chill and Break:
   • Refrigerate for at least 45 minutes until fully set.
   • Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.

Conclusion

With these ten additional classic Christmas recipes, you've got even more tools to craft a holiday feast that's both memorable and mouthwatering. Each dish brings something unique to the table, enriching your menu with flavors that capture the essence of the season. So go ahead, mix and match these recipes with your existing favorites, and create a personalized holiday spread that reflects your culinary passion. After all, the joy of Christmas isn't just in the gifts we exchange but in the moments we share around the table. Here's to making this holiday season your most delicious one yet.