Welcome to December, a month truly dedicated to culinary delight and festive gatherings! As the year draws to a close, our kitchens become the heart of holiday cheer, filled with the comforting aromas of seasonal ingredients and the promise of unforgettable meals. This special collection of recipes, “What to Cook This December,” is meticulously curated to inspire your holiday cooking, featuring the freshest seasonal produce like vibrant squash, hearty winter greens, tangy cranberries, and much more. Beyond everyday deliciousness, we’ve thoughtfully included an array of extra-flavorful dishes designed to ensure you are perfectly prepared for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and every joyful impromptu holiday gathering that comes your way. Get ready to embrace the festive spirit through food, creating cherished memories around your table with dishes that celebrate the abundance and warmth of the season.
Hello, December! The final and arguably most enchanting month of the year has arrived. As snowflakes (or at least chilly temperatures) grace the air, the festive season kicks into high gear. From the joyful sounds of caroling to the delightful tradition of cookie decorating, and of course, the grand week of holidays encompassing Christmas and New Year’s – there’s an abundance to do, see, and most importantly, to eat! This month invites us to slow down, savor moments with loved ones, and indulge in the heartwarming flavors that define winter. It’s a time for cozy meals, celebratory feasts, and comforting treats that make the cold days feel bright and inviting.
As we embark on these wonderful winter adventures, I’ve gathered a delightful selection of recipes perfect for making this month truly special. Our focus is on harnessing the natural bounty of the season, making your dishes not only delicious but also incredibly fresh. This month’s star produce includes a fantastic array of vibrant and nutritious ingredients:
- Broccoli
- Brussels Sprouts
- Citrus (Oranges, Grapefruits, Lemons)
- Cranberries
- Kale
- Pears
- Pomegranates
- Sweet Potato
- Winter greens (Collards, Chard, Spinach)
Embracing seasonal ingredients not only enhances the flavor profile of your dishes but also ensures you’re cooking with produce at its peak freshness and nutritional value. These ingredients are robust, versatile, and perfectly suited for the hearty, warming meals we crave during the colder months. They form the foundation of many traditional holiday dishes and offer endless possibilities for culinary creativity. If you’re searching for specific recipes featuring any particular ingredient, remember to explore our comprehensive ingredients page! Simply click on your desired ingredient, and it will magically pull up all the specific recipes that feature it. It’s an incredibly convenient and fun way to discover new favorites and make the most of your pantry. Don’t hesitate to click through to our full Recipe Index to uncover even more culinary inspiration!
Delightful Brussels Sprout Recipes:
Brussels sprouts, once a much-maligned vegetable, have rightfully earned their place as a cherished winter staple. When prepared correctly, these miniature cabbages offer a unique nutty, slightly bitter, and wonderfully savory flavor that complements a wide range of dishes. They are incredibly versatile, transforming from a simple roasted side dish into a sophisticated main course component. Rich in vitamins K and C, and a good source of fiber, Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Their robust texture holds up well to various cooking methods, making them perfect for festive holiday menus. Discover innovative ways to incorporate them into your meals this December:
- Brussels Sprouts with Pistachios and Lime
- Crispy Lemon Brussels Sprouts Mac & Cheese
- Vegetarian Brussels Sprout Bake with Parmesan & Pomegranates
- Roasted Baby Potato Brussels Sprout Poutine
- Brussels Sprout Thai Pizza
- Egg Sandwich with Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Lemon Aioli
- Creamed Brussel Sprout Tater Tot Casserole
- Roasted Brussel Sprout Quinoa Bites Stuffed with Gruyere
From crispy roasted perfection to creamy casseroles and unexpected pizza toppings, these recipes highlight the incredible versatility of Brussels sprouts. They’re no longer just a side dish; they’re ready to take center stage on your holiday table.
Exquisite Pomegranate Recipes:
The jewel-toned pomegranate is a true showstopper of winter produce, gracing our tables with its vibrant ruby arils and distinct sweet-tart flavor. Beyond its stunning appearance, pomegranates offer a wonderful crunch and a burst of juicy freshness that can elevate both savory and sweet dishes. They are also packed with antioxidants, making them a healthy and beautiful addition to your holiday meals. Whether sprinkled over salads, used in glazes, or muddled into cocktails, pomegranates add a touch of elegance and an unmistakable festive feel. Explore these captivating recipes that make the most of this magnificent fruit:
- Winter Greens and Pomegranate Pizza
- Open-Faced Persian Chicken Sandwich with Pomegranate Honey
- Pomegranate & Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs
- Apple, Pomegranate, & Ginger Cobbler
- Autumn Acorn Squash Pita “Nachos” with Pomegranates & Blue Cheese
- Ginger Pomegranate Paloma
- Pomegranate Rum Punch
From adding a burst of color and flavor to main courses to creating refreshing cocktails and decadent desserts, pomegranates are an indispensable ingredient for December’s festive dining. Their versatility ensures they’ll be a star in your holiday kitchen.
Perfect Pear Recipes:
Sweet, juicy, and wonderfully aromatic, pears are another seasonal gem that shines brightly in December. Their delicate sweetness and soft texture make them ideal for both savory and sweet applications, pairing beautifully with cheeses, nuts, and various spices. Pears come in many varieties, each offering a slightly different flavor and texture, from crisp Bartletts to buttery Bosc. They are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, making them a healthy yet indulgent addition to your winter menu. Whether you prefer them baked, sautéed, or fresh in a salad, pears add a sophisticated and comforting touch to any dish. Explore these creative recipes to celebrate the humble yet exquisite pear:
- Sauteed Pears with Bacon & Blue Cheese
- Sesame Steak Salad with Spiralized Pears
- White Chicken Naan Pizza with Sauteed Pears & Gorgonzola
- Potato Bisque with Pears
- Ginger Pear Oat Smoothie
- Puffed Pear Pancake
- Ginger Pear Oatmeal Cookie Crisp
From elegant appetizers to hearty main courses and comforting desserts, pears offer a delightful sweetness and texture that enhances any meal. These recipes showcase the pear’s versatility, making it a must-have ingredient for your December cooking.
Heartwarming Christmas Breakfast or Brunch Recipes:
Christmas morning is a time for joy, gifts, and, of course, a spectacular breakfast or brunch that sets the tone for the day. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, quick and easy or a lavish spread, these recipes are designed to make your Christmas morning unforgettable. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked goods and simmering delights filling your home as your family gathers. These dishes are perfect for feeding a crowd, preparing ahead of time, or simply enjoying a leisurely start to the most wonderful day of the year. Make your Christmas morning feast a tradition with these delightful ideas:
- Christmas Morning Punch
- Smoked Sausage and Spinach Tater Tot Breakfast Bake
- Citrus & Toasted Almond Panettone Strata
- Carrot Apple Muffins with Citrus Glaze
- Sausage, Cranberry & Brie Egg Casserole
- Eggnog Banana Bread Muffins with Cinnamon Rum Glaze
- Prime Rib Hot Brown Egg Sandwiches
From festive punches to hearty casseroles and sweet baked treats, these Christmas breakfast and brunch recipes ensure a delicious and memorable start to your holiday celebrations. They are designed for both ease and indulgence, allowing you to enjoy the morning without stress.
Grand Christmas Dinner Recipes:
Christmas dinner is the culinary highlight of the holiday season, a time for gathering around a beautifully set table and indulging in a magnificent feast. Whether you prefer traditional roasts or are looking to introduce new, exciting flavors, this collection offers a range of impressive main courses and delectable side dishes that will make your Christmas dinner truly special. These recipes focus on rich flavors, festive presentation, and dishes that are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Prepare to impress your guests and create lasting memories with these show-stopping Christmas dinner options:
- Persian-Style Baked Cornish Hens
- Rosemary Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
- Tomato Pumpkin Gratin with Spiced Gruyere Breadcrumbs
- Coffee-Rubbed Prime Rib with Easy Horseradish Sauce
- Herb Roasted Lamb Shanks with Harissa Wine Sauce
- Bacon & Cranberry Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
From succulent roasts to flavorful gratins, these Christmas dinner recipes promise a feast fit for the season. Each dish is crafted to deliver exceptional taste and presentation, ensuring your holiday meal is nothing short of spectacular.
Festive Christmas Appetizer Recipes:
Kick off your holiday gatherings with an array of irresistible appetizers that tantalize the taste buds and set a celebratory mood. Christmas appetizers are all about small bites that pack a punch of flavor, offering guests something delicious to nibble on while mingling. From elegant finger foods to hearty dips, this selection provides options that are easy to prepare yet impressive to serve. These appetizers are perfect for a festive party, a pre-dinner treat, or a casual get-together, ensuring everyone finds something they love before the main event. Get ready to delight your guests with these festive starters:
- Ultimate Party Mix
- Raspberry Chipotle Black Bean Gratin
- Duck Fat Pork Sliders with Raspberry Greek Yogurt & Goat Cheese
- Wonton Veggie Pizza Bites
- Shrimp and Grit Squares
- Apple Glazed Beef Meatballs
- Holiday Crackers: 3 Ways!
- Baked Three Cheese Onion Dip
These Christmas appetizers are designed to be both delicious and delightful, offering a variety of flavors and textures to please every palate. They’re the perfect way to welcome guests and start your holiday festivities on a high note.
Sparkling Christmas + New Year’s Eve Cocktails:
No holiday celebration is complete without a selection of festive drinks to toast the season and welcome the new year. This collection of Christmas and New Year’s Eve cocktails features vibrant flavors, seasonal ingredients, and a touch of holiday magic. Whether you prefer a warming bourbon concoction, a zesty margarita, or a sparkling punch, these recipes are designed to add an extra layer of sparkle to your celebrations. They’re perfect for entertaining guests, cozy nights by the fire, or ringing in the new year with a flourish. Mix up these delightful beverages and raise a glass to good times and great company:
- Bourbon Pomegranate Sangria
- Cranberry Whiskey Sour
- Easy Mistletoe Margaritas
- Homemade Cranberry Sauce + Bourbon Cranberry Cider Smash
- Sparkling Pear Cider
- Spiced Merlot Sparkling Punch
- Jack and Ginger Cocktail (+ how to make homemade ginger ale)
- Christmas Citrus-Cinnamon Punch
These festive cocktails are sure to add cheer and sophistication to your holiday gatherings. With a mix of traditional and creative options, you’ll find the perfect drink to complement your Christmas feast and toast to a bright New Year.
Irresistible Christmas Dessert Recipes:
Conclude your holiday feasts on a sweet note with these utterly irresistible Christmas dessert recipes. From classic gingerbread to unique sweet treats, this collection offers a perfect finale to any festive meal. Desserts during the holidays are more than just food; they are an experience, evoking nostalgia, warmth, and pure indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, preparing treats for Santa, or simply enjoying a sweet moment with loved ones, these recipes are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Dive into the delightful world of Christmas sweets and make your holiday season even more magical:
- Gingerbread Cookie Bars with Caramel Frosting
- Gingerbread Loaf with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
- Gingerbread Stout Squares
- Chocolate Mocha Glazed Gingerbread Fritters
- Santa’s Trashed Up Cookies
- Mom’s Christmas Sugar Cookies
These Christmas dessert recipes are crafted to be the crowning glory of your holiday meals. From the comforting spices of gingerbread to festive cookies, each treat promises a sweet and memorable conclusion to your celebrations.
