17 last-minute recipes for your holiday festivities

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Caught in the whirlwind of holiday chaos? Fear not! We’ve got your back with 17 last-minute recipes that’ll save the day and elevate your festivities to epic proportions. From dazzling appetizers to mouthwatering desserts, these quick and easy delights are your secret weapon for a stress-free and spectacular celebration!

A Santa shaped Christmas butter board with rosemary sprigs and bread.
Christmas Butter Board. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Snowman Cheese Board

A snowman shaped platter of cheese and crackers.
Snowman Cheese Board. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Make your holiday entertaining stress-free with this adorable snowman cheese board. No need for cooking or baking – just assemble a variety of cheeses, crackers, and festive accompaniments to create a visually appealing centerpiece. It’s the perfect last-minute appetizer that will charm your guests and add a whimsical touch to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Snowman Cheese Board

Christmas Wreath Charcuterie Board

A Christmas wreath charcuterie board displayed on a table.
Christmas Wreath Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Elevate your holiday gathering with the Christmas Wreath Charcuterie Board, a quick and easy way to impress your guests. Combining savory delights and seasonal treats, this visually stunning arrangement serves as a festive centerpiece without the need for elaborate preparation. Take the stress out of last-minute planning and let this wreath-shaped charcuterie board be the star of your celebration.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Wreath Charcuterie Board

Santa Charcuterie Board

Santa charcuterie board on a blue surface.
Santa Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

For a festive and hassle-free appetizer, look no further than the Santa Charcuterie Board. Assemble a delightful array of snacks in the shape of Santa himself, adding a touch of holiday magic to your table. Easy to put together and visually appealing, this charcuterie board is a last-minute solution that brings joy and flavor to your Christmas celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Santa Charcuterie Board

Caprese Christmas Tree Salad

A wooden cutting board with a Caprese Christmas tree salad on it.
Caprese Christmas Tree Salad. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Transform your holiday meal with the Caprese Christmas Tree Salad, a vibrant and festive dish that’s easy to prepare. Arrange juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil into a dazzling Christmas tree without the need for intricate cooking. Drizzle with balsamic glaze to add a touch of elegance to this visually stunning and delicious salad, making it a practical and eye-catching choice for your festive gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Christmas Tree Salad

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

A white plate with vegan stuffed portobello mushrooms garnished with cherry tomatoes and parsley.
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Looking for a quick and flavorful appetizer? These vegan stuffed Portobello mushrooms are a breeze to make, offering a burst of Italian-inspired flavors. Whether you opt for the cheesy or non-cheesy version, these healthy bites are a crowd-pleaser, making them a practical choice for last-minute holiday preparations without compromising on taste.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls

Front view of 2 stuffed chicken Crescent rolls on a white plate garnished with parsley.
Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Impress your guests with the simplicity and savory goodness of Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls. These easy-to-make appetizers feature tender chicken and rich cream cheese wrapped in golden crescent rolls. Perfect for any party, these rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, making them an ideal last-minute addition to your holiday menu that won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls

Christmas Butter Board

A Santa shaped Christmas butter board with rosemary sprigs and bread.
Christmas Butter Board. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Add a dash of creativity to your holiday snacks with the Christmas Butter Board. This whimsical yet straightforward creation is a hit for both kids and adults alike. Assembling this board is a breeze, offering a delightful variety of spreads and toppings that require minimal effort. It’s a festive and easy addition to your celebrations, perfect for those looking to switch up their usual holiday treats with something fun and hassle-free.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Butter Board

Chocolate Christmas Truffles

Chocolate Christmas truffles on a white plate.
Chocolate Christmas Truffles. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Simplify your holiday celebrations with these effortlessly delicious Chocolate Christmas Truffles. These no-bake treats bring joy without the fuss, making them a practical choice for busy festivities. With a perfect balance of sweetness and festive flair, these truffles are a delightful addition to your dessert spread, offering a hassle-free way to indulge in the spirit of the season.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Christmas Truffles

Mini Turtle Cheesecakes

A slice of a mini turtle cheesecake with caramel and pecans on a cupcake liner.
Mini Turtle Cheesecakes. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

For a bite-sized explosion of flavors, try these Mini Turtle Cheesecakes. Gooey caramel, creamy cheesecake, and crunchy pecans come together for a dessert that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for your next gathering, these mini treats are a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort, making them an excellent choice for last-minute holiday preparations.
Get the Recipe: Mini Turtle Cheesecakes

Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits

Strawberry yogurt parfait in a stemless wine glass with another one in the background.
Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Indulge in a simple yet elegant dessert with these Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits. Perfect for any occasion, these parfaits boast refreshing flavors without any added sugar. With wholesome ingredients and a quick assembly, they provide a guilt-free treat that’s both practical and delightful. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these parfaits effortlessly cater to your sweet cravings without the need for extensive preparation.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits

Mini Christmas Muffins

Santa hat mini Christmas muffins on a white plate.
Mini Christmas Muffins. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Embrace the festive aroma of freshly baked Mini Christmas Muffins on Christmas day. These mini delights, resembling adorable Santa hats, are a visually stunning addition to your table. Simple to make and loved by families, these muffins offer a practical solution for last-minute preparations, adding a touch of holiday joy to your gatherings without the need for intricate baking.
Get the Recipe: Mini Christmas Muffins

Christmas Wreath Cupcakes

Christmas wreath cupcakes decorated with blue frosting on a cooling rack.
Christmas Wreath Cupcakes. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Infuse your holiday gathering with magic by serving these stunning Christmas Wreath Cupcakes. Almost too cute to eat, these cupcakes feature mouthwatering frosting and white chocolate ribbons on top. With a perfect balance of visual appeal and deliciousness, these cupcakes are a practical choice for those seeking a festive treat that’s both charming and easy to share.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Wreath Cupcakes

Melting Snowman Marshmallows

A plate of melting snowman marshmallows and rosemary trees.
Melting Snowman Marshmallows. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Elevate your Christmas dessert table with these super cute Melting Snowman Marshmallows. Topped with gooey mini marshmallows, these treats create the illusion of sweet little snowmen melting into deliciousness. A must-have for kids and adults alike, these marshmallows add a playful touch to your holiday celebrations. Simple to make and delightful to devour, they’re a charming and hassle-free addition to your festive sweets.
Get the Recipe: Melting Snowman Marshmallows

Christmas Marshmallow Pops

Santa's hat Christmas marshmallow pops on a white table.
Christmas Marshmallow Pops. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Create a festive delight with these homemade Christmas Marshmallow Pops resembling “Santa’s Bag.” Topped with sweet treasures, these marshmallow treats are sure to be marvelled at and devoured. Whether as part of a holiday celebration or a thoughtful last-minute homemade gift, these pops are a practical and visually appealing choice for spreading joy during the festive season.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Marshmallow Pops

Mini Key Lime Pie Bites

A front view of a mini key lime pie with more on a white plate in the background.
Mini Key Lime Pie Bites. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Score big on flavor with these Mini Key Lime Pie Bites, bringing a zesty twist to your dessert spread. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, adding a burst of tangy sweetness to your holiday festivities. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, these mini delights cater to your sweet tooth without the need for extensive preparation, making them an ideal last-minute addition to your holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Mini Key Lime Pie Bites

Teddy Bear Christmas Oreo Pops

Chocolate-covered Santa teddy bear Oreo pops on wooden background.
Teddy Bear Christmas Oreo Pops. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Unleash cuteness at your holiday gathering with these fun and festive Teddy Bear Christmas Oreo Pops. Perfect for party favors, holiday treats, or gifting, these adorable pops are sure to bring smiles to faces of all ages. With a playful presentation and the beloved taste of Oreo cookies, these pops are an easy and delightful addition to your festive celebrations, making them a practical choice for last-minute preparations.
Get the Recipe: Teddy Bear Christmas Oreo Pops

No-Bake Pumpkin Icebox Cake

A piece of no-bake pumpkin icebox cake on a white plate.
No-Bake Pumpkin Icebox Cake. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Savor the deliciousness of a No-Bake Pumpkin Icebox Cake, a simple and quick dessert that skips the oven. With layers of cream cheese, Cool Whip, and graham crackers, this easy recipe brings a delightful alternative to traditional cheesecake. Perfect for a hassle-free addition to your holiday menu, this cake is a practical choice that combines ease of preparation with irresistible flavor, ensuring a sweet ending to your festive gatherings without the need for complicated baking
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Pumpkin Icebox Cake

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