17 holiday dishes that’ll have everyone believing in Christmas magic

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Sometimes it takes just one great meal to turn a “bah humbug” relative into the loudest singer in the room, and these recipes are proof of that power. These holiday classics know how to transform even the quietest gatherings into buzzing celebrations where laughter and full plates go hand in hand. Serve these up, and you might find yourself becoming the holiday legend no one stops talking about long after the tree comes down.

Two squares of cranberry bars on a slate plate.
Cranberry Bars. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cheese Ball

Cheese Ball. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

There’s something almost magical about how quickly Cheese Ball disappears once it hits the table. It has a way of turning simple gatherings into festive celebrations with its charm and flavor. You’ll find it to be the perfect way to kick off the holiday spirit without breaking a sweat. If Christmas magic had a flavor, this would definitely be it!
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ball

Beef Wellington Bites

Beef Wellington Bites on a white plate with sauce in the middle.
Beef Wellington Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Forget the giant roast and let these perfect appetizers steal the show instead. Beef Wellington Bites are compact enough to nibble on but packed with flavor to make every bite count. They’re an ideal choice for parties where people want something upscale without needing a plate and fork. Trust me, these will be the first tray to come back empty.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington Bites

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sliced turkey breast on a white plate with sprigs of thyme.
Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Wrestling with a whole bird can feel like a holiday workout, so let this streamlined option take the stress away. Air Fryer Turkey Breast keeps all the holiday flavor intact while freeing up oven space for other dishes. It’s a game-changer for anyone hosting a smaller crowd but still craving a festive centerpiece. Plus, you’ll spend less time worrying and more time enjoying your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Christmas Tree Cake Dip

A festive tray of Christmas Tree Cake Crack, featuring broken pieces of white chocolate-coated crackers, topped with red drizzle and green sprinkles.
Christmas Tree Cake Dip. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Who says desserts can’t be festive and fun? This Christmas Tree Cake Dip brings the party straight to your table with a combination that screams holiday cheer. It’s perfect for a gathering where you want people to ask, “How did you think of this?” without feeling too fancy. This is the kind of dish that makes people linger around the dessert table a little too long.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Cake Dip

Smoked Ribeye Roast

Sliced smoked ribeye beef on a cutting board.
Smoked Ribeye Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If your holiday table needs a true showstopper, look no further than this dish. Smoked Ribeye Roast delivers a rich and smoky flavor that turns any gathering into an unforgettable feast. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a gift all on its own, rewarding even the pickiest eaters at the table. Be prepared for plenty of compliments—and requests to make it every year.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Ribeye Roast

Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned

A glass of Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned garnished with sliced apples on a skewer.
Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring the warmth of the holidays into every glass with this festive cocktail. Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned mixes seasonal flavors with a comforting kick that feels perfect for holiday toasts. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser and the kind of drink that turns a gathering into a celebration. Once you serve it, you’ll understand why it becomes a new Christmas tradition.
Get the Recipe: Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

A plate of chocolate cookies topped with white icing and green sprinkles. A red and white striped cloth is in the background.
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Combining two holiday favorites into one irresistible treat, this dessert deserves a spot on your table. Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies offer the perfect mix of rich and refreshing flavors, making them stand out from the usual cookie crowd. They’re the kind of treat that disappears quickly, so don’t be shy about making an extra batch. With these on your tray, your dessert spread is officially upgraded.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Turkey Chaffwich

Waffles with turkey and cranberry on a plate.
Turkey Chaffwich. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Leftovers have never felt so gourmet, thanks to this clever recipe. Turkey Chaffwich transforms those post-feast remains into a meal that rivals the original dinner. It’s quick, creative, and a welcome change from the usual boring sandwich routine. Don’t be surprised if it becomes the new highlight of your holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chaffwich

Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour

A glass of Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour.
Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A little smoky, a little sweet, and all kinds of festive, this cocktail is perfect for holiday celebrations. Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour blends bold flavors with a hint of seasonal flair, making it stand out from your typical drinks. Serve it to your guests, and you’ll instantly feel like a mixology pro without even trying. It’s a holiday hit waiting to happen.
Get the Recipe: Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour

Brussels Sprouts With Brown Butter & Almonds

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds in a shallow yellow bowl.
Brussels Sprouts With Brown Butter & Almonds. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Finally, a veggie side dish that earns its spot on the Christmas table. Brussels Sprouts With Brown Butter & Almonds offers a rich and nutty twist that even sprout skeptics will appreciate. This dish proves that holiday sides can be just as exciting as the mains. It’s a little indulgent, a lot flavorful, and definitely worth a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts With Brown Butter & Almonds

Easy Red Pepper And Tomato Soup

A bowl of Red Pepper and Tomato Soup with a spoon and a bread plate.
Easy Red Pepper And Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

A warm bowl of this soup feels like the perfect start to any holiday meal. Easy Red Pepper And Tomato Soup is cozy enough for Christmas Eve but versatile enough to pair with almost anything. It’s simple, rewarding, and exactly what you need on a chilly holiday evening. Add a slice of crusty bread, and you’ve got a starter everyone will rave about.
Get the Recipe: Easy Red Pepper And Tomato Soup

Canadian Coffee

A canadian coffee with a whipped cream and cinnamon sticks.
Canadian Coffee. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a bit of cheer to your after-dinner routine with this festive twist on a classic cup. Canadian Coffee turns your regular brew into a dessert-worthy drink that feels just right for the holidays. It’s rich, warming, and an easy way to impress your guests without much effort. Serve this, and suddenly, your coffee break feels like a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Canadian Coffee

Sweet Potatoes In Air Fryer

A sweet potato on a plate with a fork.
Sweet Potatoes In Air Fryer. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When it comes to easy and crowd-pleasing sides, this one delivers every time. Sweet Potatoes In Air Fryer brings crispy edges and fluffy insides to the table with barely any fuss. They’re versatile enough to complement all your holiday dishes while standing out on their own. Once you try them, they’ll become a regular in your holiday rotation.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes In Air Fryer

Eggnog Tres Leches Cake

A piece of eggnog tres leches cake on a black plate with a fork.
Eggnog Tres Leches Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Two holiday classics combine to create a dessert that feels as festive as it gets. Eggnog Tres Leches Cake is rich, creamy, and the kind of treat people can’t stop talking about. It’s the perfect way to cap off a Christmas feast and just indulgent enough to feel special. You’ll want to save room for this because seconds are practically mandatory.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Tres Leches Cake

Baked Brie With Apple-Ginger Chutney

A chunk of oozing brie with apple chutney on a board.
Baked Brie With Apple-Ginger Chutney. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A little sweet, a little savory, and completely irresistible, this appetizer knows how to please a crowd. Baked Brie With Apple-Ginger Chutney combines gooey richness with a fruity twist that feels just right for the season. It’s fancy enough to impress your guests but simple enough to enjoy without stress. Make sure you grab a bite before it’s gone!
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie With Apple-Ginger Chutney

Christmas Morning Casserole

A closeup shot of breakfast casserole on a plate with berries.
Christmas Morning Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish is exactly what you need to make Christmas morning feel special without adding to the chaos. Christmas Morning Casserole is hearty, crowd-pleasing, and lets you focus on the fun while everyone else focuses on eating. It’s a one-dish wonder that keeps holiday mornings stress-free and rewarding. With this on the table, breakfast is practically done before the presents are opened.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Morning Casserole

Cranberry Bars

Two squares of cranberry bars on a slate plate.
Cranberry Bars. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add some holiday flair to your dessert lineup with these festive treats. Cranberry Bars balance just the right amount of tanginess with sweetness to keep things interesting. They’re easy to grab, perfect for mingling, and a hit with guests who want something a little different. Make these, and watch them fly off the plate in record time.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Bars

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