Lazy cook’s dream: 13 effortless holiday recipes that wow

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Surprise your family and guests with these 13 visually striking holiday recipes. From appetizers that impress to delectable desserts, these recipes guarantee your festive gatherings are both practical and visually appealing. Bid farewell to the ordinary and celebrate in style this holiday season!

Santa Claus cheese platter with fruit and nuts.
Santa Charchuterie Board. Photo Credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Double Chocolate Blossom Cookies

Two chocolate blossom Christmas cookies on a white plate.
Double Chocolate Blossom Cookies. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

These cookies are a twist on the classic peanut butter blossom cookies and are a must-have on your holiday cookie tray. They combine the best of both worlds: fudgy chocolate cookies and the iconic Hershey’s Kiss. Effortless to make, this easy recipe ensures you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying festive moments.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Blossom Cookies

Santa Charcuterie Board

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

Elevate your Christmas celebrations with this eye-catching Santa charcuterie board. This snack board is easy to put together and is the ultimate festive appetizer for your holiday gatherings. It’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday festivities. Make a statement without the stress!
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.

This vibrant and festive dish is a delightful twist on the classic Caprese, arranging juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil into a dazzling Christmas tree. Sprinkle with joy and drizzle with balsamic glaze for a festive salad that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. The best part it can be put together in less than 15 minutes.
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.

These healthy and easy-to-make stuffed portobello mushrooms are bursting with flavors and look stunning on the plate! The perfect holiday appetizer that will leave everyone wanting more. Can be made with or without cheese.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

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 the key lime pie bites – tangy, bite-sized treats that add a zesty twist to your holiday feast. These mini delights are the perfect sweet dessert that requires minimal preparation.
Get the Recipe: Mini Key Lime Pie Bites

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.

Bring a blast of flavors to your holiday party with these bite-size Mini Turtle Cheesecakes. Combining creamy cheesecake, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans, these mini delights are a crowd-pleaser. Effortless to make and visually appealing, these cheesecakes are a practical choice for a sweet ending to your festive celebration.
Get the Recipe: Mini Turtle Cheesecakes

Mini Pumpkin Croissants

Mini pumpkin crescent rolls with dipping sauce on a plate.
Mini Pumpkin Croissants: Easy Crescent Rolls Recipe. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Embrace the warmth of pumpkin with the buttery goodness of crescent rolls in these Mini Pumpkin Croissants. An irresistible treat that requires minimal effort, these mini crescent rolls are a practical choice for adding a touch of fall flavor to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Mini Pumpkin Croissants: Easy Crescent Rolls Recipe

S’Mores Crumbl Cookies

A front view of a s'mores Crumbl cookie with marshmallows and white melted chocolate on top.
S’Mores Crumbl Cookies. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Enjoy the comfort of Crumbl cookies at home with this easy copycat recipe for S’Mores Crumbl Cookies. Capture the real deal effortlessly with these delightful cookies that taste as good as they look. Practical and delicious, these cookies are a sweet addition to your holiday treat repertoire.
Get the Recipe: S’Mores Crumbl Cookies

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.

Delight your guests with these easy-to-make Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls. Tender chicken and rich cream cheese wrapped in golden crescent rolls create a perfect appetizer that steals the spotlight at any party. Practical and flavorful, these rolls are a must-have for your festive gathering.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls

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.

This simple yet elegant dessert is perfect for an intimate holiday gathering. The best part is that it’s made with wholesome ingredients and no added sugar. So indulge in this guilt-free treat and savor its refreshing flavors.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits

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.

Indulge in the irresistible pumpkin flavor of this No-Bake Icebox Cake. Layers of cream cheese, Cool Whip, and graham crackers create a perfect pumpkin cheesecake without the need for baking. Easy to prepare and bursting with seasonal goodness, this dessert is a practical choice for a stress-free holiday treat.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Pumpkin Icebox Cake

Christmas Snowball Cookies

Christmas snowball cookies in white snowman dish.
Christmas Snowball Cookies. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Enjoy the simplicity and year-round appeal of Christmas Snowball Cookies. Also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies or Russian Tea Cakes, these pecan treats require only five ingredients. With their delightful texture and nutty flavor, these cookies make for a timeless addition to your holiday cookie assortment.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Snowball Cookies

Christmas Sprinkle Cookies

Cookies with red, green and white sprinkles with red Christmas balls.
Christmas Sprinkle Cookies. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Add a touch of festive charm to your holiday dessert table with Christmas Sprinkle Cookies. Featuring a surprise fudge middle layer and rolled in red, green, and white sprinkles, these cookies are the epitome of Christmas cuteness. Practical and adorable, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser for all ages, making them a perfect addition to your holiday baking lineup.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Sprinkle Cookies

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