7 Festive Recipes for Your Holiday Table

The holidays are a time for connection, and food is at the heart of it all. The warmth of sharing a home-cooked meal (or the joy of indulging in a special treat) often anchors our celebrations, drawing us together to create memories that linger long after the season ends.

This collection of festive recipes is designed to bring you comfort, along with adding creativity and a touch of joy to your holiday table. We’ve rounded up old favorites and new additions to bring you everything from snacks and desserts to main courses, appetizers and beverages.

Let these recipes help you savor every moment.

1-Bowl Carrot Apple Snack Cake

We love recipes from Minimalist Baker for their flavor and simplicity. This easy and wholesome snack cake is no different, offering a tasty blend of fresh carrots and apples, bringing natural sweetness and moisture to every bite. Made in just one bowl, it’s quick to prepare and requires minimal cleanup. The recipe features warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, paired with a hearty mix of gluten-free flour and oats for a satisfying, all-access texture.

Sweetened with maple syrup or coconut sugar and baked to golden perfection, this snack cake is perfect for a morning treat, a lunchbox addition, or an afternoon pick-me-up. Enjoy it as is or add the cashew-based frosting for an extra indulgence. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and delicious.
 

Holiday Magic 5 Oatmeal Cookies

These white chocolate cranberry pecan oatmeal cookies from Sally’s Baking Recipes are the ultimate blend of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors with a chewy, hearty texture. Packed with smooth white chocolate chips, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans, these cookies are a holiday favorite that can be enjoyed year-round.

The base is a classic oatmeal cookie dough made with brown sugar for extra softness and a hint of cinnamon for warmth. The result is a perfectly balanced cookie that’s crisp on the edges and delightfully chewy in the center. Perfect for gifting, cookie swaps, or enjoying with a cozy cup of tea, we also love these cookies for Santa’s nightly snack.
 

Creamy Green Goddess Hummus

Who doesn’t love hummus for holiday party appetizers? This creamy and nutrient-packed recipe from Nutriciously is a fresh twist on the classic dip. Featuring traditional ingredients like chickpeas and tahini, it’s elevated by a dash of vibrant greens, peas and avocado for a boost of color, flavor, and nutrition.

Infused with garlic, lemon juice, and a hint of cumin, this hummus is zesty, earthy, and irresistibly smooth–just the way we like it. It’s perfect as a dip for veggies, a spread for sandwiches, or a topping for salads and grain bowls. Easy to make, versatile, and vegan-friendly, it’s a delicious way to add greens to your meals!
 

Fluffy Cranberry Orange Muffins

These muffins from Cookie & Kate are a robust combination of tangy, fresh cranberries and bright, zesty orange. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey, they offer just the right balance of tart and sweet. White whole wheat flour made from white wheatberries (or substitute the gluten-free option) and Greek yogurt create a fluffy yet wholesome texture, making them a nutritious and satisfying treat.

Bursting with seasonal flavors, these muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea. Simple to make and freezer-friendly, they’re an easy way to enjoy the festive flavors of fresh cranberries during the holidays or any time of the year.
 

Avocado Latkes Breakfast Tacos

Start your day with a bold and flavorful twist on Hanukkah tradition with breakfast tacos from What Jew Wanna Eat. Crispy, golden-brown potato latkes form the perfect base for a satisfying taco filled with creamy avocado, fresh salsa, and a sunny-side-up egg.

This fusion recipe combines the comfort of classic latkes with the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. Topped with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce, these tacos are a perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and savory. Ideal for brunch or a fun breakfast-for-dinner, they’re as delicious as they are inventive, worthy of any holiday table.
 

Vegan Tourtière

This vegan twist on the traditional French-Canadian meat pie is perfect for party offerings or cozy family dinners. Made with a flaky, golden crust and a savory filling of lentils, vegan ground, onions, and warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, it’s a comforting dish that’s rich in culture. Originating in 17th century Quebec, tourtiere is still served today during the holidays as part of Réveillon, a Christmas Eve feast, and rooted in French colonial cooking traditions.

The filling of this recipe is gently simmered for depth of flavor, then baked to perfection in a buttery pastry shell. Serve it with a side of tangy ketchup or chutney to complement its aromatic spices. This timeless recipe from Jessica in the Kitchen is a delicious way to bring warmth and heritage to your table.
 

Raspberry Pomegranate Spritzer (The Merry Mocktail)

Celebrate the season with this mocktail from Pinch of Yum, a refreshing and festive drink that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Featuring a vibrant mix of sparkling water, cranberry juice, orange juice, and a touch of maple syrup for sweetness, it’s a balanced blend of tangy and sweet flavors that we love.

Founded on a make-ahead simple syrup, the flavor in this drink is rich and evocative of the season. Garnish with fresh cranberries, orange slices, and sprigs of rosemary to make your mocktail as beautiful as it is delicious. Easy to prepare and alcohol-free, this crowd-pleaser goes well with holiday open houses, family dinners, or cozy nights around the fire.

Holiday cooking tips

1. Make ahead: Save time and reduce stress by preparing ingredients or entire dishes a day or two before your gathering. Many recipes like cookies, soups or casseroles taste even better when they’ve had time to season.
2. Balance flavors: Ensure a mix of sweet, savory, tangy, and rich dishes to keep the menu exciting. Incorporating fresh herbs, citrus, and spices brighten up heavier foods and add variety to your spread.
3. Use seasonal ingredients: Embrace the flavors of the season by incorporating ingredients like cranberries, citrus, winter squash, and root vegetables. They add festive color and taste to your meals.
4. Keep it simple: Consider making dishes that are simple to serve and don’t require a lot of last-minute preparation. Casseroles, dips, sheet pan meals, and make-ahead desserts mean you can enjoy the festivities too.
5. Offer a variety of options: Be mindful of dietary preferences or restrictions by offering a variety of dishes. This might include vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options to ensure all your guests have something to enjoy.