My Favorite Christmas Recipes

By Linda Larsen

Parker House Rolls

Linda Larsen

For years, I have collected my favorite Christmas recipes in a small spiral ring notebook. That way, when I try a new recipe, if it is wonderful it gets added to the notebook. I'm very particular about the recipes in this book; they have to be delicious, foolproof, and they must remind me of Christmas no matter when I'm making them.

So enjoy my collection of recipes. And think about making your own collection of best recipes. I feel it's important to keep a record of family favorites and the best recipes to pass on to future generations. Plus, you know every year, all your best recipes are collected in one place! These recipes are all for the 'extras' of your holiday table - appetizers, breads, cookies, and candies. It's easy to roast a turkey or beef roast, and salads and side dishes are all simple. It's the trimmings that make a special meal!

Enjoy these recipes as you prepare for the holidays this year.

My Favorite Christmas Recipes

• Chocolate Buttersweets
  A creamy vanilla filling tops tender butter thumbprint cookies, then chocolate frosting is drizzled over all. This is a very pretty cookie for a holiday tray or gift basket.
• Butter Pecan Cookies
  These simple cookies have the most wonderful flavor combination; chocolate and caramel on a tender butter cookie base.
• Smoked Salmon Pizza
  Smoked salmon is a real splurge for me. This simple pizza is so rich, creamy, and delicious; it's the perfect appetizer for any party.
• Chocolate Dainties
  These tender and rich little cookies just melt in your mouth. You can make them in little log shapes, or they can be rolled into round balls.
• Million Dollar Fudge
  This fudge, which weighs about 6 pounds per pan, is absolutely wonderful; rich, creamy, and chocolatey with a perfect bite.
• Chocolate Dipped Spritz
  Plain spritz cookies are fine, but for an extra special touch, dip yours in melted chocolate.
• Nutmeg Cookies
  These tender little cookies are frosted with a rich buttercream frosting, then sprinkled with a tiny bit of fresh nutmeg. They're really delicious.
• Cocoa Divinity
  Divinity is rather difficult to make, but with a stand mixer and this recipe, you will have success. It melts in your mouth, and the light cocoa flavor is perfect.
• Cranberry Oatmeal Bread
  This tender quick bread combines the tart flavor of cranberries with a sweet and tender oatmeal bread. It's perfect to munch on while opening presents.
• Parmesan Puff Pastry Straws
  Crisp, tender, rich, and cheesy little sticks are so easy to make when you purchase frozen puff pastry.
• Swedish Tea Log
  Well, as you know, I could live off this recipe (not really; I just wish I could...). Serve this perfect sweet coffee cake for any holiday breakfast or brunch.
• Crisp Chocolate Caramel Bars
  This bar cookie is really special. A tender butter cookie base is topped with melted caramel, then frosted with a crisp and creamy chocolate topping.
• Mini Pecan Tartlets
  These tiny little tarts are like miniature bites of pecan pie. And the chocolate topping makes them very fancy.
• Caramel Cream Cookies
  These tender little cookies are so rich and delicious. If you like, you could tint the frosting delicate colors for a festive touch.
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Bonbons
  Homemade candy is a sure fire winner at Christmas time. Peanut butter, dates, and chopped nuts are coated in rich chocolate for a fabulous treat.
• California Gold Bars
  It's always good to have something not so sweet on your cookie tray. These easy bars fit the bill.
• Oatmeal Carmelitas
  My favorite bar cookies ever! Caramel, chocolate, and buttery oatmeal cookie crumbs combine to make a fabulous treat.
• Pesto Torte
  This elegant and rich appetizer even comes in holiday colors! Make your own pesto, or use purchased pesto if you'd like in this wonderful recipe.
• Parker House Rolls
  These are the perfect dinner rolls; I have to make them for every family gathering. They are light, fluffy, rich, and delicious!
• Golden Honey Rolls
  These simple batter rolls have the most fabulous flavor. They are tender, light, and the perfect touch.
• Best Pecan Pie
  Have you ever sliced into a pecan pie and had the filling run all over the plate? This pie cuts perfectly into triangles every time, and it tastes even better than it looks.
• Filo Onion Rolls
  This is my favorite appetizer recipe. It can be made ahead and frozen. The flaky filo dough encloses a filling of savory cheese and tender and sweet sauteed onions. Yum.