The holiday season is upon us. However, as this season approaches, so do exams and busy schedules. Your budget might be getting tight and your stress level may be rising, but don’t worry, I have created some holiday inspiration just for you. Even if you don’t have that much money to spend on gifts for your friends and family, you can still show your appreciation and love through food, because who doesn’t love treats? No matter what holiday you may be celebrating this season, it is always a good idea to indulge in tasty desserts that are oh-so sugary and delicious.
I have created a list of some of my favourite holiday recipes that include tasty breakfast delicacies, desserts and baked goods, as well as holiday drinks and cocktails that are sure to be a hit. These recipes will definitely take the spotlight of any secret santa party, holiday potluck or family get-together. Don’t hesitate to try out these easy recipes today!
Breakfast Treats:
1. Banana Pancakes
I made these banana pancakes the other day and they were the best pancakes I’ve ever made—extra emphasis on the cake! The recipe is so easy to follow and the ingredients are really affordable. Some of my tips when making these pancakes are: make sure your pan is on medium to low heat, your bananas are ripe and brown, and add a touch of cinnamon to make them extra festive.
2. Gingerbread French Toast & Cinnamon Honey Sauce
This breakfast recipe would be a perfect treat for Christmas morning or New Year’s Day with your family and friends. It’s a super sweet and decadent breakfast—your first meal of the day could be dessert. Although this recipe has more ingredients and may take a little more time, I can guarantee that this treat will put a smile on everyone’s face!
Desserts and Baked Goods:
3. Eggnog Pie
If you love eggnog this recipe is definitely up your alley. This pie combines a creamy filling with the unique and classic holiday taste of eggnog. The best part is that it’s a no-bake pie recipe, which means that you can whip up the ingredients easily and don’t have to wait to get a taste. This is the perfect recipe for those of you who are super busy during the holiday season!
4. Peppermint Oreo Truffles
Everyone loves Oreos, and this recipe is definitely one that I’m going to try this holiday season. There are only four ingredients you need to execute this cute and festive holiday treat, so it will fit your student budget. These truffles would also be such a cute gift for someone you love, especially if you package it up cute!
5. Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes
You’ve definitely heard of gingerbread cookies, gingerbread houses and even gingerbread lattes. But, have you ever tried a gingerbread latte cupcake? If your answer is no, you’re definitely missing out! Although this recipe does take some time and has quite a lengthy list of ingredients, it will definitely light up your taste buds when you try one. The key way to really make this cupcake recipe stand out is by making sure to add fresh ginger in the cupcake mixture and to not forget about topping them off with holiday sprinkles.
6. Cherry Cheesecake Dip
One of the best holiday treats this time of year is cheesecake, as it’s a staple at any holiday get together. But why not spice up a classic dessert by turning cherry cheesecake into a dip! This recipe only calls for five affordable ingredients that will create a creamy and decadent dip that everyone will be lusting to indulge in. Pair this dip with graham cookies or vanilla wafers to really take this sweet treat to the next level!
7. Ginger Molasses Cookies
This is one of my favourite cookie recipes for the holidays, as my mom used to make these every Christmas while I was growing up. This recipe combines many classic holiday spices like cinnamon, cloves and ginger to give the cookies a spicy but sweet taste. All the ingredients are really easy to find and are probably hanging around your home already, so no need to venture to the grocery store! This treat is sure to be a crowd pleaser if you are thinking of giving these cookies as a gift to someone special. They would look so yummy and festive in a holiday tin or wrapped with ribbons. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try!
Holiday Drinks and Cocktails:
8. Grinch Hot Chocolate
Since winter is approaching and the cold weather is upon us, hot chocolate always sounds like a good idea. This recipe for hot chocolate is not like any other traditional recipe, as it will teach you how to make a grinch-approved sweet beverage. The best part about this step-by-step recipe is that it gives you the option to make this hot drink alcoholic by adding peppermint schnapps and vanilla vodka! I will definitely try out this hot cocoa recipe during my winter break.
9. Eggnog Mudslides
This cocktail recipe is sure to be a hit at any holiday party or family get together as it is rich, decadent and full of holiday spice. You don’t need many different types of alcohol to recreate this drink for yourself or your guests. Don’t forget to add whipped cream and ground nutmeg as garnish to really make this drink extra festive.
10. Jack Frost Cocktail
Finally, this cocktail is my absolute favourite holiday drink ever! Not only does it look super wintery and holiday-esque, but the recipe includes coconut and pineapple flavours in a decadent slushy mixture. This is probably one of the easiest recipes on this list with the most impact, as this cocktail will be the talk of any holiday party you may host or attend.
No matter if you love to bake in your spare time or have zero experience working an oven, these recipes will still be easy to make and leave a lasting impression. I will definitely be setting some time aside this holiday season to make a couple of these treats for the people I love. The countdown to the holidays is coming up fast, so while you’re procrastinating studying for your exams (because everyone does), don’t waste your time on Instagram. Instead, whip up a yummy batch of cookies—your roomies will thank you later!
Related articles:
- 4 Ways to Spread Joy This Holiday Season
- Your Ultimate Christmas Playlist 2017
- Tips For Getting Into The Holiday Spirit
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