Christmas Recipe Food: 7 Comforting Treats for the Holidays

Name: Christmas Recipe Food: 7 Comforting Treats for the Holidays
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1 cup dried fruit (optional)

June 13, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, the magic of the holiday season! There’s something truly special about gathering in the kitchen, surrounded by the warmth of family, laughter, and the delicious aromas wafting through the air. This delightful Christmas recipe is a heartwarming treat that’s sure to bring everyone together. I can just picture it now—friends and family sharing stories around the table, all while enjoying a slice of this comforting dessert. It’s so easy to whip up, and I promise it fills your home with that cozy, festive spirit we all love. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it a holiday tradition! So, roll up your sleeves, grab your favorite apron, and let’s create something wonderful that will fill your hearts and bellies with joy this Christmas. I can’t wait for you to share it with your loved ones!

christmas recipe food - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gather these simple ingredients to bring this delightful Christmas recipe to life. Each one plays a special role in creating a warm, comforting dessert that everyone will enjoy.

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (you can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
2 large eggs
1 cup milk (almond milk works great for a dairy-free version)
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon (an essential warm spice for the holidays!)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped nuts (optional, feel free to use your favorite—walnuts or pecans are wonderful)
1 cup dried fruit (optional, I love using cranberries or raisins for a festive touch)

Make sure to measure carefully, and don’t hesitate to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Enjoy the process of mixing these wonderful flavors together!

How to Prepare Instructions

Now, let’s get to the fun part—preparing this delightful Christmas recipe! I promise it’s straightforward and enjoyable, perfect for any skill level. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a scrumptious dessert in no time!

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step, so don’t skip it. A properly preheated oven ensures even baking!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Give it a gentle stir with a whisk or a spoon until everything is well mixed. The aroma of cinnamon will start to fill the air, and it’s just wonderful!
Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients. With your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t worry if it feels a bit messy—it’s all part of the fun!
In another bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re light and frothy, then add in the milk and vanilla extract. Mix them together until they’re well combined.
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir everything together until just combined. You don’t want to over-mix it; a few lumps are perfectly okay!
If you’re using nuts or dried fruit, fold them in carefully now. This is where you can really add your personal touch!
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish—make sure it’s evenly spread for even baking.
Pop it in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The delightful smell will be hard to resist!
Once baked, let it cool in the dish for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it set nicely and makes it easier to slice later.

And there you have it! A simple, comforting recipe that’s sure to become a cherished tradition. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share the delicious results with your loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This delightful Christmas recipe is truly a gem, and here’s why I know you’ll adore it just as much as I do:

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip this up in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with family and friends.
Flavorful Comfort: The warm blend of cinnamon and vanilla fills your home with a cozy aroma that screams holiday spirit.
Customizable: With options to add your favorite nuts or dried fruits, you can tailor this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Perfect for Gatherings: This dessert is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for holiday parties, family dinners, or cozy get-togethers.
Make Ahead: You can prepare it in advance and store it, so you won’t be rushed on the day of your gathering.
Comforting Tradition: This recipe is not just about the dessert; it’s about creating memories and traditions that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Trust me, once you serve this at your holiday table, it’s bound to become a cherished favorite in your home too!

Tips for Success

Let’s make this delightful Christmas recipe even more foolproof! Here are some handy tips and tricks to ensure everything goes smoothly, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time baker:

Ingredient Swaps: Don’t hesitate to get creative! If you have almond flour on hand, it makes for a fantastic gluten-free alternative to all-purpose flour. Just remember to adjust the liquid slightly since it can absorb more moisture.
Dairy-Free Option: For those avoiding dairy, simply substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Almond milk or oat milk works beautifully instead of regular milk, keeping it delicious while being dairy-free!
Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, feel free to reduce the sugar by a couple of tablespoons. You can also use a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake—just check the package for the right conversion.
Mixing Tips: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep your dessert light and fluffy. Over-mixing can lead to a denser texture, which we want to avoid!
Cool Down: Allowing the dessert to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps it set properly and makes slicing easier. Patience is key here!
Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your dessert as it bakes. If it looks golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, it’s ready to come out!
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting your dessert cool completely before cutting into it allows the flavors to settle in and makes for cleaner slices. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful, delicious holiday treat that’ll impress everyone at your gathering!

Variations

The beauty of this delightful Christmas recipe is its versatility! You can easily tailor it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun and tasty variations to inspire your creativity:

Nutty Goodness: Switch up the nuts based on what you love or have available. Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts all add a delightful crunch and flavor. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try a mix of different nuts for a fun texture!
Fruity Twist: Instead of dried cranberries or raisins, you might enjoy using dried apricots or chopped dates. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness to the dish, making every bite a surprise!
Spice It Up: For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon. It’ll elevate the warm, festive tastes even more!
Chocolate Delight: If you’re a chocolate lover, fold in some mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the batter for a rich, indulgent twist. It’s like a holiday party in your mouth!
Zesty Citrus: Adding the zest of an orange or lemon can brighten the flavors beautifully. Just a teaspoon or two will bring a fresh, aromatic note that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just keep in mind that different blends can behave differently, so check the packaging for any specific instructions.

Don’t be shy—experimenting with these variations is part of the fun! I love encouraging everyone to get creative and make this recipe truly their own. Happy baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve created this delightful Christmas recipe, let’s talk about how to store any leftovers (if there are any!) and how to reheat them while keeping that delicious flavor and texture intact.

First, to store your scrumptious dessert, allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cooled, slice it into individual pieces for easier serving later. Place the slices in an airtight container; this helps keep them fresh and moist. If you plan to store it for more than a couple of days, you can also wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This way, they won’t dry out!

Store the container in the refrigerator, and it should last for about 4 to 5 days. If you have a lot of leftovers and want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, so you’ll have a lovely treat ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

When it comes to reheating, the best method is gently warming it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the slices on a baking sheet. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method really helps to maintain that comforting texture and flavor! If you’re in a hurry, you can pop a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, but be careful not to overheat it, as it can become a bit rubbery.

Enjoy your festive treats, whether freshly baked or warmed up later! Each slice is like a little piece of holiday joy, and I can’t wait for you to savor every bite!

Nutritional Information

As you enjoy this delightful Christmas recipe, it’s always nice to know a bit about the nutritional content of what you’re serving. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition per serving, which is one slice of this comforting dessert:

Calories: 180
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 24g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 3g

These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so keep that in mind as you whip up this festive treat. It’s all about enjoying the flavors while also being mindful of your choices. Happy baking!

FAQ Section

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This delightful Christmas recipe can be prepared a day or two in advance. Just bake it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll still taste wonderful when you serve it!

What can I use instead of eggs?
If you’re looking to make this recipe egg-free, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a mashed ripe banana. These options will help keep your dessert moist and delicious!

Can I omit the nuts and dried fruit?
Of course! If you prefer a nut-free or fruit-free version, simply leave those ingredients out. This recipe will still turn out wonderfully, and you can enjoy the comforting flavors of the base cake.

How do I know when it’s done baking?
You’ll know your dessert is ready when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It’s always a good idea to start checking a few minutes before the recommended baking time, as ovens can vary.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, using whole wheat flour is a great option! Just keep in mind that it may create a denser texture, so you might want to add a tablespoon or two more of milk to keep it moist. Enjoy the added nutrition!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.