There’s nothing like the gift of a great meal—the rich combination of good food and goodwill. The holiday season presents us with added opportunities to share joy alongside favorite fare. By intentionally making a double batch of a well-loved recipe or setting aside a small portion of a big dish, cooking can become a delicious offering of community, love, and hospitality.
Many of the following recipes are beginner-friendly, and some can even be made with ingredients you already have at hand. Each makes a minimum of six servings—but any of these can be doubled (or tripled) to fit your needs and share with those around you.
Grab your apron and cue the Christmas music… Let’s get cooking!
SWEET
By Joanna Gaines
makes 3 dozen
Freshly baked sugar cookies topped with a vanilla glaze. (For a treat anyone will love!)
By Amanda Sudano Ramirez and Abner Ramirez
makes 40
Confetti cake bites coated in white chocolate—with variations dipped in sprinkles, coconut, or shaved chocolate.
By Joanna Gaines
makes 14-16 servings
Jo’s famous biscuits, in an easy-to-share size!
By Zoë François
makes 12
A hearty take on fruit muffins that’s bran-based and packed with fiber.
By Joanna Gaines
makes 60
Fluffy marshmallow, vanilla, and peanut butter filling rolled in a chocolate candy coating.
SAVORY
By Samantha Seneviratne
makes 6-8 servings
Brioche layered with peach jam, cheese, and ham and baked in a light, creamy mixture.
By Joanna Gaines
makes two 12-inch loaves
Two fluffy baguettes with golden brown crust. Pairs well with garlic-chive butter or cherry burrata.
By Elizabeth Poett
makes 6-8 servings
Chicken wings roasted in a sweet-spicy marinade and topped with honey and salt. (Perfect for prepping ahead of time.)
By Rick Martínez
makes 16-18
This Mexican classic calls for tender, seasoned beef wrapped in masa, but gather your friends or neighbors before attempting this dish. A tamale party (or tamalada) is more than just a labor of love—it’s a way to connect with loved ones before the food reaches the table. Read more about the tradition of tamales here.
By Zoë François
makes 12
Satisfying single-serve portions of a savory dough stuffed with curry chicken and vegetables.
By Samantha Seneviratne
makes 8
Quick-and-easy, cheesy scones sprinkled with herbs (no yeast required).
A delicious meal goes a long way in showing someone you care. In the busiest season of gifting and gathering, we hope this recipe roundup serves as a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful presents are from the heart—and for the kitchen. Season’s eatings!
