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  • New Year’s Charcuterie Board

    New Year’s Charcuterie Board

    Throw a fun party and ring in the new year with this fantastic New Year’s charcuterie board! Endless options of sweet and savory finger foods will keep your guests awake until midnight.

    The end of the year is a great time to host a get-together with friends and family in town. I have so many favorite appetizers and recipes that are perfect for entertaining. You can even leave a spot on your board for some of these delicious appetizers. Serve this cheeseball, this easy 5-minute dip, or these air fryer eggrolls.

    Overhead view of new year's charcuterie board. Miniature sparkling ciders and disco balls surround the board.

    New Year’s Charcuterie Board

    Load up a beautiful new year’s charcuterie board with delicious cheeses, fruit, salami, and all the perfect foods for munching. Enjoy the last night of the year eating and visiting with loved ones gathered around this board. Everyone will LOVE the mini sparkling ciders because they are so cute on the board!

    I love charcuterie boards that are both fun and festive and are the highlight of the party. This board is sure to be exciting and satisfying for everyone that gets to enjoy it. Next time you throw a party for a holiday I have you covered. I make them for all of the holidays because they are such a hit with friends and family! The best part about these is that you can easily switch things out to your favorite foods and make them your own! I love this Halloween board, this Valentine’s board, or this fun Christmas board.

    Start By Making a Salami Rose

    Salami roses are the best way to elevate any charcuterie board, and it is so easy. I walk you through the process step by step. Feel free to do one big one, or make a couple to scatter around the board. It takes a lot of salami, so make sure you have enough before you start. I buy a couple of packages of salami because I want to be prepared. Use a small shallow dish to display the salami rose. It is so visually beautiful. Your guests are going to think it’s so fancy because it is!

    1. Roll Up the First Salami Piece: Start by taking a slice of salami. Roll up the Salami piece.
    2. Wrap Another Piece Around the Seam: Grab another piece of Salame and wrap it around the seam of the rolled-up salami.
    3. Continue to Wrap To Form a Rose: Continue to wrap around the seam with salami until it starts to take a rose shape and look like petals.
    4. Place Into a Bowl: Place in a small bowl to hold the shape and gently fan out the flower.
    5. Add to the Board: Place the flower in the center of the charcuterie board.
    First photo of how to make a salami rose starting in the middle and layering salami to build a rose. Second photo of placing the salami rose in the middle of the bowl. Third photo placing more salami on the rose to fill in the bowl. Fourth photo is fanning out the salami petals to resemble a rose on the charcuterie board.

    Arrange the Fruit and Dried Fruit

    The holidays are a perfect time for adding healthier options to feed your guests. Fruit adds vibrant color to your board. Dried fruit adds incredible texture and sophistication to your board. Pick anything you want because your guests will love it. There are so many wonderful fresh fruit and dried fruit options that would look lovely on this board. I love the moody feel that the dried fruit and aged cheeses bring to this New Year’s charcuterie board. Adults appreciate it and will enjoy every single bite. Arrange the fresh fruit and dried fruit pointing towards the flower in the center. Leave space for the cheese and crackers to be scattered in between the fruit.

    • Grapes
    • Strawberries
    • Blueberries
    • Raspberries 
    • Dried Mango

    Layer On the Cheese and Crackers

    Cheese is part of all classic charcuterie boards, so you can’t skip this step! It not only lends itself to a savory taste, but the texture of cheeses is just so different than anything else on the board. Plus, this is where you can get really creative with the flavors that you choose and then introduce your guests to new flavors. Here is a list of the cheese and crackers that I used for this charcuterie board. Place the cheese and crackers pointing towards the flower in the center. Fill in the spaces you left so the fruit, cheese, and crackers alternate in options. Then use the letter cutouts for the Havarti cheese that I linked below.

    Cheese

    • Garlic and Herb Bellavitano
    • Manchego
    • Garlic and Herb Brie
    • Fig and Grapefruit Goat Cheese
    • Havarti Happy New Year Cut-out
    • Letter Cheese Cutter

    Crackers

    • Round Butter Crackers
    • Nut Thin Crackers
    • Rectangular Snack Crackers

    Always Include Chocolate On Your Board

    This is my kids’ favorite part of any holiday charcuterie board that I make… the treats! After all, you are staying up late, so you’ll definitely want a late-night sugar fix. You can use any kind of chocolate that you love! Making this during the holidays is convenient because you most likely already have chocolate or candy in your house. Sweet is a must with all these savory snacks. Add in the chocolate candy all throughout the board where space needs to be filled.

    • Rolo Wrapped Chocolate
    • Chocolate Covered Almonds 
    • Ferrero Rocher

    Fill in with Pickles and Almonds

    Additional snacks like miniature dill pickles and raw almonds are delicious on your board. The salty pickles and crunchy nuts go perfectly with the cheese and salami. Everyone will fight over the pickles because cute little versions of food are so fun! You can also use savory-flavored almonds to mix things up. Snacking on this charcuterie board throughout the night will be the highlight of your New Year’s party. Fill in spaces and edges with the pickles and almonds.

    • Miniature Snacking Pickles
    • Almonds
    Close up view of fruit, crackers, cheese, and salami rose on charcuterie board.

    Finish Off the Board With New Year’s Props

    The fun New Year’s items are the best part of this charcuterie board! It completes the board by making it so festive. Gather your items ahead of time while everything is in stock and available. And if you see anything else that you want to add then get it, because the more the merrier! These are the best finishing touches to your board. Arrange the sparkling cider and disco balls on and also beside the board for your guests. Then display the cheese letters with “happy new year” along the top of the board.

    Tips for Building Your Charcuterie Board

    This New Year’s charcuterie board is a delicious appetizer board full of preserved meats and finger foods. In my opinion, a charcuterie board should be full of your favorite things to snack on! After all, the favorites will be picked over first anyways, so you might as well load up on everything you love!

    • Dried Fruits: Trader Joe’s has endless options for dried fruit. Dried apple slices and dates would also be beautiful on this board. Be creative and choose anything you like!
    • Crackers: Crackers are perfect for snacking. I like to pick smaller crackers, but you can use whatever you like! Small crostini are yummy too! Butter crackers and wheat thins are a few more ideas that are great.
    • Preserved Meats: We are definitely putting salami on this board, but a few of my other favorites are Proscuitto and Sopressatta. Yum!
    • Cheeses: I love brie on my board! I also loved provolone and sharp cheddar. Again, use whatever you know your family will like best.

    Close up view of fruit, crackers, cheese, chocolate candy, and salami rose on charcuterie board. A miniature sparkling cider and disco ball is garnished on the board.

    Healthy Recipes For the New Year

    The new year brings new commitments to eating at home and eating healthier! I love to making healthier versions of my favorite recipes like meatballs and lettuce wraps. Try some of these great recipes to start your year off on the right foot!

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    New Year’s Eve Charcuterie Board

    Throw a fun party and ring in the new year with this fantastic New Year's charcuterie board! Endless options of sweet and savory finger foods will keep your guests awake until midnight.
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine American
    Keyword charcuterie board, new year’s charcuterie board
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings 10
    Calories 15kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    Meats:

    • Italian Dry Salami

    Cheese:

    • Garlic and Herb Bellavitano
    • Manchego
    • Garlic and Herb Brie
    • Fig and Grapefruit Goat Cheese
    • Havarti (for "Happy New Year" Cut-out)
    • Letter Cheese Cutter

    Crackers

    • Round Butter Crackers
    • Nut Thins
    • Rectangular Snack Crackers

    Chocolate:

    • Rolo Wrapped Chocolate
    • Chocolate Covered Almonds
    • Ferrero Rocher

    Fruit:

    • Grapes
    • Strawberries
    • Blueberries
    • Raspberries
    • Dried Mango

    Pickles and Almonds

    • Miniature snacking pickles
    • Almonds

    Optional:

    Instructions

    To Make a Salami Rose

    • Start by taking a slice of salami. Roll up the Salami piece.
    • Grab another piece of Salame and wrap it around the seam of the rolled-up salami.
    • Continue to wrap around the seam with salami until it starts to take a rose shape and look like petals.
    • Place in a small bowl to hold the shape and gently fan out the flower.
    • Place the flower in the center of the charcuterie board.

    Putting Together the Charcuterie Board

    • Arrange the fresh fruit and dried fruit pointing towards the flower in the center. Leave space for the cheese and crackers to be scattered in between the fruit.
    • Place the cheese and crackers pointing towards the flower in the center. Fill in the spaces you left so the fruit, cheese, and crackers alternate in options. Then use the letter cutouts for the Havarti cheese that I linked below.
    • Add in the chocolate pieces all throughout the board where space needs to be filled.
    • Fill in spaces and edges with the pickles and almonds.
    • Arrange the sparkling cider and disco balls on and beside the board for guests.
    • Display the cheese letters with "happy new year" along the top of the board.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 15kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 0.3mg | Potassium: 30mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 12IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.1mg
  • Cream Cheese Mints

    Cream Cheese Mints

    This classic and timeless Cream Cheese Mint is the perfect melt-in-your-mouth candy to make for your next party. They are creamy and sweet with a hint of mint flavor that is so refreshing, you’ll want to eat them again and again!

    I am a huge fan of making candy at home. Especially easy recipes where you don’t need a candy thermometer (like this Reese’s fudge). I just love sharing sweets with friends and family! If you love making candy, you’ve got to try this hard-to-resist Irish potato candy and this scrumptious peanut butter pinwheel candy!

    Cream cheese mints in red, green, yellow, and blue all lined up on a parchment paper.

    Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

    This cream cheese mint recipe is a classic for a reason. They are so smooth and creamy on the inside, and have the perfect amount of mint flavor to refresh you. They are so fun to make too! I had a lot of fun making these mints with my kids, and they are really hard to get wrong. You can color them in so many different ways. I like to separate the cream cheese batter into different bowls so that I can make 3 or 4 colors.

    If you have never tried a cream cheese mint you are in for a treat! My grandma used to make them, and they have always been a favorite of mine, along with peanut butter pinwheel candy and toffee. They are easier to make than caramels, and people love them just as much! I have made these mints for weddings, Christmas, baby showers, Easter, graduation parties, the list goes on. They are perfect for any and all occasions!

    Ingredients

    You only need a few simple ingredients to make these delicious cream cheese mints. They are so simple to make, and you will have them whipped up in minutes! They are a classic candy that you will really enjoy making with friends and family. You can find exact measurements below in the recipe card.

    • Cream Cheese: This is a key ingredient. It gives structure to the mint, along with a tangy sweet flavor that you can’t leave out!
    • Salted Butter: I like to use salted butter because this recipe is really sweet. You could use unsalted butter and add salt back in if you prefer.
    • Powdered Sugar: Confectioners sugar helps to balance out the tangy flavors in the cream cheese. It makes the mint taste a little like frosting, it’s so yummy!
    • Peppermint Extract: This is what gives the mint it’s minty flavor. You really have to include this ingredient!
    • Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract helps to bring out all of the delicious flavors in this mint. It also adds a little vanilla flavor that helps to balance out the sugar flavor.
    • Almond Extract: Almond extract is a strong flavor that is almost fruity. If you like marzipan, you’ll love almond extract in these mints. You could also leave it out if you aren’t a fan of almond.
    • Gel Food Coloring: This is what gives the mints their colors. If you are hosting a baby shower, you could choose pink and blue. Just use whatever colors fit the day, or whatever your favorite colors are! You could also leave them out altogether if you just wanted plain white mints. You can add a liquid food coloring if that’s all you have on hand, just be careful to not add to much extra moisture to the batter.
    Process photos showing the batter being made in a glass bowl, then separated and colored, then dipped in powdered sugar and rolled, then pressed into shape.

    How to Make Cream Cheese Mints

    These cream cheese mints are perfect for any occasion! They are a classic treat that everyone gets excited about. I can’t help but smile when I see how happy these candies make people, because they are so easy to make!

    Make the Cream Cheese Mints

    1. Beat: In a large bowl with a hand mixer, or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle, beat your cream cheese and butter together until creamy and well combined.
    2. Mix: Reduce mixing speed to low, and gradually add 3 cups of your powdered sugar in, ¼ cup at a time. Once the 4 cups of powdered sugar has been incorporated, add your mint and vanilla extracts, mix until combined.
    3. Add Sugar: Gradually add in the remaining 2 cups of powdered sugar until your dough is completely smooth and well mixed.

    Color and Shape

    1. Divide and Color: Divide your mixture into bowls, for as many colors as you are going to use. Add a small amount of food coloring to each bowl and stir together until your desired color has been reached and all the food coloring has been mixed in.
    2. Cool: Cover and refrigerate the mixtures for about an hour, you want it to firm up a bit so it is easier to handle. While the candy is cooling, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper and dust with powdered sugar.
    3. Shape: Once the candy has cooled for an hour you can begin to form your individual mints. Pinch off or scoop out about a teaspoon of candy mixture, toss in a bowl of powdered sugar to coat and roll between your hands to form a ball. Place balls on the parchment lined cookie sheet and using the tines of a fork to slightly flatten them and leave an indent in the top. Repeat until all the candy has been used.
    4. Harden: Allow the mints to harden at room temperature for at least 3 hours before enjoying. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
    A close up of the red and green mints in a scalloped dish.

    Tips for Making Cream Cheese Mints

    These mints are so simple to make! Once you make them for yourself, you will pick up your own little tips and tricks to make the recipe your own. Here are a few tips from my years of experience!

    • Prevent Sticking: Be sure to roll the balls of candy into powdered sugar before pressing them into molds. This prevents them from sticking as you shape them.
    • Decorating Tips: These mints are decorated by using the technique I mentioned in this recipe with the tines of a fork, but you can press them any way you’d like. You can gently press them with the bottom of a cup for a smooth finish, but you can use any tool to create many different designs! These mints also work great being pressed into candy molds for more detailed designs.
    • Best Fresh: These are best enjoyed fresh but they can be kept in the fridge and freezer to store for longer periods of time. 
    • Customize: The beauty of these mints is how easily customizable they are. You can color them for any occasion. Decorate the top to fit any theme. They are a great treat to bring to any gathering! 

    A hand holding a pink cream cheese mint above a platter of other mints.

    Storing Leftovers

    These mints are definitely best when fresh, but you can store them or make them ahead of time if you need to. Here are my tips for storing your cream cheese mints.

    In the Refrigerator: They will stay fresh in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks! You can also freeze this recipe, so if you make a large batch for a big party they can be frozen in a Ziploc bag for up to three months.

    Other Candy Recipes to Try

    I love making candy, especially easy recipes that my whole family can join in on. It is so fun to sit around the counter and decorate while building lasting memories. I remember doing it with my grandma, and I’m lucky my kids enjoy it too! Here are some of my favorite candy recipes that your whole family will enjoy!

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    Cream Cheese Mints

    This classic and timeless Cream Cheese Mint is the perfect melt-in-your-mouth candy to make for your next party. They are creamy and sweet with a hint of mint flavor that is so refreshing, you'll want to eat them again and again!
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Keyword candy, cream cheese mints
    Prep Time 30 minutes
    Cook Time 0 minutes
    Resting time 3 hours
    Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
    Servings 50 mints
    Calories 65kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 8 ounces cream cheese room temperature
    • 1 tablespoons salted butter room temperature
    • 5 cups powdered sugar
    • 2 teaspoons mint extract
    • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
    • ½ teaspoon almond extract
    • gel food coloring of your choice
    • additional powdered sugar for rolling mints in

    Instructions

    • In a large bowl with a hand mixer, or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle, beat your cream cheese and butter together until creamy and well combined.
    • Reduce mixing speed to low, gradually add 3 cups of your powdered sugar in, ¼ cup at a time. Once the 4 cups of powdered sugar has been incorporated, add your mint and vanilla extracts, mix until combined.
    • Gradually add in the remaining 2 cups of powdered sugar until your mixture is completely smooth and well mixed.
    • Divide your mixture into bowls, for as many colors as you are going to use. Add a small amount of food coloring to each bowl and stir together until your desired color has been reached and all the food coloring has been mixed in.
    • Cover and refrigerate the mixtures for about an hour, you want it to firm up a bit so it is easier to handle. While the candy is cooling, line a baking sheet with parchment and dust with powdered sugar.
    • Once the candy has cooled for an hour you can begin to form your individual mints. Pinch off or scoop out about a teaspoon of candy mixture, toss in a bowl of powdered sugar to coat and roll between your hands to form a ball. Place balls on the parchment lined pans and using the tines of a fork to slightly flatten them and leave an indent in the top. Repeat until all the candy has been used.
    • Allow the mints to harden at room temperature for at least 3 hours before enjoying. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 3mints | Calories: 65kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 16mg | Potassium: 7mg | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 68IU | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 0.01mg
  • Peppermint Candy Cane Brownies

    Peppermint Candy Cane Brownies

    The ultimate treat for the holidays, these peppermint candy cane brownies are made with layers of fudgy brownie, creamy mint frosting, chocolate ganache, and crushed peppermint. One bite and you’ll be filled with Christmas cheer!

    ‘Tis the season for peppermint! Need more dessert inspiration? Try these peppermint meltaways, peppermint cheesecake, or peppermint meringue lollipops next!

    Hero image of 3 brownies stacked on top of each other.

    Chocolate Peppermint Brownies

    Don’t you just love the Christmas season? Even though it is so busy I love this time of year! Holiday treats are the best. Out of all of the holiday flavors, peppermint is one of my favorites! It just screams Christmastime and is so delicious! If you’ve been looking for a knockout dessert to add to the holiday lineup, these peppermint candy cane brownies are the answer.

    If you know me, then you know I love a good brownie. (You’ll have to try out these 3-ingredient brownies, too!) These peppermint candy cane brownies are fudgy and indulgent with some holiday magic added. It starts with an amazing fudgy brownie base. Next up is a creamy mint center and then it is topped with chocolate ganache and candy canes! Each bite is filled with the perfect Christmas flavor. You’re going to love these brownies and want to make them all winter long!

    Ingredients Needed

    Don’t let this list of ingredients scare you! I’m sure you have most of them in your pantry. The homemade mint frosting and chocolate ganache is what makes these peppermint candy cane brownies so good! Check out the recipe card for exact measurements.

    Brownie Ingredients:

    • Flour: All-purpose flour works great!
    • Baking Powder: Baking powder is a must-add because it keeps your brownies from turning out too dense.
    • Salt: A pinch is all you need to enhance the flavor of your brownies.
    • Unsweetened Chocolate: You can use a chocolate baking bar, candy melts, or chocolate chips.
    • Unsalted Butter: Butter will give your brownies a nice, rich flavor and also keep them moist.
    • Eggs: To bind all of the ingredients together.
    • Sugar: Just regular white sugar will give these peppermint candy cane brownies the perfect sweetness!
    • Vanilla: You can use either imitation or pure vanilla extract.

    Mint Frosting:

    • Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and a silky-smooth texture as well.
    • Butter: You can never go wrong with butter in frosting!
    • Peppermint Extract: Go easy with the peppermint extract at first and then slowly add to taste. It can become overpowering pretty easily!
    • Milk: To adjust the thickness.
    • Red Food Coloring: (Optional) You’ll only need a drop or two to make the frosting pink.

    Peppermint Topping:

    • Crushed Peppermint Candy: Both candy canes and peppermints work!

    How to Make Peppermint Candy Cane Brownies

    Making these tasty peppermint brownies is actually pretty simple! Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes. It’s the perfect dessert to make when the holidays get busy!

    1. Preheat Oven, Prep Pan: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Then line a 9×13 pan with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Set aside.
    2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium sized mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Then set aside.
    3. Melt Chocolate: Chop the unsweetened chocolate and add it to a microwave safe bowl. Add the butter and microwave 30 seconds at a time stirring in between until melted and smooth. Set aside.
    4. Mix in Eggs, Sugar, and Vanilla: In a stand mixer beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla for two minutes. Slowly add the melted chocolate until incorporated and add the flour mixture. Mix until just combined and pour into the prepared baking pan.
    5. Bake: Bake for 20-30 minutes or until toothpick comes our clean. Let brownies completely cool on a wire rack and put in the fridge to chill.
    6. Add Mint Frosting Layer: To make the peppermint frosting, beat together powdered sugar, butter, peppermint extract, milk and red food coloring until fluffy. Then spread evenly over the top of the brownie layer and put in the fridge to chill.
    7. Making the Chocolate Ganache: In a microwave safe bowl add the chocolate chips and butter. Then cook in 30-second intervals and stir until melted. Spread evenly over the mint frosting layer.
    8. Add Candy Cane Pieces: Sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top and then chill until the chocolate has hardened.
    6-photo collage of brownie batter and frosting being prepared.

    How to Make the Best Brownies

    Here are a few simple ways to make your peppermint candy cane brownies turn out perfectly! This peppermint brownie recipe is a staple for the holidays.

    • Don’t Overmix: Only mix your brownie batter until it’s smooth. If you overmix it, gluten may develop and your brownies will turn out rubbery and dense.
    • Use High-Quality Chocolate: The higher quality chocolate you use, the better your brownies will taste. I usually go for Ghirardelli 60% cacao chocolate chips.
    • Let Your Brownies Chill: Be sure to give your peppermint candy cane brownies time to chill and set. This way, you’ll be able to cut them into uniform squares without making a mess.

    Top-down view of peppermint candy cane brownies cut into squares.

    How Long Will My Brownies Last?

    There’s nothing better than having homemade brownies to munch on throughout the week. If you’re lucky enough to have some left over, here’s how to keep them tasting soft, fudgy, and delicious.

    • At Room Temperature: Store your leftover peppermint brownies in an airtight container or Ziploc bag for up to 5 days.

    A stack of 3 brownies. One has a bite taken out of it.

    More Peppermint Desserts

    Calling all peppermint lovers! I’ve rounded up a few more dessert recipes for you to enjoy throughout the holidays. They’re packed with delicious minty flavor and so easy to make!

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    Peppermint Candy Cane Brownies

    The ultimate treat for the holidays, these peppermint candy cane brownies are made with layers of fudgy brownie, creamy mint frosting, chocolate ganache, and crushed peppermint. One bite and you’ll be filled with Christmas cheer!
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Keyword brownie recipes, brownies, peppermint candy cane brownies
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 20 minutes
    Total Time 30 minutes
    Servings 16 Servings
    Calories 498kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    Brownie Ingredients:

    • 1 1/4 cups flour
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 4 ounce unsweetened chocolate
    • 1 cup unsalted butter
    • 4 eggs
    • 2 cups sugar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla

    Mint Frosting:

    • 3 cups powdered sugar
    • 1/4 cup butter softened
    • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
    • 1/4 cup milk
    • 1 drops red food coloring just enough to make it pink

    Chocolate Ganache:

    • 6 ounces semi sweet chocolate chips
    • 6 tablespoons butter

    Peppermint Topping:

    • 1/2 cup crushed candy canes

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9×13 with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Set aside. In a medium sized mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
    • Chop the unsweetened chocolate and add it to a microwave safe bowl. Add the butter and microwave 30 seconds at a time stirring in between until melted and smooth. Set aside.
    • In a stand mixer beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla for two minutes. Slowly add the melted chocolate until incorporated and add the flour mixture. Mix until just combined and pour into the 9×13 inch pan. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until toothpick comes our clean. Let brownies completely cool on a wire rack and put in the fridge to chill.
    • To make the Mint frosting, beat together powdered sugar, butter, peppermint extract, milk and red food coloring until fluffy. Spread evenly over the top of the brownie layer and put in the fridge to chill.
    • To make the chocolate ganache: In a microwave safe bowl add the chocolate chips and butter. Cook in 30 second intervals stir until melted. Spread evenly over the mint frosting layer.
    • Sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top and chill until the chocolate has hardened.

    Notes

    Originally posted December 11, 2014

    Updated December 16, 2022

    Nutrition

    Calories: 498kcal | Carbohydrates: 62g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 91mg | Sodium: 121mg | Potassium: 161mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 49g | Vitamin A: 639IU | Calcium: 34mg | Iron: 3mg
  • Pomegranate Salad with Parmesan

    Pomegranate Salad with Parmesan

    This pomegranate salad has just the right ingredients to go with any dish this holiday season! Packed with texture, different fruits, and delicious greens, you will be coming back for seconds (and probably even thirds)!

    Salads are so typical in the summer, but if you can find a good salad for the wintertime… I call that a winner! Try out some more delicious winter salads that you will eat all season long! My favorites are this The Best Winter Fruit Salad, this yummy Winter Cobb Salad, and this delicious Christmas Fruit Salad!

    The top view of a pomegranate salad in a white bowl.

    Pomegranate Salad Recipe

    If you have never tried pomegranates or haven’t been a huge fan until now… you MUST try this salad! It will definitely change your mind. The tangy flavor and the slight crunch are the perfect addition to any recipe. This salad combines that traditional holiday ingredient with some nuts, greens, and a yummy and fresh pear! Even my kids like this salad. And we all know that kids are the best critics of any food.

    The key to getting a delicious salad just right is the ratio of ingredients. You don’t want to have too much of any one ingredient, or it will overwhelm the others. But, on the other hand, having too much plain lettuce just doesn’t make it appealing. What really sets this pomegranate salad recipe apart is the homemade champagne vinaigrette. It adds the perfect creamy texture and flavor to go it.

    Ingredients in a Pomegranate Salad

    A pomegranate salad can have a variety of ingredients. I chose to combine a few simple ingredients that complement each other (the parmesan cheese adds the best flavor!), and I think it makes up the perfect winter salad! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

    • Spring Lettuce Mix: You can use any salad mix, like baby spinach or arugula, but I like the spring mix because of the textures and colors.
    • Pomegranate Seeds: These add in a burst of flavor!
    • Pear: I love how the pear looks sliced up in this salad, but its delicate texture and subtle taste add a lot to the salad.
    • Candied Pecans: I have also tried walnuts and almonds; they also make a great combination!
    • Parmesan Cheese: Shaved parmesan cheese is a favorite at our house, but feta cheese or goat cheese are some other great ones to try!
    • Champagne Vinaigrette: You have to try making this recipe from scratch (it takes 10 minutes!) with this recipe.

    How to Make a Pomegranate Salad

    Making a salad is simple and easy! This pomegranate salad is no exception. Once you taste this combination of flavors and textures, you won’t be able to stop. After just a few simple steps, you will enjoy this salad on its own or any meal.

    1. Make Dressing: Prepare the champagne vinaigrette dressing ahead of time according to the recipe. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until it’s time to dress the salad.
    2. Add Lettuce: Add the lettuce mix to a large shallow bowl.
    3. Slice Pear: Cut the pear into thin slices, but keep the slices together to fan out beautifully on top of the salad.
    4. Mix: Sprinkle the candied pecans, parmesan shavings, and pomegranate arils over the lettuce mix.
    5. Drizzle: Wait to dress the salad until you’re ready to serve. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss it gently to coat the ingredients. 
    6. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!
    4 pictures showing how to add ingredients to a pomegranate salad.

    Easy Pomegranate Seeds Tip

    I sometimes think that getting the seeds out of a pomegranate can be more work than it’s worth! BUT… Did you know that at your local grocery store (and every once in a while, Costco!), you can buy a container that is filled with pomegranate seeds? You don’t have to spend any time getting them out of the actual pomegranate at all! When you are in a time crunch and want to make this pomegranate salad, this can save you so much time and effort!

    A bottle of champagne vinaigrette being poured onto the salad.

    Make Ahead of Time

    If you want to make this pomegranate salad ahead of time, you can! It’s great to be able to save some time. Just make sure not to add the dressing until just before serving so that the salad doesn’t get soggy.

    • Salad: Toss all of the salad ingredients together and store them in the fridge in an airtight container. It will last about 2-3 days without the dressing.
    • Dressing: You can easily make the salad dressing ahead of time, and it will last about 7-10 days in an airtight container in your refrigerator. Add it to your salad just before serving.

    A close up top view of a pomegranate salad with gold tongs.

    More Delicious Pomegranate Recipes

    Once you start adding pomegranates to your food, you won’t be able to stop! I am a huge fan of them because they add such a unique taste and texture. Check out a few more recipes that use pomegranates and you will be hooked just like me!

    Print

    Pomegranate Salad

    This pomegranate salad has just the right ingredients to go with any dish this holiday season! Packed with texture, different fruits, and delicious greens, you will be coming back for seconds (and probably even thirds)!
    Course Salad
    Cuisine American
    Keyword Pomegranate Salad
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 10 minutes
    Servings 6
    Calories 103kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 5 cups spring lettuce mix, washed and dried
    • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
    • 1 pear, sliced
    • 1/2 cup candied pecans (store-bought makes it easy)
    • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, shaved
    • champagne vinaigrette, prepared

    Instructions

    • Prepare the champagne vinaigrette dressing ahead of time according to the recipe. Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator until it's time to dress the salad.
    • Add the lettuce mix to a large shallow bowl.
    • Cut the pear into thin slices, but keep the slices together to fan out beautifully on top of the salad.
    • Sprinkle the candied pecans, parmesan shavings, and pomegranate arils over the lettuce mix.
    • Wait to dress the salad until you’re ready to serve. Drizzle over the salad and toss it gently to coat the ingredients with the dressing.
    • Serve immediately and enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 103kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 110mg | Potassium: 155mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 341IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 71mg | Iron: 0.5mg
  • Bunuelos

    Bunuelos

    A Latin American holiday staple, Buñuelos are a donut-like dessert covered in cinnamon sugar! They’re light and airy with a golden, crispy shell. The whole family is going to love them!

    I love trying to recreate Latin American treats and desserts. They always have the best flavor! You’ll have to try out coquito, arepas, or some homemade churros next!

    Hero image of 4 bunuelos stacked on top of each other.

    Bunuelos Recipe

    If you’ve never tried buñuelos before, meet your new obsession. They are a disc-shaped fritter commonly found in Spain, Mexico and Colombia! Their texture is similar to a scone but with a light, crispy shell. They’ve been around since the second century B.C. so you know they’ve got to be good, passed down from generation to generation. Buñuelos are a popular street food around Christmastime. With this recipe you can join in on the fun and enjoy some in the comfort of your kitchen. No vacation needed!

    Now, you will need to fry these in oil, but trust me- it’s a lot easier than it looks! It only takes about 60 seconds to get your bunuelos to light, puffy perfection. From there, all you’ve got to do is dredge them in some cinnamon sugar! My kids love helping with this part. Making bunuelos is quickly becoming a new Christmas tradition! I know your family will love this recipe just as much. You may even want to make them year-round! Need more delicious Mexican desserts in your life? Try some homemade flan or tres leches! This pumpkin tres leches is also a great choice for the holidays.

    The Difference Between Buñuelos and Sopapillas

    Both bunuelos and sopapillas are sweet quick breads, but they have some differences. Sopapillas are pan-fried and typically have a thicker, softer texture. Bunuelos are more airy and have a golden, crispy shell. Psst- if you love sopapillas, you’ve got to try my sopapilla cheesecake bars!

    Ingredients for Buñuelos Mexicanos

    My favorite thing about this recipe is all of the basic ingredients it uses. You’ll be able to find all of them in your pantry! Bunuelos are the perfect thing to make when the kids are craving something sweet. If you’re looking for measurements, they can all be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.

    • Flour: All-purpose works great here! If you use a substitute, be sure it doesn’t have a high protein content. This will make your bunuelos turn out dense instead of light and fluffy.
    • Baking Powder: You’ve got to add baking powder to your dough because it helps it rise.
    • Sugar: A little granulated sugar is all you need to make your bunuelos nice and sweet. You’ll also want to reserve some for the cinnamon sugar coating.
    • Salt: Salt is a must-add because it helps to boost all of the flavors. It also keeps your bread from tasting bland.
    • Egg: This will help to bind everything together. I recommend using an egg at room temperature so that it mixes into your dough smoothly.
    • Butter: For moisture and rich flavor! You will want your butter to be softened or at room temperature as well. This will keep your dough from being lumpy.
    • Vanilla Extract: If you want your bunuelos to have the best flavor, use pure vanilla extract! In fact, for desserts like these, I always use the vanilla that I got from Mexico!
    • Warm Water: For adding moisture to the dough.
    • Vegetable Oil: This is used for frying the bread in.
    • Cinnamon Sugar: For coating the bunuelos with!

    How to Make Homemade Bunuelos

    Making bunuelos is a labor of love! My kids always want to help with rolling out the dough and coating their bunuelos in cinnamon sugar. Even though we’re making homemade dough here and frying in oil, the process is a lot simpler than it looks. You’ll be a pro at making bunuelos in no time!

    Preparing the Dough

    1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl whisk together your flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
    2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add in your egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Then mix until it resembles a coarse meal. Add your water in 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing and kneading until your dough is soft and completely smooth, this should take 3-4 minutes. Then cover the dough with saran wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
    3. Roll Out Dough: Prepare a flat surface with a rolling pin, a plate with paper towels, flour for dusting, bench scraper, or knife. Then once the dough has rested, put it onto your work surface and cut into 12 equal balls. Flour your working surface and begin rolling out each ball into a thin circle. You want your bunuelo to be as thin as possible without tearing it. The dough should be almost transparent.

    Deep Frying

    1. Heat Oil: On the stove in a large frying pan, heat your vegetable oil to 350℉ (over medium-high heat). Your oil should only be about 1- 1.5” deep so the amount of oil you use will vary depending on the size of pan you’re using.
    2. Fry: Once all your bunuelos are all rolled out and ready, you can fry them in the hot oil until they are golden and crispy, this should take about 60 seconds. You should also flip them halfway through frying.
    3. Coat With Cinnamon Sugar: Remove the bunuelos from the frying oil and place them on the paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. When all the bunuelos are done, then you can sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar and enjoy!
    6-photo collage of dough being prepared and fried.

    Toppings and Serving Suggestions

    Once you’ve got a batch of golden bunuelos made, here are some tasty toppings to add. This is the fun part!

    • Add Cinnamon Sugar: I sprinkled mine with cinnamon sugar, but you can top yours any way you would like! Some people like to top them with just plain granulated sugar, or powdered sugar. You can also make a glaze to go over the top.
    • Drizzle With Caramel: If you want to make your bunuelos a little more indulgent, try adding a drizzle of caramel, chocolate sauce, or white chocolate sauce!

    Storing Leftovers

    I doubt you’ll have any bunuelos left over, they’re just too good! But if you do, here’s how to keep them tasting fresh and tasty!

    • At Room Temperature: To keep your bunuelos from drying out, make sure you store them in an airtight container. They will stay good for 3-5 days.

    Closeup of a stack of buñuelos.

    More Cinnamon Sugar Desserts

    Cinnamon sugar is such a great combo. If you love it as much as I do, here are a few more great desserts to try! They’re perfectly sweet and spiced to perfection. The whole family will go crazy over them!

    Print

    Bunuelos

    A Latin American holiday staple, Buñuelos are a donut-like dessert covered in cinnamon sugar! They’re light and airy with a golden, crispy shell. The whole family is going to love them!
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine Colombian, Mexican, Spanish
    Keyword bunuelos, bunuelos recipe
    Prep Time 35 minutes
    Cook Time 5 minutes
    Total Time 40 minutes
    Servings 4
    Calories 284kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups all purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 egg room temperature
    • 1 tablespoon butter softened
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • ¾ cup warm water
    • 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
    • Cinnamon sugar for garnish

    Instructions

    • In a large bowl whisk together your flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
    • Add in your egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Mix until it resembles a coarse meal. Add your water in 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing and kneading until your dough is soft and completely smooth, this should take 3-4 minutes. Cover the dough with saran wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
    • Prepare a flat surface with a rolling pin, a plate with paper towels, flour for dusting, bench scraper or knife. On the stove in a large frying pan, heat your vegetable oil to 350℉ (over medium high heat). Your oil should only be about 1- 1.5” deep so the amount of oil you use will vary depending on the size of pan you’re using.
    • Once the dough has rested, put it onto your work surface and cut into 12 equal balls. Flour your working surface and begin rolling out each ball into a thin circle. You want your bunuelo to be as thin as possible without tearing it. The dough should be almost transparent.
    • Once all your bunuelos are all rolled out and ready, you can fry them in the hot oil until they are golden and crispy, this should take about 60 seconds, and they should be flipped halfway through frying.
    • As you remove the bunuelos from the frying oil, once they are done cooking, place them on the paper towel lined plate to absorb any excess oil. When all the bunuelos are done, you can sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar and enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 284kcal | Carbohydrates: 51g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 48mg | Sodium: 624mg | Potassium: 186mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 147IU | Calcium: 62mg | Iron: 3mg
  • Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread

    Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread

    This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my privacy policy.

    Christmas tree pull apart bread is cheesy on the inside, and soft and chewy on the outside! It is formed in the shape of a Christmas tree and baked to perfection. Served with your favorite marinara sauce, this is sure to become your new Christmas tradition!

    I love making bread. It makes the house smell incredible, and it’s so fun to watch dough turn into a fluffy, delicious ball of bread. If you love making bread too, you’ll have to try this classic Grandma’s Perfect Homemade Bread, it’s the homemade sandwich bread recipe you’ve been waiting for. And you might as well try this amazingly simple cinnamon roll monkey bread and super delicious apple bread too!

    Christmas tree pull apart bread sitting on parchment with some sauce next to it and a hand pulling away some of the bread.

    Pull Apart Christmas Tree Bread

    What holiday doesn’t need cheesy, buttery, dippable bread? That’s why I love the idea of making this Christmas tree pull apart bread for your Christmas celebration! It is fun, festive, and seriously, everyone is going to love it. We all love monkey bread, right? This is basically savory monkey bread that is stuffed with cheese! It really doesn’t get easier to dress up your holiday table than this.

    If you have tried the dinner roll wreath, you are going to love this recipe. It’s even easier, and every bite is stuffed with cheese! It’s the perfect way to compliment your Christmas charcuterie board or to go alongside your Christmas dinner ham. You can dress up the presentation with herbs like rosemary and parsley. It is the perfect side dish for this holiday season!

    Ingredients

    These ingredients are so simple and come together to make THE most delicious bread. Pizza dough is amazing on its own, then you stuff it and dip in in marinara sauce for a heavenly bite every time. You can find the exact measurements below in the recipe card.

    • Pizza Dough: If you have your favorite homemade pizza dough recipe, that will be perfect for this pull apart bread! You could also buy a pre-made pizza dough. Whatever is easiest for you and your family!
    • Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is perfect for stuffing this bread. It melts perfectly on the inside of the bread.
    • Butter: You will want to use unsalted butter. You mix the melted butter with parmesan, garlic powder, and herbs to make the sauce that you brush on top of the bread before baking it.
    • Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese has the perfect flavor for this bread. It’s what you love to sprinkle on top of your pizza!
    • Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings out the sweet and savory flavors in this dish.
    • Dried Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of herbs that you already love on your pizza like oregano and thyme. It adds so much flavor to the bread!
    • Marinara Sauce: I love making my own homemade marinara sauce, but you can use whatever you like best! You could even use a pizza sauce because it’s pizza dough, so you know it’s going to be amazing.
    Process photos showing all of the cheese cut up, all of the dough cut up, the cheese folded inside of the dough, and then the Christmas tree being brushed with butter

    Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread Recipe

    This Christmas tree pull apart bread recipe is so easy to put together, and looks so festive on the table! The Christmas tree shape is so cute, and it’s fun to gobble it up. I know my family and I really enjoyed this bread together, and I know you will too.

    1. Prep: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
    2. Cut Bread: Flour the counter and place the pizza dough on top of your floured surface. Cut the pizza dough with a pizza cutter or knife into 33 small pieces.
    3. Cut Cheese: Cut the mozzarella cheese into 33 small pieces.
    4. Shape and Fill: Flatten out a piece of dough and place a cheese piece in the middle. Then gather the dough up and around the cheese. Secure the dough around the cheese.
    5. Repeat: Repeat the steps until all 33 cheese balls are formed.
    6. Arrange: Arrange the balls on the prepared pan. Start with 7 balls on the bottom then build the tree up by placing one less ball on each row. Then work your way up the tree in the order of 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.
    7. Make Star: Once you reach the top of the tree with one ball then place three more balls around the top ball to form the star.
    8. Add Stem: Place the last two balls at the base of the tree for the stem.
    9. Whisk: Combine the melted butter, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasonings in a bowl. Then whisk until incorporated.
    10. Brush: Using a pastry brush, brush the dough balls generously with the butter mixture.
    11. Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes until your tree is golden brown.
    12. Enjoy: Serve with a marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy!
    Baked pull apart bread in the form of a Christmas tree with red dipping sauce.

    Tips for Making Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread

    This Christmas tree pull apart bread is so easy to make, and you can change the flavor by adding different ingredients. You could even make a sweet tree instead of savory! Here are my tips for making this side dish.

    • Pinch the Seam: Make sure that when you are stuffing the bread, you pinch the seam closed. You don’t want to see any cheese because it will spill out of the dough, and it will make your bread look different shapes. You want it to stay in a nice little ball while baking!
    • Adding Butter to the Top: This is a crucial step! It adds so much flavor to the bread, and it helps them get nice and golden brown. You can change up the flavors of the butter sauce by adding different herbs and seasonings. Make it your own!
    • Make it Sweet: Do you love dessert pizza? Then you would love a sweet version of this dish! You can sweeten up some cream cheese by adding brown sugar and cinnamon and add that to the middle instead of mozzarella. Then you could brush the top with butter that has cinnamon added to it. Finish it off with a powdered sugar glaze or add a white chocolate sauce for dipping. You’re going to love it!

    A close up of Christmas tree pull apart bread with a hand pulling up one of the rolls.

    Storing Leftovers

    This side dish is so yummy, I doubt you will have any leftovers! If you do need to store your Christmas tree pull apart bread, here is what I would do.

    • In the Refrigerator: Pull apart bread is best eaten within 24 hours, but it can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator stored in an airtight container. When you reheat the bread, use the oven or a toaster oven. The microwave can make the bread hard.

    A close up of a hand dipping the roll into some marinara sauce.

    Other Holiday Side Dishes

    Holiday meals are my favorite to cook! I love all of the thought and effort that goes into a nice family dinner. I also love having friends and family over to enjoy all of the good food! If you are planning your holiday meal, here are some sides that you will want to have on the table!

    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • Flour the counter and place the pizza dough on top. Cut the pizza dough into 33 small pieces.

    • Cut the mozzarella cheese into 33 small pieces.

    • Flatten out a piece of dough and place a cheese piece in the middle. Gather the dough up and around the cheese. Secure the dough around the cheese.

    • Repeat the steps until all 33 cheese balls are formed.

    • Arrange the balls on the prepared pan. Start with 7 balls on the bottom then build the tree up by placing one less ball on each row. Work your way up the tree in the order of 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.

    • Once you reach the top of the tree with one ball then place three more balls around the top ball to form the star.

    • Place the last two balls at the base of the tree for the stem.

    • Combine the melted butter, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasonings in a bowl. Whisk until incorporated.

    • Using a pastry brush, brush the dough balls generously with the butter mixture.

    • Bake for 15-18 minutes until your tree is golden brown.

    • Serve with a marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy!

    Serves: 11

    Serving3ballsCalories49kcal (2%)Carbohydrates2g (1%)Protein1g (2%)Fat5g (8%)Saturated Fat3g (15%)Polyunsaturated Fat0.2gMonounsaturated Fat1gTrans Fat0.2gCholesterol12mg (4%)Sodium161mg (7%)Potassium75mg (2%)Fiber1g (4%)Sugar1g (1%)Vitamin A244IU (5%)Vitamin C2mg (2%)Calcium28mg (3%)Iron0.4mg (2%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Appetizer, Bread

    Cuisine American

    Keyword Christmas tree pull-apart bread

  • How to Make a Salami Rose (2 ways!)

    How to Make a Salami Rose (2 ways!)

    A salami rose is the perfect way to dress up your charcuterie board. This recipe will show you how to make a salami rose in two different ways that will be fun to put together and really wow your guests!

    I love a good how-to recipe. I didn’t grow up cooking with my mom in the kitchen. I’ve had to look up a lot of things on the internet, which is why I also share a few great how-to recipes on my website. My favorite is How to Make Buttermilk, it’s come in handy so many times! Another one that sounds like a no-brainer but doesn’t work out unless you know the tips is How to Freeze Peaches. An easy one to save for later is How to make Half and Half!

    A charcuterie board with salami roses and an assortment of meats, cheeses, fruits and veggies.

    How to Make a Rose Out of Salami

    I had so much fun putting this tutorial together for you! Charcuterie boards are the best and I make one for almost every gathering. I always make a few for the holidays, like this beautiful wreath-shaped Christmas Charcuterie board. I really loved making these roses for my Valentine’s charcuterie board, but they are a great way to dress up your simple charcuterie board too!

    This recipe will walk you through step by step of how to fold your slices of salami using a wine glass (you can also use a champagne flute). I also show you how to fold salami slices without a glass and they look beautiful! You may have seen a tutorial online of someone using the rim of the glass to make salami roses, and thought, “I could do that!”. Well, now is your time to shine. You can totally do this, and I’m going to show you how!

    Ingredients

    You are going to need to get some sliced salami from the deli. This is usually refrigerated, or you can have them cut it fresh for you. Make sure to get it pre-sliced, because it needs to be really thin so it can bend into the rose shape. You could also use Proscuitto, pepperoni, turkey, roast beef, ham, or really any thin meat you wanted to! You will want to cut the meat using a biscuit cutter so that it is the same shape for making your meat rose. It’s a great way to make your appetizer beautiful. Don’t forget to grab grapes, olives, provolone, dried fruits, and crackers to fill up your snack board!

    • Italian Dry Salami: This salami is full of flavor and is what you usually find on a charcuterie board. It is full of savory spices and I’ve never met anyone who didn’t love it, especially with cheese!
    • Genoa Salami: This salami has wine and vinegar in it, which gives it a really bright and tangy flavor. It is so refreshing and delicious. You should be able to find it at your local grocery store.
    A step by step visual explanation of how to put together a salami rose using a wine glass.

    How to Make a Salami Rose Using Glass

    It is so simple, and you can make different size salami flowers by using different-sized glasses. Use a champagne flute for smaller flowers, and a wine glass for a little bit bigger, You could even use a regular water glass in your house and try different sizes to see the different sizes of beautiful roses you can make.

    • Fold: Start by folding a salami piece over the edge of the wine glass. You will have half of the salami inside the glass and half folded over the outside.
    • Layer: Start layering the salami about ¼ inch over each seam.
    • Repeat: Continue to layer the salami over each seam until the hole in the center starts to close.
    • Flip: Once the hole is closed then flip the glass on your charcuterie board.
    • Remove: Remove the glass and lightly fan the rose.
    Process photos showing the step by step process of how to put together a salami rose without a glass and putting them in a small bowl at the end.

    How to Make a Rose Inside Out

    This method is really pretty too. You can make smaller roses if you have small ramekins to put your beautiful rose into. This method is my favorite because it really looks exactly like a rose, and all of my guests love them too.

    • Roll: Start with one piece of salami and roll it up.
    • Wrap: Grab another piece of Salame and wrap it around the seam of the rolled-up salami. Continue to wrap around the seam with salami until it starts to take a rose shape and look like petals.
    • Put in Bowl: Place in a small bowl to hold the shape and gently fan out the flower. Place the flower in the center of a round board.
    A close up of the meat flowers on a wooden board.

    Tips for Building Your Charcuterie Board

    A charcuterie board is a delicious appetizer full of preserved meats. Now that you know how to make a salami rose, you can add those as well as different cheeses, dried fruits, fresh herbs, and crackers and breads. In my opinion, a charcuterie board should be full of your favorite things to snack on! After all, the favorites will be picked over first anyways, so you might as well load up on everything you love, and leave out the rest.

    • Dried Fruits: If you like fresh fruit better, than just do that! My family loves dried fruits, especially apricots and mangoes. I know a lot of people who love dates and tart cherries.
    • Crackers: I love good old Ritz crackers. I’m not ashamed to put them on my board! You can use a butter cracker, salted crackers, wheat thins, whatever you like!
    • Preserved Meats: We are definitely putting salami on this board, but a few of my other favorites are Proscuitto and Sopressatta. Yum!
    • Cheeses: I love brie on my board! I also loved provolone and sharp cheddar. Again, use whatever you know your family will like best.

    A close up of a charcuterie board with salami and crackers and cheese.

    Storing Leftovers

    If you have leftover salami roses, they are pretty simple to store. Because they are preserved meat, they last a pretty long time. You just don’t want to leave them out too long or they will dry out!

    In the Refrigerator: Store your salami rose in an airtight container and place in the fridge. They should last for up to three weeks.

    Charcuterie Boards to Make

    Now that you can make a gorgeous salami rose, it’s time to put together your charcuterie board! I like to make sweet boards too, as well as breakfast and cheese boards. You can really make up your own rules when it comes to a board because that’s the fun part of making it! Add all of your favorite things to your board and you’ll have a new favorite appetizer.

    Print

    How to Make a Salami Rose

    A salami rose is the perfect way to dress up your charcuterie board. This recipe will show you how to make a salami rose in two different ways that will be fun to put together and really wow your guests!
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine American
    Keyword 5 minute, charcuterie board, salami rose
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 0 minutes
    Total Time 5 minutes
    Servings 4
    Calories 256kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • Italian Dry Salami (about 14 slices for a small rose) thinly sliced
    • Genoa Salami (about 14 slices for a small rose) thinly sliced

    Instructions

    How to make it with a wine glass:

    • Start by folding a salami piece over the edge of the wine glass. You will have half of the salami inside the glass and half folded over the outside.
    • Start layering the salami about ¼ inch over each seam.
    • Continue to layer the salami over each seam until the hole in the center starts to close.
    • Once the hole is closed then flip the glass on your charcuterie board.
    • Remove the glass and lightly fan the rose.

    How to make it from the inside out:

    • Start with one piece of salami and roll it up.
    • Grab another piece of Salame and wrap it around the seam of the rolled up salami. Continue to wrap around the seam with salami until it starts to take a rose shape and look like petals.
    • Place in a small bowl to hold the shape and gently fan out the flower. Place the flower in the center of a round board.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 256kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 1424mg | Potassium: 238mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Santa Veggie Tray

    Santa Veggie Tray

    Skip the store-bought platters and make this Santa veggie tray instead! It’s a healthy and delicious way to add a little extra holiday cheer to all of your Christmas get-togethers.

    Getting in your daily dose of veggies doesn’t have to be boring! For more nutritious appetizers that everyone will love, try this veggie charcuterie board, honey soy mushroom skewers, or balsamic honey grilled Brussels sprouts!

    Top-down view of a complete Santa veggie tray.

    Santa Claus Veggie Tray

    Say goodbye to those boring premade veggie platters, this Santa veggie tray is the best healthy appetizer for the holidays! Not only does this veggie tray look adorable, but it has a variety of fresh, delicious vegetables with all kinds of flavors and textures! There’s something for everyone. Complete with some creamy homemade hummus for dipping, your guests won’t be able to get enough. It’s the perfect way to tide over friends and family before the entree is served!

    The great thing about making your own veggie trays is that you can customize them however you’d like! I love dipping veggies in hummus. (It also works perfectly as Santa’s face!) But feel free to serve your veggie tray with things like guacamole, ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or this tasty whipped feta dip! When I serve this veggie tray, I like to serve up lots of little bowls of dips. This way, there’s a flavor for every craving! Trust me, this Santa veggie tray will be a hit with even the picky eaters in your family!

    Let’s Start With the Board!

    For this Santa veggie tray, you’ll need a rectangular serving board or cutting board. You want to make sure it’s long enough to fit Santa’s beard! If you don’t already have one, here’s a recommendation for you!

    The Recipe Critic Recommendation

    Acacia Wood Serving Board

    Zassenhaus Paddle Serving Board, Acacia

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    Everything You Will Need to Make a Santa Veggie Tray

    Here is everything I used to put this Santa vegetable tray together! Feel free to mix and match veggies however you’d like! Just make sure you’re using nice, fresh vegetables since they’re the star of the show. You can find how much I used of each ingredient below in the recipe card.

    • Hummus: This is for dipping the veggies in. (And also acts as Santa’s face.) Homemade is always best! Find my quick and easy recipe here.
    • Bell Peppers: I used red bell peppers, sliced thin, for Santa’s hat.
    • Mozzarella Pearls: Because who doesn’t love some cheese! I used mozzarella balls the size of cherry tomatoes to add as the fur lining of Santa’s hat.
    • Cauliflower Florets: These act as Santa’s beard.
    • Cherry Tomato: Cut this in half to use it as Santa’s button nose! Grape tomatoes will also work.
    • Large Black Olives: Olives are a must-add for any veggie board at my house. My kids love putting them on their fingers! You’ll want to save a couple to use as Santa’s eyes.
    • Sliced Cucumber: Not only is cucumber tasty, but it has the perfect Christmas green color!
    • Sugar Snap Peas: More green for your Santa veggie tray!
    • Crackers: I love adding crackers to veggie boards to switch up textures. Use your favorite kind here!
    • Celery: No veggie tray is complete without celery!

    How to Make a Santa Face Veggie Tray

    Step one, start with the face! I’m using regular hummus as Santa’s face. (I have a great recipe for homemade hummus here!) When deciding where to place the hummus on your board, be sure to leave enough room for both the hat and the beard.

    1. Start With Hummus: On a large rectangular board, spread the hummus on a 6 inch plate. Then place it in the middle of the tray.
    2. Create the Shape of the Hat: Next, add the bell pepper strips into the hat on top of the hummus plate. Add mozzarella balls at the end of the hat and then around the top of his face. (The lining of his hat.)
    Hummus, mozzarella cheese balls, and sliced red peppers being shaped to look like a face and Santa hat.

    Making a Beard With Cauliflower Florets

    Use smaller pieces of cauliflower for the eyebrows and top of the beard. Then reserve the bigger pieces of cauliflower for the bottom of the beard where it’s extra fluffy! Here you’re also going to use olives, half of a cherry tomato, and piece of sliced red bell pepper to craft Santa’s face.

    1. Making Santa’s Face: Start creating the beard-like shape with layers of cauliflower. Add a strip of bell pepper to make his lips, then a cherry tomato for the nose and two black olives for the eyes. Use small pieces of cauliflower for the eyebrows and mustache.
    Santa's beard being made out of cauliflower florets.

    Making Arms and Assembling the Rest of the Santa Veggie Tray

    Now that you’ve got the shape of Santa’s face, beard, and hat done, we’re going to make some arms and fill in the rest of the board! For the arms, you’re going to use the rest of the sliced red bell peppers as well as olives for the cuffs of his sleeves.

    1. Create Arms, Fill in Board With Cucumbers: Fill in the sides of the board with sliced cucumbers, bell pepper sticks for the arms and black olives for the bottom of the arms.
    2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Fill in the rest of the board with small mozzarella pears, sugar snap peas, crackers and celery.
    Santa's arms being made out of sliced red peppers and olives.

    More Veggie Dips

    Fresh veggies are amazing, but a good dip really makes them shine. Ranch dressing is always a must! Hummus is also a great option and is quickly becoming my favorite thing to serve with any veggie charcuterie. Here are a few more tasty dips to try out with your Santa veggie tray. Your guests will love the variety!

    Closeup of Santa veggie tray.

    Other Fun Christmas Recipes

    Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with these other festive recipes! They’re perfect for all of your holiday gatherings! Not only are they super easy to make, but absolutely scrumptious, too! For more Christmas inspiration, find my full list of themed recipes here.

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    Santa Veggie Tray

    Skip the store-bought platters and make this Santa veggie tray instead! It's a healthy and delicious way to add a little extra holiday cheer to all of your Christmas get-togethers.
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Keyword Christmas charcuterie, christmas veggie tray, santa face veggie tray, santa veggie tray
    Prep Time 20 minutes
    Total Time 20 minutes
    Servings 6 people
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 1 recipe hummus
    • 2 red bell pepper sliced thin
    • Mozzarella Pearls cherry tomato sized
    • 1 head cauliflower florets
    • 1 cherry tomato halved
    • 2 15 ounce can large black olives, drained
    • 1 cucumber sliced
    • small mozzarella pearls
    • 1 cup sugar snap peas
    • crackers of choice
    • 2 celery stalks cut into sticks

    Instructions

    • On a large rectangular board, spread the hummus on a 6 inch plate. Place it in the center of the board.
    • Next, add the bell pepper slices into the hat on top of the hummus plate. Add mozzarella balls at the end of his hat and around the top of his face.
    • Start shaping the beard with the cauliflower. Add a strip of bell pepper to make his lips, the cherry tomato for the nose and two black olives for the eyes. Use small pieces of cauliflower for the eyebrows and mustache.
    • Fill in the sides of the board with sliced cucumbers, bell pepper sticks for the arms and black olives for the bottom of the arms.
    • Fill in the rest of the board with small mozzarella pears, sugar snap peas, crackers and celery.
  • Easy Crockpot Candy

    Easy Crockpot Candy

    Christmas baking doesn’t get much easier than this super simple Crockpot Candy recipe! Made with chocolate, marshmallows, and peanuts, just toss all of the ingredients in your crockpot, mix it together, melt, and scoop and you have one of my family’s favorite treats!

    Christmas candy is one of my favorite things to make with my family during the winter months! We always have to whip up a few different kinds of toffee, like our favorite Christmas crack toffee. And there is always lots of soft caramels and creamy peanut butter fudge, my family just can’t get enough.

    A plate full of Christmas crockpot candy with a bite taken out of it to show the inside.

    Crockpot Candy Recipe

    This recipe is so easy and delicious! It is made of just a few simple ingredients that everyone will love, and it’s so simple to throw in the crockpot. I also love that this recipe makes plenty of candy, so it’s great to share with neighbors and friends! I don’t know about you, but my favorite thing to receive for Christmas is homemade treats because they taste amazing, and they don’t clutter up the house!

    Along with your cup of white hot chocolate and your divinity candy, this crockpot candy makes the perfect Christmas treat. It is so fun to put on a Christmas dessert charcuterie board or to put on a plate with ooey gooey Christmas cookies. You really can’t go wrong with how you serve and share this candy. It’s sure to be a new Christmas tradition!

    Ingredients

    These ingredients for crockpot candy are so simple, you probably already have most of them in your pantry! You really can mix up this recipe and make it with what you have on hand. What you already have in your pantry is probably what your family likes the most anyways! You can find exact measurements below in the recipe card.

    • Lightly Salted Dry Roasted Peanuts: Roasted peanuts have lots of flavor, and the salt on the outside helps to balance out all of the sweet flavors. It is the perfect nut to go in this candy!
    • Vanilla Almond Bark: This is like a white chocolate bar that you should be able to find at your local grocery store. It is perfect for melting, and it has a nice sweet flavor with a hint of almond. You could also use white chocolate chips instead if you wanted to.
    • Semisweet Chocolate Chips: This helps to balance out all of the sweet flavors. You could also do dark chocolate chips if you like those better. Make sure to use a good quality chocolate, your candy will taste better! Milk chocolate chips would also work.
    • Dark Chocolate Bar: I like to use Ghiradelli 60% chocolate, I just think it has great flavor and balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients.
    • Mini Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows are a must in this candy! They add great texture and a gooey bite that you would miss if it wasn’t there.
    • Sprinkles: This ingredient is optional, but it adds such a cute festive flare to the candy. You could get gold sprinkles to make it look fancy!
    Process photos showing all of the ingredients being added to the crockpot, then melted, then dropped onto a parchment paper.

    How to Make Crockpot Candy

    This crockpot candy is as easy to make as it sounds! You really do just throw it in your crockpot to melt and then scoop them into balls to cool. They are the easiest treats you will make this holiday season!

    1. Add to Crockpot: Combine peanuts, almond bark, and chocolate in the basin of a large slow cooker.
    2. Heat: Heat on low for one hour.
    3. Stir: Stir well with a spoon, until the chocolate is smooth.
    4. Scoop: Stir in mini marshmallows and scoop onto a wax (or parchment paper) paper-lined cookie sheet. Allow to cool.
    A close up on the candy nut clusters with sprinkles on top.

    Tips for Making Crockpot Candy

    This crockpot candy can be anything you want it to be! You can add so many different ingredients to make it your own.

    • Try Different Nuts: Almonds, cashews, macadamia nuts, or toasted pecans would be so yummy in this treat. They all go great with chocolate and would add different textures and flavors. Try one, or try them all!
    • Add Flavors: Wouldn’t a candy cane crunch be yummy in this candy? Or how about laying down some Graham crackers or toffe before scooping out your treats? A nice crunchy bottom would be so yummy!
    • Make Shapes: You can scoop these treats out into fun shapes! Try a snowman or a cute candy cane. You can dress these up however you want!
    • Add Toppings: A white chocolate drizzle would look so pretty on top. You could also sprinkle crushed candy cane, toffee bits, or some coarse sea salt. They are so yummy any way you make them!
    • Fill Cupcake Liners: If you want to make these treats easy to give away, pour them into a cupcake liner instead of onto a sheet pan. They will be easy to transport and to share!

    The crockpot candy on a white plate with sprinkles around the plate.

    Saving Leftovers

    Here is how to store your delicious and easy crockpot candy. You will be so glad you made this, it’s easy to store, share as a gift, and gobble up!

    On the Counter: Crockpot candy will keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Good luck getting it to last that long, though! It rarely makes it longer than 24 hours in my house!

    Other Christmas Candy to Try

    I grew up making Christmas candy every year. That’s probably why I love it so much today! It’s a great gift to make for friends and neighbors, and it just tastes amazing. I feel like it brings the holiday cheer into the house. I also love a sweet treat, so it’s a win win. Here are some of my favorite Christmas candy recipes that you have to try!

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    Crockpot Candy

    Christmas baking doesn't get much easier than this super simple Crockpot Candy recipe! Made with chocolate, marshmallows, and peanuts, just toss all of the ingredients in your crockpot, mix it together, melt, and scoop and you have one of my family's favorite treats!
    Course Appetizer, Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Keyword Christmas candy, crockpot candy
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 1 hour
    Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
    Servings 50 clusters
    Calories 30kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 4 cups lightly salted dry roasted peanuts
    • 2 lbs vanilla almond bark broken into pieces
    • 1 12 oz bag semisweet chocolate chips
    • 1 4 oz dark chocolate bar broken into pieces (I like to use Ghirardelli 60%)
    • 4-5 cups mini marshmallows this is about 1 cup shy of a 10 oz bag of mini marshmallows
    • Sprinkles optional

    Instructions

    • Layer peanuts evenly into your crockpot. Add almond bark, chocolate chips, and dark chocolate bar on top.
    • Cover with lid and cook on low heat for one hour.
    • Remove lid and stir well. If all of the chocolate isn’t completely melted, continue to cook uncovered on low heat, stirring occasionally, for another 15-30 minutes (or as long as is needed until chocolate is melted).
    • Turn off heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Add mini marshmallows and stir briefly, just until marshmallows are coated in chocolate and combined (if you stir too much you will melt your marshmallows, you want them to pretty much maintain their shape).
    • Immediately use a 1 ½ Tablespoon sized cookie scoop (or two large spoonand scoop candy by heaping 1 ½ Tablespoon onto a wax paper lined cookie sheet (you’ll need several, this makes a lot of candy).
    • Top with sprinkles, if desired, then allow candy to set before enjoying (about 30-60 minutes).
    • Store candy in an airtight container at room temperature.

    Notes

    Updated Dec 13, 2022

    Originally posted Dec 12, 2018

    Nutrition

    Calories: 30kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 4mg | Potassium: 20mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 5IU | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.3mg
  • White Chocolate Cherry Cranberry Cookies

    White Chocolate Cherry Cranberry Cookies

    White Chocolate Cherry Cranberry Cookies are the perfect holiday cookie, with velvety white chocolate, red tart cranberries, and cherries in a chewy, tender treat. Ideal for making any time of the year, you have to try them now!

    Plate these along with some of my favorites for a holiday plate of cookies you won’t soon forget. You must try these Italian Christmas Cookies, these delicious Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies and my kids favorite, Grinch Cookies!

    A stakc of cherry cranberry cookies on a cooling rack.

    White Chocolate Cherry Cranberry Cookies

    I love a good classic chocolate chip cookie, but there’s just something about white chocolate chips that says fancy to me. I love the rich white chocolate flavor with the tart cherries and tangy cranberries in these cookies. And they are so thick and chewy! That’s the best part! Add these to your to-bake list, you won’t regret it!

    These cookies are simple to make and the ingredients work no matter what season you are baking them in! Whether or not you make these for the holidays or in the middle of summer, these are sure to be favorites. They are so soft and tender and the juxtaposition of tart and sweet cannot be beat! Your family and guests will go crazy over them!

    Ingredients in White Chocolate Cherry Cranberry Cookies

    The ingredient list for these cookies is a bit long, but that’s why they are so good! And they’re all ingredients that are easy to find so you should be able to make these all year long! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

    • Flour: I used all-purpose flour in this recipe.
    • Baking Soda: This helps the cookies rise and not be flat.
    • Salt: The salt enhances all of the flavors in these cookies.
    • Butter: I make sure to soften my butter before mixing it in so that it blends better.
    • Brown Sugar: This delivers an incredibly rich flavor.
    • Sugar: The sugar sweetens the cookies and helps them brown.
    • Egg: I always use large eggs whenever I am baking!
    • Vanilla and Almond Extract: Both of the flavorings together make an incredible combination!
    • White Chocolate Chips: These add a deliciously creamy and sweet flavor.
    • Dried Cherries and Cranberries: The perfect combination of tartness and sweetness.

    How to Make Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

    This is easy as any cookie recipe but tastes better than any cookie you’ve had in a long time! Don’t put off making these… Once you start, you won’t be able to stop!

    1. Prep: Preheat oven to 325 and lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray.
    2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
    3. Cream and Combine: In another larger bowl, combine butter and sugars and cream until fluffy. Add egg, vanilla, and almond, and mix until smooth. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just incorporated. 
    4. Stir: Gently stir in chocolate chips, cherries, and cranberries.
    5. Bake: Scoop two tablespoons of dough and roll into a ball. Place on baking sheet 2 inches apart. Bake for 15-20 minutes until tops and edges begin to brown. (Less time for lower altitudes). 
    6. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before removing them and allowing them to cool completely. Store in an airtight container.
    7. Make Glaze: Place ¼ cup white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe dish and microwave in 20-second increments, stirring between each, until the chocolate is melted. Then use a spoon to drizzle it on top

    What is White Chocolate?

    Well, it’s true. White chocolate isn’t actually chocolate at all. It’s made of a blend of sugar, cocoa butter, milk solids, vanilla, and a fatty solid called lecithin. Although it has cocoa butter in it, it lacks the cocoa solids that create the flavor and color that defines real chocolate. It has its own unique tastes and qualities that be just as divine and splendid as any “real” chocolate.

    4 pictures showing how to make the cooking dough and scoop it onto a baking sheet.

    How to Use and Get the Best White Chocolate

    • What to look for: Just like any chocolate, there are good, better, and best out there. Look for a good quality white chocolate that is buttery and complex in its flavor, not overly sweet. Cocoa butter should be the only source of fat in the best kinds, and it will give it an off-white buttery color.
    • How to use it: White Chocolate is not an overpowering flavor. It complements and mellows. That’s why it’s so perfect in this recipe and others like Pumpkin Cream Cheese Truffles and White Chocolate Oreo Cookies.  It allows other intense flavors to shine, like in these White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies.  And don’t forget the frosting! It makes the best, most decadent frosting!

    The top view of the cookies drizzled with a vanilla glaze.

    Making cookies is easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind to get them perfect every time.

    • Chill: Most cookie recipes, like this one, don’t require you to chill the dough, but if you have the time taking the extra step can help you elevate your cookies. Chill for half an hour before forming and baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and give the dough a bit of structure. If it’s hardened too much, let it sit at room temp for 10 min.
    • Shape: If you have a cookie scoop, use it. Or you can use a tablespoon or spoon to give you evenly shaped cookies. This way, they’ll cook at the same rate and be uniform.
    • Bake: Cookies are best when they are slightly underdone. Don’t overbake your cookies. They’ll turn hard instead of staying soft and chewy. Adjust your cooking time for your oven to get cookies that are slightly brown on the edges and top.

    A cookie being broken apart.

    More Delicious Cookies to Try

    Cookies are the best, they are easy to make, easy to transport, and easy to eat. Everyone loves a good cookie. There is something about cookies that says I love and care about you. So make some love today.

    Print

    White Chocolate Cherry Cranberry Cookies

    White Chocolate Cherry Cranberry Cookies are the perfect holiday cookie, with velvety white chocolate, red tart cranberries, and cherries in a chewy, tender treat. Ideal for making any time of the year, you have to try them now!
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Keyword cookie recipes, cookies, white chocolate cherry cranberry cookies
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Cook Time 20 minutes
    Total Time 35 minutes
    Servings 16 Cookies
    Calories 187kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 1 1/2 cups flour
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup butter softened
    • 1/2 cup brown sugar
    • 1/3 cup sugar
    • 1 egg
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla
    • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
    • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
    • 1/3 cup dried cherries
    • 1/3 cup dried cranberries

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 325 and line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
    • In another larger bowl, combine butter and sugars, and cream until fluffy. Add egg, vanilla, and almond, and mix until smooth. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just incorporated.
    • Gently stir in chocolate chips, cherries, and cranberries.
    • Scoop 2 tablespoons of dough and roll into a ball. Place on baking sheet 2 inches apart. Bake for 15-20 minutes until tops and edges begin to brown. (Less time for lower altitudes).
    • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before removing them and allowing them to cool completely. Store in an airtight container.
    • Place ¼ cup white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe dish and microwave in 20-second increments, stirring between each, until the chocolate is melted. Then use a spoon to drizzle it on top

    Notes

    Originally Posted on December 18, 2013

    Updated on December 12, 2022

    Nutrition

    Calories: 187kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 27mg | Sodium: 128mg | Potassium: 45mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 283IU | Vitamin C: 0.03mg | Calcium: 24mg | Iron: 1mg