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70 Best Christmas Family Recipes

December 18, 2024
Amelia [Writer]

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Make your holiday merry with these 20 festive Christmas recipes! From breakfast to dessert, these dishes are perfect for sharing with family!

70 Best Christmas Family Recipes

The holiday season is all about gathering around the table with loved ones, and these 70 Best Christmas Family Recipes are here to make your celebrations even more special. From hearty mains to festive desserts, these dishes are perfect for creating warm, delicious memories together. Vegan, Gluten-free + Dairy-free Options.

Looking for the perfect recipe to shine on your Christmas or holiday table? Look no further—these 70 Best Christmas Family Recipes are packed with flavor and guaranteed to please the whole crowd.

Whether you’re planning breakfast, dinner, snacks, desserts, or holiday drinks, you’ll find a mix of traditional and non-traditional options for every eater. From vegan and dairy-free dishes to family-friendly classics, this roundup has it all, making it easy to create a festive spread everyone will love! See my 'Christmas category' for even more holiday goodness!

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Christmas Breakfast + Brunch Recipes

Start the holiday morning with cozy, crowd-pleasing Christmas recipes everyone will love—perfect for a festive breakfast or brunch!

Pancakes with syrup and eggnog in background.

Christmas Morning Eggnog Pancakes

Just a few simple steps + less than 25 minutes total, and you'll have a stack of deliciousness on your plate. Gluten-free + Make ahead option.

Pieces of Baked Eggnog French Toast on small plates

My Baked Eggnog French Toast

Baked French toast is one of the easiest make-ahead breakfast recipes ever. Make it Christmassy by adding one of my favorite winter ingredients - eggnog!

Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting in a baking dish

Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

Swirled with a heavenly blend of warming spices—they're a comforting delight! But here's the real star: The decadent Eggnog Cream Cheese frosting that crowns each roll. Gluten-Free, Air-frying + Overnight Option.

Baking pan of Southern Caprese Biscuit Breakfast Strata

Southern Caprese Biscuit Breakfast Strata

When it comes to breakfast or brunch, this is one evolutionary dish. Gluten-Free, Overnight + Make Ahead options.

Up close shot of Eggnog cinnamon rolls in a baking dish.

 Fluffy Holiday Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls

Whether you're baking for a family breakfast or a holiday gathering, these rolls are sure to spread some cheer! Overnight + Gluten-free Option.

Donuts stacked a top each other with festive holiday decor.

Homemade Baked Eggnog Donuts

Whether enjoyed as a morning Christmas delight or a sweet evening treat, these easy-to-make donuts are sure to bring the cozy essence of winter to your table. Gluten-free + Make ahead option.

Breakfast casserole cut out of baking dish with a wooden spoon and a plate on the side.

Bacon, Egg + Cheese Everything Breakfast Casserole

Baked to perfection, crowned with biscuits for that crispy, flaky bite—it's a symphony of savory, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying morning goodness! VegetarianGluten-free, Overnight + Make Ahead Options!

Stuffed breakfast croissants on a platter with a drink.

Cheesy Everything Breakfast Croissant Sandwich

This sandwich is SO GOOD, you'll want it every morning! Gluten-free + Vegan Option.

Gluten-free Flourless Gingerbread Waffles topped with whipped cream, pomegranate arils, and powdered sugar.

Vegan Gingerbread Waffles

For a breakfast that is simple and festive.

Bagels on a white serving dish with a plater with knife and sliced bagels.

HOMEMADE PUMPKIN OAT BAGELS

It's seriously the perfect easter brunch idea. All dairy-free. Vegan + Gluten-Free options.

Best Christmas Appetizers + Side Dishes

Get ready for side dishes that steal the spotlight—we've got your classic favorites and a few surprises that I'm sure will become new staples!

Overhead shot of a colorful and extensive Charcuterie Board including black grapes, green olives, crackers, cheeses, and dips

HOW TO MAKE THE BEST CHARCUTERIE BOARD

 Any time of the year—summer, spring, fall, or winter—these charcuterie board ideas will make your gatherings extra special. Meatless, Gluten-free, Dairy-free + Vegan Options.

Up close shot of Brussels Sprouts.

AIR FRYER BRUSSELS SPROUTS

Get ready for a crunchy delight with these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts! With a crispy exterior and tender interior, they're the perfect savory snack or side dish for any meal. Completely Vegan + Gluten-free. Oven Option.

Up close shot of fried with sauce and a spoon.

AIR FRYER GARLIC PARMESAN FRENCH FRIES

Perfectly crispy golden Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries—the ultimate side dish + snack. They're the perfect blend of crunchy goodness and savory garlic + Parmesan flavors. Gluten-free with an oven-baked option.

Maple Herb Glazed Carrots and Cranberries on a light brown serving platter

MAPLE HERB GLAZED CARROTS + CRANBERRIES

These Maple Herb Glazed Carrots are a delightful vegan + gluten-free side dish, perfect for any occasion.

Two cornbreads in skillets with a slice of butter and hot honey drizzle.

HOT HONEY SOUTHERN CORNBREAD 

Elevate your meal with the perfect side—Hot Honey Southern Cornbread. This delightful twist on a classic offers a sweet + spicy heat. It will vanish from the table in no time! Gluten-free + Dairy-free Option.

Baked mac and cheese in a green skillet with two spoons.

BAKED WHITE MAC + CHEESE WITH BACON

Indulge in the ultimate comfort with our Baked White Mac + Cheese with Bacon--- Perfect as a main dish or a standout side on any table! Creamy, dreamy, and loaded with irresistible flavors. Gluten-free + Vegan Option.

Up close shot of biscuits on a baking sheet with parchment paper with garnish of herbs.

GARLIC HERB BISCUIT

Biscuits make for the best side dish that everyone will love! These Garlic Herb Biscuit Recipe are bold in flavor + super flaky----the perfect combo! Dairy-Free option.

Green beans in a wooden serving platter with two gold spoons.

SAUTÉED LEMON GARLIC HERB GREEN BEANS

This Sautéed Lemon Garlic Herb Green Beans recipe is a simple, staple side dish that compliments any Easter dinner table!

Asparagus on a platter with parmesan cheese and lemons.

Air-fryer Asparagus

Air Fryer Asparagus brings a burst of flavor and crispiness to any meal, making it the ultimate go-to side dish for every occasion.

Full kale salad on a white serving dish with an apple, lemon, and red napkin.

Fall Harvest BBQ Chickpea Kale Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

Enjoy the beautiful green color of this salad as well as the flavor, bold colors, and nutrients with a variety of ingredients. Entirely dairy-free. Vegan, Gluten-Free, + Make ahead options.

Up close shot of whipped feta dip with a spoon and fork with bread.

Pesto Whipped Feta Dip

Savor the irresistible flavors of our luscious !--- Marrying creamy feta, sweet raw honey with walnuts + roasted herb tomatoes. Loaded with a delicious herby pesto sauce. This ultra-creamy rich and tangy appetizer caters to all your dipping desires + doubles as a versatile topping for various dishes. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering! Completely Gluten-free + Nut-free Option!

Roasted zucchini on a plate with a fork and feta cheese.

Roasted Zucchini with Parsley, Feta, + Hot Honey

Fall in love with baked zucchini in a whole new way! This Roasted Zucchini with Parsley, Feta, + Hot Honey recipe combines the freshness of parsley, the tang of feta, and the sweet kick of hot honey for a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss. Enjoy as a side or on its own. Completely Gluten-free. Dairy-free + Vegan Option.

Potato salad in a black bowl with a gold spoon and white plates on the side.

Southern Potato Salad Recipe

It's a delightful blend of flavors + textures that will elevate any meal as the perfect side dish! Completely Dairy-free + Vegan + No Boil Option.

Baked wings on a skillet with a side of bread and garnish.

THE BEST GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN WINGS

Get ready for The Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings--- Because, let's be real, garlic and Parmesan are the dream team of deliciousness. Air-fryer + Gluten-free option.

Up close shot of garlic dip in a bowl with a spoon and piece of bread.

ROASTED GARLIC OLIVE OIL DIP

Perfect for dipping crusty bread or drizzling over salads. Make-Ahead Vegan option.

Plate of Lemon Pepper Cauliflower Bites and lemon wedges

LEMON PEPPER CAULIFLOWER WINGS

Lemon Pepper Cauliflower Wings are the best vegetarian wings out there! A true flavor zesty explosion + crowd pleaser that will leave you wanting more! Ideal for a vegetarian side dish!

Up close shot of Chex mix in a white bowl.

Homemade Everything Bagel Chex Mix

It’s the perfect snack for whenever you need a tasty, satisfying crunch! Dairy-free Option.

Asparagus and Mozzarella Puff Pastry with Herb Honey with a spoon on parchment paper

Cheesy Asparagus Puff Pastry with Herb Honey

It's the ultimate treat, perfect for sharing with your loved ones as a snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Dairy-free option.

Mashed potatoes in a bowl with two gold spoons.

Ultra Creamy Cheesy Garlic Vegan Mashed Potatoes 

It's a delicious side dish that's both a breeze to whip up and a healthy choice, perfect for any special occasion. Completely Vegan + Slow cooker + Make-ahead options.

Creamed corn in a black skillet with a wooden spoon.

Seasoned Creamed Corn

Perfect as a cozy side for any meal, it’s one of those dishes everyone will be reaching for. Dairy-free + Vegan Option.

Up close shot of crispy quinoa on a yellow plate with a spoon.

Crispy Lemon Herb Quinoa

This nutty, herby delight is perfect as a salad topper, a bed for proteins, on soups, grain bowls, or as a tasty side dish. Completely Gluten-free, Dairy-free + Vegan.

Garlic Herb Smashed Potatoes on parchment paper

Crispy Garlic Herb Smashed Potatoes

Crispy exteriors, tender interiors, and an explosion of garlic and herb goodness make these spuds a mouthwatering appetizer or side dish. Vegan + Gluten-free.

Hot Honey Herb Dinner Rolls in a baking dish

Hot Honey Garlic Dinner Rolls

These are the spicy, sweet, herby, and totally fluffy rolls you need at your holiday table. Using my husband's recipe for perfectly golden brown, honey-glazed bread.

Christmas Dinner Mains Everyone Will LOVE

These main dishes bring a burst of freshness and seasonal flavors to your Christmas table.

Jerk Whole Roast Chicken on a serving platter surrounded by chopped vegetables

JERK WHOLE ROAST CHICKEN

This is a total crowd-pleasing main dish that is the perfect Christmas recipe!

Cranberry BBQ Jerk meatballs in a red skillet with a spoon.

My Fave Cranberry BBQ Jerk Meatballs

Perfect for a holiday appetizer or a fun weeknight meal, these meatballs are sure to be a hit! Make-ahead + Slow Cooker Option.

Fully seared steak in a skillet.

PAN SEARED STEAK

An easy way to create Steakhouse quality steak at home with just a handful of ingredients, perfectly crusted, + a whole lot of flavor!

Closeup of Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken

Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken

Serve it for the holidays, or even a cozy weeknight dinner, and watch it become an instant favorite. Gluten-free.

Up close shot of stuffed butternut squash with two forks and garnish.

WILD + BROWN RICE STUFFED BUTTERNUT SQUASH

This delightful recipe effortlessly marries the rich, earthy notes of butternut squash with a medley of wild and brown rice. Completely Vegan, Dairy-free + Gluten-free! Make ahead option.

Baked pasta with a wooden spoon.

SPICY VODKA RIGATONI PASTA BAKE

Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly spicy, with golden bubbly goodness! Gluten-free, Make-Ahead + Less Spicy Option.

Lamb chops on a platter with sage.

Fancy Pomegranate Lamb Chops

A delicious main course that's sure to impress! With its succulent flavor it's the perfect centerpiece for your dinner table

Chopped jerk chicken on a cutting board with BBQ sauce, bread, and a fork.

Authentic Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken

Marinated in homemade Jamaican Green seasoning and jerk rub, it's a spicy delight that brings Caribbean flair to your table.

Chicken breasts in a skillet, half sliced with a gold spoon.

HOT HONEY BAKED CHICKEN BREASTS 

The perfect main dish, boast juicy, tender chicken with a delightful sweet, sticky, and spicy honey glaze that pairs perfectly with sides!

Closeup of the top crust of Vegan barbeque Wellington

VEGAN BBQ BEEF WELLINGTON

The perfect vegan Christmas main course, made with a homemade crust and filling perfect for a crowd! A seriously perfect plant-based easter menu addition!

Up close shot of broccoli cheddar pot pie in a skillet with a wooden spoon.

Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie

This Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie recipe is pure comfort in a dish! Think tender chicken, roasted broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy filling all tucked into a flaky cheddar herb biscuit crust. It’s the kind of cozy, hearty meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! Gluten-free Option.

Stuffed peppers on a white serving platter with tomatoes.

Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers

These peppers are the ultimate meatless treat, brimming with a fresh taste that makes them a must-have dish year-round. Completely Gluten-free. Vegan Option.

Overhead shot of a plate of Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash

Maple Herb Roasted Butternut Squash

This recipe is a definite holiday feast crowd-pleaser! All Vegan + Gluten-free.

Shepherd's pie scooped out of skillet with two gold forks, side of drink + bread.

Vegan Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie

Truly a masterpiece for any occasion. All dairy-free + vegan. Gluten-free option.

Whole roasted cauliflower in a white serving platter with garnish of herbs + cranberries.

Sticky BBQ Teriyaki Whole Roasted Cauliflower

A healthy and easy way to indulge in a flavorful dish without missing the feeling of traditional meat/main dishes during the holidays. A crowd-pleaser indeed!

The Best Christmas Desserts To Feed A Crowd

Sweeten the season with festive, crowd-pleasing desserts that are perfect for any holiday gathering!

Muffins on a white platter.

Jamaican-inspired Holiday Gingerbread Muffins

Perfect for breakfast or a snack, they’re the kind of treat that makes your kitchen smell amazing and your day feel a little extra special. Completely Dairy-free + Gluten-free Option.

Layered cake with holiday wreath and ornaments.

It’s perfect the holidays, and any day you need a little cookie treat! Plus, it's soft, thick, and irresistibly moist—a true indulgence for your taste buds! Vegan, Dairy-free + Cupcake option.

Overhead shot of Christmas Monster Cookies

Christmas Monster Cookies

Made with rich chocolate flavor, festive M&M's, and great texture from the oats. Super easy to make. No chill option. Gluten-free option.

Slice of Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake topped with an Oreo

Holiday Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake

It's the ultimate holiday treat that turns any gathering into a joyous celebration!

Eggnog Cheesecake with Snickerdoodle Crust missing some slices

Real snickerdoodle cookies are blended with butter to make a decadent crust, while the cheesecake filling is full of eggnog and spices.

Closeup of a plate of Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies

Soft + Chewy Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies

Super soft and chewy, these cookies are easy, bigger than your average cookie, and bursting with delicious ginger + eggnog flavors.

Overhead shot of a slice of Dutch Apple Pie topped with ice cream

Dutch Apple Pie

A flaky buttery crust, sliced crisp apples, and buttery cinnamon crumble topping. Make ahead, Vegan + Gluten-free options.

Baked cookies on a baking sheet with parchment paper with candy canes and rosemary.

Bakery-Style Peppermint Oreo Cookies

The perfect festive cookie for the holidays! Gluten-free option.

Caramel Eggnog Cupcakes on two stacked plates

Decadent Caramel Eggnog Cupcakes

These moist little cakes taste like a warm glass of nog, spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Gingerbread Cupcakes with Eggnog Frosting on a table with Christmas decorations

Gingerbread Cupcakes

These adorable Gingerbread Cupcakes are topped with fluffy Eggnog Frosting and beautiful sprinkles perfect for a Christmas recipe.

Vegan Gingerbread Cake with Chai Buttercream missing a piece

Vegan Gingerbread Cake + Chai Buttercream

Super easy to make in a few steps and comes completely dairy-free + vegan. Gluten-free option.

Delicious Christmas Drinks

Festive drinks are by far one of the recipes that you can make 1-2 days in advance for greater ease! Plus, I always give the option of adding alcohol to mocktails in the event that you want to spruce things up and kick it up a notch!

Two long-stemmed, gold-rimmed glasses of Creamy Homemade Vegan Eggnog.

Creamy Homemade Vegan Eggnog

 ‘Tis the season to be jolly and there's no better way to indulge in great joy + lights than with this . All vegan + Gluten-free. Nut-free option.

Gingerbread Eggnog Mocktail in a gold-stemmed glass surrounded by small Christmas lights

Decadent Gingerbread Eggnog Mocktail

I make a delicious homemade Kahlua substitute to keep this drink alcohol-free, but feel free to add some hard stuff for those who drink!

Vegan Gingerbread Latte in a large glass mug and topped with coconut whipped cream

Vegan Gingerbread Latte

The spicy flavors of gingerbread and a hot latte are some of my favorite combinations of the holiday season.

Long-stemmed glass of Cranberry Apple Cider Orange Sangria topped with fruit and a sprig of rosemary

Cranberry Apple Cider Orange Sangria

Packed with delicious apple cider flavor married together with oranges, cranberries, + lemon.

Sugar Cookie Mocktail topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, and a sugar cookie

This sugar cookie drink only takes 5 minutes and is perfect for non-drinkers, kids, or anyone else attending your holiday festivities! Dairy-free + Vegan option.

Vegan Caramel Eggnog Mocktail in a gold-rimmed glass

Vegan Caramel Eggnog

A sweet and creamy holiday mocktail spiced with cinnamon and swirled with homemade dairy-free caramel sauce.

Holiday Pomegranate Ginger Mocktail

Holiday Pomegranate Ginger Mocktail

This Holiday Pomegranate Ginger Mocktail is a simple delicious mocktail that comes rich in bold pomegranate + ginger flavors and entirely jam-packed with hints of warm, cozy spices. Made with an easy homemade ginger syrup, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and topped with your favorite bubbly. Vegan option.

Mug that reads "Oh Christmas Tree" overflowing with Creamy Caramel Hot Chocolate

Caramel Hot Chocolate

Three kinds of chocolate, sweet caramel, and a hint of vanilla come together in this perfect Christmas recipe!

Christmas Punch in a bowl with decor.

The Best Christmas Citrus Punch

This homemade mocktail will leave you feeling joyous on any given day, especially during the Holiday season. So easy to make and shake together in just a few short minutes. Easy, Vegan & Dairy-free!

Up close shot of espresso martinis in a glass.

Chocolate Espresso Martini

Perfect for any chocolate lover with its rich + creamy texture. Ready in just 10 minutes. Caffeine-free + Non-alcoholic Option.

Homemade Peppermint Mocha Latte in a lopsided glass topped with whipped cream and marshmallows near a pile of candy canes

Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail

The chocolatey delight that's perfect for everyone, sans the alcohol. It's like sipping on a sweet and spicy chocolate treat in a glass, with a generous dollop of fluffy whipped cream on top for that extra indulgence. Alcohol+ Dairy-free option.

That's A Wrap!

And there you have it! If you're craving more Christmas recipe inspiration, feel free to explore my Christmas category. I hope you enjoyed this list and have a beautiful Christmas! I'm truly grateful for you!

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR COOKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THE RECIPES ON THIS LIST!

Here, I’ve curated a list of cooking + baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite baked goods or cooked meals, especially with many of the recipes on this list of 70 Best Christmas Family Recipes. Everything from my fave glassware, baking sheet, skillet, mixing bowls, cooking thongs, cooking utensils, skillets, dutch ovens, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

More Holiday Recipes + Guides!

It's that time of year, y'all, and I'm prepped and ready to make Christmas smooth and enjoyable! Check out my other guides for all the tips + tricks you need!

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried any recipes from the 70 Best Christmas Family Recipes or any other Thanksgiving recipes on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!

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