This Christmas, trade kitchen stress for festive cheer with unbelievably easy recipes that still deliver maximum flavor.
Imagine serving a show-stopping Brie in minutes, a succulent slow-cooker turkey (practically hands-free!), and the most effortless chocolate fudge cake imaginable – all while actually enjoying the holiday season.
Starters
Okay, let's get this festive feast rolling with some super-easy starters! We're talkin' a 3 Minute Festive Brie – yes, you read that right – three minutes! Grab some brie and your fave crackers for dipping.
Seriously, this is so simple, it's almost embarrassing. But hey, nobody's gonna complain! You can prep everything beforehand, then just assemble it when your guests arrive.
Now, the magic's in the assembly. Imagine that baked brie but without the baking. As the brie softens, its rich flavor profile blossoms. It tastes too good for how little effort I expend. Place it down as the centerpiece! Then you can stand around and chit-chat while everyone dives in!
It's the perfect starter – quick, easy, and festive. You can't go wrong!
Mains & Sides
Moving right along, let's explore into the stars of our Christmas show – the mains and sides! I've got some winners for you.
First up, imagine: Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Gravy! It's super simple; prepare the rub the night before, and then just let it slow cook all morning while you open presents. Choose between Brown Sugar or Maple Glazed Ham, both preppable in advance. Salmon fan? My Christmas Baked Salmon is a game-changer – assemble ahead, bake in foil, and boom – easy cleanup! For a sweeter addition to the breakfast or brunch table, you could also consider Cinnamon French Toast Bites, which are perfect for sharing and easy to prepare.
For sides, I suggest my Easy Cheesy Potato Bake. It's a simpler, less fancy version of Potatoes au Gratin. I think you'll agree they rival each other, with the Cheesy Potato Bake being a bit easier. You could also make my Lemon Potato Salad a day before. Also, my Wild Rice Salad requires that you prep all ingredients ahead, then toss to serve on the day.
Dessert
For dessert, I have the perfect recipe—Easy Chocolate Fudge Cake! You can even make this days in advance!
It's super simple, I promise! Prep it in just 3 hours and cook for 12 — then it's ready to be enjoyed. This cake, trust me, it's a low effort, forgiving recipe — and still looks so impressive! Plus, it's perfect if you're running behind schedule (aren't we all this time of year?)
I'm not kidding about how easy it is–it's practically foolproof! And honestly, who doesn't love a fudgy, chocolatey dessert – yum! It's a surefire way to end your festive meal on a high note, and it is decadent treat that everyone will enjoy!
Short Recipe Version
Fudge Cake (Simplified)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Serving size: 12
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Add buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Gradually add boiling water, mixing until batter is smooth.
- Pour batter into prepared pan.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake before serving.
Nutrition Information (per serving): (Estimate based on the provided ingredients)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 3g