Ah, it’s December and OFFICIALLY holiday season. But let’s be honest, I think we all got into the holiday spirit a little early this year – we needed some extra sparkle in our lives and something to celebrate!
I am totally that person that reaches for the box of Christmas decor the day after Thanksgiving and is itching to head out to the tree farm, so, needless to say I am always a ‘gamer’ for early festivities and decorating. Aside from cheerful decor, bright lights, the smell of pine in the house and apple-spiced scented candles permeating through the home – my favorite thing about the season is all the yummy eats and drinks. The holiday season is my personal excuse to indulge a bit – reach for that slice of spiced apple cake, or sip on a soothing cocktail – and this year, more than ever, I’d say we all deserve it!
That said, below are my favorite recipes for ‘treating myself’ this holiday season. Trust me when I say they’re nothing short of sweet.
These are my FAVORITE. I love a good holiday cookie recipe, especially one that is easy. These are basically mini apple pies, with the most scrumptious soft texture and ooey gooey apple filling. Not to mention, they’re also gluten free!
2. Maple Poached Pear Balsamic Salad with Gorgonzola Crumbles
Who said salads couldn’t be indulgent? Seriously.. this salad is so good, it’s more like a savory dessert! Feel free to get creative with toppings, and add your favorite nuts, goat or blue cheese and top it off with a drizzle of honey.
3. Jalapeño Cheddar Apple Bacon Biscuits with Apple Butter
Ok – we’re just going to leave this one here. There’s almost no caption necessary. Bacon, apples, cheese, jalapeños..this combo is giving us all the holiday feels – need we say more? Just spread with apple butter and a sprinkle of sea salt and you’ll be in heaven!
4. Spiced JUICI Apple Mulled White Wine
Ah, the best part. Wash it all down with Spiced JUICI Apple Mulled Wine, a sprig of fresh rosemary and a cinnamon stick. Aromatic, sweet, spiced and full of classic holiday flavors.
There you have it, four of my top holiday recipe favorites that I hope you introduce to your family this season! Which one do you plan to try out first? Be sure to let us know what you think in the comments below. AND, make sure to head to our Instagram @starr_ranch_growers to enter our Eat, Bake, Love contest this week for another chance to win a special edition JUICI Caramel Apple Cheesecake, a cake decorating kit, and an Amazon Fire Stick so your favorite holiday movie can be playing in the background while you bundle up and bake! A winner will be selected this Sunday, 12/13.
Good luck, and happy baking!