When it comes to holiday hosting, I like to keep a few go-to holiday recipes and tricks in my back pocket so that I’m ready to entertain within a moment’s notice. I’ve shared a few of my favorite hacks and a tasty holiday dessert recipe in the most recent issue of Family Circle Magazine, and wanted to add a few more here to help you prep for the busy hosting season ahead!
Do a pre-season pantry refresh. Before the kick off the holiday season, take stock of your pantry and kitchen and make note of what you need to stock up on. I always make sure that I have baking staples, like flour, sugar, and Eggland’s Best eggs on hand. I also make a note to stock up on some additional pantry items that I use often for last-minute hosting when I need to throw together a cheeseboard. I keep things like jars of fruit spreads, mixed nuts and Ritz Crackers on hand so I’m prepared for drop-in guests!
Prep some freezer treats and snacks. I like to make a few batches of sweet and savory treats that can be easily pulled from the freezer and baked off for various occasions. Try making a batch of cookie dough, and some pastry-dough pinwheels stuffed with spinach artichoke filling for your freezer so you’re always prepared!
Find your go-to holiday recipes. I have a small arsenal of recipes that I have perfected, that I always keep on hand for holiday hosting. I can make my famous homemade mac and cheese with my eyes closed, and know that my Grandma Ida’s chicken pepperoncini recipe will always be a crowd pleaser. I pull those tried and true recipes out when I’m called on to bring to a dish to holiday potlucks!
Check out the holiday issue of Family Circle for more of my tips and recipes (including one for delicious and easy to make Cinnamon Sugar Cream Puffs!).
Please Note: This post was created in partnership with Family Circle Magazine. All opinions, images, and content are my own. Thank you for supporting brands that support this site!
