Prosciutto Melon Bites on white platter.

An Italian favorite, these Prosciutto and Melon Bites are an easy and delicious appetizer recipe perfect for summer entertaining or afternoon snack. This is a classic combination of salty and sweet that will never go out of style. In addition, a drizzle of balsamic glaze takes this prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe to whole new level. 

Prosciutto Melon Bites on white platter.

I don’t know about you, but I’m always looking for easy summer appetizers and snacks. Not only are these types of recipes great for entertaining during this time of year, but I find they can also make a really light, delicious dinner. In this post, I want to show you how to make these Prosciutto and Melon Bites.

Prosciutto Melon Bites on white platter.

What makes this such a great appetizer recipe?

  • It has that salty meets sweet combination. Salty prosciutto wrapped around sweet and juicy cantaloupe is a flavor pairing that so many love.
  • It is easy to make. In just a matter of minutes you can whip up a big platter of these and they’ll be perfect for snacking or taking to a picnic.
  • It’s presentation is gourmet. For something so simple, they look pretty fancy. The balsamic drizzle and fresh basil finish off the look.

Now, this could be one of those no-recipe recipes as the assembly process is pretty simple and straightforward. However, I’m going to walk you through it anyway. 

Want more easy appetizer recipes? Try these:

Prosciutto Melon Bites on white plate.

How to Assemble:

For your convenience, I’ve provided a detailed ingredients list and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

  1. Begin by cutting the cantaloupe. Cut in half, remove the seeds with a spoon, slice it into wedges, then remove the outer peel. 
cantaloupe basil and package of prosciutto.
  1. Cut each piece of cantaloupe in half, then wrap each half with a piece of prosciutto. Place on a serving platter. 
  2. Serve immediately or wrap with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator until ready to serve. 
  3. Optional: Just before serving, drizzle with a balsamic glaze or honey.

It’s that simple! Now, for a few questions that you may have about these prosciutto and melon bites.

Prosciutto Melon Bites on white platter.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What type of cheese goes best with prosciutto and melon bites?

If you’re looking to serve cheese with your prosciutto and melon bites, I would recommend mozzarella or parmesan.

What can I use in place of prosciutto?

Capicola would be a great option if you can’t find (or prefer not to use) prosciutto.

Prosciutto Melon Bites on white platter.

Can I use other types of melon?

Of course. Try honeydew or even watermelon.

How do I store the prosciutto and melon bites in the fridge?

Once made, wrap them in plastic wrap. If you’re using the balsamic/honey drizzle, add it just before serving.

Prosciutto Melon Bites on white platter.

And that’s a WRAP (pun intended) on these Prosciutto and Melon Bites. If you haven’t tasted these before, I encourage you to give them a try. The combination of flavors is delicious, so this appetizer may quickly become a new summer favorite.

Prosciutto Melon Bites on white plate.

LOVE THIS RECIPE AND WANT MORE?

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Prosciutto and Melon Bites

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: cantaloupe, melon, prosciutto, snack
Servings: 12
Prep Time 15 mins
Total Time 15 mins
An Italian favorite, these Prosciutto and Melon Bites are an easy and delicious appetizer recipe perfect for summer entertaining or afternoon snack. This is a classic combination of salty and sweet that will never go out of style. In addition, a drizzle of balsamic glaze takes this prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe to whole new level.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole cantaloupe
  • 4-5 ounces prosciutto
  • balsamic glaze or honey
  • basil to garnish

Instructions

  • Begin by cutting the cantaloupe. Cut in half, remove the seeds with a spoon, slice it into wedges, then remove the outer peel.
  • Cut each piece of cantaloupe in half, then wrap each half with a piece of prosciutto*. Place on a serving platter.
  • Serve immediately or wrap with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
  • Optional: Just before serving, drizzle with a balsamic glaze or honey.

Notes

Depending on the size of your melon and prosciutto, you may want to cut the prosciutto in half to get a nicer fit around your melon piece.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 42kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 1gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 6mgSodium: 63mgPotassium: 21mgFiber: 0.01gSugar: 0.3gVitamin A: 43IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 0.04mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

An Italian favorite, these Prosciutto and Melon Bites are an easy and delicious appetizer recipe perfect for summer entertaining or afternoon snack. This is a classic combination of salty and sweet that will never go out of style. In addition, a drizzle of balsamic glaze takes this prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe to whole new level.  I don’t know about you, but […]




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Delicious and Easy Lemon and Blueberry Bread #quickbread #lemon #blueberry #bread #dessert #recipe

This lemon and blueberry bread bursting with bright and fresh flavors. It’s easy to make too! This is a quick bread recipe, which allows you to whip it up in no time for a wonderful breakfast treat or afternoon snack.

lemon + blueberry bread pinterest image

Lemon and Blueberry Bread

Quick breads are among my favorite things to bake because they are simple, delicious, and as the name indicates…quick to put together. And this lemon and blueberry bread is no exception.

After I made an amazing cinnamon nut quick bread, I knew I wanted to make a bread with the classic combination of lemon and blueberries! The best thing about sweet bread is that anyone can make it. They are the perfect recipe for beginning bakers to practice their skills on.

berry and citrus quickbread

I don’t know about you, but I enjoy the combination of lemon and blueberry in this recipe. The flavor is refreshing and light, plus it pairs beautifully with a cup of tea.

I also love that this bread is loaded with blueberries. It contains one and a half cups, so you’re certain to get a burst of blueberry goodness in every bite.

Also, I should mention that while this is technically called a bread, it’s really more of a dessert or snack. Think of it as more similar to a pound cake than what you’d slather peanut butter and jelly on.

Here are the deets on how to make this lemon and blueberry quick bread.

a piece of lemon blueberry quick bread on a plate

Ingredients

This bread only uses fresh ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s more information about what you’ll need before you begin:

  • All-Purpose Flour: I used all-purpose white flour, but if you don’t mind the color change, you can also use wheat. If you cannot have gluten, then use your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
  • Sugar: Sweeten the batter with some granulated sugar.
  • Baking Powder: This is what gives the bread its airy consistency.
  • Salt: This enhances all the other flavors – even the sweet blueberries.
  • Eggs: These are very important emulsifiers, mixing and gluing all the ingredients together.
  • Milk: Full-fat milk is best, but you can also substitute it with oat or unsweetened plain almond milk.
  • Butter: It’s best to melt the butter before you use it. If you need a dairy-free recipe, you can use ghee.
  • Sour Cream: Full-fat sour cream will give the richest and best flavor.
  • Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest adds an irresistible tanginess to the bread.
  • Vanilla Extract: Use real vanilla extract for some rich notes.
  • Fresh Blueberries: Use fresh blueberries, not frozen ones. If you only have frozen blueberries, that can work too, you’ll just need to let them thaw first. Once they do, dry them with a paper towel to remove the excess moisture.
sliced lemon blueberry bread

How to Make Lemon and Blueberry Bread:

As with most quick breads, the preparation time for this recipe is only about 10 minutes. You’ve got to love that!

  • Start by combining the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another.
  • You might notice that I used sour cream in this quickbread recipe. It might sound odd, but please trust me on this one – it’s my secret for a super moist and dense loaf.
  • Once the wet and dry ingredients are ready, it’s time to combine them. When they are well incorporated, gently stir in the blueberries.
  • The last step is to pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and pop that into a preheated oven for a little over an hour. I told you a quick bread is simple to make!
batter with blueberries sprinkled in

Finito!

Doesn’t this lemon and blueberry bread look divine? If you can resist, give the bread time to cool before slicing it. The texture will be better, and you won’t risk burning your mouth!

golden brown loaf of quickbread

Frequently Asked Questions about Lemon Blueberry Bread

Now that you know how to make lemon blueberry bread recipe, here are some questions people often ask about it. If you don’t see your question in this list, please leave it in the comments. I’ll do my best to get back to you ASAP.

Want more quick bread recipes? You’ve got it! Check out this post HERE for 8 more delicious recipes!

sliced lemon blueberry bread next to a cup of tea

How do you store leftover homemade sweet bread?

The best way to store homemade sweet bread is to keep the air off of it. Store it at room temperature in an airtight container for about three days.

If you want it to last even longer, keep it refrigerated.

Can you freeze lemon blueberry bread?

Yes, this is the perfect bread to freeze. Just bake it like normal, then let it cool completely. Once it is completely cooled down, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place it in a resealable freezer-safe food storage bag.

The bread will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 6 months.

How do you serve lemon blueberry bread?

I like to serve this lemon and blueberry bread with a little salted butter. However, if I’m feeling extra decadent I’ll change it up a bit and whip up a simple glaze to drizzle on.

All you need to do is add fresh lemon juice (you don’t need much) to a cup of confectioners’ sugar until you achieve the desired drizzling consistency. Then grab a fork and drizzle it on to your bread like a pro!

slide of blueberry lemon bread with a whole loaf in the background

That’s a Wrap on Lemon Blueberry Bread!

Once you discover how easy it is to make lemon blueberry bread, you will be baking it up a lot more often. This is a fun bread to share at brunch, eat for breakfast, or take to a bake sale. It is showy and tastes as good as it looks.

No matter how you serve this lemon and blueberry bread, I have a feeling you’re going to enjoy it as much as I do.

lemon and blueberry quick bread recipe

If you’re looking for more quick bread recipes, try these:

butter spread on a slide of sweet bread

Love this Recipe and Want More?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

bursting berries inside a lemony loaf

Lemon and Blueberry Bread

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: blueberry, bread, lemon, quick bread
Servings: 10 slices
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 1 hr 10 mins
Total Time 1 hr 20 mins
Quick breads are among my favorite things to bake because they are simple and delicious. And this Lemon and Blueberry Bread is no exception. It’s bursting with bright and fresh flavor, and you can whip it up in no time for a wonderful breakfast treat or afternoon snack.

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Begin by preheating the oven to 350 degrees F. Then spray the inside of a 9×5-inch loaf pan with baking spray. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, sour cream, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
  • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. The batter may be slightly lumpy. Gently fold in the blueberries.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it in an even layer.
  • Bake for 65-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. (If needed, cover the bread with foil to prevent overbrowning.) Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing.

Video

Notes

I like to serve this Lemon and Blueberry Bread with a little salted butter. However, if you want to highlight the lemon flavor and make the bread even more decadent, you can whip up a glaze of confectioners’ sugar and lemon juice to drizzle on the top. Simply add fresh lemon juice (You don’t need much.) to a cup of confectioners’ sugar until you achieve the desired drizzling consistency. 

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 306kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 5gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 64mgSodium: 310mgPotassium: 88mgFiber: 1gSugar: 23gVitamin A: 435IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 86mgIron: 1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

This lemon and blueberry bread bursting with bright and fresh flavors. It’s easy to make too! This is a quick bread recipe, which allows you to whip it up in no time for a wonderful breakfast treat or afternoon snack. Lemon and Blueberry Bread Quick breads are among my favorite things to bake because they […]




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Limoncello Martini Recipe

This Limoncello Martini is a step up from the classic lemon drop martini. Made with vodka, limoncello, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and garnished with a snapdragon flower, this is a sweet, tangy, and bright cocktail perfect for any occasion.

Limoncello Martinis in glasses with flower garnish.

A Tasty Lemon Libation

One of my favorite restaurants just down the road from where I live recently added a limoncello martini to their menu. I ordered it on a recent visit and knew after one sip that I needed to recreate this martini at home. 

As you can see, I did just that and now I want to share it with you. 

Limoncello Martinis in glasses with flower garnish.

The other thing that I was surprised to learn when I ordered this cocktail is that snapdragon flowers are edible. I had to google it right away to confirm and sure enough, they are! It felt a bit serendipitous as I just happen to have a few growing in my backyard.

Since I didn’t have the exact recipe that the restaurant used, I had to do some testing. (Which between you and me, I didn’t mind at all.) The resulting martini is refreshing and bright with the perfect blend of sweet and tangy.

Want to give it a try? Let’s gather the ingredients and I’ll walk you through the recipe. 

Want more refreshing martini recipes? Try these:

Limoncello Martinis in a glasse with flower garnish.
Limoncello Martinis in glasses with flower garnish.

Ingredients:

You’ll need just a few really good ingredients for this limoncello martini. I always recommend that when you’re making a recipe with only a few ingredients, you should use the highest quality you can find for optimum results. 

  • Vodka: Grey Goose or Tito’s is my go-to, but use what you love. 
  • Fresh Lemon Juice: Please skip the little bottle of store-bought lemon juice. (You’ll thank me.) Fresh makes all the difference. 
  • Limoncello: Limoncello is so delicious and makes a wonderful after-dinner drink. It adds a refreshing lemon flavor to this recipe. 
  • Elderflower Liqueur: This is one of my favorite liqueurs, so I was really happy to use it here. It’s sweet, floral, and oh so delicious. (I prefer THIS brand.)
  • Simple Syrup: As I mention in the recipe, this is optional. If you like your cocktails sweet, add in a splash. You can get my recipe HERE.
  • Edible Flower: I’m using a snapdragon because they are growing in my backyard, but any edible flower will do. You can also use a lemon twist. 
Limoncello Martinis in glasses with flower garnish.

How to Make a Lemon Drop Martini:

I’ll walk you through the steps here. It’s simple as can be! I’ve also provided a detailed ingredient list and instructions in the printable recipe card below. 

  • Add the vodka, limoncello, elderflower liqueur, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. 
  • Shake vigorously. 
  • Strain into a martini glass. Garnish with an edible flower.
Limoncello Martinis in glasses with flower garnish.

That’s it! Now it’s time to sit and savor. 

Cheers!

And that’s another delicious and refreshing cocktail to add to your entertaining repertoire. I know you’re going to love this limoncello martini recipe. It makes a brilliant signature martini you can serve any time of the year. Make it your own with a different garnish, unique martini glasses, and/or some other fun element. 

Enjoy!  

Limoncello Martinis in glasses with flower garnish.

LOVE THIS RECIPE AND WANT MORE?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also join me on social media (InstagramFacebookPinterest, and Twitter) for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my work and adventures.

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Limoncello Martinis in glasses with flower garnish.

Limoncello Martini

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: cocktail, lemon, limoncello, martini
Servings: 1
Prep Time 5 mins
Total Time 5 mins
This Limoncello Martini is a step up from the classic lemon drop martini. Made with vodka, limoncello, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and garnished with a snapdragon flower, this is a sweet, tangy, and bright cocktail perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces vodka
  • 1 ounce limoncello
  • 1 ounce elderflower liqueur - Fiorente
  • 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
  • Optional: simple syrup

Instructions

  • Add the vodka, limoncello, elderflower liqueur, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously.
  • Strain into a martini glass. Garnish with an edible flower.

Notes

I went back and forth about whether or not to include simple syrup in this recipe. I found that the elderflower liqueur and limoncello add just enough sweetness. However, if you like your martinis sweeter, you’ll want to add a splash of simple syrup.
You can get my homemade simple syrup recipe HERE

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 343kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 0.1gFat: 0.1gSaturated Fat: 0.01gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.01gSodium: 1mgPotassium: 30mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 23gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 11mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 0.03mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

This Limoncello Martini is a step up from the classic lemon drop martini. Made with vodka, limoncello, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and garnished with a snapdragon flower, this is a sweet, tangy, and bright cocktail perfect for any occasion. A Tasty Lemon Libation One of my favorite restaurants just down the road from where […]




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Spicy Peach Salsa in a bowl with tortilla chips.

If you like peaches and enjoy salsa, then you’re going to love this spicy peach salsa. Being fresh, sweet, and spicy, it’s delicious served with tortilla chips, on your favorite tacos, or on top of your favorite meat or fish. No matter how you enjoy it, you’ll be making this unique salsa again and again. 

Spicy Peach Salsa in a bowl with tortilla chips.

Let’s make spicy peach salsa!

If you’ve never had peach salsa before, you are in for a treat. Chips with salsa is one of my favorite snacks, so I’m always looking for ways to shake it up. This spicy peach salsa is one delicious way to do just that. Not only does it go well with tortilla chips, but it’s also scrumptious on tacos or piled high on your favorite meat or fish. 

Spicy Peach Salsa in a bowl with tortilla chips.

My mom and I made this recipe when she was visiting.  Instantly, she was a big fan with the proof being we had it for lunch, dinner, and lunch again!!! It really is that good. And even though it involves a lot of chopping, it’s very easy to put together. 

If you like this spicy peach salsa, then you’ll love these:

Spicy Peach Salsa in a bowl with tortilla chips.

Before we get into the recipe instructions, we’ll gather up the ingredients. 

Spicy Peach Salsa Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe the way I did, but feel free to mix it up and make it your own. 

  • fresh peaches – Fresh ripe peaches are best in this recipe.
  • jalapeño – Jalapeño makes the salsa spicy. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less.
  • green bell pepper – Green pepper adds crunch and flavor.
  • red onion – Onion gives a sharp bite of flavor.
  • limes – Lime adds a bright freshness.
  • tomatoes – It might seem weird to mix peaches and tomatoes, but they work well together. (Tomatoes are technically fruits after all.)
  • cilantro – Cilantro is recommended here, but if you’re not a fan, you can use parsley or coriander… or just omit the cilantro.
  • kosher salt – Salt brings everything together.
Spicy Peach Salsa in a bowl with tortilla chips.

How to Prepare:

This is one of those recipes where you don’t need many instructions, but I’m going to share them regardless. I’ve also

 provided a detailed ingredients list and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

  1. Add all the ingredients to a medium bowl and toss together to combine. 
  2. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper. Add sugar if needed. (I didn’t add any sugar to my recipe.) 
Spicy Peach Salsa in a bowl with tortilla chips.
  1. Serve immediately. 
  2. This salsa can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. 

And that’s it, my friend. Your spicy peach salsa is ready to be enjoyed however you’d like.

Spicy Peach Salsa in a bowl with tortilla chips.

Recipe Notes:

Here are a few other things to note when making this recipe. 

  • You may need to drain the excess liquid that occurs while the salsa rests. 
  • Not a fan of cilantro? No worries! You can use flat leaf parsley or coriander instead.
  • Serve with tortilla chips, spoon into your tacos, or pile onto your favorite protein (chicken, beef, pork, etc.) 
Spicy Peach Salsa in a bowl with tortilla chips.

Frequently Asked Questions:

I assume you might have a few questions about this recipe, so I have answered some here. If I missed anything, feel free to ask your question in the comments below. 

Do I use fresh or canned peaches?

You’ll want to stick with fresh peaches for this recipe. One of my favorite things about this salsa is how fresh and vibrant it tastes. You’ll lose that with canned peaches.

Do you peel the peaches before adding them to the salsa?

Peeling the peaches isn’t necessary for this recipe. The skins add color and texture to this dish. With that being said, if you prefer your peaches peeled, go for it.

How can I make this peach salsa spicy?

In the recipe below, I recommend removing the seeds and white pith inside of the jalapeño pepper. This is where the heat is in the jalapeño. If you want things hotter, leave some or all of the pith and seeds in the salsa. Want things even spicier, try using a habanero pepper.

How long can I store peach salsa?

I kept this in the refrigerator for about three days and it was still delicious. It does produce liquid as it sits, so depending on how you like your salsa, you may want to drain off some of that extra liquid.

Spicy Peach Salsa in a bowl with tortilla chips.

You’re Ready to Eat!

And that’s a wrap on this spicy peach salsa. It’s a fresh, bright, and yummy recipe I know you’re going to love. Give it a try and let me know what you think.

Enjoy! 

Spicy Peach Salsa in a bowl with tortilla chips.

Love this recipe and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Spicy Peach Salsa in a bowl with tortilla chips.

Spicy Peach Salsa

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Keyword: peach, salsa, spicy, tacos, tortilla chips
Servings: 8
Prep Time 20 mins
Total Time 20 mins
If you like peaches and enjoy salsa, then you’re going to love this spicy peach salsa. Being fresh, sweet, and spicy, it’s delicious served with tortilla chips, on your favorite tacos, or on top of your favorite meat or fish. No matter how you enjoy it, you’ll be making this unique salsa again and again.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium peaches - washed and diced
  • 2 jalapeños - seeds and white pith removed and finely diced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper
  • ½ cup finely diced red onion
  • 1 lime - juiced (2 tablespoons)
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons diced cilantro - options: parsley or coriander
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • lime slices to garnish

Instructions

  • Add all the ingredients to a medium bowl and toss together to combine.
  • Taste and season with additional salt and pepper. Add sugar if needed. (I didn’t add any sugar to my recipe.)
  • Serve immediately.
  • This can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Notes

You may need to drain the excess liquid that occurs while the salsa rests.
Not a fan of cilantro? No worries! You can use flat leaf parsley or coriander instead.
Serve with tortilla chips or spoon over your favorite protein (chicken, beef, pork, etc.).

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 45kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 1gFat: 0.3gSaturated Fat: 0.03gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gSodium: 85mgPotassium: 178mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 366IUVitamin C: 24mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

If you like peaches and enjoy salsa, then you’re going to love this spicy peach salsa. Being fresh, sweet, and spicy, it’s delicious served with tortilla chips, on your favorite tacos, or on top of your favorite meat or fish. No matter how you enjoy it, you’ll be making this unique salsa again and again.  […]




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Looking for a fun and festive way to decorate your holiday treats? Try making some sugared cranberries! These little berries are easy to make and add a pop of color and sweetness. They can be used in various recipes, from appetizers to desserts! These sugary cranberries are not only a delicious seasonal treat but also a beautiful garnish to all your holiday dishes and festive cocktails.

how to make sugared cranberries

Easy-to-make sugared cranberries

Cranberries are super popular during the holiday season and with reason. They are absolutely delicious! You’ve got:

And that’s just to name a few popular recipes. Cranberries are very versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. What better way to enjoy them than with a little bit of sweetness? These sugared cranberries hit the spot.

Besides eating them as a snack, use these sugary cranberries to add to a holiday look to a cookie tray, cheeseboard, and holiday desserts. You can even use them as a cocktail garnish. This year, I used them to decorate my gingerbread house cake.

All you need to make candied cranberries are three ingredients: white sugar, water, and fresh cranberries! It’s really that simple.

fresh cranberries rolled in white sugar

Want more cranberry recipes? Try these:

sugary cranberries
Gingerbread House Cake

Ingredients for candied cranberries

Here’s what you need to make this recipe:

  • Cranberries: The main ingredient! You will need 1 bag of fresh cranberries for this recipe.
  • Sugar: To make sure the cranberries are perfectly coated, you will need 2 cups of white sugar. Although, using another type of sugar might not be able to dissolve and coat the cranberries as effectively.
  • Water: To help the sugar dissolve and coat the cranberries, you will need about 1/2 cup of cold water. It makes this delicious sugary syrup that pairs nicely with the tart cranberries!
easy candied cranberries

How to make sugared cranberries for the holidays:

This recipe can’t get any easier. All you need to do is…

  • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup of sugar with 1/2 cup of water.
  • Then, stir until the sugar is dissolved (2-3 minutes) and then remove from the heat.
  • After, gently fold in the cranberries until they are well coated.
coating fresh cranberries in simple sugar syrup
  • Using a colander, drain the liquid from the cranberries.
  • Transfer the cranberries to a wire rack and let dry for at least an hour.
candied cranberries in a saucepan
  • Working in small batches, roll the cranberries in the remaining sugar until they are well coated.
  • Let them dry for at least one hour on a wire rack.
  • Serve and enjoy!

Note: I’ve provided the exact ingredients and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

sugared cranberries in a bowl
sugar coated cranberries

How to serve sugared cranberries

First and foremost, they taste great by themselves or as part of a cheese board appetizer. The sugar shell offsets the tart cranberries perfectly for a juicy snack that everyone will love. Serve them with some pepperoni and you’re good to go!

My all-time favorite way to serve them? Holiday cocktails! Not only do they add a bit of pizzazz to your drink, but they also look fabulous on a wood skewer placed atop the glass. When sugar comes in contact with a cocktail, it will dissolve and adds this sweet/tart flavor to the drink.

I think they would look especially wonderful with my Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail or Jingle Juice Holiday Punch. I most recently used them when I made my Very Merry Ornamentini!

Beyond those ideas, you can use them to garnish your cookie tray or any seasonal appetizer. Let me show you how easy they are to make!

Very Merry Ornamentini

Frequently asked questions about homemade sugary cranberries

Here are a few questions I’ve been asked when I have shared this easy cranberry recipe.

How long do sugared cranberries take to make?

The entire process takes about 2 hours, but most of that time is inactive! All you need to do is mix the ingredients together and wait for the cranberries to cool.

How long do sugared cranberries last?

If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, sugared cranberries will last up to two weeks!

Do sugared cranberries need to be refrigerated?

Yes, sugared cranberries should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 5-7 days, but they are best enjoyed within a few days of making them.

Can sugared cranberries be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let the cranberries thaw overnight in the refrigerator before eating.

Sugared Cranberries drying on a wire rack

That’s a wrap on easy sugared cranberries!

Pretty simple, right? It’s easy to see why these little guys make the perfect holiday garnish. Now you’re ready to tackle the holidays with a delicious dessert recipe (that doubles as an adorable and festive village), plus some sparkly cranberries you can use in a variety of ways.

Enjoy and happy holidays!

a bowl of sugary cranberries

Enjoy this recipe and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Sugared Cranberries

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Appetizer, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: christmas, cranberries, dessert, holiday, sugared cranberries
Servings: 12
Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 0 mins
Total Time 25 mins
These sugared cranberries are not only a delicious seasonal treat, but they make a beautiful garnish to all of your holiday dishes and festive cocktail recipes.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups sugar - divided
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 bag (12-ounces) fresh cranberries

Instructions

  • In a medium sauce pan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup of sugar with 1/2 cup water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved (2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the cranberries until they are well coated. Using a colander, drain the liquid from the cranberries. Transfer the cranberries to a wire rack and let dry for at least an hour.
  • Working in small batches, roll the cranberries in the remaining sugar until they are well coated. Let them dry for at least one hour on a wire rack.
  • Store the cranberries in a bowl without a lid. Enjoy as a snack within two days or use as decor for up to two weeks.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 142kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 1mgPotassium: 24mgFiber: 1gSugar: 34gVitamin A: 17IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!
Sugared Cranberries and Gingerbread House Cake | inspiredbycharm.com #IBCholiday
Sugared Cranberries and Gingerbread House Cake | inspiredbycharm.com #IBCholiday

Looking for a fun and festive way to decorate your holiday treats? Try making some sugared cranberries! These little berries are easy to make and add a pop of color and sweetness. They can be used in various recipes, from appetizers to desserts! These sugary cranberries are not only a delicious seasonal treat but also […]




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115+ Creative Christmas Ideas to celebrate the holiday season! #christmas #decor #recipes #crafts #ideas #holiday #inspiration

Welcome to the Ultimate list of 175+ creative Christmas ideas, recipes, crafts, DIY projects, entertaining inspiration, and so much more! This list of Christmas and holiday inspiration will become your new go-to for festive ideas and loads of Christmas cheer!

135+ Creative Christmas Ideas to celebrate the holiday season! #christmas #decor #recipes #crafts #ideas #holiday #inspiration #decorating #christmastree #christmascrafts #christmasdecor #recipes #holdaybaking

175+ Creative Christmas Ideas:

If you can believe it, this January will mark 12 years of blogging for me! I recently got a magazine in the mail, and a headline on it was “100+ ways to Holiday.” That made me think: With 12 years of blogging under my belt, I wonder if I could create a post of 100 Christmas Ideas based on things I’ve created and shared here on Inspired by Charm. So I sat down and started brainstorming and typing . . . and I came pretty close.

Below I’m sharing 175+ Christmas Ideas. For the most part, all of these ideas are inspired by things I’ve created here on IBC. My goal with this post is to update it year after year so that it becomes one epic list of creative Christmas ideas you can use to help celebrate the holidays.

I hope you enjoy this list not only as a collection of Inspired by Charm’s content but more importantly as an inspiring source of ideas for a magical, memorable, and joy-filled Christmas!

My Favorite Creative Christmas Ideas:

  1. Serve up a cocktail in a Christmas ornament.
  2. Get organized and plan ahead. Learn my tips for how I plan my Christmas Home Decor.
  3. Make homemade hot cocoa mix to have and share.
The BEST recipe for delicious Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix #hotcocoa #hotchocolate #cocoa #recipe #holiday #christmas
  1. Bake the best Christmas cookies.
  2. Plant the BEST Christmas Party with these creative ideas and tips.
  3. Make a yule log for a legendary holiday dessert.
This Pink Velvet Yule Log is a unique and delicious Christmas dessert idea. #holiday #yulelog #christmas #dessert #pink #recipe
  1. Make theses frosted and soft eggnog cookies.
  2. Creatively wrap presents for friends and family.
  3. Craft Christmas ornaments out of oven bake clay.
diy clay ornament hanging on a tree.
  1. Print festive gift tags for your holiday wrapping
  2. Decorate a rainbow inspired tree.
Gradient Rainbow Christmas Tree Decorations
  1. Make homemade White Chocolate Chex Mix with red and green M&Ms to have and share.
  2. Make an epic appetizer by crafting a Christmas tree out of cheese.
  3. Set a vintage modern Christmas table for your and your friends!
Vintage Modern Christmas Table Decor ideas to dress up your home for the holidays! #diningroom #decor #tablesetting #tablescape #table #decorating #christmas #holiday #modern #vintage
  1. Print out adorable Christmas recipe cards to share with friends.
  2. Decorate a Christmas tree (or two).
  3. Make this easy and crazy delicious three-ingredient holiday punch.

Get the RECIPE HERE!

  1. Listen to a Christmas music playlist.
  2. Create lottery ticket Christmas ornaments as gifts.
  3. Build and paint colorful wood Christmas trees.
A Colorful DIY Forest for Christmas Decorating - DIY Wood Paint Christmas Trees #christmas #craft #holiday #decor
  1. DIY these wood stockings for your mantel.
  2. Add a Christmas tree to your bedroom.
  3. Make a wreath out of cookie cutters.
  1. String a wood bead garland.
  2. Make a wreath from vintage ornaments.
  3. Craft adorable and clever bags for Christmas cookies.
Learn how to make these DIY Christmas Cookies Bags! #Christmas #holiday #cookiebags #diy #craft
  1. Style a festive bar cart… or two.
  2. Put together a beautiful and creative holiday place setting.
  3. Make the creamiest fudge with only three ingredients.
  4. Learn how to add ribbon to your Christmas tree.
How to Add Ribbon to your Christmas Tree #ribbon #christmas #tree #decor #decorating #tree
  1. Make seasoned pretzels for snacking during Hallmark movies.
  2. Enjoy White Russians while watching a Christmas parade.
  3. Shake up a White Chocolate Peppermint Martini.
This White Chocolate Peppermint Martini makes delicious holiday cocktail. #christmas #cocktail #martini #recipe #peppermint #whitechocolate
  1. Bake classic cookies using clothespins.
  2. Make homemade bath bombs to give as gifts.
  3. Serve cranberry French toast for a holiday breakfast.
  4. Bake a cake that looks like a gingerbread house.
This Gingerbread House Gingerbread Cake is the perfect holiday treat! #dessert #holiday #christmas #gingerbread #recipe
  1. Make a gingerbread cake in the shape of a tree.
  2. Toss up some sugared cranberries for a festive garnish.
  3. Craft Mushroom Christmas Tree ornaments out of clay.
DIY Clay Mushroom Ornament on a Christmas tree.
  1. Turn a chocolate chip cookie into an edible shot glass.
  2. Create a beautiful holiday centerpiece for your table.
  1. Add cranberries to pecan pie for a flavor upgrade.
  2. Up your holiday entertaining with these festive touches.
  3. Warm up with a Slow Cooker Sangria.
  4. Craft festive ornaments out of concrete.
DIY Modern Concrete Christmas Tree Decorations #DIY #ornament #christmas #tree #concrete #gold
  1. Roll out cute and tasty little cheeseballs.
  2. Whip up some homemade eggnog.
  3. Assemble these festive Christmas Charcuterie cups.
eight christmas jarcuterie on a plate.
  1. Set up a Bloody Mary Bar.
  2. Make the best candy using a slow cooker.
  3.  Spike some cherries, then dip them into chocolate.
Spiked Chocolate Covered Cherries - 10 Christmas Cocktail recipes

Well my friends, we made it halfway! Are you ready for more Christmas inspiration? I hope these creative Christmas ideas are giving you a little inspiration to celebrate the holiday season.

I also want to mention that you can do one or one hundred of these ideas. This list of festive Christmas ideas is meant to inspire, not to make you feel overwhelmed. Set aside moments to celebrate and do what makes you happy this Christmas season.

Ready for more Christmas ideas? Let’s do this!!

More Festive Christmas Ideas:

  1. Jazz up plain ornaments with a paint pen.
  2. Print Christmas bottle tags to make gift wrapping fun and easy.
  3. Enjoy the twinkle of Christmas lights at night.
Evening at Bayberry House: Christmas 2018 #christmas #holiday #decor #decorations #night #evening #hometour

56. Add a creative chalkboard holiday label to your serveware.

57. Make a garland or a wreath out of marshmallows.

58. Stir up a holiday sangria mocktail.

A delicious and easy Non-Alcoholic Sangria for Christmas #christmas #holiday #sangria #mocktail #recipe #drink

59. Wow ‘em with Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake Bars.

60. Dazzle friends and family with Braided Nutella Bread.

61. Tickle taste buds with Cranberry Orange Walnut Tassies.

62. Bake these festive Christmas sprinkle cookie cups.

These colorful Christmas Sprinkle Cookie Cups are a delicious and easy to make Christmas Cookie. #christmas #cookie #recipe #dessert #holiday #sprinkles

63. Make red pepper jelly to give as a gift or serve as an appetizer.

64. Make mini cheesecakes in mason jars.

65. Build a tortilla roll-up tree as a tasty holiday appetizer.

Christmas Tortilla Roll-ups Appetizer recipe #christmas #appetizer #pinwheel #rollup #recipe

66. Decorate your mantel with rustic charm.

67. Bake mini skillet cookie cakes.

68. Make your own mulling spices.

69. Bake a gorgeous Christmas Cake to share with friends and family.

This Black Walnut Cake is a delicious Christmas Cake perfect for the holiday season! #blackwalnut #cake #recipe #christmas #christmascake #cake #dessert #recipe

70. Decorate a flocked Christmas tree.

72. Serve a classic quiche to start the day.

71. Whip up this homemade pancake mix for a delicious breakfast or tasty gift idea.

Learn how to make this easy and delicious Homemade Pancake Mix. #homemade #pancake #mix #breakfast #recipe #pancakes

73. Host a White Christmas Celebration.

74. Make Cinnamon Roll Skillet Bread.

75. Decorate a tree in green (or your favorite color).

Christmas at Bayberry House - Holiday Home Tour with color Christmas Decoration ideas. #christmas #holiday #home #decor #decorations #christmastree

76. Prepare overnight oats for guests.

77. String popcorn or cranberry garland for the tree.

78. Create a holiday dessert spread with a bar cart.

79. Create a delicious monkey bread in a slow cooker.

80. Add seasonal flavor to a classic old fashioned with cranberries.

The best Cranberry Old Fashioned recipe

81. Bake ugly sweater Christmas cookies.

82. Style a very merry entry table with chalkboard paint.

83. Create easy holiday artwork with washi tape.

84. Craft colorful coasters for a gift.

DIY Woold Felt Ball Coaster #diy #feltball #coaster

85. Decorate a tree entirely with vintage ornaments.

86. Or decorate a tree entirely inspired by memories of Christmases past.

87. Make a favorite holiday side dish: Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin.

88. Set up the ultimate holiday beverage cabinet.

Tips for Styling the Ultimate Holiday Bar Cart

89. Serve Berry Stuffed French Toast on Christmas morning.

90. Drive around the neighborhood to look at holiday lights as you enjoy hot cocoa and popcorn.

91. Heat up a batch of mulled wine to serve when company arrives.

Mulled Wine - winter holiday Christmas cocktail recipe #christmas #holiday #mulled #wine #cocktail #recipe

92. Gift homemade herb butter and gourmet bread.

93. Shop the thrift stores and antique shops for unique and vintage holiday decorations.

94. Prepare a cheeseball or two in advance for unexpected holiday visitors.

How to make a Christmas Tree Shaped Cheese Ball #christmas #appetizer #cheeseball #recipe

95. Serve cranberry meatballs on Christmas Eve.

96. Attend a holiday concert or musical with a friend.

97. Make THE BEST veggie dip for your holiday crudite.

98. Assemble an array of the BEST Christmas appetizers.

99. Add a gradient rainbow wreath to your front door to welcome guests.

Gradient Rainbow Christmas Wreath

100. Whip up this red and green jalapeño dip in minutes.

101. Wrap something in bacon like these water chestnuts or these stuffed jalapeños.

102. Incorporate a little festive flare to your kitchen for the holidays.

Festive and Beautiful Christmas Kitchen Decor Ideas #holiday #christmas #kitchen #decor #decorating #ideas

103. Make this pizza bread for an unforgettable holiday appetizer.

104. Add a little festive flare to your mantel for the holidays.

105. Style this olive wreath holiday appetizer to pair with an epic cheese board.

Easy Olive Wreath Holiday Appetizer recipe idea. #christmas #recipe #thanksgiving #holiday #appetizer #recipe #olive

106. Whip up one of my favorite cranberry recipes! (There are 12+ to choose from.)

107. Go antiquing / thrifting to start a collection of vintage Christmas decorations.

108. Create this adorable tree out of vintage ornaments to decorate your wall.

Learn how to make this DIY Vintage Ornament Wall Decor Tree #christmas #holiday #vintage #ornament #tree #walldecor #decorating

109. Add a string of colorful lights to your mantel for a nostalgic Christmas look.

110. Bake my favorite Christmas cookies: Cream wafers.

111. Craft vintage-inspired gift tags (free printable) with German glass glitter.

Vintage-Inspired Christmas Gift Tags (Free Printable) for your holiday gift wrapping! #christmas #gift #wrapping #printable #gifttags #tag #vintage #giftwrap

112. Whip up a batch of these colorful and delicious Peppermint Kiss Cookies.

113. Take time to craft a handmade holiday gift with these creative ideas.

114. Make classic gingerbread cookies to eat AND decorate your holiday home.

Delicious and festive Gingerbread Cookies! #christmas #cookies #gingerbread

115. Make my FAVORITE pie: Graham Cracker Cream Pie!

116. Shake up these flavorful Chai Spiced White Russians for a holiday treat.

117. Add a little touch of “Merry & Bright” to your fireplace mantel.

Festive Ideas and Inspiration for Living Room Christmas Decor #christmas #holiday #decor #decorating #ideas #livingroom #mantel #christmastree

118. Create a snow globe-inspired Christmas centerpiece for your table.

119. Set up a hot cocoa bar for impromptu treats.

120. Style a magical Christmas Mantel inspired by candlelight and a favorite holiday tune.

121. Fill a cabinet with festive holiday and Christmas ribbons to create a striking display.

My Christmas Ribbon Cabinet #christmas #ribbon #wrapping #decor #decorations #holiday #christmasribbon

122. Start a vintage Christmas  collection like I did with these plastic fawns on my living room mantel.

123. Bake these colorful and graphic Pinwheel Christmas Cookies.

124. Craft a festive cocktail by stirring up a delicious Holly Jolly Christmas Punch.

125. Craft bottle brush tree drink stirrers to add a festive touch to hot cocoa and cocktails.

DIY Bottle Brush Drink Stirrers #drink #stir #stirrer #christmas #holiday #bottlebrush #bottlebrushtree #cocktail #hotcocoa #hotchocolate

126. Turn vintage Christmas graphics into adorable gift bags with this free iron-on printable.

127. Bake Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls for an epic holiday breakfast.

128. Craft a wreath out of gingerbread cookies.

DIY Gingerbread Cookie Wreath #christmas #holiday #wreath #gingerbread #cookies #gingerbreadcookies #craft #christmasdecor

129. Roast and season cashews to create a quick and delicious snack idea for company.

130. Create an epic tiered tray of Christmas sweets and treats.

131. Craft mug huggers out of gingerbread.

Creative DIY Gingerbread Decor Ideas #christmas #gingerbread #holiday #decor #diy #cookies #gingerbreadcookie #decorating Creative DIY Gingerbread Decor Ideas #christmas #gingerbread #holiday #decor #diy #cookies #gingerbreadcookie #decorating #mughugger

132. Style your entryway with festive decor as a holiday welcome to visitor.

132. Shake up a Naughty But Nice Christmas Cocktail.

133. Make the most adorable mushroom-shaped Christmas cookies.

Orange-Almond Sugar Cookies #mushroom #cookie #christmas #holiday #recipe #sugarcookie #cutout #royalicing #orangealmond

134. Take a moment at night to enjoy the glow of the lights and candles of the holiday season.

135. Make gingerbread ornaments and add them to a small tree in your dining room.

136. Add a mini Christmas tree to your kitchen and decorate with cookie cutters.

Festive Christmas Kitchen Decor Ideas #christmas #kitchen #decor #decorating #ideas #holiday

137. Craft this DIY Paper Star Garland to decorate your garland or tree.

138. Use vintage Christmas decor to give your holiday decorating a nostalgic touch.

139. Whip up these Salted Caramel Crumb Bars because they are amazingly delicious.

140. Craft a wreath out of marshmallows!

How to Make a Marshmallow Wreath #marshmallowwreath #christmas #holiday #diy #handmade #craft #wreath #christmaswreath

141. Bake Chelsea Buns inspired by the British Baking Show.

142. Style a Winter Wonderland on your fireplace mantel.

143. Make shortbread cookies that are shaped like a wreath.

144. Roll up some flavorful Bourbon Balls for your Christmas Cookie platter.

145. Whip up a batch of my favorite Gingerbread Cookie Bars.

Gingerbread Cookie Bars #christmas #cookie #recipe #cookiebars #gingerbread #dessert #holiday

146. Make homemade Biscotti to enjoy and share!

147. Creative a village out of vintage cardboard Putz houses.

148. Get crafty and make homemade Christmas decor.

149. Craft colorful gift tags out of your own abstract art.

Abstract Holiday Gift Tags #christmas #gifttags #tags #DIY #handmade #abstract #art #painting #holiday #giftwrapping #wrapping

150. Impress your guests with this delicious and fancy Almond Swiss Roll.

151. Make Spiced Cranberry Simple Syrup to flavor your holiday cocktails and desserts.

152. Bake up a batch of peppermint sugar cookies.

153. Use old plaid shirts to craft handmade ornaments to gift or for the tree.

DIY Embroidery Hoop Christmas Ornaments on pine with lights and felt garland.

154. Make Cranberry Orange Marmalade to eat and to share.

155. Dress your staircase with this festive vintage inspired garland!

156. String a handmade popcorn garland. (It’s easier than you think!)

157. Host a holiday cocktail party with these tasty drinks and bites.

158. Host a gift wrapping party.

159. Bake Bourbon Orange Biscotti to enjoy with tea or give as a gift.

160. Craft rustic wreaths out of wire and star anise.

anise wreath hanging on copper pan.

161. Host a holiday cookie swap with friends and family.

162. Whip up an easy breakfast casserole for Christmas morning.

163. Bake a festive and beautiful Gingerbread Swiss Cake Roll.

Gingerbread Swiss Cake Roll on a platter.

164. Stir up this easy Pistachio Cranberry White Chocolate Candy.

165. Make a cheese board shaped liked a Christmas tree!

166. Craft a Paper Chain Garland to decorate your tree and mantel.

close up of paper chain garland.

167. Whip up these Cranberry Brie Bites. They are easy and delicious!

168. Make Seafood Lasagna for a special holiday meal.

169. Stir up this addictively delicious White Chocolate Puff Corn

170. Whip up one of these tasty Christmas snack ideas.

171. Make this Apple Pie Moonshine to serve or give as a gift.

173. Bake and decorate festive donuts for Christmas morning!

christmas donuts on a platter.

174. Whip up the easiest gingerbread cake with crumb topping.

175. Make a delicious Christmas breakfast with one of these fabulous recipes.

176. Make realistic mushrooms out of meringue to decorate a Yule log!

Meringue Mushrooms on a Yule log.

177. Craft peppermint sugar scrub to give as a gift or use as holiday self care.

And LOTS MORE coming soon!

150+ Creative Christmas Ideas Continued…

And that’s a wrap! 150+ Christmas ideas, recipes, decorating inspiration, entertaining ideas, and lots of holiday cheer! Did I miss anything? Feel free to add you favorite Christmas ideas and holiday traditions in the comments below.

Be sure to save this post like or add one of the images to your Pinterest board. I originally shared this list of Christmas Ideas in 2018, but will continue to add new ideas every year. I hope this list of holiday inspiration becomes a go-to source of inspiration for you.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and yours!

Enjoy this very merry list and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

115+ Creative Christmas Ideas to celebrate the holiday season! #christmas #decor #recipes #crafts #ideas #holiday #inspiration

Welcome to the Ultimate list of 175+ creative Christmas ideas, recipes, crafts, DIY projects, entertaining inspiration, and so much more! This list of Christmas and holiday inspiration will become your new go-to for festive ideas and loads of Christmas cheer! 175+ Creative Christmas Ideas: If you can believe it, this January will mark 12 years of […]




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Looking for a deliciously sweet and sophisticated cocktail to enjoy this holiday season? Look no further than this cherry amaretto cocktail! With its flavor combination of luscious cherries, smooth amaretto, and cream, this drink is sure to be a hit with everyone at your party.

A cherry amaretto cocktail with a sweet and nutty flavor.

You can never have enough cocktail recipe ideas for the holidays, right? Since I love experimenting with cocktail flavors almost as much as I love Christmas, I have another recipe to share with you. This one is for a Cherry Almond Cocktail.

Creamy amaretto cocktail

Like me, you’ve probably noticed that creamy drinks – eggnog, Kahlua and Cream, and White Russians – are especially popular around the holidays. Inspired by these classics, I thought about other flavors that would work well in a cream-based cocktail.

Cherry and almond immediately came to mind. It’s one of my all-time favorite flavor combinations and perfect for the season.

The combination of cherry brandy and amaretto in this drink makes for an easy-sipping beverage that’s wonderfully festive.

To top off this cocktail and make it extra fancy, I added a chocolate covered cherry. You can certainly use store-bought, but I recommend making your own.

Chocolate covered spiked cherries drizzled with white chocolate.

Ingredients

The ingredient list for this one is fairly short. Here’s what you’ll need to whip this tasty amaretto cocktail up:

  • cherry brandy – apparently you can make your own, but I keep it simple and just buy this one. 😉
  • amaretto
  • half and half – get the full fat kind! I’ve tried the fat free variety and it’s…not great. It’ll make your drink taste watery rather than decadant.

I like to top this drink with a chocolate covered spiked cherry. While this is certainly optional, I highly recommend giving it a try! To make this, you’ll need:

  • maraschino cherries with stems – the stems are important!
  • liquor – cherry vodka or creme de cacao work well
  • shortening
  • chocolate chips – I like to use dark chocolate when I make these to serve with this amaretto cocktail, but you can try milk chocolate or white chocolate if you prefer.
White cherry amaretto cocktail with chocolate covered cherry garnish

Instructions

Let’s make our cherry amaretto cocktail! First, grab a short tumbler and fill it with ice.

Then, all you need to do is measure out your ingredients and add them to the glass. Give it a stir to combine, then top with the spiked cherry to serve (see below).

How to make the spiked cherry garnish

A few years ago I shared this recipe for Chocolate Covered Spiked Cherries. What I did was soak the cherries in liqueur for a few days and then dip them in chocolate.

While they are delicious on their own, they also make a delightful garnish. You can get the full details on how to make them here.

I recommend making an entire batch and keeping them on hand. You never know when they might come in handy!

A glass filled with a white cherry amaretto cocktail, garnished with a chocolate covered cherry.

FAQs about this drink

Now that you know how to whip up this tasty cocktail, let me answer a few FAQs you might have.

What is amaretto?

Amaretto is an Italian liqueur made from a base of apricot or almond pits. The flavor is sweet, nutty, and slightly bitter, with notes of cherry and orange.

It is usually served as an after-dinner digestif and can be used in cocktails or even cooking recipes. I use it in my almond swiss roll as well as this delicious birthday cake martini!

How do I store amaretto?

The best way to store amaretto is in a cool, dark place. Since it is an alcoholic spirit, it should not be exposed to direct sunlight or heat. When I’m not using it, I tightly seal the bottle and store it in a cool dry place, like a cabinet.

If you prefer, you can also store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Many people who sip on amaretto by itself prefer it to be chilled, so it just depends how you forsee using it!

What glass should I use to serve a cherry amaretto cocktail?

For easy sipping, serve your cherry amaretto cocktail in a tumbler like I did! If you want a more elegant look, you can use a stemmed coupe or martini glass.

That’s a wrap on this cherry amaretto cocktail!

There you have it – one of my favorite Christmas cocktails! Making it truly is so simple. Plus, if you have a well-stocked bar, you probably won’t need too many other things to throw this together when company arrives.

If you like this recipe or are looking for something with a bit more kick, then be sure to check out my White Christmas Martini.

Enjoy the holidays!

Enjoy this and want more festive cocktails?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Cherry Amaretto Cocktail

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: amaretto, christmas, christmas cocktail, cocktail
Servings: 1
Prep Time 5 mins
Total Time 5 mins
Looking for a deliciously sweet and sophisticated cocktail to enjoy this holiday season? Look no further than this cherry amaretto cocktail! With its flavor combination of luscious cherries, smooth amaretto, and cream, this drink is sure to be a hit with everyone at your party.

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce cherry brandy
  • 1 ounce amaretto
  • 2 ounces half-and-half
  • Chocolate dipped cherries for garnish

Instructions

  • Add the liqueurs to a tumbler filled with ice.
  • Top with half-and-half.
  • Stir to mix.
  • Garnish with a chocolate dipped cherry.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 235kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 37mgPotassium: 85mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 203IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 64mgIron: 0.1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

Looking for a deliciously sweet and sophisticated cocktail to enjoy this holiday season? Look no further than this cherry amaretto cocktail! With its flavor combination of luscious cherries, smooth amaretto, and cream, this drink is sure to be a hit with everyone at your party. You can never have enough cocktail recipe ideas for the […]




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How to make The Easiest Fudge Recipe #fudge #recipe #candy #chocolate #christmas #holiday #dessert

Looking for an easy fudge recipe that will impress your friends and family this Christmas? Look no further! This 3-ingredient recipe is simple to follow and produces a delicious, creamy fudge every time.

I have decorated mine with festive sugar cake decorations, but you can get creative and use whatever toppings you like. Serve this fudge at your next holiday gathering and watch it disappear!

easy christmas fudge cut up into squares

Homemade Christmas fudge

Right now, my mind is on holiday entertaining. That means all sorts of savory appetizers, festive cocktails, and decadent desserts are dancing in my head. Because the Christmas season can be a busy and stressful time, I’m all about recipes that impress but are simple and quick to make.

Well, lucky for you, this easy fudge recipe is just the ticket you need!

I discovered this fudge recipe about two decades ago, and it’s become a family favorite ever since. There’s a chance you might know of it too since almost everyone seems to have someone in their life who makes this holiday treat. For me, that person is my mom’s friend Kathy.

After so many holiday parties, she taught me her recipe and I’ve been making it ever since!

easy fudge recipe topped with sugar christmas decor

What is a good fudge recipe?

When it comes to whipping up these delicious fudge bites, there are several things I absolutely adore about this recipe:

  • Unlike a lot of fudge recipes, it’s almost impossible to mess up.
  • You only need three basic, easy-to-find ingredients.

It’s so creamy and delicious. Making and eating it should be a crime (but thankfully it’s not!).

Who knew a fudge recipe could be this good!?

Want more festive holiday treats? Try these:

How to make The Easiest Fudge Recipe

Ingredients for Christmas fudge:

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this recipe.

  • Candy Melts: To make fudge, you’ll need two different kinds of candy melts. I used both white chocolate and milk chocolate. You will need 14 ounces of each.
  • Peanut Butter: I love to use peanut butter where I can! I used creamy peanut butter to make this Christmas fudge, but you can substitute any type of nut butter.
  • Sugar Cake Decorations: This is optional but adds a festive touch to the fudge. You can find these HERE or in the baking aisle of most grocery stores.

Depending on when you make this homemade fudge, you can decorate it with festive sprinkles, meringues, or other decorations. I decided to go with these beaded Christmas sugar bulbs! It really sets off the holiday vibe.

sliced chocolate peanut butter fudge

How to make easy chocolate fudge:

It’s super easy to make this dessert. It can even be a fun baking activity to do with kids!

  1. Add candy melts and creamy peanut butter to the top of a double boiler.
    • Tip: I don’t have a double boiler, so I just place a heatproof glass bowl in a saucepan that has a little water in it. Just make sure the bowl doesn’t come in contact with the water.)
  2. Heat and stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
  3. Pour fudge into a pan lined with a sheet of parchment paper.
  4. Allow the fudge to set.
    • Tip: Do not refrigerate. It will become way too stiff and lose its smooth and creamy texture.
  5. Share with friends and family and enjoy! I told you it’s nearly impossible to mess this up.

And that’s it, my friends. I like to dress my fudge up with these sugar cake decorations. They make it look more festive, don’t you think? I found the light bulb candies here.

Note: I’ve provided the exact ingredients and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

How to make The Easiest Fudge Recipe #fudge #recipe #candy #chocolate #christmas #holiday #dessert

Frequently asked questions about homemade fudge

Here are a few questions I’ve been asked when I shared this easy fudge recipe.

Can I mix in other toppings when I make this fudge?

Yes, you can! Feel free to add chopped nuts, dried fruit, or other treats. Just make sure that there aren’t any large pieces that will prevent the fudge from setting properly.

Can I melt chocolate chips instead of candy melts?

Yes, but it won’t taste as good and the texture might be different. For the best results, I’d recommend using candy melts.

How long does easy fudge last?

Homemade fudge that is stored at room temperature can last up to four days, although it’s best to keep it in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying. You can also store fudge in the refrigerator for a maximum of two weeks.

Can I freeze easy fudge?

Yes, you can! To freeze easy fudge, wrap it up in a few layers of plastic wrap or place it into an air-tight container. Then pop it into the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

How to make The Easiest Fudge Recipe #fudge #recipe #candy #chocolate #christmas #holiday #dessert

That’s a wrap on easy Christmas fudge!

That’s pretty much it! Once it’s completely set, cut the fudge into squares (or whatever shape you like. I sometimes cut them into holiday shapes like stars and Christmas trees).

If you want, you can transfer the fudge to a platter or plate with festive liners (just like I did for my Christmas party) and share it with your friends and family!

This easy fudge recipe is simple enough to make for impromptu gatherings, and it looks so festive with the sugar cake decorations.

I hope you enjoyed this easy Christmas fudge recipe! Be sure to let me know how it went in the comments section below! I’m always looking for new ideas to try out.

Happy Holidays!

How to make The Easiest Fudge Recipe #fudge #recipe #candy #chocolate #christmas #holiday #dessert

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Easy Fudge Recipe

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: chocolate, christmas, dessert, fudge, holiday
Servings: 48 pieces
Cook Time 15 mins
Total Time 15 mins
This Easy Fudge Recipe, made with only three ingredients, is the creamiest fudge you will ever taste.

Ingredients

  • 14 ounces white chocolate candy melts
  • 14 ounces milk chocolate candy melts
  • 14 ounces creamy peanut butter
  • sugar cake decorations - optional

Instructions

  • Add both candy melts and peanut butter to the top of a double boiler (or to a heatproof glass bowl resting in a saucepan with a couple inches of water in it).
  • Heat the mixture until melted and smooth.
  • Pour the fudge into an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with a sheet of parchment paper. Allow the fudge to set. Do not refrigerate.
  • Once completely set, cut the fudge into squares, and if desired, top with decorative sugar cake decorations. Store in an air-tight container at room temperature.

Video

Notes

*I assume that when this recipe was developed, these three items came in 14-ounce packages. However, product sizes have changed over the years. Ultimately, you will need equal amounts of each ingredient. Adjust your pan size accordingly.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 114kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 3mgSodium: 47mgPotassium: 77mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!
How to make The Easiest Fudge Recipe #fudge #recipe #candy #chocolate #christmas #holiday #dessert

Looking for an easy fudge recipe that will impress your friends and family this Christmas? Look no further! This 3-ingredient recipe is simple to follow and produces a delicious, creamy fudge every time. I have decorated mine with festive sugar cake decorations, but you can get creative and use whatever toppings you like. Serve this […]




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Neapolitan Cookies in two rows on a plate.

These chocolate-dipped Neapolitan Cookies are layered with flavor that includes coconut, cherry, and chocolate. Classic neapolitan ice cream comes to life in cookie form.  

stack of three Neapolitan Cookies on a plate.

Cookies with Layers of Flavor: 

I have a fun one for you today. We’re making these chocolate-dipped neapolitan cookies. Not only are they layered in color, but each layer also has a different flavor which makes every bite a new experience. 

I’ve made and shared this neapolitan cookie recipe for Christmas; however, you could make and serve these cookies any time of the year. I mean, talk about a fabulous summer cookie, right? 

 Neapolitan Cookies in two rows on a plate.

The Flavors in These Neapolitan Cookies: 

The traditional flavors of neapolitan ice cream are strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate. In these cookies, we’ve adjusted the flavor combination and have gone with: 

  • cherry: almond extract and maraschino cherries create this flavor
  • coconut: shredded sweetened coconut creates this flavor
  • chocolate: chocolate syrup and cocoa powder create this flavor

I think this combination is a little more interesting and the flavors work well together. 

Want more flavorful cookies? Try these:

Neapolitan Cookies in two rows on a plate.

Slice and Bake:

This is a slice-and-bake style cookie which means the dough gets formed into a log, refrigerated (or in this case frozen), and then all you have to do is slice and bake. Love that! 

Oftentimes, slice-and-bake style cookies can be a little lackluster, so I always like to dress them up a bit. In this case, we are dipping them in chocolate. Talk about a fancy cookie! Yes, please!!!

two Neapolitan Cookies on a plate.
Neapolitan Cookies in two rows on a plate.

When I previously made slice-and-bake cookies (my Pinwheel Christmas Cookies) I rimmed them in colored glitter before baking. You could totally do that here too if you wanted to skip the chocolate dipping process. 

No matter how you slice it (pun intended), this neapolitan cookie recipe makes a delicious and unique cookie that everyone will be intrigued to try. 

Ready to bake? Let’s get straight into the recipe! 

Neapolitan Cookies in two rows on a plate.

How to Make: 

I will explain the recipe here, but you can find a detailed ingredient list and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

  1. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with waxed paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. 
  3. Cream together the butter and sugar. Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix to combine. 
  4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until combined. 
  5. Divide the dough into three batches. 
  6. To the first batch, add the almond extract, diced cherries, and red food coloring. Mix to combine. 
cookie dough with chopped cherries.
  1. Spread evenly into the prepared pan. 
  2. To the second batch, add the coconut. Mix to combine. 
cookie dough with shredded coconut.
  1. Spread evenly over the first layer.
  2. To the final batch, add the chocolate syrup and cocoa powder. Mix to combine. 
cookie dough with chocolate syrup.
  1. Spread over the second layer. 
  2. Cover with wax paper and freeze for 4 hours or overnight. 
cookie dough in loaf pan.
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. 
  2. Remove the chilled dough from the pan. 
  3. Cut in half lengthwise, then cut each portion of the dough into ¼-inch slices. 
  4. Place two inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. 
Neapolitan Cookies on baking sheet.
  1. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown. 
  2. Transfer to wire racks to cool.
  3. While the cookies cool, add the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening to a microwave-safe bowl. 
  4. Cook at 30-second intervals, stirring in between until melted. 
  5. Dip one end of the cookie into the chocolate. Place on waxed paper. 
Neapolitan Cookies dipped in chocolate.

All that’s left to do is let the chocolate set before packing and storing in an airtight container. 

Voila! Your neapolitan cookies are ready to be enjoyed! There are a few steps involved in making this cookie but it’s manageable and not overly difficult.

Slice, Bake, and Enjoy!

I hope you enjoyed these chocolate-dipped Neapolitan cookies. They are a fun and unique recipe perfect for the holiday season or any time of the year.

Happy baking!

two Neapolitan Cookies on a plate.

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Neapolitan Cookies next to cup of coffee.

Chocolate-Dipped Neapolitan Cookies

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: chocolate, christmas, cookie, holiday
Servings: 32
Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 12 mins
Freezing Time 4 hrs
Total Time 4 hrs 42 mins
These chocolate-dipped Neapolitan Cookies are layered with flavor that includes coconut, cherry, and chocolate. Classic neapolitan ice cream comes to life in cookie form.

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter - softened
  • 1 ½ cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • red food coloring
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped maraschino cherries - dried on paper towel
  • ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut - finely chopped
  • 4 ½ teaspoons chocolate syrup
  • 2 teaspoons cocoa powder
  • ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 ½ teaspoon vegetable shortening (Crisco)

Instructions

  • Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with waxed paper. Set aside.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl (or bowl of a stand mixer) cream together the butter and sugar. Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix to combine.
  • Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until combined.
  • Divide the dough into three batches.
  • To the first batch, add the almond extract, diced cherries, and red food coloring. Mix to combine. Spread evenly into the prepared pan.
  • To the second batch, add the coconut. Mix to combine. Spread evenly over the first layer.
  • To the final batch, add the chocolate syrup and cocoa powder. Mix to combine. Spread over the second layer.
  • Cover with wax paper and freeze for 4 hours or overnight.
  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
  • Remove the chilled dough from the pan. Cut in half lengthwise. Cut each portion of the dough into ¼-inch slices. Place two inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown. Transfer to wire racks to cool.
  • While the cookies cool, add the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening to a microwave-safe bowl. Cook at 30-second intervals, stirring in between until melted.
  • Dip one end of the cookie into the chocolate. Place on waxed paper.
  • Let the chocolate set before packing and storing the cookies in an airtight container.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 154kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 1gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 21mgSodium: 64mgPotassium: 38mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 187IUVitamin C: 0.01mgCalcium: 18mgIron: 1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

These chocolate-dipped Neapolitan Cookies are layered with flavor that includes coconut, cherry, and chocolate. Classic neapolitan ice cream comes to life in cookie form.   Cookies with Layers of Flavor:  I have a fun one for you today. We’re making these chocolate-dipped neapolitan cookies. Not only are they layered in color, but each layer also […]




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Jingle Juice Holiday Punch | inspiredbycharm.com #IBCholiday

Looking for the perfect holiday punch recipe? This Jingle Juice is sure to be a hit! This cocktail is simple, delicious, and beautiful! Even better? You only need three ingredients to craft this delicious holiday punch recipe that absolutely everyone will love!

jingle juice holiday punch

One of my favorite things about the holiday season is all of the time spent with family and friends.

With get-togethers to attend and parties at your own place, it’s great to have a few delicious go-to recipes in your repertoire. That’s why I thought I’d tell you about my favorite (and super easy) drink to make for gatherings: Jingle Juice Holiday Punch.

Pitcher of jingle juice

The Easiest Holiday Punch

A couple of years ago a neighboring town hosted a Christmas open house in all of their little downtown shops. Adults had the option of buying a ticket and enjoying wine or a festive cocktail at each of the stores. I know, it sounds like trouble, but it was such a fun time.

One of the stores served this punch. It was delightful!

When I found out it was made with only three ingredients, I was even more impressed. I have no idea what the store owners called the punch so I decided to name it Jingle Juice because it’s a kick to say.

More Holiday Cocktail Recipes

If this isn’t the holiday punch you are looking for, or if you just want a few more options, here are some other great beverage options to try!

Pitcher with cranberry holiday punch with a full glass in front of it

Jingle Juice Ingredients

As I mentioned above you only need three ingredients to make this Jingle Juice Holiday Punch.

  • Whipped Vodka – The one I like is from Pinnacle brand. Smirnoff also makes a Whipped Cream vodka. If you can’t find whipped, try vanilla.
  • Pink Champagne or Sparkling Rosé – I prefer one on the dry side to cut down on the sweetness of the punch.
  • Cherry 7-up – I prefer the regular here, but you can certainly go with diet. If you can’t find this, you can also use Sprint Cranberry Zero, Cranberry Ginger Ale, or any berry lemon-lime soda.
Pink holiday punch with cranberries

How to Make this Holiday Punch

You really don’t need an explanation on how to put this together because it’s that simple, but I’m going to tell you anyway. Plus, I’ll give you some tips on how to fancify the recipe too!

There is also a printable recipe card with instructions at the end of this post.

Ice cubes filled with frozen cranberry and rosemary

1. Get a punch bowl or extra large pitcher and fill it with ice.

I decided to get fancy and make super-sized ice cubes (with these molds) that contained cranberries and rosemary. This is totally optional.

Another way to make it a bit more extra is to just toss in some cranberries. However, I think the ice cubes are such a fun touch and keep the holiday punch cold too.

Adding whipped vodka to a pitcher filled with frozen cranberry ice cubes

2. Then add your three ingredients.

All you need is whipped vodka, pink champagne (or sparkling Rosé), and a 2-liter bottle of Cherry 7-up. Give it a quick stir and you’re ready to go.

Pouring pink champagne into a punch bowl

3. Pour, sip, and enjoy!

It’s really that easy. Isn’t that color gorgeous?

The resulting cocktail is delicious and so festive. It’s definitely a crowd pleaser.

FAQs about Holiday Punch

I’ve made this recipe dozens of times over the years. I always get the same questions, so wanted to go ahead and answer them for you here in case you have them too!

Why is it called punch?

I took a deep dive to find the answer to this one! The rumor is that “punch” is from a hindi word that means “five”. Punch was first discovered in India and traditionally had 5 ingredients (alcohol, sugar, juice, spice, and water), so the name makes perfect sense!

This punch is even more simple with just 3 ingredients, but we’ll still call it punch. 😉

How can I make my holiday punch sweeter?

If you are a fan of drinks that are on the sweeter side, choose sweet pink champagne or sweet sparkling rosé. Prefer a less sweet holiday punch? Opt for a dry sparkling alcohol instead.

Typically, bottles will be labeled as sweet or dry, but if you aren’t sure how to tell, ask someone at the liquor store.

What’s the best way to serve this punch?

I’m serving up my punch in these simple, yet elegant double old-fashioned glasses. You can find them here.

You could also serve this in a punch bowl or beverage dispenser.

Glass of pink punch made with sparkling champagne, soda, and whipped vodka.

That’s a wrap on Jingle Juice!

I hope you enjoyed this Jingle Juice Holiday Punch recipe. It’s one of my favorites and I’m certain it will become a go-to for your Christmas entertaining.

Also, be sure to check out my other favorite holiday cocktail recipes here.

You’ll definitely want to try my Very Merry Ornamentini. I shared a picture of it below. It’s a delicious martini and the presentation is spectacular.

Very Merry Ornamentini Christmas Cocktail Recipe

Love this festive cocktail and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Pitcher of pink holiday punch

Jingle Juice Holiday Punch Recipe:

Jingle Juice Holiday Punch

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cocktail, holiday, punch
Servings: 16 people
Prep Time 5 mins
Total Time 5 mins
This Jingle Juice Holiday Punch recipe is simple, delicious, and beautiful! You only need three ingredients to craft this delicious holiday punch recipe everyone will love!

Ingredients

  • 1 bottle (750ml) Whipped Vodka
  • 1 bottle bottle Pink Champagne or Sparkling Rosé*
  • 1 bottle (2 liter) Cherry 7-up
  • Cranberries for garnish - optional

Instructions

  • In a punch bowl or large pitcher filled with ice, combine all of the ingredients.
  • Stir well.
  • Serve over ice and garnish with cranberries.

Video

Notes

*If you like your cocktails sweet, opt for a sweet Pink Champagne or Sparkling Rosé. If you like things less sweet choose a dry Pink Champagne or Sparkling Rosé. 
If you are unsure of what is sweet or dry ask for assistance at your local wine store. 

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 74kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 1gSodium: 16mgPotassium: 41mgSugar: 13gCalcium: 7mgIron: 1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

Looking for the perfect holiday punch recipe? This Jingle Juice is sure to be a hit! This cocktail is simple, delicious, and beautiful! Even better? You only need three ingredients to craft this delicious holiday punch recipe that absolutely everyone will love! One of my favorite things about the holiday season is all of the […]




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Meringue Mushrooms on Yule log.

Airy, delicious, and unbelievably realistic, these meringue mushrooms are a showstopper. Whether you’re serving them on their own or using them to decorate a confection, everyone will be amazed and delighted. 

pile of Meringue Mushrooms on a plate.

Let’s Make Mushrooms from Meringue

I’ve been wanting to make a proper Bûche de Noël for several years now. Since a proper Bûche de Noël features meringue mushrooms, I had to make them too! 

(I will be sharing my Bûche de Noël in the coming days. Stay tuned for that! I’ll update this post here once it’s live.) 

Meringue Mushrooms on a Yule log.

Why I Love this Recipe: 

There are a few things I love about these meringue mushrooms… 

  • First, they look so realistic! I shared them on Instagram and everyone was convinced they were just a plate of mushrooms until they read the description. 
  • Second, they are pretty darn delicious. They are crispy, yet melt in your mouth. Plus, the sweetness with the chocolate and a kiss of salt is SO GOOD! 

I just LOVE how they look on my Bûche de Noël.

In previous years, when I made yule log or swiss roll-style cakes, I just used piped melted chocolate mushrooms and/or mushroom cookies to decorate my cakes. They looked adorable, but these meringue mushrooms definitely take it to the next level. 

More Roll Style Cakes:

Meringue Mushrooms on a Yule log.

Before getting into the recipe, I want to say that making baked meringues (especially in the shape of mushrooms) is not the easiest recipe for novice bakers.

This is not to discourage you because you can do anything you put your mind to. I just wanted to give you a heads-up in regards to this recipe requiring some general baking know-how and skill. Proceed with care. 

pile of Meringue Mushrooms on a plate.

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

  • egg whites – I used fresh eggs at room temperature and separated the whites from the yolks. 
  • cream of tartar – This is essential as it helps to stabilize the whites. Without it, your meringue will be hollow. 
  • kosher salt – Salt in baked goods is a must. It gives a great balance of flavors. 
  • vanilla extract – While you may want to reach for clear, I opt for regular as the small kiss of brown color makes the mushrooms look more realistic. 
  • unsweetened cocoa powder – You’ll use this to create those brown spots/imperfections on your mushroom caps. It helps make the mushrooms look realistic. 
  • dark chocolate melting wafers – To ensure that the chocolate sets properly, you’ll want to use melting chocolate here rather than just chocolate chips. I use and trust the Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers. 

Gather up your ingredients and let’s get baking! 

pile of Meringue Mushrooms on a plate.

How to Make Meringue Mushrooms:

I will walk you through the recipe here. I’ve also provided a printable detailed recipe and ingredient list at the end of this post. 

  1. Preheat your oven to 225 degrees F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large clean bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until they are foamy. 
  3. Add in the cream of tartar, salt, and vanilla. 
  4. Continue beating until soft peaks form. 
  5. Slowly begin to sprinkle in the sugar as you continue to beat the egg whites. Beat until you reach stiff peaks. 
  6. Transfer the meringue to a large pastry bag fitted with a large round tip. 
  7. Pipe out the mushroom caps by squeezing mounds of meringue onto the prepared baking sheets. 
piping pile of Meringue Mushrooms onto a baking sheet.
Meringue Mushrooms on a baking sheet.
  1. Pipe out the mushroom stems by squeezing out the meringue onto the prepared baking sheets and then pulling straight up. (Keep in mind that imperfections and different shapes and sizes will help the mushrooms to look more natural. 
  2. Add the cocoa powder to a fine mesh sieve and lightly dust the caps. 
dusting cocoa powder on meringues.
  1. Bake for one hour, then set aside to cool completely.
  2. Use a small knife to cut the tips off of the top of the stems. 
  3. Melt the chocolate melting wafers.
  4. Spread the chocolate onto the bottom of the caps, then press the top of a stem into the chocolate. 
  5. Place upside down on a crumpled tea towel to allow the chocolate to set. 
  6. Repeat with the remaining pieces. 
assembling Meringue Mushrooms with chocolate.

And that’s it! Your meringue mushrooms are ready to enjoy or to use in decorating the confections of your choosing. 

Aren’t they cool? Pretty realistic too! I told you. 

pile of Meringue Mushrooms on a plate.

How to Store: 

Meringues can be stored at room temperature in a dry location. To avoid trapping any moisture, I would not use an airtight container. 

These meringues cannot be frozen. 

pile of Meringue Mushrooms on a plate.

Happy Meringue Making! 

And that’s a wrap on these whimsical and tasty meringue mushrooms. Aren’t they great fun?

I hope you have the opportunity to make them at some point in your baking journey. The end results are just so rewarding. 

Enjoy! 

Enjoy this sweet treat and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

pile of Meringue Mushrooms on a plate.

Meringue Mushrooms

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cake decorations, meringues, yule log
Servings: 25
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 1 hr
Assembly Time 20 mins
Airy, delicious, and unbelievably realistic, these meringue mushrooms are a showstopper. Whether you’re serving them on their own or using them to decorate a confection, everyone will be amazed and delighted.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup egg whites - at room temperature
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 4 ounces dark chocolate melting wafers - such as Ghirardelli

Instructions

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 225 degrees F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
  • In a large clean bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until they are foamy. Add in the cream of tartar, salt, and vanilla. Continue beating until soft peaks form. Slowly begin to sprinkle in the sugar as you continue to beat the egg whites. Beat until you reach stiff peaks. The meringue should be glossy.
  • Transfer the meringue to a large pastry bag fitted with a large round tip.
  • Pipe out the mushroom caps by squeezing mounds of meringue onto the prepared baking sheets.
  • Pipe out the mushroom stems by squeezing out the meringue onto the prepared baking sheets and then pulling straight up.
  • Keep in mind that imperfections and different shapes/sizes will help the mushrooms to look more natural.
  • Add the cocoa powder to a fine mesh sieve and lightly dust the caps.
  • Place the baking sheets into the oven and bake for one hour. The mushroom pieces should be ever so slightly browned and the caps should be easily removed from the baking paper.
  • Set aside to cool completely. Once cool, use a small knife to cut off the tips from the top of the stems.
  • Add the chocolate melting wafers to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at 30-second intervals stirring in between until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
  • Spread the chocolate onto the bottom of the caps, then press the top of a stem into the chocolate. Place upside down on a crumpled tea towel to allow the chocolate to set.
  • Repeat with the remaining pieces.
  • Meringues can be stored at room temperature in a dry location.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 28kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.01gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 0.05mgSodium: 36mgPotassium: 45mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 0.5IUVitamin C: 0.02mgCalcium: 14mgIron: 0.1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

Airy, delicious, and unbelievably realistic, these meringue mushrooms are a showstopper. Whether you’re serving them on their own or using them to decorate a confection, everyone will be amazed and delighted.  Let’s Make Mushrooms from Meringue I’ve been wanting to make a proper Bûche de Noël for several years now. Since a proper Bûche de Noël features meringue mushrooms, […]




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White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies #shortbread #cookie #whitechocolate #cherry #christmas #holiday #recipe

These White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a family favorite! In fact, my family loved this recipe so much that they now refer to them as “crack cookies”. If you love soft and chewy cookies with tons of flavor, this is the cookie for you.

Pink cherry shortbread cookies with white icing on half the cookie

While I tend to bake these during the holiday season, they work well any time of the year. You can’t go wrong with the irresistible combination of white chocolate and cherry!

In fact, a couple of years ago, I made these particular cookies around Christmas. After my family sampled a few of the cookies, they quickly were deemed their favorite cookie. They are just incredibly delicious and, yes—totally addictive.

Now, not only do I make these cookies every Christmas, but I’m required to make them pretty much anytime our family gets together.

Fair warning: if you make this recipe, your family may have similar demands!

A plate of cherry chocolate cookies made with white chocolate.

White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

The ingredients for these yummy shortbread cookies are pretty standard. With the exception of maybe 1-2 items, you likely already have these all in your pantry!

  • Cherries: yes, these treats are made with real cherries. You’ll need maraschino cherries and some of the liquid from the jar too.
  • Flour: a basic all-purpose flour will do.
  • Sugar: a basic granulated sugar will do.
  • Kosher salt: you’ll use just a tiny bit, but it helps add a lovely flavor balance to this recipe.
  • Unsalted butter: to prep for this recipe, grab your butter and cut it into small cubes. You’ll want them to be cold, not softened, however.
  • White chocolate: I recommend grabbing a bar of high-quality white chocolate, then finely chopping it rather than using something like white chocolate chips. You’ll get a much better flavor this way!
  • Almond extract: Opt for pure almond extract and avoid imitation for the best flavor.
  • Food coloring: I opt to use a touch of red food coloring to play up the cherry factor. However, feel free to use any other color, or skip the dye totally.
  • Shortening: I use Crisco.
  • Nonpareils: this is the technical name for those tiny, ball-shaped sprinkles you can see in the photo below. I used white, but you can switch it up if you prefer. You can also grab sprinkles (or be like me and use both!).
  • Colored sanding sugar – I think the fine dusting of red sanding sugar gives these cookies even more festivity. Plus, I like the sensory experience of the slight crunch it adds to this soft cookie.
Cake stand filled with christmas cherry cookies

How to Make Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Preheat your oven, and set out all your ingredients.

Combine the flour, sugar, and salt together in a large bowl. Then, cut in the cubed butter by using a pastry blender. If you don’t have a pastry blender, see the FAQ section below for alternative methods.

Next, stir in the cherries, some of the chopped white chocolate, and almond extract. If you are using food coloring, add a few drops in here. Then, knead the mixture until it forms a ball. If you find that the mixture is too dry and crumbly, add a tiny bit of cherry juice.

Pink christmas cookies made with cherries and white chocolate

Roll out and shape the dough into 3/4″ balls. Place them on an ungreased cookie sheet 2″ apart, then flatten them. My trick for doing this is to use a flat-bottomed drinking glass that’s been dipped in sugar to press down on the cookies.

Bake them until the centers are set. This takes about 10-12 minutes for me. Allow to cool for a minute or so, then move the cookies to a cooling rack.

While they are cooling, combine the remaining white chocolate with the shortening in a double boiler. Heat and stir until the chocolate is melted. Don’t overcook! Dip half the cookie into the icing and then roll it in the nonpareils or dusting sugar. Allow the cookie to cool until the icing is set, then enjoy!

FAQs About Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Now that you know how to make this delicious cookie, let me answer a few FAQs I commonly get about them. Have another question? Drop it in the comments and I’ll do my best to get back to you!

What is a shortbread cookie?

Shortbread cookies are a type of cookie made with a simple combination of butter, sugar, and flour.

It’s believed that shortbread was first developed in Scotland sometime during the 12th century. It was once referred to as “biscuit bread” because it was made using leftover bits of dough from biscuit making.

Modern shortbread recipes still often include similar ingredients but have been adapted to suit different tastes. Today, you’ll find lots of variations of shortbread cookies, including cherry shortbread cookies like the ones I just shared!

Some of my other favorite shortbread cookies include these salted caramel shortbread cookies, these pistachio shortbread cookies with dark chocolate drizzle, and these peanut butter shortbread cookies.

What can I use instead of a pastry blender?

If you don’t have a pastry blender (the hand-held tool used to add butter into dough), don’t panic. While that’s certainly the easiest and most effective way to correctly incorporate butter into the dry ingredients, there are a few alternative methods you can try.

  • One option is to use a food processor. You’ll want to put it on the lowest setting possible, then do short, quick pulses. Do not overwork the dough or it will become too tough.
  • Another option is to use two forks or knives and press the butter into the dry mixture in a criss-cross pattern. This will require quite a bit of elbow grease, but it should work!
  • Lastly, you can use a potato masher. To do this, you’ll need to work the butter into the flour mixture until it becomes crumbly and resembles coarse sand. Again, just make sure not to overwork it!
White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies #shortbread #cookie #whitechocolate #cherry #christmas #holiday #recipe

Can I freeze cherry shortbread cookies?

Yes, absolutely! While these cookies are best enjoyed fresh, you can definitely store them for later enjoyment. To do this, let your baked cherry shortbread cookies cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or bag.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the frozen cookies thaw at room temperature before you ice them and dig in!

That’s a Wrap on Cherry Shortbread Cookies!

So, if you’re looking to indulge your sweet tooth with a classic yet delicious treat, give these cherry shortbread cookies a try.

Whether you’re baking them up for yourself or sharing them with friends and family, they’ll certainly be a hit. Enjoy!

cake stand filled with pink christmas cookies made with cherry

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cherry, christmas, christmas cookie, cookies, holiday, white chocolate
Servings: 60
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 12 mins
Decorating 1 hr
These White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a family favorite! They are a soft, chewy, and flavorful cookie. They are perfect for Christmas or any time of the year

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup maraschino cherries - drained and finely chopped (reserve the cherry liquid)
  • 2 1/2 cups flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter - cold and cubed
  • 12 ounces white chocolate - finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 drops red or purple food coloring - or purple food coloring
  • 2 teaspoons shortening
  • White nonpareils and colored sanding sugar

Instructions

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees F.
  • In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Using a pastry blender, cut in the butter. Continue cutting until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.
  • Stir in the cherries, 2/3 cups of chopped white chocolate, and almond extract. Add food coloring, if desired. Knead the mixture until it forms a ball. If the mixture is too dry and crumbly, use some of the reserved cherry liquid to help bring it together.
  • Shape the dough into 3/4-inch balls. Place balls two inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Using the bottom of a drinking glass dipped in sugar, flatten the balls to 1 1/2 inch rounds.
  • Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the centers are set. Allow to cool for about a minute on the cookie sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • In a double boiler, combine the remaining 8 ounces of white chocolate and the shortening. Heat until the chocolate has melted. dip half of each cookie into the chocolate. Then, roll the dipped edge into your nonpareils and / or colored sanding sugar. Allow the cookies to cool on waxed paper until the chocolate is set.

Video


Nutrition Facts

Calories: 88kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 1gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 9mgSodium: 25mgPotassium: 23mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 97IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 14mgIron: 1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

This recipe was adapted from Better Homes & Gardens.

These White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a family favorite! In fact, my family loved this recipe so much that they now refer to them as “crack cookies”. If you love soft and chewy cookies with tons of flavor, this is the cookie for you. While I tend to bake these during the holiday season, […]




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Cream Wafer Sandwich Cookies #creamwafer #sandwichcookie #cookie #christmas #holiday #christmascookie #holidaybaking

These cream wafer sandwich cookies are my favorite cookie recipe ever. Ever! Make this delicious Christmas sandwich cookie this holiday season for your next party—or to keep all to yourself.

Cream Wafer Sandwich Cookies on cooling rack

I’m sharing my absolute favorite cookie—cream wafers. I will use any excuse to make this sandwich cookie, and I will pass up every other cookie if these are available. Sorry, chocolate chip.

It’s two light and flaky cookies sandwiched together with rich and sweet buttercream. These are a must-make Christmas cookie that you’re going to love at much as I do!

I originally shared this recipe with tree-shaped cream wafer cookies. However, when I make them for Christmas, I make a circle cookie with green and red filling.

As you will see throughout this post, there is a mix of tree-shaped cookies and round-shaped cookies. The recipe is exactly the same; I just used a different-shaped cookie cutter.

Cream Wafer Tree sandwich cookie on plate
Cream Wafer Tree Cookies on a plate

What flavor are these sandwich cookies?

Why are these cookies so yummy? Well, they are basically sugar and butter with a little flour to hold them together. How bad can that be? Soft, flaky cookies sandwiched together with heavenly buttercream. Sometimes simple is best, and this recipe proves it!

I bake these cookies every year, but as I mentioned, I typically make them round. For a special occasion, or just to have fun, you can get creative with shapes as I did with the trees. I made them fairly small, too, for easy eating, of course. You can pop them whole, right into your mouth.

How do you get such intense colors?

One question I’m often asked is, “how do you get such intense filling color?” It’s all about the food coloring. THIS is the food coloring I used. I love it! Just add until you achieve the saturation of color you desire.

green and red filled cream wafer sandwich cookies on a cooling rack

Ingredients for cream wafer sandwich cookies

You may be surprised how short this ingredient list is for a sandwich cookie. The cookie alone is only four ingredients!

Sandwich cookie ingredients:

  • Butter: Softened butter really comes through these cookies as the main flavor. I like Kerrygold.
  • Heavy Cream: With a high-fat content, this makes the cookies extra rich and buttery.
  • Flour: Each sandwich cookie ends up with a very flaky consistency, just like pastries.
  • Sugar: The sugar in this recipe is only for dusting. Meaning there’s no sugar inside the cookie! Instead, you get the sweet flavor from the buttercream icing.
Cream Wafer Sandwich Cookies

Filling ingredients:

  • Butter: Because you can’t have buttercream without butter!
  • Confectioner’s Sugar: Depending on the desired consistency, you can add more or less confectioner’s sugar.
  • Vanilla: A hint of vanilla extract for flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: A little bit of cream also amps up the richness of the filling as well as the cookie.
  • Food Coloring: Color the frosting any way you like! I always go for a classic green and red for the holidays. THIS is my favorite food coloring.
a tree shaped sandwich cookie stack

How to make cream wafer sandwich cookies

These cream wafer sandwich cookies are my all-time favorite cookie recipe. And I don’t say that lightly! If I were to only eat one cookie for the rest of my life, it would probably be these.

Making this sandwich cookie recipe is simple, but it takes a little time and patience. You can find more detailed instructions and measurements in the recipe card at the end of this post.

Here are some of my top tips for making these sandwich cookies!

rolling out dough dusted with flour on a counter

1. Chill the dough

Be sure to chill your dough before attempting to roll it out; it makes a huge difference. It can be tempting to skip this step or only let it chill for a few moments, but it helps to make the dough easier to roll, and the cookies will also hold their shape better.

When the dough has time to rest, it also relaxes the gluten. This means your sandwich cookie won’t shrink while baking.

After taking the dough out of the fridge, allow the dough to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to prevent it from cracking when you roll it out.

cutting Christmas tree shapes into dough with a cookie cutter

2. Poke cookies with a fork

Prior to putting the cookies in the oven, poke them a few times with a fork. This will prevent air bubbles and the cookies from puffing up too much due to their high butter content.

3. Use a piping bag

Since these have a somewhat intricate shape, I decided to use a piping bag to add the filling. Normally, when working with round cookies, I use a butter knife, but piping makes the process go faster. Plus, it cuts down on mess.

piping bags with green icing next to freshly baked tree sandwich cookies

4. Change up the fillings

Now I like to stick to the original recipe with these cookies (don’t mess with perfection). But if you want to get creative with the fillings, I encourage you to give them a try.

You can substitute the vanilla extract in the icing for a slightly different flavor, such as lemon. Or you can fill the centers with something else entirely. Nutella, a cookie butter, and chocolate are all good additions.

Be sure to avoid any kind of jam since this can make your sandwich cookie soggy.

Cream Wafer Sandwich cookie recipe

Indulge with these cream wafer sandwich cookies!

Cookie perfection. I hope you’ll try these sandwich cookies if you’ve never tasted or made them. They might become your new favorite. I almost feel a little protective over sharing my favorite cookie recipe! I promise you, they’ll be an instant classic in your household.

Ready to make them? Take a peek at the recipe below!

Cream Wafer Sandwich Cookies on drying rack

Looking for more Christmas cookie recipes? Try these:

Cream Wafer Sandwich Cookie stack on a cooling rack

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Cream Wafer Cookies

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: christmas, christmas cookie, cookies, dessert, sandwich cookie
Servings: 3 dozen
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 9 mins
Chilling 2 hrs
Total Time 2 hrs 29 mins
These Cream Wafer Cookies are my all-time favorite cookie recipe. It’s two light and flaky cookies sandwich together with rich and sweet buttercream. These are a must-make Christmas Cookie you’re going to love at much as I do!

Ingredients

Filling:

Instructions

  • In the bowl of a stand mixer (or with a hand mixer), beat the butter 3-5 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. With the mixer on low, slowly add the flour and then the cream. Mix until just combined. Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least two hours or overnight.
  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 1/8-inch thickness. Cut with a small tree-shaped cookie cutter. (Alternatively, you can use any style of cookie cutter you prefer.)
  • Add the sugar to a separate small bowl. Press the cut out trees into the sugar. Then, place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Prick with a toothpick or fork.
  • Bake 7-9 minutes, removing the cookies from the oven just before they start to brown. Remove them from the cookie sheet to cool.
  • In the meantime, make the filling. In the bowl of a stand mixer (or with a hand mixer), cream the butter and salt until light and fluffy (This will take 3-5 minutes.) With the mixer on low, add the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, and vanilla. Then add the food coloring. If the filling seems too thick, add more heavy cream until desired consistency is achieved.
  • To easily frost the cookies, put the filling in a piping bag. Once the cookies are cool, pipe the filling on the back of one cookie. Top with another cookie and press to secure.
  • Pack and store in an airtight container.

Video


Nutrition Facts

Calories: 134kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 1gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 24mgSodium: 19mgPotassium: 11mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 281IUCalcium: 5mgIron: 1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

These cream wafer sandwich cookies are my favorite cookie recipe ever. Ever! Make this delicious Christmas sandwich cookie this holiday season for your next party—or to keep all to yourself. The best cream wafer sandwich cookie I’m sharing my absolute favorite cookie—cream wafers. I will use any excuse to make this sandwich cookie, and I […]




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This White Chocolate Peppermint Martini makes delicious holiday cocktail. #christmas #cocktail #martini #recipe #peppermint #whitechocolate

Cheers to another holiday season! Today we’re shaking up this gorgeous White Chocolate Peppermint Martini. It’s a deliciously sweet and creamy cocktail with a peppermint twist that’s perfect for your holiday party.

White Chocolate Peppermint Martini pinterest image

I don’t know about you, but I’m always excited about the holiday season. While I’ve already been spreading Christmas cheer, I thought today would be the perfect time to mix up this white chocolate peppermint martini.

I love challenging myself to think of new and creative cocktails. (You can find all of my Christmas cocktails here.) This libation came to mind after I had a peppermint white chocolate mocha at Starbucks. I had a hunch the flavor combination would translate well into a cocktail.

My fondness for peppermint is interesting because, in my younger years, I never understood its allure during the holiday season. Fast forward to now, and I’m such a fan of peppermint. Now that I’ve been converted, I especially love it paired with chocolate.

White Chocolate Peppermint Martini

Ingredients for a peppermint martini

White chocolate and peppermint belong together! Here’s how I achieve the flavors for this martini:

  • White Chocolate Liqueur: Godiva is my go-to brand, thanks to the creamy chocolate and vanilla flavor. If you can’t find that, use Mozart White Chocolate Liqueur. It’s wonderful too.
  • Vanilla Vodka: Vanilla vodka further adds to the creamy flavor. Absolut and Smirnoff both make vanilla vodkas that are fairly easy to find.
  • Crème de Cacao: White (clear) crème de cacao is what you want for this recipe, offering a slight cocoa bean flavor that’s not as syrupy as other chocolate liqueurs.
  • Half and Half: This adds an extra creamy texture to the martini. You can also substitute it with cream.
  • Peppermint Schnapps: The more peppermint schnapps you put in, the mintier it will be! Alternatively, you can use peppermint vodka for a more mild flavor.
  • White Chocolate Syrup and Crushed Peppermint: Instead of a sugar rim, I like to dip the glass in white chocolate syrup and then into crushed peppermints for a beautiful and festive-looking garnish.

Martini Glasses:

I might have a small obsession with martini glasses. I have a few different styles that I love.

Here are my go-to martini glasses including the one used here:

White Chocolate Peppermint Martini with a crushed candy cane rim

How to make a white chocolate peppermint martini

  1. To make this peppermint martini, start by preparing your glass. I rimmed my glass with white chocolate syrup (found in the coffee section at the supermarket) and then dipped it into crushed candy canes.
  2. Next, I poured the vanilla vodka and all the liqueurs into a cocktail shaker with ice, shook it up, and strained it into the glass.
  3. If you like things mintier, add more peppermint schnapps. Don’t have peppermint schnapps? Use peppermint vodka instead of white chocolate.
dipping martini glass into crushed peppermint
pouring liquor from a cocktail shaker into a martini glass

Frequently asked questions about peppermint martinis

How can I make a vegan peppermint martini?

Most peppermint schnapps, vanilla vodka, and white crème de cacao are naturally vegan. To replace the white chocolate liqueur, you can double up on one of the other ingredients or try an almond-based crème liqueur such as Bailey’s version.

Always check the label of the alcohol, as different brands may vary in being vegan-friendly.

Replace the half-and-half with a vanilla-flavored dairy alternative. Oat milk is a great choice because it’s naturally sweet.

For the rim, you can replace the white chocolate syrup by dipping the rim in one of the liqueurs, then dipping them in the crushed peppermint (most should be vegan).

White Chocolate Peppermint Martini on table

How can I crush candy canes?

You can use either peppermint candies or candy canes for the rim of your glass. To crush them, place them in a resealable, heavy-duty plastic bag. Place the bag atop a cutting board for safety, then use the smooth side of a meat tenderizer or a rolling pin to crush the candies to your desired size.

Pour them onto a plate, and they’re ready for dipping.

White Chocolate Peppermint Martini rimmed with crushed candy canes

That’s a Wrap on The White Chocolate Peppermint Martini!

No matter how you shake it up, this white chocolate peppermint martini will be a delicious sip for any get-together this time of year. It’s such a fun drink to serve after dinner for dessert or even on a cozy night. It tastes sweet and looks perfectly festive for your table spread.

Like this recipe? More Holiday Cocktail recipes:

Cheers to you and a joyous holiday season!

White Chocolate Peppermint cocktail in a martini glass

Love this recipe and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

White Chocolate Peppermint Martini

White Chocolate Peppermint Martini

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: christmas, cocktail, holiday, martini
Servings: 1 cocktail
Prep Time 10 mins
Total Time 10 mins
Cheers to another holiday season! Today we’re shaking up this gorgeous White Chocolate Peppermint Martini. It’s a deliciously sweet and creamy cocktail with a peppermint twist.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 ounces white chocolate liqueur - (Godiva)
  • 1.5 ounces vanilla vodka
  • 1 ounce creme de cacao - (clear/white)
  • 1 ounce half and half
  • .5 ounce peppermint schnapps
  • White chocolate syrup and crushed peppermints to garnish

Instructions

  • Begin by preparing your martini glass. Rim the edge of the glass with white chocolate syrup; then dip it into crushed peppermint candies or crushed candy canes. Set glass aside.
  • Add the white chocolate liqueur, vanilla vodka, creme de cacao, half and half, and peppermint schnapps to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and then strain into your prepared martini glass.

Video


Nutrition Facts

Calories: 430kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 1gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 18mgPotassium: 37mgSugar: 39gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

Cheers to another holiday season! Today we’re shaking up this gorgeous White Chocolate Peppermint Martini. It’s a deliciously sweet and creamy cocktail with a peppermint twist that’s perfect for your holiday party. I don’t know about you, but I’m always excited about the holiday season. While I’ve already been spreading Christmas cheer, I thought today […]




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christmas breakfast ideas on a plate.

Christmas is a time for family, friends, and of course, FOOD. And what better way to start the day than with a delicious and festive Christmas breakfast?

I’m sharing the best Christmas breakfast ideas that will get your morning off to a great start! From sweet treats to savory dishes, there is something for everyone on this list.

christmas breakfast ideas on plates.

The Best Christmas Breakfasts

The best part of waking up on Christmas morning is knowing that you get to indulge in a delicious breakfast feast! Okay, okay, maybe Christmas breakfast comes second to those of you who love presents, but for us foodies, this is our time to shine!

FAQs About Christmas Breakfasts

Now that you’ve seen this list of delicious breakfast options, here are a few FAQs I’ve gotten on this topic. Have a question of your own? Drop it in the comments and I’ll do my best to answer it.

What is served at Christmas brunch?

There are many different christmas brunch options. Some popular dishes include egg casseroles, pancakes, french toast, and finger foods.

I like to make sure there’s at least 1-2 savory options, and 1-2 sweet options on my breakfast table. It allows for a good variety and ensures there’s something for every taste bud!

How should I set up my Christmas breakfast table?

I actually have an entire post devoted to how to style your Christmas table! Check it out for tons of tips.

Now let’s get into it! From sweet cinnamon rolls to savory bacon, these are some of the most festive breakfast recipe ideas around. So gather your loved ones around the table and dig into some scrumptious holiday eats!

Let’s make Christmas breakfast!

1. Cranberry Sweet Rolls

Sweet, tart cranberries are nestled in fluffy pastry then topped with a decadent cream cheese drizzle. Serve these rolls freshly baked to really wow your guests!

Plus, if you have leftovers (or want to double the batch) they are perfect for dessert later that day too!

Cranberry Sweet Rolls christmas breakfasts on a platter and plates.

2. Breakfast Strata Cups

These cute little strata cups make an ideal breakfast dish or a hearty brunch option. They are easy to assemble and bake which is ideal for early, bleary-eyed mornings.

While this version is made with sausage and fresh veggies, they can easily be customized with your favorite veggies and meats.

Breakfast Strata Cup with berries

3. Cranberry Orange Marmalade

This marmalade is a fun twist on the classic jam. The sweet-tart flavor combination of cranberry and orange make it ideal for slathering on warm toast or adding to pancakes.

Plus, this beginner-friendly jam recipe recipe doesn’t require pectin so you don’t have to worry about using any special ingredients!

cranberry orange marmalade toast for best Christmas breakfasts

4. Everything Bagel Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Bagels, sausage, cheese and eggs are combined in one dish for a hearty breakfast treat that is easy to prepare. This casserole can be prepped the night before, making it ideal for Christmas morning.

With its savory flavor, this casserole will surely satisfy both your brunch guests and your taste buds!

everything bagel breakfast casserole served on plates

5. Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

These delicious rolls are full of festive flavor and make the perfect treat for sweet tooths. The frosting is a unique blend of cream cheese and molasses that adds a subtle richness to the classic cinnamon roll flavor.

You can also double or triple the recipe if you need to serve more guests – just pop them in the oven before opening gifts and enjoy the yummy scent.

gingerbread cinnamon rolls Christmas breakfasts

6. Homemade Pancakes (Mix)

Skip the store-bought mix and make your own homemade pancake mix! This easy recipe just requires pantry staples like flour, baking powder and salt.

To make them special for Christmas morning, simply add a few festive touches with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice then top them off with your favorite syrup or the cranberry marmalade recipe from above. They are sure to be a hit!

make homemade pancakes with this mix for the best Christmas breakfasts

7. Mascarpone Cranberry French Toast

Mascarpone cheese and cranberry come together to make this decadent French toast using a brioche bread base. Topped with powdered sugar, it makes a sweet and festive start to your Christmas morning.

You can also prepare the french toast ahead of time, then pop them in the oven just before serving for convenience (and less mess!).

cranberry covered French toast on a plate covered in syrup

8. Brown Sugar Baked Bacon

Who said bacon couldn’t be festive? This recipe is sure to please everyone and it is easy to double the batch if needed. Plus, you won’t have to worry about any mess as this bacon bakes in the oven

The brown sugar and bacon combo is pretty addictive. Want to take it up a knotch? Shake a bit of cayenne pepper in. It’s the ideal combination for a sweet-spicy kick!

brown sugar glazed bacon on a platter

9. Spinach Bacon Swiss Quiche

This quiche features a creamy blend of eggs and swiss cheese complimented with smoky bacon and spinach.

I’ll admit that I use a store-bought crust usually when making this quiche, but if you fancied Christmas breakfast, you can go absolutely make one from scratch. Either way, this is sure to be a popular dish at the table!

slice of spinach bacon swiss quiche Christmas breakfast

10. Chelsea Buns

These warm, sweet buns are a classic British treat. These are made with an enriched dough that is filled with dried fruit and spices then topped with a decadent apricot-orange glaze. Serve these rolls freshly baked to really wow your guests!

Plus, if you have leftovers (or want to double the batch) they are conveniently freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy them throughout the holidays.

glazed homemade chelsea buns in a baking dish

11. Christmas Donuts

With bright colors and festive designs, these Christmas donuts are a delicious and fun way to add a little sweetness to your Christmas breakfast or brunch. 

colorful christmas donuts on a platter.

12. Apple Cranberry Baked Oatmeal

When the air outside turns crisp and cool, this Apple Cranberry Baked Oatmeal is a hearty and flavorful way to start your Christmas day. Packed with fresh apples, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and seasonal spices, this seasonal breakfast dish is also easy to make.

Apple Cranberry Baked Oatmeal in bowl.

13. Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole

This quick and easy overnight breakfast casserole is the perfect Christmas breakfast idea. This recipe is so simple to make and loaded with flavor. Make it the night before so you just need to put it in the oven the next morning.

Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole on plate.

Christmas Morning Drinks

Outside of the standard requisite coffee and tea, why not offer a festive christmas morning drink to start the day off right? I have two fantastic options for you here.

14. Spiced Cranberry Champagne Cocktail

This bubbly drink is a festive take on the classic mimosa. It features a simple homemade spiced cranberry simple syrup—but don’t worry, I walk you through how to make the entire thing.

Pour a little syrup in a flute and layer on some champagne. That’s it—you have the perfect festive cocktail to enjoy with Christmas breakfasts for years to come!

tall flute filled with festive cranberry champagne cocktail

15. Non-Alcoholic Christmas Sangria

This non-alcoholic sangria is a crowd pleaser. With its vibrant colors and fruity flavor, this drink will be sure to make your Christmas morning special.

It’s also super easy to make—just pour some cranberry juice, tea, and sparkling grape juice into a pitcher, add in some seasonal fruits (think cranberries and oranges!) and let it sit for a bit. The flavors blend together nicely for a perfect christmas morning toast!

non-alcoholic Christmas sangria for holiday breakfasts

That’s a wrap on Christmas breakfasts!

There you have it: festive christmas breakfast ideas for your next holiday celebration. So what are you waiting for?

Get cooking and make this Christmas morning one to remember! Happy Holidays!

Enjoy these breakfast ideas and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Christmas is a time for family, friends, and of course, FOOD. And what better way to start the day than with a delicious and festive Christmas breakfast? I’m sharing the best Christmas breakfast ideas that will get your morning off to a great start! From sweet treats to savory dishes, there is something for everyone […]




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taco pinwheel appetizer on a platter.

Served with a side of salsa, these taco pinwheels are an easy and flavorful appetizer recipe that’s perfect for entertaining. Mine are made with taco seasoning, cheddar cheese, chicken, olives, and jalapeño, but feel free to customize them with your favorite taco toppings.

taco pinwheels on a plate with salsa.

Call Them Roll-ups or Pinwheels 

We’ve made a lot of pinwheel recipes here on Inspired by Charm. (And yes, I use the term roll-up and pinwheel interchangeably because the internet hasn’t told me that there is a difference. Ha!)

I’m excited to add another roll-up to my repertoire with these Taco Pinwheels. I love the flavor combination here as it’s totally different than other pinwheels I’ve made. 

taco pinwheels with salsa on the side.

Why I Love This Recipe:

The mix of taco seasoning, cream cheese, and all of my favorite taco fillings make this an easy appetizer recipe that is layered with flavor. I love these as a Christmas appetizer, but you can serve them all year long. Once you’ve had one of these pinwheels, it will be hard to resist going back for a second, third, fourth … you get the idea. 

Curious about the rest of my pinwheel / roll-up recipes? You’re in luck because I’ve conveniently put them all in one place. You can find them all HERE

To get you started, let me walk you through what you’ll need to recreate this recipe, and then I’ll show you how to assemble the taco pinwheels. 

Want more flavorful appetizers? Try these?

dipping taco pinwheel into salsa.
taco pinwheels with salsa on the side.

Ingredients:

Here’s what I used to craft my taco pinwheels, but feel free to mix it up and make it your own. 

  • flour tortillas
  • cream cheese
  • sour cream
  • taco seasoning
  • mild taco sauce
  • shredded cheddar cheese
  • cooked chicken – I drizzled chicken breasts with olive oil, sprinkled them with salt and pepper, and then roasted them in the oven.
  • black olives
  • jalapeño pepper – Use extra for added heat.
  • parsley
  • salsa
taco pinwheels on a plate with a bowl of salsa.

Recipe Variations:

To create your own twist, here are things you could add or change with this recipe. 

  • Try a different flavor of tortilla.
  • Use a hot taco sauce.
  • Swap cilantro for the parsley.
  • Use seasoned ground beef instead of chicken.
  • Serve with an additional side of guacamole.
  • Add shredded lettuce. 
  • Add chopped scallions.

Now that you know what you need, we are ready to start rolling! 

How to Assemble:

I will explain the recipe here, but you can find a detailed ingredient list and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

  1. In a large bowl combine the cream cheese and sour cream.
  2. Add the taco seasoning and taco sauce and mix until combined. 
  3. Spread the filling evenly over the tortillas.  
tortillas with taco spread.
tortillas with taco spread and taco fillings.
  1. Sprinkle evenly with cheddar cheese, chicken, black olives, jalapeño pepper, and chopped parsley. 
  2. Roll up each tortilla tightly. 
tortillas rolled up with taco filings.
  1. Place on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate,
  2. Cut into ½-inch thick slices. 

And you’re ready to serve! Arrange the slices on a platter and serve with a bowl of your favorite salsa.

If you want a festive look, you can style them into a Christmas tree as I did HERE.

taco pinwheels piled on a platter.
hand dipping taco pinwheel into salsa.

Serve and Enjoy!

And that’s it!

One of the reasons that pinwheels are a party essential appetizer for me is because they are so easy to make. I also love that they are so customizable. The different flavor combinations you can make are virtually endless.

taco pinwheels with salsa on the side.

If you’ve tried some of my other roll-up recipes and enjoyed them, I’m certain that you’ll love these Taco Pinwheels too.

Give them a try and let me know what you think.

taco pinwheel appetizer on a plate.

Enjoy this holiday craft and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also join me on social media (InstagramTikTokFacebookPinterest, and Twitter) for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my work and adventures.

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Taco Pinwheels

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: appetizer, pinwheels, roll-ups, tacos
Servings: 16
Prep Time 20 mins
Chill Time 1 hr
Total Time 1 hr 20 mins
Served with a side of salsa, these taco pinwheels are an easy and flavorful appetizer recipe that’s perfect for entertaining. Mine are made with taco seasoning, cheddar cheese, chicken, olives, and jalapeño, but feel free to customize them with your favorite taco toppings.

Ingredients

  • 6 flour tortillas
  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 4 ounces sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • cup mild taco sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1/4 cup chopped black olives
  • 1 jalapeño pepper - deseeded and chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • salsa for serving

Instructions

  • In a large bowl combine the cream cheese and sour cream. Add the taco seasoning and taco sauce and mix until combined.
  • Spread the filling evenly over the tortillas. (A little less than 1/4 cup on for each tortilla.)
  • Sprinkle evenly with cheddar cheese, chicken, black olives, jalapeño pepper, and chopped parsley.
  • Roll up each tortilla tightly. Place on a plate, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 2 hours.
  • Cut into ½-inch thick slices.
  • Serve with salsa.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 174kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 39mgSodium: 409mgPotassium: 144mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 576IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 122mgIron: 1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

Served with a side of salsa, these taco pinwheels are an easy and flavorful appetizer recipe that’s perfect for entertaining. Mine are made with taco seasoning, cheddar cheese, chicken, olives, and jalapeño, but feel free to customize them with your favorite taco toppings. Call Them Roll-ups or Pinwheels  We’ve made a lot of pinwheel recipes here […]




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peppermint sugar scrub in small jar.

Let me introduce you to this DIY peppermint sugar scrub for exfoliating and moisturizing your skin. This sugar scrub also makes a thoughtful, easy, and budget-friendly gift idea for any occasion. 

peppermint sugar scrub in small jars.

Homemade Sugar Scrub

Whether you need a quick gift idea or just want to treat yourself, I’m showing you how to make this fabulous Peppermint Sugar Scrub. 

I can clearly remember the first time I experienced a sugar scrub. It was in the fall of 2006 and it was at a soap/bath and body shop in Soho (New York City.) The sale associate asked me if I wanted to try it and I said, “Sure.”. There was a fancy sink in the middle of the store and she washed my hands using the scrub. I was shocked at how soft my skin was when she was done. I don’t think I’ll ever forget that. 

The good news is you can skip the $30 container at the store and instead, make a sugar scrub at home for just a couple of bucks. I’m going to show you how. 

peppermint sugar scrub in small jar.

The Perfect Jar

When I thought about how I wanted to package this peppermint sugar scrub, my mind immediately went to the Ball® 4oz Quilted Jelly Jars. I thought they would be the perfect size for using and gifting, Plus, I just love the quilted pattern. 

4 oz ball quilted jars.

This year I’ve been working with Ball® Home Canning as one of their ambassadors and it has been such a treat. If you missed it I used their versatile products to:

Ball® jars have been a go-to for me even before I became an ambassador. Whether I’m canning or creating a unique and beautiful storage solution, their products have never let me down. 

And don’t get me started on their new Wooden Lids. Best invention ever! 

Okay, back to scrubbing! 

peppermint sugar scrub in small jars with ribbon.

What is a Sugar Scrub?

Simply put, a sugar scrub is a bath product used to exfoliate and moisturize the skin. 

Things like essential oils are added to provide a lovely aroma and make the experience of using a sugar scrub even more enjoyable. 

How to Use: 

I personally like to just use my hands to apply the sugar scrub (where I want it or all over my body). You could also use a washcloth. 

After rubbing in the sugar scrub, just wash it away with water. You’ll immediately notice how much softer your skin is. It’s pretty amazing. 

It’s that simple! Ready to make some? Me too. Let’s do it! 

peppermint sugar scrub in small jar.
peppermint sugar scrub in jars with ribbon.

Sugar scrub ingredients: 

You only need a few things to put together this scrub. 

  • granulated sugar – You can use any sugar you’d like. I prefer granulated as it provides a gentle exfoliation. 
  • fractionated coconut oil – I like using fractionated coconut oil here as it always remains in a liquid state. 
  • peppermint essential oil – Be sure you’re buying all-natural 100% oil. I recommend THIS one. 
  • food coloring – Adding food coloring is totally optional. I used THIS gel food coloring. You could also use something natural or a mica powder. 
  • Ball® 4oz Quilted Crystal Jelly Jars – THESE jars are the perfect size for gifting. 
  • ribbon – This is optional, but you can find the ribbon I used HERE.
peppermint sugar scrub in jar with wooden spoon.

How to Make Peppermint Sugar Scrub 

Now it’s time to walk you through the instructions. It couldn’t get easier, but I’ll still break it down step by step. There’s also a printable recipe card at the end of this post with a full ingredient list and recipe instructions. 

  1. Add the sugar to a medium-sized mixing bowl. 
  2. Pour in the coconut oil, and stir to start combining. 
adding oil to sugar scrub.
  1. Add in drops of peppermint essential oil. Stir to combine. 
  2. Optional: Add a very small amount of red food coloring. Stir thoroughly until the color is evenly distributed. 
spoon into peppermint sugar scrub.
  1. Spoon the mixture into Ball®  4oz Quilted Crystal Jelly Jars. Fill almost to the top. 
  2. Screw on the lid and add a ribbon to decorate. 

It’s really that simple! 

Whether you want a little self-care or need a quick and personalized gift idea, this is always a winner and something everyone and anyone can use. 

Variations:

Here are a few sugar scrub variations to try: 

  • Use a different essential oil. You can use whatever essential oil that you’d like as long as it’s safe for the skin. 
  • Use salt instead of sugar. The process is the same and salt can provide some different benefits. 
  • Include some add-ins. Try adding things to your scrubs like dried flowers. 
peppermint sugar scrub in jars.

Gift and Exfoliate:

And that’s a wrap on this sugar scrub. It’s fancy, fun, and functional. 

If you liked this homemade gift idea, I have plenty more. Check out this post HERE for 25+ of my best handmade gift ideas. There’s something for everyone. 

Happy scrubbing! 

peppermint sugar scrub in jars with ribbon.

Enjoy this DIY and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

peppermint sugar scrub in small jar.

Peppermint Sugar Scrub

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Handmade Gift
Cuisine: American
Keyword: bath and body, sugar scrub
Servings: 6
Project Time 30 mins
Let me introduce you to this DIY peppermint sugar scrub for exfoliating and moisturizing your skin. This sugar scrub also makes a thoughtful, easy, and budget-friendly gift idea for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup fractionated coconut oil
  • 12 drops peppermint essential oil
  • food coloring - optional
  • 6 Ball® 4oz Quilted Crystal Jelly Jars

Instructions

  • Add the sugar to a medium-sized mixing bowl.
  • Pour in the coconut oil, and stir to start combining.
  • Add in drops of peppermint essential oil. Stir to combine.
  • Optional: Add a very small amount of red food coloring. Stir thoroughly until the color is evenly distributed.
  • Spoon the mixture into Ball® 4oz Quilted Crystal Jelly Jars. Fill almost to the top.
  • Screw on the lid and add a ribbon to decorate.

Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

Let me introduce you to this DIY peppermint sugar scrub for exfoliating and moisturizing your skin. This sugar scrub also makes a thoughtful, easy, and budget-friendly gift idea for any occasion.  Homemade Sugar Scrub Whether you need a quick gift idea or just want to treat yourself, I’m showing you how to make this fabulous […]




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My Ultimate Christmas Music Playlist

It’s not Christmas until you dream of walking in a winter wonderland or decking the halls! My Ultimate Christmas Music Playlist is filled with personal favorites, modern-day hits and a few classics to keep the mood festive.

Whether you’re wrapping presents or hosting a Christmas party, this playlist will keep things cheery and bright.

My Ultimate Christmas Music Playlist pinterest image

I don’t know about you, but I’ve been listening to a Christmas music playlist since early November. Yep, I’m one of “those people.” I just can’t get enough of the songs on that list.

Because I thought you might enjoy it too (and I couldn’t let the year pass without a Christmas playlist), today I’m bringing you: My Ultimate Christmas Music Playlist.

If you’ve been following IBC for a while, you might remember I shared several holiday playlists last year. But don’t worry if you missed them; all of them are linked later in this post.

My ultimate Christmas music playlist

Since I realize music tastes are subjective, I’m calling this “my” playlist. These are my favorite Christmas songs.

I think most of us have certain Christmas songs by certain artists that tug at our heartstrings this time of year. These songs bring back magical moments and remind us of Christmases past.

For me, many of the songs from one of Jewel’s albums—the first Christmas album I bought—stir up strong memories of holidays when I was a teen.

I also instantly time travel to my younger years when I hear Kenny G’s Christmas album—my mom was a big fan. “Winter Song,” though somewhat melancholy, fills me with joy anytime I listen to it. And I could go on…

Ornament hanging in the tree

I suspect many holiday songs are memory-inducing for you as well. I hope this playlist and all my Christmas playlists help stir up a little yuletide magic in your heart.

While listening to the playlists I created last year, I went back into each and added a handful of new songs. In my opinion, each is a great playlist in its own way. You can listen to them via the links below or by clicking on the images.

The ultimate Christmas music playlist

Here’s my ultimate playlist full of my favorite Christmas songs! This is my newest and most diverse Christmas music playlist. You can listen using the player above or directly on Spotify by clicking here.

And if you like my musical selections, be sure to follow this playlist or subscribe to my Spotify profile here so you never miss a tune.

More Christmas playlists to enjoy

If you have a specific type of Christmas playlist in mind, then maybe one of these four playlists is better suited for you!

Classic Christmas music playlist

This is perfect for those who can’t get enough of the oldies. It contains classic songs from decades ago, including artists like Elvis Presley, Bing Crosby, The Beach Boys, Stevie Wonder, Nat King Cole, Elton John, and more.

As you can tell, there’s a little something for everyone. The classics always put me in a nostalgic mood, and I love listening to them while decorating the house or cooking up some of my Christmas desserts.

You can find my Classic Christmas playlist directly on Spotify, or you can find a link to listen to here.

Classic Christmas Music Playlist from Tuesday Tunes pin

Country Christmas music playlist

I don’t know about you, but I think country music suits Christmas wonderfully. The acoustic guitar and country twang just makes me want to sing along to every song. In this playlist, I have hits by Carrie Underwood, Sugarland, Dan + Shay, Luke Bryan, Dolly Parton, and more.

So many of these songs are my favorites and make me feel all cozy. They’re ideal for those who love listing to country radio and, if you’re like me, playing along in the car where nobody can hear me sing!

Find a link to listen to my Country Christmas Music Playlist here.

Country Christmas Music Playlist tuesday tunes image

Pop and modern Christmas music playlist

While I adore the classics, getting a fresh take on some old songs or even some new classics in the making is nice too! I love that every year, big artists are putting out some Christmas singles or even whole albums that I can update my Christmas playlists with.

I love to play these contemporary playlists when I’m entertaining. They always keep the mood jolly and fun, with a few slower and sweet tunes mixed in.

You’ll find artists like Ariana Grande, Kelly Clarkson, Meghan Trainor, Sam Smith, Christina Aguilera, and more.

Check out my Pop and Modern Christmas Music Playlist here.

Tuesday Tunes Contemporary Christmas Music Playlist graphic

Folksy Christmas music playlist

Folksy singer-songwriters know a thing or two about Christmas. I often turn to this music when I’m having a night in with myself or a few friends. The songs make me feel warm and fuzzy, and they’re best listened to with a cup of hot cocoa in hand and snuggled up to the fireplace.

This playlist includes songs by artists like The Lumineers, Brandi Carlile, Mumford and Sons, She & Him, James Taylor, Jack Johnson, and more.

Listen to my Folksy Christmas Music Playlist here.

Folksy Christmas Music Playlist pinterest image

Thanks for listening to my Christmas music playlists!

Those are my go-to Christmas music playlists for you to enjoy! Thank you so much for spending a bit of your holiday with me. I hope my Christmas music playlists add a little “fa la la la la” to your day.

I’m always looking to add more music to my playlists. Let me know if you have some go-to or new Christmas songs to add!

Love this playlist and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest!

Did you listen to this playlist? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR holiday memories with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using ideas from IBC.

It’s not Christmas until you dream of walking in a winter wonderland or decking the halls! My Ultimate Christmas Music Playlist is filled with personal favorites, modern-day hits and a few classics to keep the mood festive. Whether you’re wrapping presents or hosting a Christmas party, this playlist will keep things cheery and bright. I […]




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slice of gingerbread cake on a plate.

This Gingerbread Cake with Crumb Topping is a festive and easy-to-make dessert for the Christmas and winter seasons. That being said, this gingerbread cake recipe might be my (and your) new favorite holiday dessert recipe!

gingerbread cake on a plate.

The Best Gingerbread Cake:

Yes, my friend. I’m back with another gingerbread recipe. I just can’t get enough. This gingerbread cake with crumb topping was inspired by a cake recipe I made last fall. 

Last year I shared this amazing pumpkin cake with crumb topping. It was an easy-to-make cake with delicious results. This year, I wanted to take the cake recipe and adapt it to the holiday and winter seasons. And of course, that is what led me to create/make this gingerbread cake with a crumb topping. It exceeded my expectations and I may even like it better than the pumpkin version. (Shhh, don’t tell!) 

gingerbread cake in a pan and on a plate.

Why I Love This Cake Recipe: 

The holiday season is a busy one. I always like having a few go-to recipes in my back pocket when I’m expecting company or hosting a dinner. This gingerbread cake recipe is going to the top of my dessert pile. It’s that good. 

In addition to the magnificent flavor, I love that this gingerbread cake is very easy to prepare and that you’re likely to have most of the ingredients in your pantry. If you have an hour, you can whip up and bake this Christmas cake recipe including some homemade whipped cream to top it all off. Love that! 

slice of gingerbread cake on plate.

If you enjoy gingerbread as much as I do, you’re in luck because I have an entire blog post dedicated to my favorite gingerbread recipes. I cover everything from cookies to cocktails. You can find that post HERE

Ready to bake? Good! Me too. 

I’m going to walk you through the ingredient list, and then I’ll share step-by-step instructions on how to make this gingerbread cake with crumb topping. 

gingerbread cake in a pan and on a plate.
gingerbread cake on a plate.

Ingredients:

As I mentioned above, I’m guessing that you already have a lot of these ingredients in your pantry which is one of the things that makes this recipe so easy. However, let’s run through the list to make sure you’re good to go. 

  • unsalted butter – Kerrygold is the go-to in my kitchen.
  • sugar
  • egg – I typically always use large eggs.
  • molasses – Molasses is a must-have ingredient in my pantry during the holidays. It adds color and flavor to this cake.
  • cake flour – Cake flour is made from soft milled wheat which gives this cake a softer feel. You can substitute all-purpose flour here; it will just slightly change the texture of the cake.
  • baking powder
  • baking soda
  • seasonal spices – Ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves give this cake its signature gingerbread flavor.
  • kosher salt – I actually use this Maldon flake sea salt for any recipe that calls for salt. It’s my favorite. (I buy it by the tub.)
  • whole milk
  • dark brown sugar – I like dark brown sugar here for that really deep brown color.
  • all-purpose flour 
  • pecans – You could go without nuts, or use walnuts instead, but I really like the crunch they add.
  • lemon zest – I know it might sound strange to include lemon here, but I need you to trust me on this one. It’s a game-changer. I love what it adds to this recipe.
  • homemade whipped cream – You can find my homemade whipped cream recipe HERE. It’s simple to make and significantly better than anything you could buy at the store.

I should also mention here that I used some gingerbread cookies to decorate my table. Early in the holiday season, I bake up a batch of this gingerbread cookie dough and make royal icing. I cut, bake, and decorate two or so dozen cookies and use them all season long to decorate my baked goods and my home. 

You can find those recipes HERE

I also have a great blog post where I share lots of ideas for decorating your home with these gingerbread cookies. You don’t want to miss it. You can find that HERE

It’s time to bake! 

gingerbread cake on a plate.

How to Make:

Following are the steps to make this Gingerbread Cake. I’ve also provided a printable recipe card at the end of this post. 

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. 
  2. Spray a 13×9 baking pan with baking spray. Set aside.
  3. Cream the butter and sugar. Add the eggs and molasses. Beat to combine. 
  4. Whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. 
  5. Add this to the wet ingredients alternating with the milk. 
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. 
gingerbread cake batter in pan.
  1. Start baking for 30 minutes. 
  2. While the cake begins to bake, in a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and ginger. 
  3. Cut in the butter until it resembles coarse sand. Stir in the pecans, lemon zest, and salt. 
crumb topping for gingerbread cake
  1. After 30 minutes of baking, sprinkle the topping over the gingerbread cake. 
  2. Continue to bake for 10-15 more minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
gingerbread cake with crumb topping.

Once the cake is cooled you’re ready to slice and serve with some homemade whipped cream.

I told you it was easy. Consider yourself warned as this may become one of your new favorites too!

Want more gingerbread desserts? Try these!

gingerbread cake on a plate.
fork into gingerbread cake.

Happy Holiday Baking!

I hope you enjoyed another Christmas favorite from my home to yours. May this gingerbread cake with crumb topping brighten your spirits and satisfy your holiday sweet tooth. 

If you give this recipe a try, please let me know. Come back here and leave a comment with a five-star rating and/or share a photo on Instagram. Don’t forget to tag me @inspiredbycharm so I don’t miss it. 

Enjoy and Happy Holidays!

gingerbread cake in front of gingerbread man cookie.

Enjoy this festive cake and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Gingerbread Cake Dessert Recipe

Gingerbread Cake with Crumb Topping

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cake, christmas, gingerbread, holiday
Servings: 12
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 1 hr
Total Time 1 hr 15 mins
This Gingerbread Cake with Crumb Topping is a festive and easy-to-make dessert for the Christmas and winter seasons. That being said, this gingerbread cake recipe might be my (and your) new favorite holiday dessert recipe!

Ingredients

Topping:

Instructions

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F.
  • Spray a 13×9 baking pan with baking spray. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl (or bowl of a stand mixer) cream the butter and sugar. Add the eggs and molasses. Beat to combine.
  • In a large bowl whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Add this to the wet ingredients alternating with the milk.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and ginger. Cut in the butter until it resembles coarse sand. Stir in the pecans, lemon zest, and salt.
  • After 30 minutes of baking, sprinkle the topping over the gingerbread cake. Then continue to bake for 10-15 more minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Allow to cool.
  • Serve with whipped cream.

Notes

You can find my homemade whipped cream recipe HERE. It’s simple to make and significantly better than anything you could buy at the store.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 514kcalCarbohydrates: 73gProtein: 6gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 57mgSodium: 269mgPotassium: 549mgFiber: 2gSugar: 49gVitamin A: 532IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 139mgIron: 2mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

This Gingerbread Cake with Crumb Topping is a festive and easy-to-make dessert for the Christmas and winter seasons. That being said, this gingerbread cake recipe might be my (and your) new favorite holiday dessert recipe! The Best Gingerbread Cake: Yes, my friend. I’m back with another gingerbread recipe. I just can’t get enough. This gingerbread cake […]




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Homemade Bourbon Balls #bourbonballs #bourbon #recipe #dessert #cookie #holiday #cookietray

Sweet, rich, creamy, and loaded with bourbon flavor, these bourbon balls make the perfect addition to your holiday cookie tray. Try this no-bake recipe for an easy and delicious festive treat.

Homemade Bourbon Balls

Bourbon balls

My love of bourbon has taken on a new form: bourbon balls! These are my favorite new addition to my Christmas cookie tray!

I probably sound like a broken record these days as I continually profess my love of bourbon, but I just can’t help myself. I once hated it; now I want it in every cocktail and baked good.

As I mentioned above, I’m sharing my classic bourbon balls with you. Apparently, these are a southern favorite, but they are relatively new to me.

Homemade Bourbon Balls with assorted coatings
Homemade Bourbon Balls on a cake stand

Bourbon balls are a no-bake candy made up of crushed vanilla wafers, pecans, bourbon, butter, and sugar. That alone tells you they are going to be delicious. And by delicious, I mean ridiculously addicting, and I want to eat all of them.

When I first learned that these bourbon balls were made with vanilla wafers, I was really confused because I would have never guessed it.

The interior texture is super smooth and creamy, kind of like a chocolate truffle, but with bourbon. I used a food processor to get my vanilla wafers to a really fine crumb.

serving platter of bourbon ball dessert

No-bake make-ahead treat

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, I’m trying to be a bit more conscious of my diet, so I’ve been avoiding sugar and my beloved bourbon. The moment I finished photographing these bourbon balls, I wrapped them up and put them in the freezer, where they will remain until Christmas!

Can you freeze these?

They stay great in the freezer for up to three months or in the fridge or at room temperature for two weeks. This means you can make them well in advance before the craziness of the holiday itself sets in.

Want more festive holiday treats? Try these:

Homemade Bourbon Balls on a cookie tray

And speaking of holiday cookie baking, I have a collection of 30+ amazing Christmas cookie recipes, including my all-time favorite: cream wafer cookies.

I highly recommend giving these bourbon balls a try, especially if you are a bourbon fan.

Now, if you’re looking for a delicious bourbon (which isn’t sponsored in any way), I would suggest Four Roses Single Barrel. It’s my favorite, and it works well in this recipe.

dessert made with four roses single barrel bourbon whiskey

Ingredients for bourbon balls

This dessert is quite simple to make. Here are the main ingredients you’ll need to make this treat:

  • Crushed Vanilla Wafers: Think of the wafers as your sweet version of bread crumb base! They help to keep things all together, even when processed to a fine crumb.
  • Butter: Because every good dessert needs butter.
  • Bourbon: My go-to is Four Roses Single Barrel, but you can easily swap out bourbon for your spirit of choice.
  • Corn Syrup: This is where all the sweetness comes from! The corn syrup adds the perfect consistency to keep the ingredients all packed together.
  • Pecans: I love pecans for the crunchy, nutty taste this brings the dessert. However, you can easily substitute it for your nut of choice, such as walnuts or hazelnuts.
  • Confectioner’s Sugar: Not only does this help to sweeten the recipe, but it also absorbs some of the liquid from the bourbon balls.
  • Cocoa Powder: Roll your bourbon balls in cocoa powder after for a dusting of rich chocolate flavor.
coated homemade bourbon balls on a plate

Kitchen tools I recommend for this recipe:

Whether you’re wondering what equipment you’ll need for this recipe, curious about my favorite utensils, or if you’re just looking to stock your own kitchen, these are the kitchen tools I recommend for this recipe:

Want more? You can find the list of My Ultimate Kitchen Essentials HERE.

pouring bourbon into dough mixture
flour mixture in a bowl

How to make bourbon balls

Ready for some delicious treat-making? Here’s exactly how to make this no-bake dessert. I’ve provided a full list of the ingredients and detailed recipe instructions in a printable recipe card below.

  1. In a large bowl, stir together crushed vanilla wafers, butter, bourbon, corn syrup, vanilla extract, confectioners’ sugar, chopped pecans, and salt.
  2. Cover and chill until firm: about 30 minutes.
  3. Place all of the toppings into three separate bowls.
  4. Remove the bourbon ball mixture from the refrigerator and shape it into 1-inch balls. Roll the balls in the prepared toppings. (You should get about 11 balls of each topping.)
  5. Pack and store the bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Homemade Bourbon Balls recipe
coating no bake bourbon balls in various toppings

FAQS about no bake bourbon ball dessert

Can I substitute bourbon for different alcohol?

Absolutely! Another classic variation of this recipe is made with rum. However, you can substitute it with any liquor of choice, such as brandy, whiskey, coconut rum, or even tequila or gin (best with white chocolate balls!).

How much alcohol is in a bourbon ball?

Yes, there is real alcohol in this recipe. Since it’s a no-bake recipe, the alcohol does not burn off like it might in other recipes. You can play around with the amount of bourbon, but I think this is the perfect amount.

There’s ¼ cup of bourbon in this recipe, making around 33 balls. So you’re certainly not going to feel a buzz from eating a few of these!

The balls also get a little boozier in flavor the longer they sit, so feel free to keep them in storage until they’re ready to be eaten.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version?

Yes! Instead of using a spirit, you can substitute the liquid with juice. Whatever juice you decide on, the balls will take on that flavor. I recommend apple cider for a Christmas-inspired flavor, though it will make the balls quite sweet.

Homemade Bourbon Balls arranged on a plate

Homemade Bourbon Balls #bourbonballs #bourbon #recipe #dessert #cookie #holiday #cookietray

That’s a wrap on homemade bourbon balls!

And that’s it. As you can see, they are so simple to make. I always like to include a few no-bake treats on my holiday cookie tray; these are a must-have.

I hope you’ll give these bourbon balls a try, but remember my warning: it’s hard to stop at having just one!

Nevertheless, ENJOY!

bite taken out of a holiday cookie
Homemade Bourbon Balls on cookie tray

Love this recipe and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Bourbon balls recipe:

Bourbon Balls

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: bourbon, bourbon balls, christmas, cookies, holiday
Servings: 33 balls
Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 1 hr
Sweet, rich, creamy, and loaded with bourbon flavor, these Bourbon Balls make the perfect addition to your holiday cookie tray.

Ingredients

Toppings:

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, stir together the crushed vanilla wafers, butter, bourbon, corn syrup, vanilla extract, 2 cup confectioners’ sugar, 1/2 cup chopped pecans, and salt.
  • Cover and chill until firm: about 30 minutes.
  • Place each of the toppings into a separate bowl.
  • Remove the bourbon ball mixture from the refrigerator and shape it into 1-inch balls. Roll the balls in the prepared toppings. (You should get about 11 balls of each topping.)
  • Pack and store the bourbon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

I used a food processor to get my vanilla wafers and pecans to a really fine crumb.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 104kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 39mgPotassium: 25mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 87IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

Sweet, rich, creamy, and loaded with bourbon flavor, these bourbon balls make the perfect addition to your holiday cookie tray. Try this no-bake recipe for an easy and delicious festive treat. Bourbon balls My love of bourbon has taken on a new form: bourbon balls! These are my favorite new addition to my Christmas cookie […]




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two christmas appetizers

If you’re looking for some delicious appetizer recipes to serve up at your holiday party, you’ve come to the right place. These are the BEST Christmas appetizers that are sure to please a crowd. Whether you’re looking for easy finger food recipes or something a little more elaborate, we’ve got you covered.

The Best Christmas Appetizer Recipes

The Ultimate Christmas Appetizers

Like a lot of folks, I’m always searching for Christmas appetizers that will tantalize taste buds and add a festive touch to holiday celebrations. And over the past few years, I’ve posted many recipes that do just that.

This collection highlights some Christmas appetizers that my family, friends, and I have especially enjoyed. Each delectable treat is part of joy-filled holiday moments that begin with creating and serving and end with eating and savoring.

They range from savory to salty and even creamy or cheesy. You are sure to find something for everyone’s tastebuds in this large collection of ideas.

jarcuterie for christmas in paper cups.
Christmas Charcuterie Cups

FAQs about Christmas appetizers

Below are some questions people often ask about making the best Christmas appetizers. If you don’t see your question in this list, please leave it in the comments.

It’s really tough to name the one most popular Christmas snack, but there are things that make some snacks more desirable this time of year. Red and green foods and food that is sugary-sweet are really popular this time of year. Cranberry meatballs are all of these things!

What is the best food for a Christmas party?

All of the ideas in this list are festive and the perfect things to serve at a Christmas party. The olive wreath looks just like a Christmas wreath, and the Christmas tree cheeseball looks like a stunning tree. These are foods that will impress your guests. Looking for more non-traditional Christmas dinner recipe ideas? Check out this post HERE.

What do you put on a nibbles platter?

A nibbles platter is another word for a charcuterie board. The olive wreath and red pepper jelly will look stunning on a nibbles platter. The cheese-filled pull-apart rolls will look lovely on a Christmas appetizers tray too.

Christmas idea and recipe resource list

Before we get to the list of Christmas appetizers, I have some more ideas that will help you plan the most epic Christmas party ever.

I have hundreds of ideas and recipes to add the happy to your holidays. Check out some of my favorite ideas below.

Okay, now on to my favorite Christmas appetizer recipes!

Christmas appetizers: Classics with a twist

1. Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

I amped up this standard with thick-cut bacon and used an entire water chestnut in each to balance all that bacony goodness. Yummy!

bacon cranberry wrapped water chestnuts Christmas appetizers

2. Roasted Parmesan Garlic Shrimp

If you’re looking for a traditional Christmas appetizer that’s exceptionally delicious and easy to make, this is it. To punch up their flavor, toss medium-sized shrimp in olive oil, spices, Parmesan, and fresh garlic. Then roast the shrimp in the oven and serve them with cocktail sauce.

garlic shrimp Christmas finger foods

3. Brown Sugar Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Want another shrimp recipe? Then you must try these brown sugar glazed bacon-wrapped shrimp. These shrimp are loaded with delicious flavor and wrapped with bacon. As Ina Garten would say, “How bad can that be?”

crispy bacon wrapped shrimp on a platter

4. Tortilla Roll-Ups with Salsa

These tortilla roll-ups are the perfect Christmas appetizer recipe. Stacked into a tree shape and served with salsa, they are an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing snack.

Christmas tree made from tortilla roll ups party appetizers

5. Really Good Jalapeño Dip

The recipe for this dip came from my dad’s wife. The recipe name is an understatement. It truly is the best jalapeno dip I’ve ever tasted. It has just the right amount of heat, but you can make it hotter if you like.

a tortilla chip being dipped into a spicy dip

6. Cheese-Filled Pull-Apart Rolls

Lovingly shape these cheese-filled pull-apart rolls into a Christmas tree to create the ultimate holiday appetizer. Serve with a bowl of marinara sauce for a grand, festive treat!

easy pull apart bread Christmas finger foods

7. Mini Cheese Truffles

My fondness for cheeseballs is widely known. (Find all of my cheeseball recipes here.) These mini cheese Truffles are a cute and delicious take on this ever-popular Christmas appetizer. What’s especially great is that the presentation stays neat and lovely throughout your event.

mini cheeseballs on a cake stand with a plate of crackers underneath

8. Everything Bagel Cheeseball

Speaking of cheeseballs, this everything bagel cheeseball is one of the most popular recipes on Inspired by Charm. While I originally created it to look like a pumpkin, you can shape it into a ball to suit any season.

a knife cutting into a cheeseball coated with everything bagel seasoning

9. Cranberry Meatballs

The addition of cranberry sauce in the glaze nicely complements the onion and other seasonings in these meatballs. Your guests will talk about them and immediately return for more!

glazed meatball Christmas eve appetizers

10. Really Good Veggie Dip

Although veggies are tasty on their own, this dip will take them to another level. To me, this veggie dip is the “best of the best.” I was lucky enough to get the recipe from the deli in my hometown.

a bowl of dip surrounded by cut up veggies

11. Artichoke Wonton Wrappers

My mom has often made these for family Christmas Eve get-togethers. I love the look and taste and recently found out how easy they are to create. A Christmas appetizer triple win!

mini wonton wraps recipe for easy Christmas appetizers finger foods

12. Red Pepper Jelly

Red pepper jelly goes beautifully with cream cheese and crackers. I’ll show you how to make your own red pepper jelly, so you can get just the right amount of heat.

cheese knife cutting into block of cream cheese smothered in red pepper jelly

13. Christmas Tree Cheeseball

Deck the halls with cheese and fun! This colorful tree-shaped cheeseball is a show-stopper that is also a delight to put together. (And IBC readers know how much I enjoy decorating Christmas trees!)

cheeseball shaped like a Christmas tree for party appetizers

14. Fried Ravioli

This recipe is a fan favorite probably because it’s super easy and oh-so-tempting. It uses store-bought ravioli and three ready-made sauces for dipping. I even recorded a video to show you what to do.

fried ravioli appetizer being dipped into marinara sauce

15. Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Peppadew Peppers

These bacon-wrapped stuffed peppadew peppers are a delicious bite-sized appetizer ideal for the holidays. Sweet peppers, cream cheese, AND bacon. Could it get any better than that?

peppers wrapped in bacon and filled with cheese, held together by toothpicks

16. Walnut Blue Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

These mini-portobello mushrooms are divine! Their rich, hearty flavor and convenient bite-size make them a perfect nibble. I promise your guests will be begging for the recipe.

close up of stuffed mushroom Christmas appetizers on a platter

17. BLT Dip

If you’re bored with the classic taco dip, switch things up and try this BLT dip recipe. It’s a personal favorite!

person scooping up BLT inspired dip on a piece of crusty bread

18. Olive Wreath Holiday Appetizer

This olive wreath is a delicious and beautiful holiday appetizer idea. You can assemble it in minutes, and it adds a tasty and colorful touch to any party spread.

Christmas party appetizers DIY olive wreath on a white plate

19. Christmas Charcuterie Cups

If you want to wow your guests this holiday season with a spectacular appetizer, then you need to make these Christmas Charcuterie Cups. They are individual festive charcuterie boards served in a cup. They are winner in both presentation and flavor. 

Christmas Charcuterie Cups Holiday Appetizer

20. Out-of-this-World Corn Dip

This Out-of-this-World Corn Dip (also know as Crack Corn Dip) is a crowd pleasing appetizer that has become my go-to party recipe. It’s easy to make and will always great rave reviews!

hand getting corn dip with Fritos.

21. Cranberry Brie Bites

Made with rich and creamy brie, homemade cranberry sauce, and mini phyllo shells, these Cranberry Brie Bites are an easy, unique, and flavorful appetizer perfect for the holiday season. 

Cranberry Brie Bites on a platter with rosemary.

22. Tree Shaped Christmas Cheese Board

This tree-shaped Christmas cheese board is an easy and festive appetizer recipe that will impress your guests and be the centerpiece of your holiday table. 

Christmas Cheese Board shared like a tree on a table.

Want more tasty Christmas treats? Try these:

I hope this round-up of ultimate Christmas appetizer recipes has inspired you.

That’s a wrap on Christmas party appetizers!

Which recipes will you be making for your next big party? Which ones will you be surprising your friends or family with on a quiet evening at home during the holiday season? I’m confident everyone will love the Christmas appetizers you create.

Enjoy these festive bites and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also join me on social media (InstagramFacebookPinterest, and Twitter) for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my work and adventures.

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

If you’re looking for some delicious appetizer recipes to serve up at your holiday party, you’ve come to the right place. These are the BEST Christmas appetizers that are sure to please a crowd. Whether you’re looking for easy finger food recipes or something a little more elaborate, we’ve got you covered. The Ultimate Christmas […]




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Bourbon Orange Biscotti on a small cake stand.

Turn your coffee or tea into a sweet snack occasion with these Bourbon Orange Biscotti. Loaded with chopped almonds, orange zest, a splash of bourbon, and drizzled with white chocolate, these crispy cookies are perfect for dunking. 

Bourbon Orange Biscotti on a small cake stand.

Let’s Make Biscotti

Biscotti have always felt like a special treat to me. It’s not just the delicious cookie part, it’s the act of pausing life for a moment to enjoy your favorite hot beverage and a sweet treat. There’s no need to buy biscotti when you can make your own. In this post, I’m showing you how to make these Bourbon Orange Biscotti. 

Bourbon Orange Biscotti on a small cake stand with coffee cup.

I’ve made and posted a couple of biscotti recipes on the blog before. They are Hazelnut Almond Biscotti (a personal favorite) and Gingerbread Biscotti. I love both of these recipes. Unfortunately, they are not a popular item on the blog (are you just not into biscotti). Even so, I can’t seem to stop myself from making them. Consequently, I really wanted to try this bourbon orange version and sometime in the future a lemon version. Then I’ll stop. Well, maybe! 

That’s the cool thing about biscotti, you can make them in any flavor you’d like. How about chocolate chip, pumpkin spice, cookies and cream, red velvet, or even salted caramel? The options are virtually endless. (Okay, maybe I won’t be stopping after the lemon version. Ha!) 

For now, we are focusing on bourbon and orange. 

dunking bourbon orange biscotti into coffee.

Here’s what you’ll need to put this recipe together. 

Ingredients: 

Let’s head to the kitchen, gather up some ingredients, and get baking.

  • bourbon – You’ll want a bourbon you enjoy drinking. My favorite is Four Roses Single Barrel.
  • orange zest – Freshly zested is best. One orange will provide enough for this recipe.
  • all-purpose flour
  • baking powder
  • kosher salt
  • unsalted butter – My favorite butter is Kerrygold, but use what you like/have.
  • granulated sugar
  • eggs
  • vanilla extract
  • whole almonds – You want these roughly chopped so you can see the pieces in the bar.
  • white chocolate baking wafers – Avoid white chocolate chips. You want baking wafers like THESE or a white chocolate baking bar.
  • vegetable shortening – I use Crisco. This just adds a little softness to your white chocolate.
Bourbon Orange Biscotti on a small cake stand.

With all of your ingredients on hand, let’s make some biscotti!

How to Make Bourbon Orange Biscotti

In addition to sharing the steps that follow, I’ve provided a detailed ingredient list and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. 
  5. Add the vanilla, bourbon, and orange zest. Beat until incorporated. 
  6. At low speed, add the flour mixture in three batches. Once combined, stir in the chopped almonds.
  7. Form the dough into a 14-inch long log. Place the log in the center of the prepared baking sheet.
making Bourbon Orange Biscotti.
  1. Gently press the top to shape the log into a 3/4-inch thick rectangle.
  2. Bake for 25 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through.
  3. After the log has begun to cool but is still warm, use a serrated knife to cut it into cookies.
Bourbon Orange Biscotti on a small cake stand with coffee cup.
  1. Place the cookies, standing upright onto a baking sheet. 
  2. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Allow to cool.
Bourbon Orange Biscotti on a small cake stand with coffee cup.
  1. Arrange the biscotti cut side up on a piece of wax paper. 
  2. Drizzle melted white chocolate mixture over the biscotti. 
Bourbon Orange Biscotti drizzled with white chocolate.

And you’re finished!

Just allow the chocolate to set completely and then pack and store in an airtight container.

Bourbon Orange Biscotti with coffee cup.

The next time you brew a cup of coffee or tea, grab a biscotti and turn off the rest of the world for a few minutes. Pure bliss!

Share As A Holiday Gift

The other thing I love about biscotti is that you can bake up a bunch, including a few different varieties, and give them as a gift.

If needed, to make the gift a bit more robust, pair them with some locally roasted coffee beans, some loose-leaf tea, a gift card to your favorite local coffee shop, etc.

Who wouldn’t love that!?

If you’re looking for more handmade gift ideas, I have them! Check out this post HERE for all of my favorite handmade gift ideas.

Bourbon Orange Biscotti on a small cake stand.

Happy Biscotti Baking!

And with that, I think you’re ready to get into the kitchen and try out these Bouborn Orange Biscotti for yourself.

You’ve got this! Happy Baking!

Bourbon Orange Biscotti with coffee cup.

Love this recipe and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Bourbon Orange Biscotti on a small cake stand with coffee cup.

Bourbon Orange Biscotti

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: cookies, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: biscotti, bourbon, cookie, orange, white chocolate
Servings: 16
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Total Time 45 mins
Turn your coffee or tea into a sweet snack occasion with these Bourbon Orange Biscotti. Loaded with chopped almonds, orange zest, a splash of bourbon, and drizzled with white chocolate, these crispy cookies are perfect for dunking.

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a large bowl with an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Add the vanilla, bourbon, and orange zest. Beat until incorporated. (Mixture may look separated. This is okay.)
  • At low speed, add the flour mixture in three batches. Once combined, stir in the chopped almonds.
  • With floured hands (the dough will be sticky), form the dough into a 14-inch long log. Place the log in the center of the prepared baking sheet. Gently press the top to shape the log into a 3/4-inch thick rectangle. (It will be about 4 inches wide.)
  • Bake for 25 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes.
  • After the log has begun to cool but is still warm, use a serrated knife to slice 3/4-inch wide cookies.
  • Place the cookies, standing upright (not on the cut sides), onto a baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack.
  • While the cookies cool, melt the white chocolate and vegetable shortening in a microwave-safe bowl.
  • Microwave in 30-second intervals stirring between until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Transfer the melted white chocolate to a piping bag or plastic baggie. Then cut off the tip.
  • Arrange the biscotti cut side up on a piece of wax paper. Drizzle the melted white chocolate mixture over the biscotti.
  • Allow the chocolate to set completely. Then pack and store in an airtight container.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 222kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 37mgSodium: 102mgPotassium: 76mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 209IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 58mgIron: 1mg
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Turn your coffee or tea into a sweet snack occasion with these Bourbon Orange Biscotti. Loaded with chopped almonds, orange zest, a splash of bourbon, and drizzled with white chocolate, these crispy cookies are perfect for dunking.  Let’s Make Biscotti Biscotti have always felt like a special treat to me. It’s not just the delicious […]




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christmas tree in front on mantel and bookcase.

Handmade mushroom ornaments, a DIY woodland paper chain garland, glass ornaments, and handmade star anise wreaths decorate this nature-inspired Christmas tree. I’m sharing how it all came together along with tips for recreating the look. 

decorated christmas tree in front of bookcase.

A Christmas Tree Inspired by Nature

Merry Christmas! I am excited to show you another one of my Christmas tree designs. It is my nature-inspired Christmas tree. 

This year I had the goal of a handmade holiday. In my designing process, I wanted to use a combination of decor that I already had and handmade items that I would make. And that’s exactly what I did. Last week you saw an example of this when I shared the Christmas tree in my family room. (You can see that HERE if you missed it.) For that tree, I crafted some clay cookie cutter ornaments and embroidery hoop ornaments; I even strung a popcorn garland

For my nature-inspired tree, I created two ornaments and a pretty spectacular garland (made from leftover wallpaper). Let’s take a peek at what I created. 

decorate christmas tree in living room.
close up of decorated christmas tree.
decorate christmas tree in living room.
presents under a christmas tree.

The Same But Different

I know I’ve mentioned the phrase “the same but different” a lot this holiday season; that’s because it’s been a big goal of mine and has influenced my design choices. Instead of buying a bunch of new decorations (which I usually do) I wanted to use what I have but in a different way. 

In retrospect, this tree has evolved into its current form over the past three years. 

1. Snowy Pinecone Christmas Tree

2. Blue Green and White Christmas 

To go even further back, I’ve also decorated this tree in all green HERE and navy and green HERE. In fact, the all-green tree was featured in Better Homes & Gardens magazine and their Christmas Ideas magazine.

Since moving into this home, the decor and color scheme in this room has remained the same so I design my holiday decor to fit into it. It’s been exciting and fun to come up with something the same, but different every year. 

decorated christmas tree with handmade ornaments and garland.
close up of christmas tree with handmade decor.

Handmade Christmas Tree Decor

I thought I would walk you through some of the handmade elements on this nature-inspired tree as you might like to recreate them in your own home. 

1. Paper Chain Garland 

When I was thinking about nature-inspired elements, I immediately thought of the wallpaper I recently used in my guest bedroom. I had some leftover pieces from the installation and thought I could use them to create a paper chain garland.

close up of handmade paper chain garland.

To elevate the look a bit more, I lined the wallpaper with emerald green and dark teal papers.  When I first started I was a bit nervous, but after making a few feet of the garland I knew I was going to love the look. In the end, I loved it so much that I decided to add some to my mantel!

Find the tutorial HERE

christmas tree with fireplace in background.

2. Rustic Star Anise Christmas Wreath

This was a project I wanted to make for a couple of years but never got around to it. When I started out, I originally thought I would make one and simply hang it as a wreath somewhere in my house.

star anise wreath on christmas tree.

However, I was having so much fun that I decided to make more of them and use them as ornaments on my tree. (I used some on my mantel too.)  I think these star anise wreaths add a wonderful natural element. As an added bonus, they add such a wonderful fragrance to my tree. I smell them every time I walk by.  

Find the tutorial HERE

christmas tree with handmade elements.

3. Clay Mushroom Ornaments

I had so much fun creating these. I love a mushroom Christmas ornament. (In fact, they have a special meaning when used on a Christmas tree. Read more about it HERE.)

handmade clay christmas ornament.

Instead of just going out and buying some new ornaments, I decided to craft my own and I’m so glad I did as I was able to customize the size, color, shape, and sparkle. What’s not to love? 

decorated christmas tree in front of a fireplace.

Find the tutorial HERE

And that’s a wrap on my homemade tree decor! 

Under the Tree

It’s also worth mentioning that I enjoy decorating under my Christmas trees. I never like to leave this space empty so I decorate it with things like:

  • vintage picnic baskets
  • wrapped presents
  • vintage thermoses and lunch boxes
  • vintage ornament boxes
  • vintage scotch tape tins
  • wooden trays/carriers
presents under a christmas tree.
presents under a christmas tree.

As you can see, there’s a trend toward vintage. Ha! If you like vintage Christmas decor too, this post HERE is for you. I talk all about my favorite vintage Christmas decor and how I like to style it.

I may write an entire post about under-the-tree decor in the future. I think that would be fun! 

presents under a christmas tree.

Trimming the Tree: 

In other blog posts over the years, I’ve talked a lot about the process I use when decorating my trees. Therefore, I won’t get into that here. However, if you want more info, here are a few resources. 

1. Check out my other tree HERE where I shared a handful of my best tips

2. Learn how to add ribbon to your Christmas tree HERE. It’s my foolproof method. 

3. I’ve designed over 26 Christmas trees,  so if you just need a little inspiration or design ideas, check out this post HERE

christmas tree with handmade ornaments.
close up of christmas tree decor.

That’s a Wrap! 

And that’s about it! 

It’s amazing that after 14 years of blogging and designing/decorating 26+ Christmas trees I still have something to say about them. Let’s hope I always do! 

I also hope that you enjoyed this little tour of my nature-inspired Christmas tree. It was so fun to style and a joy to share with you! 

Merry Christmas! 

decorate christmas tree in living room.

Enjoy this Christmas tree and want more decor ideas?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Handmade mushroom ornaments, a DIY woodland paper chain garland, glass ornaments, and handmade star anise wreaths decorate this nature-inspired Christmas tree. I’m sharing how it all came together along with tips for recreating the look.  A Christmas Tree Inspired by Nature Merry Christmas! I am excited to show you another one of my Christmas tree […]




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Holly Jolly Christmas Punch Cocktail Recipe #christmas #punch #holiday #cocktail #easy #recipe #cranberry

A Christmas punch is always a go-to for me when it comes to holiday cocktail recipes. You only need a few ingredients to craft this Holly Jolly Christmas Punch. It’s incredibly easy to make and wonderfully delicious. Let’s stir up a batch.

holly jolly Christmas punch pin

Holly Jolly Christmas Punch

Several years ago, I shared a Christmas punch recipe here on Inspired by Charm. (My Jingle Juice Holiday Punch.) Since then, that has been one of the most popular posts on my blog during the Christmas season.

Well, I’m back with another punch recipe that’s about to give Jingle Juice a run for its money.

I love crafting cocktails for the holiday – there are so many festive flavors I love incorporating into stunning-looking drinks for entertaining. I adore festive cocktails so much I have an entire post dedicated to them. You can find all of my favorite Christmas cocktail recipes HERE.

When it comes to easy entertaining, I love making a punch. It’s always a hit and is an easy way to set the Christmasy mood. When people come over, I can create a big batch and let people refill themselves while I’m busy worrying about food! It’s an easy way to keep a big crowd happy.

punch bowl full of red hued cranberry Christmas drink

Like most punches, this Holly Jolly Christmas Punch is so simple to make and will please the palate of everyone — every one of legal drinking age, of course! In fact, I just made this punch this past weekend before my mom arrived, and she loved the recipe as much as I did.

So if you’re looking for a simple and easy Christmas punch recipe that is sure to be a hit, you’ve found it in my Holly Jolly recipe!

Looking for more holiday cocktails? Try these:

glass cups filled next to a punch bowl

Ingredients for Christmas Punch:

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this recipe.

  • Pineapple Juice: I use canned pineapple juice to make things nice and easy. It’s just as sweet and tasty as the fresh stuff! If you want to make this punch sweeter, just add more pineapple juice.
  • Cranberry Juice: Because it’s Christmas, you’ll need some cranberry juice. The punch also takes on a beautiful pinky-red hue due to the juice.
  • Squirt: I absolutely love the combination of grapefruit and cranberry, so adding in some Squirt soda gives some delicious citrus flavor as well as fizz.
  • Tequila: I like to stick to reasonably good quality liquor, even when it’s hiding in a punch. You don’t need top-tier tequila, but a medium-range silver tequila is perfect. For this recipe, I used Sauza.
  • Cranberries and Limes: Every good punch needs a beautiful garnish! I add cranberries to the ice cubes as well as a few floaters alongside the sliced limes.
alcoholic Christmas beverage with cranberry and lime

If you’re anything like me, you might be surprised that tequila is the liquor of choice for this Christmas punch. To be honest, when I got the recipe from a friend, I was a bit concerned, as tequila isn’t my favorite unless it’s served in margarita form.

However, don’t let the tequila fool you. I actually had my mom try this punch, and she had no idea it was made with tequila. She just loved the flavor as much as I did. Just remember there’s tequila hiding in there before you don’t have too many glasses of this Christmas punch!

tequila based Christmas punch recipe

How to make Holly Jolly Christmas Punch:

It’s easy! You can quickly provide drinks for your guests by allowing them to fill up their cups with this self-serve punch.

  1. Add cranberry juice, pineapple juice, tequila, and Squirt into a large punch bowl.
  2. Stir to combine.
  3. Add large ice cubes to chill.
  4. Garnish with fresh cranberries and lime slices.

As you might have expected, this is pretty easy. You just add everything to a large punch bowl, toss in some ice, and serve immediately.

Because you want the fizz of the soda, this isn’t a punch you would make in advance. Instead, make it just before you’re ready to serve it.

I’ve provided the exact ingredients and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

cranberry filled ice cubes in a Christmas punch bowl

I love using large ice cubes for the ice when I’m making Christmas punch. Not only do they take longer to melt, but when filled with pretty things like cranberries, pomegranate arils (seeds), and lime slices, they make any punch look quite beautiful too.

You can find the exact mold I used HERE; I have had them for years and love them!

a glass of pink hued holiday punch
punch bowl surrounded by full glasses

And because I know I’m going to get questions about this fabulous punch bowl and glassware set, I wanted to let you know I purchased it last year at CB2. Unfortunately, it’s no longer available on their site. If it becomes available once again, I’ll be sure to update this post with a link.

For now, you can find a similar one on Amazon here.

This Christmas punch has 24 (regular) servings. It’s great for a holiday dinner or a Christmas party where you’re looking to relax and spend some good time with the ones you love. You can’t celebrate the season without a festive cocktail in hand!

That’s a wrap on Holly Jolly Christmas punch

And that is it, my friends! Your Holly Jolly Christmas Punch is ready to be served and enjoyed. Look no further if you’re looking for a delicious and easy Christmas punch recipe. I promise you, this one is a winner.

If you’re looking for a vodka-based punch recipe, then be sure to check out my Jingle Juice Holiday Punch. As I mentioned above, it’s one of my most popular recipes and inspired this Holly Jolly Christmas Punch.

Enjoy!

holiday alcoholic beverage with cranberries and lime

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Holly Jolly Christmas Punch recipe:

Holly Jolly Christmas Punch

Did you make this recipe? Leave a review!

Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: christmas, cocktail, holiday, punch
Servings: 24 servings
Prep Time 8 mins
Total Time 8 mins
You’re going to love this Holly Jolly Christmas Punch. It’s incredibly easy to make and wonderfully delicious. Let’s stir up a batch.

Ingredients

  • 1 bottle (64 ounces) cranberry juice
  • 1 bottle (2 liters) Squirt
  • 2 can (46 ounce each) pineapple juice
  • 1 bottle (750 mL) tequila silver - (I used Sauza)

Instructions

  • To a large punch bowl, add the cranberry juice, pineapple juice, tequila and Squirt. Stir to combine.
  • Add large ice cubes to chill. Garnish with fresh cranberries and lime slices.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 12mgPotassium: 203mgFiber: 1gSugar: 29gVitamin A: 40IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 22mgIron: 1mg
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you’re cooking in the kitchen!

A Christmas punch is always a go-to for me when it comes to holiday cocktail recipes. You only need a few ingredients to craft this Holly Jolly Christmas Punch. It’s incredibly easy to make and wonderfully delicious. Let’s stir up a batch. Holly Jolly Christmas Punch Several years ago, I shared a Christmas punch recipe […]




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Join the conversation.






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