The Best Hot Chocolate and Hot Cocoa Recipes

Horizontal image of mugs of a creamy brown beverage next to spoons, marshmallows, and a white towel, on a wooden board.

One of the best winter traditions is sipping on a large mug of freshly made hot cocoa. It can instantly transport you to the best cold-weather childhood memories. Let the tradition continue by making your favorite hot chocolate from our roundup of tasty recipes, so you can sip and savor for many winters to come.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages to Boost Your Holiday Spirit

Horizontal image of assorted glasses and drinks on a holiday table.

Whether you’re abstaining from alcohol or simply sober-curious, that doesn’t mean you can’t participate in a toast this holiday season. From craft beer to bubbly sippers, we’re sharing the greatest hits on the non-alcoholic market right now that will quench your thirst, but keep you levelheaded. Read more now.

Spiced Kabocha Squash Custard

Horizontal image of white ramekins filled with an orange dessert around fall decorations.

Pie crust isn’t for everyone, and these individual kabocha squash custards taste just like pumpkin pie filling with no crunchy crust in sight. The thick and creamy base features fun fall favorites like a homemade roasted squash puree, maple syrup, and pumpkin spice blend. Learn how to make this gluten-free recipe now.

Decoration Ideas for Your Thanksgiving Table

Horizontal image of a dining table covered in tablecloth with pumpkin and candle centerpieces.

Thanksgiving is the best opportunity to decorate a beautifully themed table that displays the delicious food you’ll be serving while also showing your appreciation for your loved ones. From big centerpieces to small napkin holders, you have so many options to consider. Take a look at some of our favorite ideas now.

Cranberry Pecan Pie

Horizontal image of a slice of a fruit and nut pastry on a white plate next to plaid fabric and a casserole dish.

Do you love pecan pie, but think most recipes are way too sweet and cloying? This holiday season, try our version featuring tart whole cranberries. Combined with the sugary base of brown sugar, corn syrup, and pecans, the acidic fruit balances out the flavors beautifully. Read more now to make the recipe.

Cranberry Chutney

Horizontal image of jars with a red jelly spread next to spices and fresh ingredients.

Tart Granny Smith apple, spicy jalapeno, and warming spices like ground ginger and clove transform this chutney into something far greater than your basic cranberry sauce. The addition of sweet red onions and pungent garlic give the autumn holiday-inspired condiment its surprisingly savory zing. Read more now.

Oyster Dressing for Holiday Meals and Special Occasions

Horizontal image of a white casserole dish filled with a bread stuffing.

Shake up your recipe repertoire this holiday season with our Southern-style dressing. Oysters are a beautifully briny addition to the bread-based casserole while crisp, dry sherry and leeks add a rich, savory bite. Read more now to add this recipe to your collection of coastal Thanksgiving side dishes.

Easy Cinnamon Apple Dumplings

Horizontal image of two pastries in a spiced butter sauce on a white plate next to cinnamon sticks.

When you don’t have time to bake an apple pie from scratch, surprise everyone with these easy cinnamon apple dumplings instead. Store-bought crescent roll dough is a helpful ingredient that leads to deliciously flaky and buttery results. Learn how to make this comforting dessert that’s ideal for the fall season.

How to Make Squash Puree

Horizontal image of a mashed orange mixture in white and blue bowls on a white napkin.

Wondering how to feature hearty winter squash in your meals this season? Our guide will teach you how to roast and blend the vibrant flesh to create a velvety smooth puree that you can use in soups, sauces, desserts, and more. Read more now to find all the delicious details in our step-by-step tutorial.

How to Buy and Prepare Brie for a Holiday Party

Horizontal image of a whole wheel of cheese on a slate board next to ribbon, ornaments, a cheesed knife, and pine cones.

Love brie, but need a little help when it comes to buying and preparing it? We’ll teach you everything you need to know to make it the star of your next cheese plate. Learn how to buy, store, prepare, and pair it, and so much more. Read our guide now, and you’ll soon be an expert on this cheesy favorite.

The Best Cranberry Sauce, Made from Scratch

Horizontal top-down image of red-trimmed bowl filled with a deep maroon chunky and thick spread on a yellow towel next to a zester, orange slices, fruit, and a green plant.

Can the canned stuff that gets nudged to the side of the plate on Thanksgiving, and daringly dollop this homemade cranberry sauce front and center instead. Simmered until they burst, the tart orbs are perfumed with orange zest, honey, and vanilla for a vibrant sauce everyone will love. Read on for the full recipe.

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Wild Rice Stuffing

Horizontal image of a grain mixture in a roasted yam on a white plate next to fruit and a blue napkin.

Whether you’re looking for a fresh side for the holidays or a nourishing meal on Meatless Monday, these stuffed sweet potatoes are the dreamboats you’ve been waiting for. After baking to a golden crisp, they’re filled with fresh balsamic-infused cranberries, crunchy pecans and pepitas, and wild rice. Get the recipe.