Hello friends! Can you believe Halloween is behind us and the holiday season is here? Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and Christmas is following quickly. Every year I tell myself I’ll be more prepared, but somehow I always find myself rushing when the holidays arrive.
For this month’s “My Five Favorites” series, we’re sharing go-to recipes to help you avoid last-minute scrambles for holiday gatherings. Kris from Driven By Decor is taking a break to focus on the One Room Challenge (you can catch her progress here), but Pam from Simple Details, Jennifer from Dimples & Tangles, and I are thrilled to have Mary Ann from Classic Casual Home guest-hosting with us!
Mary Ann, a talented designer and entertainer, often shares beautiful recipes that are as stylish as they are delicious. Her grapefruit martini is a must-try!
{Mary Ann’s Grapefruit Martini}
Welcome, Mary Ann!
Mark and I enjoy cooking and baking, but during the holidays I keep things simple. I rely on recipes that are easy and don’t require a long list of ingredients. The holidays are busy enough, right? Here are some of my favorite easy desserts to help you through the season.
1. Chocolate Dipped Rice Krispy Treats with Sprinkles
Perfect for making memories with kids.
Rice Krispy treats are fun and easy. Make a batch, cut them up, and let the kids dip them in melted chocolate and sprinkle decorations. Expect a little mess, but that’s part of the fun! Chill them in the fridge to harden the chocolate, if you can resist eating them immediately.
Get the recipe for Chocolate Dipped Rice Krispy Treats here.
Chocolate makes everything better — try it with coconut macaroons too!
2. Decadent Chocolate Truffle Cookies
Great for gifting neighbors.
These cookies package beautifully and make excellent gifts or party treats. I usually double the batch so there’s enough for us at home (my kids insist on it!).
Get the recipe for Decadent Chocolate Truffle Cookies here.
3. Individual Chocolate Molten Cakes
A perfect dinner party dessert.
These can be prepped ahead and baked just before serving. They come out of the ramekins easily and pair wonderfully with berries, ice cream, or whipped cream.
Get the recipe for Chocolate Molten Cakes here.
4. Apple Upside Down Cake
A sweet addition to any holiday buffet.
This cake is rich, moist, and topped with caramel sauce. Even chocolate lovers will find it hard to resist. It’s a great choice for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Get the recipe for Apple Upside Down Cake here.
5. The Best & Easiest Chocolate Cake
A lifesaver during the holiday rush.
This simple yet delicious chocolate cake starts with a mix but tastes homemade. It’s so rich it doesn’t even need frosting. Warm a slice in the microwave and top with ice cream for a quick treat.
Get the recipe for The Best & Easiest Chocolate Cake here.
Bonus: Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Make ahead and freeze for busy times.
I was never a big fan of carrot cake until I tried this version from my mother-in-law. The cake is slightly crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and the frosting is incredible. Freeze the cake and defrost it when you need a quick dessert. Just whip up the frosting and you’re good to go.
Get the recipe for Carrot Cake here.
Do you have favorite holiday recipes? I’d love to hear them! Also, check out what Pam, Jennifer, and Mary Ann are making this season:
- Pam of Simple Details
- Jennifer of Dimples & Tangles
- Mary Ann of Classic Casual Home
Happy November and happy baking!
