Drawing by KB

These are just a few recipes that my holiday wouldn’t be complete without. Please tell me, what are your family’s must have holiday dishes?!

B’s Christmas Sticks
I call them B’s because my cousin, B usually ate most of them when we were growing up.
Gather:
1 bag Pretzel rods
Finely grated (to powder) Parmesan cheese
Bacon (thick cut does not work well here)
To Make:
Wrap pretzel in a slice of bacon, roll in Parmesan. Place on cooling rack placed in foil lined pan and bake at 375-400 about 20 minutes or until bacon is crisp.

Sausage balls
A staple at our table. Man’s request…usually made with venison sausage.
Gather:
2 pounds bulk breakfast sausage
4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated (this is not the time for pre-shredded, the anti caking agents do not work in your favor)
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 tablespoon salt
1/4 cup butter
1 Tablespoon chopped parsley
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
To Make:
Preheat oven to 375 F. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl; using hands, combine well. Form into 1 inch balls ( I like to use a cookie scoop). This is a dry dough, you may have to work for the last few. Place on ungreased baking sheet; bake 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool for a few minutes before removing from pan.

Roasted pears & cranberries
My favorite way to enjoy this bright tart winter fruit.
Gather:
Two pears, chopped
1 bag fresh cranberries
Zest of one orange
Drizzle of honey, couple of pads of butter
To Make:
Toss ingredients together and roast together at 375 for about 20 minutes.

Mulled Glow Wine
One Germanic tradition that is OK in my book….leaves you feeling warm, toasty, and in a holiday mood.
1 peel orange peel
12 whole cloves
1 vanilla bean
1 star anise
4 cinnamon sticks
1 bottle Gluhwein
Simmer all ingredients in a heavy saucepan at least an hour.

LOVE these Fresh Cranberry Scones from Sweet Pea’s Kitchen.

Eat, Drink & Be Merry Merry!