45+ Easy Holiday Festive Old Fashioned Recipes for the Season

The holiday season is the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen—especially when it comes to crafting cocktails that bring warmth and cheer to your gatherings.

While traditional drinks like mulled wine and eggnog often take center stage, there’s one classic cocktail that can be transformed into a festive masterpiece: the Old Fashioned.

The Old Fashioned has long been a beloved drink for whiskey lovers, but with a little holiday flair, it can become the star of your seasonal cocktail menu.

From fruity and spicy to rich and comforting, these 45+ holiday Old Fashioned recipes will add a festive twist to your celebrations.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, enjoying a cozy night by the fire, or looking for the perfect drink to share with friends, these recipes are sure to impress.

So, grab your favorite bourbon, some seasonal ingredients, and get ready to explore the many ways you can elevate this timeless cocktail for the holidays!

45+ Easy Holiday Festive Old Fashioned Recipes for the Season

The holidays are a time for celebration, and what better way to celebrate than with a drink that’s as classic as it is festive?

These 45+ holiday Old Fashioned recipes offer something for every palate, from spiced and citrusy to sweet and smoky.

With the versatility of the Old Fashioned, you can experiment with different flavors to create the perfect drink to complement your holiday meals or enjoy on a quiet evening.

So whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet moment by the fire, these holiday-inspired Old Fashioneds will bring warmth, flavor, and cheer to your celebrations.

Cheers to creating new traditions and toasting to the season!

Old-Fashioned Gingerbread Cookies

These Old-Fashioned Gingerbread Cookies capture the essence of classic holiday baking with their warm spices and rich molasses flavor. Perfectly chewy and sweet with just the right amount of spice, these cookies are a holiday staple, great for gifting or decorating the Christmas tree. They bring back fond memories of cozy kitchens filled with the aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.

Ingredients:

• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
5. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thick. Use cookie cutters to shape into gingerbread men or other festive shapes.
8. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly firm.
9. Allow to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Old-Fashioned Gingerbread Cookies are a delicious and nostalgic treat that adds a touch of festive cheer to any holiday gathering. Their soft texture and perfect balance of spices make them a timeless classic. Whether you decorate them with icing or enjoy them plain, these cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the season and spread holiday joy.

Old-Fashioned Fruitcake

This Old-Fashioned Fruitcake recipe is the epitome of holiday indulgence. Rich and dense, with a perfect balance of sweet and tart dried fruits, nuts, and spices, it has become a holiday tradition for many families. This fruitcake is not just a dessert but a time-honored symbol of Christmas. It’s a great option for gifting or serving at holiday feasts, as it improves with age, making it an ideal make-ahead treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, chopped dates)
• 1 cup candied citrus peel
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup rum or orange juice (for soaking)
• ½ cup brandy (for basting)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a small bowl, soak the dried fruit and candied peel in rum or orange juice for about 30 minutes, then drain.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, spices, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, then fold in the soaked fruit, candied peel, and nuts.
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 2 to 2 ½ hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Once done, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. After cooling, wrap the fruitcake in wax paper and then aluminum foil, and let it age for at least one week, basting it with brandy every few days.

This Old-Fashioned Fruitcake is a beloved holiday tradition that has stood the test of time. The rich combination of dried fruits, spices, and nuts, along with the kick of brandy, creates a deep, complex flavor that improves with age. Whether you love or loathe fruitcake, this version will win you over with its moist texture and festive flair. The longer it sits, the better it tastes, making it an ideal treat to prepare in advance and enjoy throughout the holiday season.

Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies

These Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies are a sweet, buttery delight that never goes out of style. With their simple yet rich flavor, these cookies are perfect for any holiday celebration. Whether you enjoy them plain or adorned with colorful sprinkles or icing, they are versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. These sugar cookies are a wonderful choice for baking with loved ones, creating lasting memories of holiday cheer.

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Coarse sugar (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Add milk if needed to make the dough more pliable.
5. Roll the dough into small balls, then roll them in coarse sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Flatten each cookie slightly with the bottom of a glass or your fingers.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies are a staple of the holiday season, thanks to their simple, timeless flavor. Their buttery richness and light sweetness make them a versatile treat, ideal for cookie exchanges, family gatherings, or just as a sweet snack by the fire. Easy to make and fun to decorate, they are the perfect canvas for creative holiday designs or can be enjoyed in their pure, unadorned form. This recipe guarantees a classic favorite that will brighten up your festive celebrations year after year.

Old-Fashioned Peppermint Bark

Old-Fashioned Peppermint Bark is a holiday favorite that combines the rich, smooth taste of chocolate with the refreshing crunch of peppermint. This simple yet elegant treat is perfect for gifting or enjoying with family. Its festive colors and delicious flavors make it a holiday must-have. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s the ideal treat to make when you’re pressed for time but still want something special.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces dark chocolate (about 70% cocoa)
• 12 ounces white chocolate
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Once fully melted, pour the chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
3. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes, or until the dark chocolate is set.
4. Meanwhile, melt the white chocolate in the same way as the dark chocolate.
5. Once the dark chocolate has set, pour the melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer. Spread evenly with a spatula.
6. Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the top of the white chocolate while it is still soft.
7. Refrigerate the bark for another 30 minutes to allow it to fully set. Once set, break it into pieces.

Old-Fashioned Peppermint Bark is a festive treat that brings together the classic flavors of chocolate and peppermint in a simple yet delightful combination. Its striking appearance and balance of sweet and minty flavors make it an instant holiday favorite. Whether you package it as a gift or serve it at a party, this bark will bring smiles and festive cheer, creating lasting memories of holiday treats enjoyed with loved ones.

Old-Fashioned Eggnog Cake

Old-Fashioned Eggnog Cake is the perfect dessert to bring the flavors of the holiday season to life. Moist and spiced with nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla, this cake is soaked in creamy eggnog and topped with a light glaze. Its rich flavor profile makes it ideal for Christmas celebrations, holiday parties, or even as a special after-dinner treat. The nostalgic taste of eggnog in cake form is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup eggnog
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons eggnog
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch bundt pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the eggnog, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. While the cake is cooling, make the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, eggnog, and vanilla extract.
8. Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top.

Old-Fashioned Eggnog Cake captures the essence of the holidays in a delicious, moist cake that’s perfect for family gatherings or festive celebrations. The eggnog flavor permeates the cake, and the spiced notes of nutmeg and cinnamon enhance the seasonal vibes. The sweet glaze adds a touch of elegance, making this cake as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the iconic flavor of eggnog in a new and delightful form.

Old-Fashioned Cranberry Sauce

This Old-Fashioned Cranberry Sauce is a classic accompaniment to any holiday meal. Tart cranberries are simmered with sugar and orange zest, resulting in a sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly complements turkey, ham, or even as a topping for breads. This simple recipe is made with only a few ingredients, yet it delivers bold, bright flavors that will elevate your holiday spread. It’s the ultimate homemade cranberry sauce, bursting with freshness and festive flair.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries (or frozen)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally.
3. Add the orange zest and cinnamon, if using, and stir to combine.
4. Remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool. It will thicken further as it cools.
5. Transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving dish and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Old-Fashioned Cranberry Sauce is a must-have side dish that brings brightness and balance to any holiday meal. The tartness of the cranberries, combined with the sweetness of the sugar and the citrusy zing from the orange zest, creates a flavor that’s both refreshing and festive. This homemade cranberry sauce is far superior to store-bought versions, offering a richer, more complex taste that will enhance your holiday dining experience.

Old-Fashioned Pecan Pie

Old-Fashioned Pecan Pie is the ultimate holiday dessert, offering a rich, gooey filling with a perfect balance of sweetness and nutty crunch. The buttery, flaky crust combined with the decadent pecan topping makes this pie a holiday favorite. Whether served warm or cold, this traditional dessert has been delighting families for generations, and its inviting aroma will have everyone gathered around the table for a slice.

Ingredients:

• 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups light corn syrup
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups pecan halves

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim and crimp the edges, and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Stir in the pecan halves, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the filling mixture.
5. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and spread the pecans evenly.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
7. Let the pie cool completely before slicing and serving.

Old-Fashioned Pecan Pie is a dessert that encapsulates the flavors of the season with its rich, sugary filling and crunchy pecans. This classic pie is perfect for holiday gatherings, whether it’s Thanksgiving or Christmas, and is sure to please a crowd. The combination of the buttery crust and the decadent, sweet filling makes every bite a nostalgic treat that everyone will savor. It’s an enduring tradition that will continue to be loved for generations to come.

Old-Fashioned Cranberry Orange Muffins

Old-Fashioned Cranberry Orange Muffins combine the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright citrus flavor of orange, creating a refreshing, festive treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these muffins offer a delicious balance of sweet and tart flavors. The zesty orange glaze on top adds a special touch, making them even more delightful. These muffins are simple to make yet full of holiday cheer.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, coarsely chopped
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 tablespoons orange juice

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon orange juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat together sugar, egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Gently fold in the chopped cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. While the muffins are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and orange juice. Drizzle the glaze over the muffins once they have cooled slightly.

Old-Fashioned Cranberry Orange Muffins are a delicious combination of sweet and tart, with the perfect touch of citrusy brightness. These muffins are wonderfully moist and packed with flavor, making them an ideal choice for holiday mornings or as a festive snack. The orange glaze adds a perfect finishing touch, making these muffins a truly special treat. Whether served alongside coffee or tea, these muffins will surely become a new holiday tradition.

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Yule Log

The Old-Fashioned Chocolate Yule Log, or Bûche de Noël, is a stunning dessert that combines rich chocolate sponge cake with decadent chocolate buttercream. Traditionally made for Christmas, this rolled cake resembles a log and is often decorated to look like a woodland masterpiece, making it a showstopper at any holiday gathering. The combination of light, airy cake and creamy chocolate frosting creates a rich and satisfying dessert that will impress guests and family alike.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with ½ cup sugar and vanilla extract until pale and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg yolk mixture until combined.
5. In another bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining ½ cup sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the cake batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
7. While the cake is baking, prepare the chocolate filling. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering. Pour over the chopped chocolate and butter, whisking until smooth. Let cool to room temperature.
8. Once the cake is done, remove from the oven and immediately turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Roll the cake up with the towel and let it cool completely.
9. Once the cake has cooled, unroll it and spread the chocolate filling evenly over the surface. Re-roll the cake, trimming the ends to make it look like a log.
10. Frost the entire cake with the remaining chocolate filling and decorate with powdered sugar, chocolate shavings, or marzipan mushrooms to resemble a Yule log.

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Yule Log is an elegant and festive dessert that will wow your guests during the holidays. Its rich chocolate flavor, combined with the lightness of the sponge cake and smooth buttercream, creates a perfect balance of texture and taste. This showstopper dessert not only brings beauty to your table but also offers a deliciously indulgent treat that will become a cherished holiday tradition. Whether served at a formal holiday dinner or a casual family gathering, the Yule Log is sure to create lasting memories.

Old-Fashioned Gingerbread Cake

Old-Fashioned Gingerbread Cake is a spiced dessert that evokes the warmth and coziness of the holiday season. The deep, rich flavor of molasses, combined with a blend of aromatic spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, makes this cake a perfect treat for colder months. With its tender crumb and moist texture, this cake can be served on its own or topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. It’s a timeless holiday dessert that brings a comforting touch to any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup molasses
• ¾ cup hot water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg until combined.
4. Gradually add the molasses to the butter mixture, mixing until smooth.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and hot water to the batter, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Old-Fashioned Gingerbread Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the rich flavors of spices and molasses in a moist, tender cake. Its warmth and comforting texture make it perfect for holiday gatherings or even as a cozy treat to enjoy on a cold winter evening. Whether you serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream, this cake is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition that will evoke nostalgia and joy for years to come.

Old-Fashioned Apple Cinnamon Bread

Old-Fashioned Apple Cinnamon Bread is a sweet, flavorful quick bread that’s perfect for the holidays. The natural sweetness of apples combined with the comforting taste of cinnamon makes this bread an irresistible treat. Whether served as a breakfast option or an afternoon snack, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that will fill your home with the inviting smells of fall and winter. This moist, soft bread is also great for gifting, making it a wonderful holiday tradition.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup apples, peeled and finely chopped
• ½ cup buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the chopped apples, being careful not to overmix.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Old-Fashioned Apple Cinnamon Bread is a heartwarming, flavorful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. With its tender crumb, rich apple flavor, and a hint of cinnamon, this bread is perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s also an excellent gift for friends and family, wrapped in festive packaging. Whether it’s served at breakfast or as a dessert, this bread is sure to make any holiday morning feel special.

Old-Fashioned Holiday Fruit Cake

Old-Fashioned Holiday Fruit Cake is a classic holiday dessert that has stood the test of time. Packed with a variety of dried fruits, nuts, and a generous amount of warm spices, this fruitcake offers a rich, flavorful experience that’s enhanced by a touch of brandy or rum. While fruitcake is often a holiday tradition, this recipe takes the classic to the next level with its moist texture and balanced sweetness. Perfect for gifting or serving at festive gatherings, this fruitcake will become a cherished part of your holiday celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dried apricots, or cherries)
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)
• ¼ cup brandy or rum (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the dried fruit and applesauce over medium heat until the fruit is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the softened fruit mixture, until fully combined.
6. Stir in the nuts and brandy or rum, if using.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the fruitcake cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.

Old-Fashioned Holiday Fruit Cake is a rich and flavorful dessert that embodies the spirit of the holidays. Its dense, spiced texture and combination of dried fruits and nuts make it an unforgettable treat that will impress your guests. Whether you enjoy it fresh or after it has aged a few days, this fruitcake offers deep, complex flavors that develop over time. Its festive appearance and classic taste make it the perfect dessert to share during the holiday season, and it’s sure to bring joy to everyone who enjoys a slice.

Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies

Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies are a classic holiday treat that never goes out of style. With a crisp, buttery texture and a subtle sweetness, these cookies are perfect for holiday baking. Their simple yet irresistible flavor can be enhanced by decorating them with colorful sugar sprinkles or frosting, making them ideal for cookie exchanges or a festive treat for the family. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or served as part of a holiday spread, these sugar cookies are sure to delight.

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for rolling)
• Colored sugar sprinkles or frosting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and beat until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract, if using.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass, and then sprinkle with granulated sugar.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
7. Optionally, decorate the cookies with colored sugar sprinkles or frosting once they have cooled.

Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies are a timeless holiday favorite that brings a touch of sweetness and nostalgia to any celebration. The delicate balance of butter and sugar in these cookies creates a simple yet satisfying treat that pairs beautifully with festive decorations. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as part of a cookie platter, these cookies are always a hit with friends and family, making them a must-have for holiday baking traditions.

Old-Fashioned Cranberry Orange Bread

Old-Fashioned Cranberry Orange Bread is a flavorful and festive quick bread that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright citrus notes of orange. This moist, aromatic bread is perfect for holiday mornings, brunches, or as a sweet gift for loved ones. The blend of sweet and tart flavors, along with a hint of cinnamon, makes this bread a holiday favorite. It’s easy to make and filled with seasonal ingredients, offering a fresh and fruity alternative to more traditional holiday desserts.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (roughly chopped)
• 1 cup orange juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the orange juice. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the chopped cranberries.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Old-Fashioned Cranberry Orange Bread brings together the bright, refreshing flavors of cranberries and orange in a moist, flavorful loaf. This bread is perfect for the holiday season, offering a lovely balance of sweet and tart flavors that complement the festive spirit. Whether served at breakfast or as a snack, it’s a delightful addition to any holiday spread. The combination of fresh fruit and warm spices makes it a memorable treat for family gatherings or a thoughtful homemade gift.

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Fudge

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Fudge is a rich, creamy, and indulgent treat that has been a holiday favorite for generations. With its smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor, this fudge is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether cut into small squares or served as part of a holiday dessert tray, chocolate fudge is a classic that never disappoints. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and cocoa, making it a must-have for your holiday celebrations or as a homemade gift.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: chopped nuts or candy pieces for topping

Instructions:

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter over medium heat. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
5. Optionally, sprinkle chopped nuts or candy pieces on top for added texture and flavor.
6. Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it is set and firm.
7. Once chilled, cut the fudge into small squares and serve.

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Fudge is a decadent and delightful holiday treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Its simplicity and indulgence make it a favorite during the festive season, perfect for sharing with loved ones or wrapping up as a thoughtful gift. Whether you’re a longtime fan of fudge or trying it for the first time, this recipe will surely become a holiday tradition, adding a sweet touch to your celebrations.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!