Winter doesn’t have to mean the end of outdoor adventures, especially when you’re armed with a basket full of cozy, hearty recipes perfect for a cold-weather picnic.
While summer picnics might be all about light salads and refreshing drinks, winter picnics call for warm, comforting dishes that not only taste great but also keep you warm.
Whether you’re heading to a snowy park, planning a day of ice skating, or simply want to enjoy a meal surrounded by the crisp, winter air, we’ve gathered 50+ winter picnic recipes that are perfect for the season.
From savory hand pies and hearty soups to sweet desserts and warm drinks, these recipes will transform your outdoor meal into a cozy, satisfying feast.
These dishes are designed to be easy to transport, simple to prepare ahead of time, and, most importantly, enjoyable when eaten in chilly weather.
With a few of these recipes in your picnic basket, you’ll be ready to embrace the beauty of winter, all while indulging in some delicious, soul-warming food.
Let’s dive into this collection of 50+ recipes that will make your winter picnics truly unforgettable.
50+ Easy and Pleasant Winter Picnic Recipes for Your Family
Winter picnics may seem unconventional, but with the right food and a little preparation, they can be some of the most memorable outdoor experiences you’ll have.
This collection of 50+ winter picnic recipes is designed to help you create meals that not only stand up to the cold but also provide warmth, comfort, and plenty of flavor.
From hot soups and stews to sweet treats and warm beverages, these recipes are perfect for turning a cold day into a cozy outdoor adventure.
With your thermos packed, blanket spread out, and these hearty recipes ready to go, you’ll be able to enjoy all that winter has to offer while indulging in delicious food.
So, the next time the snow falls or the air turns crisp, don’t shy away from a picnic—grab a few of these recipes and make the most of the season!
Winter might just become your new favorite time to picnic.
Roasted Winter Vegetable and Quinoa Salad
This hearty and colorful winter vegetable quinoa salad is perfect for a cozy outdoor picnic. Roasting root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips adds depth and sweetness, while quinoa provides a protein-packed base. It’s a wholesome, warm dish that will keep you energized on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 parsnip, peeled and diced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta (optional)
- Handful of arugula or spinach
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the diced vegetables and onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Roast vegetables for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through until they are tender and caramelized.
- While the vegetables are roasting, cook the quinoa according to the package instructions. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Once the vegetables are done, combine them with the cooked quinoa, arugula, and feta (if using).
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and toss gently to combine.
This roasted vegetable quinoa salad is a wonderful winter picnic option because it can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s nutritious, filling, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal outdoor meal in cold weather.
Hot Spiced Apple Cider
Nothing says winter like a cup of hot spiced apple cider. It’s warm, comforting, and filled with the flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and fresh apples. This drink is perfect for a picnic as it can be kept warm in a thermos and enjoyed while taking in the crisp winter air.
Ingredients:
- 1 gallon apple cider
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tbsp whole cloves
- 1 tbsp whole allspice
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 apples, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and orange slices.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and add the apple slices, nutmeg, and brown sugar (if using). Let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain out the spices and fruit before serving or transferring the cider to a thermos to keep it warm.
This spiced apple cider not only warms you up on a cold day but also fills the air with the scent of cinnamon and cloves. It’s a simple, yet delightful addition to a winter picnic, and it pairs well with sweet or savory treats.
Turkey and Cranberry Picnic Sandwiches
Winter picnic sandwiches can be as comforting as they are flavorful, especially when filled with seasonal ingredients like roasted turkey and cranberry sauce. These sandwiches are easy to make ahead of time and perfect for enjoying while bundled up outdoors.
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of whole-grain bread
- 1/2 lb roasted turkey slices
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 4 tbsp cream cheese
- 1/2 cup baby spinach or arugula
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise. Spread the mixture on 4 slices of bread.
- Spread cream cheese on the other 4 slices of bread.
- Layer roasted turkey slices, spinach or arugula, and cranberry sauce on the mustard-mayo side of the bread.
- Top with the cream cheese-smeared slices of bread.
- Press sandwiches gently and slice them in half. Wrap tightly in parchment paper or foil for easy transport.
These turkey and cranberry sandwiches combine classic holiday flavors into a portable, picnic-friendly meal. They’re filling, easy to prepare, and taste even better when enjoyed surrounded by nature on a crisp winter day.
Creamy Pumpkin Soup in a Thermos
Nothing warms you up on a cold winter day like a creamy, flavorful pumpkin soup. This rich and velvety soup is infused with seasonal spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, making it an ideal winter picnic treat. The best part? It stays warm for hours in a thermos, so you can sip it while enjoying the brisk outdoors.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: roasted pumpkin seeds, sour cream
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add pumpkin puree, broth, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in coconut milk or cream, then simmer for another 5 minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
- Pour the hot soup into a thermos for easy transportation.
This creamy pumpkin soup is comforting and filling, making it the perfect way to warm up during a winter picnic. It pairs well with crusty bread or a sandwich, and the addition of roasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of sour cream adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Savory Ham and Gruyère Hand Pies
Hand pies are an excellent picnic food because they’re portable, filling, and easy to eat on the go. These savory ham and Gruyère hand pies are flaky, buttery, and packed with melty cheese and flavorful ham. They’re a comforting winter picnic treat that can be eaten warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup diced ham
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut it into 6 equal squares.
- In a small bowl, mix diced ham, shredded Gruyère, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon the ham and cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry square.
- Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle and seal the edges by pressing them together with a fork.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
These savory hand pies are the perfect winter picnic snack. They’re portable, easy to pack, and deliciously satisfying. The combination of ham and Gruyère creates a warm, cheesy filling encased in a flaky pastry that’s sure to be a hit at any winter gathering.
Baked Brie with Cranberries and Walnuts
Baked Brie is an indulgent and decadent snack that’s ideal for a winter picnic. When combined with tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, this warm, gooey cheese dish becomes a festive treat that’s simple to prepare and easy to transport. Pair it with crackers or a baguette for a shareable snack in the winter air.
Ingredients:
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (optional)
- Crackers or sliced baguette for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle dried cranberries and chopped walnuts on top of the Brie.
- Drizzle with honey and add rosemary if desired.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is soft and starting to melt.
- Serve immediately with crackers or sliced baguette.
Baked Brie with cranberries and walnuts is the ultimate winter picnic indulgence. The combination of sweet, tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy Brie makes it a crowd-pleasing snack. The best part is how easily it travels – simply wrap it in foil and serve once you arrive at your picnic destination!
Winter Chicken and Vegetable Skewers
These winter-inspired chicken and vegetable skewers are a great option for a cozy picnic. Juicy chicken, hearty winter vegetables like Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes, and a balsamic glaze come together to create a delicious, portable dish. They can be grilled ahead of time and served warm or cold, making them ideal for a winter picnic.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 sweet potato, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 10-12 Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken, sweet potato, onion, and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating between each ingredient.
- Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- If using the oven, bake the skewers on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
These chicken and vegetable skewers are the perfect winter picnic food, combining the savory flavors of roasted vegetables with juicy, flavorful chicken. They’re easy to transport, can be eaten by hand, and provide a balanced meal that’s perfect for a chilly day outdoors.
Hot Chocolate Brownies
A winter picnic isn’t complete without a sweet treat, and these hot chocolate brownies are the ultimate indulgence. Rich and fudgy with a hint of marshmallow topping, they’re inspired by everyone’s favorite winter drink. These brownies are easy to pack and will add a festive touch to any picnic.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Add the eggs and vanilla, stirring until combined. Mix in the flour until smooth, then fold in the chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the mini marshmallows on top and return to the oven until the marshmallows are melted and slightly toasted.
- Let the brownies cool before cutting into squares.
These hot chocolate brownies are rich, gooey, and perfect for a winter picnic. The combination of fudgy chocolate and soft, toasted marshmallows brings the comforting flavors of hot cocoa into a delightful dessert. They’re easy to pack and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth while enjoying the winter air.
Spiced Lamb and Couscous Wraps
These spiced lamb and couscous wraps are a flavorful and hearty option for a winter picnic. The warmly spiced lamb pairs beautifully with the fluffy couscous and refreshing yogurt sauce, all wrapped up in a tortilla. It’s a filling, portable meal that’s perfect for eating outdoors in colder weather.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked couscous
- 4 large tortillas or flatbreads
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint or parsley
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
Instructions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground lamb, breaking it up with a spoon. Add cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
- In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with lemon juice, cucumber, and chopped mint or parsley.
- Lay the tortillas or flatbreads on a flat surface. Spoon cooked couscous down the center of each tortilla, followed by the spiced lamb.
- Drizzle with the yogurt sauce and roll up the wraps tightly.
- Wrap each in foil for easy transportation.
These spiced lamb and couscous wraps are a flavorful and satisfying option for a winter picnic. They’re easy to eat on the go, and the warm spices in the lamb create a comforting meal that pairs beautifully with the refreshing yogurt sauce. The wraps can be eaten warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for a day spent outdoors.
Cheddar and Bacon Scones
Cheddar and bacon scones are a savory and hearty option for a winter picnic. These scones are warm, flaky, and packed with the rich flavors of sharp cheddar and crispy bacon. They’re easy to make ahead and perfect for munching while enjoying the crisp winter air. Pair them with a thermos of hot soup or coffee for the ultimate cozy picnic snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and bacon.
- Gradually add the cream, mixing until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently.
- Roll the dough into a 1-inch-thick circle and cut into 8 wedges.
- Transfer the wedges to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with egg wash and bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
These cheddar and bacon scones are the perfect balance of flaky and savory. They are easy to pack and enjoy while sitting in the warmth of a winter sun. The combination of cheese and bacon provides a comforting, indulgent flavor that pairs beautifully with warm drinks or soups, making your picnic even more enjoyable.
Mulled Wine Poached Pears
Mulled wine poached pears are a sophisticated and warming dessert that adds a touch of elegance to your winter picnic. Poaching the pears in a spiced red wine mixture infuses them with rich flavors like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, creating a beautiful and aromatic treat. They can be served warm or cold, making them a versatile option for a winter outing.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe but firm pears, peeled
- 2 cups red wine
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3-4 cloves
- 1 star anise
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the peeled pears to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Simmer the pears for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even poaching, until tender.
- Remove the pears and let them cool slightly. Continue simmering the liquid for another 10-15 minutes to reduce it to a syrupy consistency.
- Pour the spiced wine syrup over the pears and serve warm or cold.
These mulled wine poached pears are a delightful dessert for a winter picnic. They offer a fragrant, spiced aroma and a juicy, tender bite that pairs perfectly with the rich wine reduction. The pears can be packed in an airtight container and served as a refreshing yet warming treat to enjoy after your meal.
Warm Lentil and Roasted Vegetable Salad
A warm lentil and roasted vegetable salad is a nutritious, hearty, and comforting dish that’s perfect for a winter picnic. Packed with protein-rich lentils, roasted root vegetables, and a tangy dressing, this salad is both filling and flavorful. It travels well and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile addition to your picnic basket.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 sweet potato, diced
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced carrot, sweet potato, and red onion with 1 tbsp olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
- While the vegetables are roasting, cook the lentils in a pot of boiling salted water for 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and remaining olive oil to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables and cooked lentils. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Garnish with fresh parsley.
This warm lentil and roasted vegetable salad is a nutritious, hearty dish that will keep you energized during a winter picnic. The earthy flavors of the lentils and the sweetness of the roasted vegetables blend beautifully with the tangy dressing, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. Pack it in a thermal container or enjoy it at room temperature for a nourishing picnic experience.
Winter Vegetable and Goat Cheese Tart
This winter vegetable and goat cheese tart is a savory, hearty option perfect for a winter picnic. With a flaky, buttery crust and a delicious filling of roasted vegetables and creamy goat cheese, it’s both elegant and easy to transport. The earthy root vegetables make it a satisfying choice for a chilly day outdoors.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 parsnip, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp thyme
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash, parsnip, and red onion with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Evenly distribute the roasted vegetables over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border. Crumble the goat cheese on top.
- Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling and brush with egg wash.
- Bake the tart for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
This winter vegetable and goat cheese tart is a delicious blend of flaky crust, sweet roasted vegetables, and tangy goat cheese. It’s an excellent dish to enjoy at a picnic, as it can be eaten warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile and tasty option for outdoor dining in colder weather.
Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
A thermos of creamy tomato soup paired with bite-sized grilled cheese croutons is the ultimate comfort food for a winter picnic. The rich, tangy tomato soup is warming and flavorful, while the crispy grilled cheese adds a nostalgic touch that’s perfect for dipping or snacking on its own.
Ingredients for Tomato Soup:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredients for Grilled Cheese Croutons:
- 4 slices of bread
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions for Soup:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning if needed.
Instructions for Grilled Cheese Croutons:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place a slice of cheese between two slices of bread, buttered sides out.
- Cook the sandwich in the skillet until golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted.
- Once the sandwich cools, cut it into small cubes to create croutons.
Pack the creamy tomato soup in a thermos and serve with grilled cheese croutons for dipping. This classic combo is not only delicious but also practical for a winter picnic. The hot soup will keep you warm, while the grilled cheese croutons add a fun, flavorful twist to the meal.
Savory Mushroom Hand Pies
These savory mushroom hand pies are packed with a rich filling of sautéed mushrooms, onions, and herbs, all wrapped in a golden, flaky crust. They’re easy to eat on the go, making them an ideal option for a winter picnic. The umami flavor of the mushrooms combined with buttery pastry makes these hand pies both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or portobello)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1/2 cup ricotta or cream cheese
- 1 package refrigerated pie crust
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and become golden, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the ricotta or cream cheese until the filling is creamy and well combined.
- Roll out the pie crust and cut into circles (about 4 inches in diameter).
- Place a spoonful of the mushroom mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Brush with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
These savory mushroom hand pies are perfect for a winter picnic, offering a portable and delicious meal in every bite. The rich mushroom filling combined with the buttery crust creates a warm, hearty snack that can be enjoyed in the cool, crisp air of winter.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
