Every product is independently reviewed and selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Winter Exclusive
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Lenox Winter Greetings 6-Piece Dinner Plate Set, 10.75″, Red & Green | $127.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Hydro Flask 40 Oz Travel Tumbler Winter Night | $29.96 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Dixie PerfecTouch (5342DX94) 12 oz Insulated Paper Hot Coffee Cups, Limited Edition Holiday Cups in… | $69.62 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Stology Winter Welcome Decorative Kitchen Rugs Set of 2, Farmhouse Pine Tree Cardinal Kitchen Mat… | $35.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Newbridge Winter Sparkle Snowflake Grey and Silver Vinyl Flannel Backed Tablecloth – Grey Glitter… | $23.24 | Buy on Amazon |
The Winter Solstice marks the longest night and shortest day of the year, a time that has been celebrated for centuries across cultures.
It’s a moment of reflection, gratitude, and the anticipation of brighter days ahead.
As the world around us turns cold and dark, families and friends gather to share warmth, stories, and delicious food.
And what better way to embrace the magic of the Winter Solstice than with a collection of comforting, indulgent, and festive desserts?
From spiced pastries to rich chocolate treats and bright citrus confections, these Winter Solstice dessert recipes honor the seasonal ingredients and warm flavors that evoke the coziness of the holiday.
Whether you’re hosting a solstice feast or simply looking to enjoy the winter chill with something sweet, this collection of 50+ Winter Solstice dessert recipes has something to satisfy every taste.
Let’s explore some of the best desserts to brighten the longest night of the year.
Winter Exclusive Gifts
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
6 Pack Winter Candles for Home Scented, Aromatherapy Candles Gift for Women Men, 42oz 300 Hour Long… | $35.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
TEHOOK Fuzzy Socks for Women, Warm Soft Fluffy Socks Thick Cozy Plush Sock Winter Socks for Women 6… | $19.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Bedsure Soft Throw Blanket for Couch, Fuzzy Blanket Fluffy Sherpa Fleece Blankets & Throws,… | $24.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Mo Cuishle Shiatsu Neck and Shoulder Massager with Heat – Deep Kneading Massage for Relaxation –… | $48.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Womens Fleece Lined Winter Hat, Scarf and Glove Set – With Pom Pom Beanie, Long Scarf and… | $32.99 | Buy on Amazon |
50+ Delightful Winter Solstice Dessert Recipes for Every Celebration
As the Winter Solstice invites us to pause and reflect on the beauty of winter, these 50+ dessert recipes are the perfect way to honor the season’s spirit of warmth and togetherness.
Whether you prefer spiced fruit tarts, decadent chocolate yule logs, or crisp snowflake cookies, these sweet treats are sure to bring joy and comfort to your solstice celebration.
So gather around the hearth, share these delightful desserts with loved ones, and toast to the return of longer days and brighter nights ahead.
Enjoy the warmth and magic of the Winter Solstice with these indulgent, soul-soothing desserts!
Winter Kitchen Exclusive
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Nostalgia Tabletop Indoor Electric S’mores Maker – Smores Kit With Marshmallow Roasting Sticks and 4… | $23.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
KitchekShop Coffee Mug Warmer – Fastest Heating & Highest Temperature, Coffee Cup Warmer for Desk… | $24.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Ninja SL401 DoubleStack XL 2-Basket Air Fryer, DoubleStack Technology Cooks 4 Foods at Once, Compact… | $249.95 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Crock-Pot 20-Ounce Electric Lunch Box, Portable Food Warmer, Blush Pink | Perfect for Travel, Car,… | $39.98 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
YARRAMATE Oil Sprayer for Cooking, 2 in 1 Olive Oil Dispenser Bottle for Kitchen, 16oz/470ml Premium… | $9.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Preview | Product | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Fullstar Vegetable Chopper – Food Chopper – Onion Chopper – Vegetable Slicer & Spiralizer – Veggie… | $29.97 | Buy on Amazon |
Spiced Winter Solstice Gingerbread Cake
This rich and aromatic gingerbread cake is a perfect way to celebrate the Winter Solstice. The combination of warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves fills your kitchen with cozy aromas. Topped with a simple glaze or served with a dollop of whipped cream, this cake is a comforting treat that complements the longest night of the year.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup molasses
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup hot water
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter, molasses, and brown sugar until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing thoroughly.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with hot water. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool before adding any glaze or serving with whipped cream.
This spiced gingerbread cake is a nostalgic, warming dessert that pairs beautifully with a hot drink on a chilly solstice night. The moist texture and deep flavors evoke a sense of warmth, making it the ideal treat to share with loved ones.
Peppermint Dark Chocolate Truffles
These peppermint dark chocolate truffles are luxurious, bite-sized indulgences that perfectly capture the festive spirit of the Winter Solstice. The combination of rich dark chocolate and refreshing peppermint offers a perfect balance of flavors. Easy to make ahead of time, these truffles are a delightful addition to any solstice celebration.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed candy canes or cocoa powder for rolling
Instructions:
- Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and pour the mixture over the chocolate.
- Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and fully melted. Stir in the peppermint extract.
- Cover and refrigerate the chocolate mixture for 1-2 hours until firm.
- Scoop small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Roll each truffle in crushed candy canes or cocoa powder.
- Store the truffles in the fridge until ready to serve.
These peppermint dark chocolate truffles are not only visually appealing but also a delightful way to celebrate winter. The creamy, rich texture of the dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the crispness of peppermint, offering a sophisticated dessert that feels festive and indulgent.
Cranberry Orange Yule Log
Inspired by the classic Yule log, this Cranberry Orange Yule Log is a light and fruity dessert that adds a touch of elegance to your Winter Solstice celebration. The tangy flavor of cranberries complements the brightness of orange zest, while the soft sponge cake and creamy filling provide a balanced sweetness.
Ingredients:
- For the cake:
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Zest of 1 orange
- For the filling:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- ¼ cup orange juice
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
- For the topping:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Beat the eggs and sugar in a large bowl until pale and fluffy. Stir in vanilla and orange zest.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake is springy to the touch.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the cranberry filling by simmering cranberries, orange juice, and sugar over medium heat until the berries burst and the mixture thickens. Let it cool.
- Once the cake is done, roll it up in a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar and let it cool.
- Unroll the cooled cake, spread the whipped cream and cranberry filling evenly, and re-roll the cake tightly.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
This Cranberry Orange Yule Log combines the festive flavors of the season with the tradition of the Yule log, making it a perfect dessert for the Winter Solstice. The fruity filling contrasts with the soft sponge, offering a light yet flavorful dessert that brings joy to the table.
Spiced Pear and Walnut Tart
This Spiced Pear and Walnut Tart is an elegant dessert, perfect for Winter Solstice celebrations. The sweet, juicy pears combined with a buttery crust and crunchy walnuts, along with a hint of warm winter spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, make for a delightful and seasonal treat. It’s a dessert that captures the flavors of winter while bringing warmth to your gathering.
Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water
- For the filling:
- 4 medium pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- To make the crust, mix flour and sugar in a bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the ice water gradually until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough and press it into a tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and blind bake for 15 minutes, until lightly golden.
- In a bowl, toss the pear slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Arrange the spiced pears in the tart shell, sprinkle with chopped walnuts, and drizzle with honey.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the pears are tender and the crust is golden brown.
This tart brings together the earthiness of walnuts and the sweet, spiced pears for a dessert that is both rustic and refined. It’s a dessert that celebrates the winter harvest, making it perfect for Winter Solstice feasting.
Caramelized Apple Bread Pudding
This warm and comforting Caramelized Apple Bread Pudding is a rich and decadent dessert that’s perfect for a Winter Solstice gathering. The bread pudding is soaked in a creamy custard and layered with caramelized apples, giving it a deep, luxurious flavor that feels perfect for winter’s chill.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed bread (preferably day-old)
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the sliced apples. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they are soft and caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add the brown sugar and continue to cook for another 2 minutes. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and cinnamon.
- Add the cubed bread to the milk mixture and let it soak for about 10 minutes.
- Layer the soaked bread and caramelized apples in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
This bread pudding combines the sweetness of caramelized apples with a soft, custard-like texture. The cinnamon and caramel bring out the warmth of the dessert, making it an ideal treat to enjoy with friends and family on the longest night of the year.
Winter Solstice Hot Chocolate Lava Cakes
Rich, decadent, and oozing with molten chocolate, these Winter Solstice Hot Chocolate Lava Cakes are a luxurious dessert to cap off the celebration of the longest night. The individual cakes are baked just until the center remains soft and gooey, releasing a flow of warm chocolate when cut open. It’s a perfect indulgence for cozying up during the winter season.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
- 6 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt
- Cocoa powder and powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease 4 ramekins with butter and dust with cocoa powder.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chocolate together in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add in the chocolate mixture.
- Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the ramekins. Bake for 12-14 minutes, until the edges are firm but the center is still soft.
- Let the cakes cool for 1 minute, then carefully invert them onto plates. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
These hot chocolate lava cakes are a fitting tribute to the warmth and richness of the Winter Solstice. The molten center brings a sense of celebration to the table, while the comforting taste of chocolate creates a satisfying ending to your winter feast.
Pomegranate and Dark Chocolate Tart
This Pomegranate and Dark Chocolate Tart is a beautiful and indulgent dessert that perfectly captures the festive nature of the Winter Solstice. The rich, velvety dark chocolate filling contrasts with the bright, juicy bursts of pomegranate seeds, symbolizing the renewal of light during the longest night. It’s a dessert that feels both luxurious and celebratory, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the filling:
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For topping:
- ½ cup fresh pomegranate seeds
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into a tart pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool.
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled crust and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
- Before serving, sprinkle fresh pomegranate seeds on top and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
The rich chocolate paired with the tartness of the pomegranate makes this a sophisticated, well-balanced dessert for the Winter Solstice. The pomegranate seeds bring a touch of brightness and festivity, symbolizing the light returning after the dark.
Cinnamon Roasted Almond Brittle
Cinnamon Roasted Almond Brittle is a crunchy, flavorful treat that makes an excellent dessert or snack for Winter Solstice gatherings. The deep caramel flavor of the brittle is enhanced by the warmth of cinnamon and the nuttiness of roasted almonds, making it a perfect festive indulgence. Easy to make and beautifully aromatic, this brittle captures the cozy essence of winter.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup roasted almonds
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble.
- Stir in the almonds and cinnamon. Continue cooking until the mixture turns a golden amber color, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in the butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract. The mixture will foam slightly.
- Immediately pour the brittle onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Let it cool completely before breaking it into pieces.
This cinnamon almond brittle offers a delightful crunch and a warming spice that complements the winter season. It’s an easy-to-share treat that pairs well with hot drinks, making it an excellent addition to your Winter Solstice festivities.
Honey-Glazed Fig and Almond Cake
This Honey-Glazed Fig and Almond Cake is a rustic yet elegant dessert, perfect for celebrating the Winter Solstice. The natural sweetness of figs, combined with the nutty flavor of almonds, makes this cake a comforting winter treat. The honey glaze adds a touch of warmth and golden shine, making it a showstopper at any solstice gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dried figs, chopped
- ¼ cup honey (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for glaze)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped figs.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake cools, make the glaze by warming honey and lemon juice in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth.
- Brush the warm glaze over the cake and let it set before serving.
This fig and almond cake, with its rich, earthy flavors and sweet honey glaze, brings a sense of comfort and nourishment to your Winter Solstice feast. The combination of figs and almonds offers a nod to traditional winter ingredients, making this cake a fitting tribute to the season.
Gingerbread Cranberry Trifle
This Gingerbread Cranberry Trifle is a festive and colorful dessert that brings the traditional flavors of the season into a modern presentation. Layers of spiced gingerbread, tart cranberry sauce, and rich whipped cream create a sweet yet tangy combination that’s perfect for Winter Solstice celebrations. The contrasting textures and flavors make each bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients:
- For the gingerbread:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon cloves
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup molasses
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- ½ cup hot water
- For the cranberry sauce:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- For assembly:
- 2 cups whipped cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the molasses and egg, beating well. Slowly add the dry ingredients, alternating with hot water, until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool, then cut into cubes.
- To make the cranberry sauce, combine cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest in a saucepan. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Let cool.
- In a trifle dish or individual serving glasses, layer the gingerbread cubes, cranberry sauce, and whipped cream. Repeat until the dish is filled.
- Dust the top with powdered sugar if desired.
The layers of spicy gingerbread, tart cranberries, and creamy whipped topping make this trifle a beautiful and festive dessert. It’s light yet indulgent, perfect for finishing a Winter Solstice meal with a balance of flavor and texture.
Spiced Hot Chocolate Mousse
This Spiced Hot Chocolate Mousse is a decadent and warming dessert, perfect for winter celebrations like the Winter Solstice. The rich chocolate mousse is infused with winter spices like cinnamon and chili, offering a subtle kick that elevates the traditional chocolate flavor. It’s a smooth, creamy dessert that’s both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream and shaved chocolate for garnish
Instructions:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until light and creamy.
- Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until just simmering. Slowly whisk the hot cream into the egg yolk mixture to temper the eggs.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Stir in the cinnamon, chili powder (if using), and vanilla extract.
- Remove from heat and fold in the melted chocolate until well combined.
- Pour the mousse into serving glasses and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Garnish with whipped cream and shaved chocolate before serving.
This spiced hot chocolate mousse brings together the warmth of cinnamon and the richness of dark chocolate, creating a dessert that is as comforting as it is luxurious. It’s a fitting way to celebrate the warmth and richness of the Winter Solstice season.
Winter Citrus and Almond Galette
This Winter Citrus and Almond Galette is a rustic, yet elegant dessert that brightens up any Winter Solstice table. The tartness of winter citrus paired with the nuttiness of almonds creates a balanced, refreshing, and satisfying dessert. It’s a light and zesty option for those who want to celebrate the flavors of the season without the heaviness of traditional winter desserts.
Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3 tablespoons ice water
- For the filling:
- 3 medium oranges, peeled and sliced
- 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced
- ¼ cup almond flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Sliced almonds for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- To make the crust, combine flour and sugar in a bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough into a circle on a floured surface and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix the almond flour and sugar, then spread this mixture in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border.
- Arrange the citrus slices on top of the almond mixture. Drizzle with honey and lemon juice.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as needed. Brush the edges with beaten egg and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
The tartness of the citrus, balanced with the sweet almond filling and buttery crust, makes this galette a refreshing yet hearty winter dessert. Its rustic charm and seasonal flavors bring brightness and warmth to the Winter Solstice table.
Spiced Pear and Walnut Tart
This Spiced Pear and Walnut Tart is an elegant, seasonal dessert perfect for the Winter Solstice. The buttery crust is filled with spiced poached pears and crunchy walnuts, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves complements the sweetness of the pears, making this a dessert that celebrates the cozy, comforting essence of winter.
Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water
- For the filling:
- 3 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon cloves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix the flour and sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water until the dough comes together. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough and press it into a tart pan. Prick the base with a fork and pre-bake for 10 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine the sliced pears, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the pears soften, about 10 minutes. Let it cool.
- Spread the pear mixture over the tart crust and sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top. Drizzle with honey if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the tart is golden brown.
The combination of warm spices, sweet pears, and crunchy walnuts creates a dessert that feels both luxurious and homey. This tart is a wonderful way to honor the Winter Solstice with ingredients that evoke the comforting warmth of the season.
Chestnut and Chocolate Yule Log
A traditional Yule Log is a festive dessert with deep historical significance, symbolizing the ancient practice of burning a log to celebrate the return of the sun after the Winter Solstice. This Chestnut and Chocolate Yule Log combines rich chocolate and sweet chestnut puree for a decadent and memorable dessert. With its light, sponge-like texture and flavorful filling, it’s a dessert that evokes both tradition and indulgence.
Ingredients:
- For the sponge cake:
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the filling:
- 1 cup chestnut puree
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- For the frosting:
- 1 cup dark chocolate, melted
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Sift in the flour and cocoa powder and fold gently. Add vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly, then roll the cake in a kitchen towel to form the shape.
- For the filling, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form, then fold in the chestnut puree.
- Unroll the sponge cake, spread the chestnut filling, and roll it back up.
- For the frosting, heat the heavy cream and pour it over the melted chocolate. Stir until smooth, then spread it over the cake.
- Decorate the log with a fork to mimic bark and dust with powdered sugar.
This Chestnut and Chocolate Yule Log offers a decadent, creamy filling with a rich chocolate exterior, making it the perfect dessert to close out Winter Solstice celebrations. The traditional design and flavors will impress guests and create a lasting memory.
Maple Pecan Snowflake Cookies
Maple Pecan Snowflake Cookies are a delightful, festive treat for Winter Solstice gatherings. These buttery cookies are flavored with maple syrup and crunchy pecans, giving them a sweet, nutty taste. The snowflake design adds a wintry touch, making them perfect for the season of cold nights and cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the maple syrup and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually add the flour, cinnamon, and chopped pecans, stirring until the dough comes together.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and use snowflake cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool and dust them with powdered sugar for a frosty effect.
These Maple Pecan Snowflake Cookies are both beautiful and delicious, with a tender crumb and rich maple-pecan flavor. They’re perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot tea or cocoa, making them an ideal winter dessert for celebrating the solstice with loved ones.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!