Recipes Wrapped in Memory

Lately I've been craving the kind of slow, simple holidays I remember from growing up--before packed calendars and full inboxes! These recipes pull me right back to those cozy moments--slower pace, familiar smells, and time in the kitchen with my mom. These are my favorite holiday recipes wrapped in memory.

Cheese Logs

I remember plenty of Christmases with my mom, Granny, and aunts around the kitchen table mixing and rolling these logs all afternoon for them to soon be devoured! I've seen a lot of fancy cheese log recipes but this one is always a hit.

Ingredients

1. 8 oz sharp cheddar, grated

2. 8 oz mild cheddar, grated

3. 8 oz cream cheese, softened

4. 2 T. lemon juice

5. 4 T. dehydrated onion

6. 1/8 tsp garlic powder

7. 10 drops Tobasco sauce

8. Paprika

9. Chili Powder

10. Parsley

    
    

Instructions

1. Combine ingredients 1-7 and mix well.

2. Form into logs and set aside.

3. Combine paprika, chili powder, and parsley in large shallow dish.

4. Roll each log into paprika mixture until completely coated.

5. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refridgerate for at least 4 hours.

6. To serve, remove from plastic wrap and place on festive dish with assortment of crackers.

Georgia's Broccoli Salad

I don't remember a Thanksgiving table without this salad! In the midst of all of the creamy, carb-laden foods this is a welcome side dish!

Ingredients

1. 1 head of broccoli, chopped

2. 1 medium onion, chopped

3. 1 pkg of bacon, cooked and crumbled

4. 1 cup roasted, salted sunflower seeds

5. 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins

6. 1 cup mayo

7. 2 T. white vinegar

8. 1/2 cup sugar

   
   

Instructions

1. Combine ingredients 1-5.

2. For the dressing, combine mayo, vinegar, and sugar.

3. Stir everything together and refrigerate. Great make-ahead recipe!

   
   

Sausage Balls

I LOVE the smell of these baking in the oven. I have vivid memories of this smell as a young kid as my mom and dad where getting ready to have friends and family over. I also seem to remember Eddie Money playing in the background.

Ingredients

1. 1 lb Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage

2. 2 (5.5oz) pkg Bisquick mix

3. 1 lb. sharp cheddar cheese, grated (not the bagged kind!)

   
   

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. Mix all ingredients well with hands and form into 1' balls.

3. Place on cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 20 minutes, or until slightly golden brown and sausage is cooked through.

   
   

Rich Chocolate Lava Cake

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter

• 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 2 eggs

• 2 egg yolks

• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour

• Powdered sugar for dusting

  
  

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins with butter and dust with flour.

2. Melt the butter and chocolate chips together in a microwave or double boiler.

3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until thick. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture and flour until combined.

4. Divide the batter among the ramekins and bake for 12-14 minutes until the edges are firm but the center is soft.

5. Let cool for a minute, then invert onto plates and dust with powdered sugar.

   
   

Why It Impresses

The moment you cut into a chocolate lava cake, the gooey center flows out, creating a dramatic effect that is sure to wow your guests.

No-Bake Cheesecake

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs

• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted

• 2 cups of cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup of powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

• 1 cup of heavy cream

  
  

Instructions

1. Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust.

2. In another bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture.

4. Pour the filling over the crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.

   
   

Why It Impresses

This dessert is creamy and rich without the need for baking. It can be topped with fruit, chocolate, or caramel sauce for added flair.

Elegant Pavlova

Ingredients

• 4 egg whites

• 1 cup of granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon of white vinegar

• 1 cup of heavy cream

• Fresh fruits (berries, kiwi, passion fruit)

  
  

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Fold in vanilla and vinegar.

3. Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a circle with a slight dip in the center.

4. Bake for 1 hour, then turn off the oven and let it cool completely.

5. Whip the heavy cream and spread it over the cooled meringue. Top with fresh fruits.

   
   

Why It Impresses

Pavlova is light and airy, with a crisp exterior and soft interior. The combination of whipped cream and fresh fruits creates a delightful contrast.

Conclusion

Creating mouthwatering desserts for your guests doesn't have to be complicated. With a little creativity and the right recipes, you can impress everyone at your gathering. From interactive chocolate fondue to elegant pavlova, each dessert offers a unique experience that will leave your guests raving. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to wow your friends and family with these delightful treats!