Ellie Wilson
MS, RDN, CDN
It is the most delicious time of the year! Dairy foods have been part of holiday cheer for hundreds of years, from the humble butter cookie to an inspiring Baked Brie Wreath, there is something for everyone and every celebration!
Holidays are a great time to enjoy those special family offerings that only grace the table at this time of year, or to create some new traditions with an exciting new recipe. It can also be a very busy time of year – nutrient rich dairy is ready to energize those busy days and festive evenings!
At home or away, a Christmas Charcuterie Board or a Charcuterie Wreath is a beautiful display of favorite cheeses, premium meats, crackers or bread, fruit and savory snacks. These recipes and tips will help you plan and share the joy of giving with each delicious bite! I love the idea of using cookie cutters to add holiday fun and cheer to the presentation – this is also a fun way for children to help make something special with you. Cut up some extra cheese and put aside some of the nuts, crackers and dried fruit to make a satisfying and easy grab-n-go snack that can fuel you well while you shop and wrap!
Love eggnog? Everyone in my house does! Eggnog is a traditional holiday drink with a rich history, and rich in recipe options, like this Eggnog Cheesecake . It’s a natural ingredient for a holiday bread pudding, and a wonderful breakfast treat in overnight oats with chia seeds and spices! It is also handy to have on hand for family or friends who stop by – children and adults can enjoy it anytime, and it can be a lovely cocktail with a dash of rum or bourbon.
Dairy is also part of holiday traditions for Hanukkah, like this Lemon Ricotta and Cherry Kugel, and Kwanzaa, like these savory Cheddar Cornbread Squares, and other cultural celebrations from around the world. Dairy may be historically central to some recipes and may help bridge traditions in others – it’s versatility is boundless.
Don’t forget the cookies and milk for Santa! You can be sure you will be on Santa’s nice list making one of these Holidairy Magic Milk recipes to serve with those essential cookies! Dairy Ambassador Justin Mesch has created a Dark Chocolate Cherry Magic Milk, and Dairy Ambassador Jessica Maslyn shares her warm Gingerbread Magic Milk. The fun doesn’t stop there – make sure you enter the Holi-Dairy Sweepstakes and vote for your favorite. You could win $1000 and a NesPresso machine, both fun presents for you!
However you celebrate, you will find all the dairy ingredients you need in our stores. Wishing a delicious and peaceful holiday season!