InspiringKitchen.com Holidays Archives

Dec 30

Cranberry Brie Rosemary Wreath Appetizer

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Appetizer, Holidays, Recipes | No Comments

When it comes to hosting parties – dinner, cocktail, holiday – serving a variety of appetizers is my favorite thing to do. I enjoy being creative in the kitchen and offering bite size selections to my guests allows everyone to try different things. This Cranberry Brie Rosemary Wreath appetizer is beautiful when shared during the holidays with the vibrant red and green colors. Taking advantage of fresh cranberries and the fragrant sprigs of rosemary makes for festive presentation.

Cranberry Wreath

Yet, what I really love about this recipe is the ability to adjust the flavors using different jams, spreads or cheeses.… Read more

Dec 18

Chocolate Brownies with Peppermint Cream and Chocolate Ganache

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Desserts, Holidays, Recipes | No Comments

The holiday season (or any time of year) calls for a memorable sweet treat in taste and appearance. I have just the recipe for you that is a showstopper! These Chocolate Brownies with Peppermint Cream and Chocolate Ganache are rich and decadent. They sound complicated but only you will know how easy they are to make. You will even impress whomever you are serving them to with your baking expertise.

Plus, there is a twist. If you don’t want to bake the brownies from scratch, you can use your favorite box mix and then top with the peppermint cream and chocolate ganache.… Read more

Dec 30

Homemade Bailey’s Irish Cream

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Beverage, Holidays, Recipes | No Comments

One of my favorite ways to celebrate the holiday season is to design special gifts that I make in my own kitchen. I have created everything from baked items to infused oils, candies and bottled drinks. Today I am sharing my recipe for Homemade Bailey’s Irish Cream.

This rich and decadent liqueur is the perfect gift as it is a drink that you indulge in on special occasions. it is also the way to elevate your hot chocolate! Hint hint!

The first time I ever made Homemade Bailey’s Irish Cream was many years ago when my friends were all gathered in my kitchen trying to come up with a way to gift everyone that mattered to us during the holidays.… Read more

Nov 24

vegetable pizza edited southeastern mills

Easy Pepper Cream Vegetable Pizza is Perfect for any Occasion

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Entertaining, Holidays, Recipes | No Comments

This post was sponsored by Southeastern Mills as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

Ever think, I’m going to have a pizza BEFORE dinner? Well, how about if it was made with fresh chopped vegetables, topped with a peppery cream cheese spread and all on a buttery biscuit crust? This easy to make Pepper Cream Vegetable Pizza appetizer is just what you are looking for during the busy holiday season.

I think appetizers are my favorite course when it comes to the menu. Small bites of different flavors and textures.… Read more

Oct 25

Spiced Apple Overnight French Toast Recipe

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Bakeware, Breakfast, Brunch, Holidays, Recipes | 8 Comments

Are you starting to think about recipes for holiday entertaining? This time of year always puts me in the mood for comfort foods and special recipes to celebrate the season. My Spiced Apple Overnight French Toast fits perfectly in both of these categories.

Fall is my favorite time of year with the changing colors of the leaves and cooler air. It is also when my refrigerator becomes full of apples. I always have a variety as some are perfect for eating (Honey Crisp!) and others are great for baking. This recipe uses Granny Smith as they are tart and remain firm even after baking.… Read more

Dec 23

Lemon Zest Cream Cheese Pastry with Candied Lemon

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Entertaining, Holidays, Recipes | No Comments

With guests coming over for the holidays, it’s always fun to have a menu that includes sweet treats that everyone will like. So, yes, lots of chocolate but also desserts with a lighter flavor. I happen to love anything with fruit in it. That’s why I like making these Lemon Zest Cream Cheese Pastry with Candied Lemon treats. They are fragrant, bright and delicious. Plus, so easy to make!

If you love to have friends and family over but worry that your cooking skills didn’t carry through from Mom to you, don’t worry! There are so many recipes that will “wow” your guests that won’t have you googling every ingredient or technique.… Read more

Nov 20

Festive Fun Decorating Gingerbread Houses at Four Seasons Chicago

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Culinary Event, Holidays | 12 Comments

Festive Fun Decorating Gingerbread Houses at Four Seasons Chicago – Holiday festivities abound at the Four Seasons at a gingerbread house decorating party.

With the first snow of the season blanketing the city, the reminder that the holidays are fast approaching brings excitement and lots of energy to the city. Creating traditions is one of the most special things to do this time of year. As locals and tourists look for memorable activities to do while they are preparing for the festivities, the Four Seasons Chicago and Allium Restaurant & Bar are here to help.

Known for their extraordinary service whether accommodations, culinary, relaxation or business/personal gatherings, this luxury brand has created a wish list of holiday events for everyone to enjoy.… Read more

Nov 20

14 Ideas for a Stress-Free Holiday Season of Cooking

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Holidays, Housewares | 7 Comments

Ok, did you realize Thanksgiving is in 6 days?! 6 days! Are you ready? Does hosting a big meal stress you out? I would understand if you say “yes”. All those recipes, grocery shopping, cooking, setting the table and personalities can make for an emotionally charged dinner. But, since I love Thanksgiving and the tradition, I am going to share some secrets with you on how to actually enjoy the day and no longer dread that Thursday in November.

Inspiring Kitchen vegetable turkey platter appetizer final

There are a million websites that will tell you what to make for dinner, how to roast the turkey and how to set the table.… Read more

Oct 31

How to Make a Homemade Mocha Using Instant Coffee

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Foods, Holidays, Recipes | 7 Comments

I love this time of year. The types of food available, the recipes I am able to create with the abundance of seasonal ingredients and the opportunity to cook for those I care about. But it can be so stressful to find the right dishes that accommodate everyone’s dietary preferences. Which is why I am happy to have the opportunity to sit at the table today and get organized for Thanksgiving.

With a big cup of steaming hot mocha, my favorite cookbook authors and my recipe box, I am slowly paging through cookbooks finding recipes that will be a welcome addition to our table.… Read more

Oct 21

My Favorite Pumpkin Dessert Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Desserts, Holidays, Recipes | 5 Comments

It’s that time of year again. Pumpkin. In everything these days. I am totally good with that! I love pumpkin. I use it in sauces, pasta, salads, roast it and of course, bake with it. It’s extremely versatile whether doing sweet or savory dishes.

Every family has recipes that have meaning to them. This one is mine. My Mom has been making these bars since we were kids. In fact, she used to make them and put them in the freezer for when guests came over. The problem is, we discovered that is where she was “hiding” them and ate them frozen.… Read more

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Holidays Archives - InspiringKitchen.com