As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, there’s nothing like curling up by the fire with a warm, comforting dish to ease into the holiday season. To help you do just that, we’ve gathered 18 cozy winter solstice recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From spiced mulled wine to roast pork loin with apple and thyme glaze, these dishes are designed to warm your belly and your heart.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty soup or a decadent dessert, our collection of winter solstice recipes has something for everyone. And the best part? Each dish is infused with the warmth and comfort of the season, making them perfect for serving at your holiday gathering or simply enjoying on a chilly winter night.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the flavors and traditions of the winter solstice, from classic comfort foods to innovative twists on old favorites. So grab a cup of hot cocoa and get cozy – it’s time to get cooking!
Spiced Mulled Wine with Citrus and Cinnamon
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this fragrant and flavorful spiced mulled wine, infused with citrus and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the wine, sliced oranges and lemons, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it mulled for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Just before serving, stir in the brown sugar and nutmeg.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional orange slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Butternut Squash and Sage Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of sweet butternut squash, savory sage, and creamy coconut milk. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly fall or winter day.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Scoop the roasted squash flesh into the pot and add the chopped sage.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
8. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Roasted Pork Loin with Apple and Thyme Glaze
Tender and flavorful, this roasted pork loin is elevated by a sweet and savory glaze featuring apples and thyme. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless pork loin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 apple, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, onion, garlic, apple, honey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and thyme.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the pork loin for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Dark Chocolate and Orange Winter Solstice Cake
Celebrate the longest night of the year with this rich and decadent Dark Chocolate and Orange Winter Solstice Cake.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons orange zest
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, melt chocolate chips in microwave or over low heat. Stir until smooth.
4. Add softened butter to melted chocolate and mix until combined.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by orange zest, juice, and vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey-Glazed Roasted Root Vegetables
Sweeten up your roasted veggies with this easy and flavorful recipe! This honey-glazed treatment brings out the natural sweetness in root vegetables, perfect for a side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 2-3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together sweet potato, carrots, and parsnip with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Drizzle honey over the vegetables, using your hands or a spatula to coat evenly.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow-Cooked Beef Stew with Red Wine and Herbs
A hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines tender beef, rich red wine, and a medley of aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the red wine, beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef cubes to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
6. Transfer the pot to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Remove the bay leaf and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Sourdough Bread with Rosemary and Sea Salt
This recipe combines the tanginess of sourdough bread with the herbaceous flavor of rosemary and the subtle crunch of sea salt. Perfect for a rustic breakfast or as a side to your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and ripe)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 tsp instant yeast (optional)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tbsp rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Mix starter, flour, and yeast (if using) in a large bowl.
2. Add water and mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise at room temperature (around 72°F/22°C) for 4-6 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Gently shape dough into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Sprinkle rosemary leaves and sea salt on top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry and Walnut Stuffed Acorn Squash
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the tanginess of cranberries and crunch of walnuts, creating a delightful fall-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized acorn squashes (about 1 pound each)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, cranberries, walnuts, and salt.
4. Stuff each squash half with the cranberry-walnut mixture, dividing it evenly between the two.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed squashes and season with pepper.
6. Place the squashes on a baking sheet and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gingerbread Cookies with Lemon Glaze
Warm up your holiday season with these sweet and spicy gingerbread cookies, topped with a tangy lemon glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time:
10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Savory Mushroom and Wild Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole is a perfect blend of earthy flavors, featuring tender wild rice, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s an excellent choice for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic in butter until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth and heavy cream.
5. Combine cooked wild rice, mushroom mixture, and creamy sauce.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pomegranate and Persimmon Winter Salad
Pomegranate and Persimmon Winter Salad Recipe
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of persimmons with the tanginess of pomegranates, perfect for a refreshing winter meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe persimmons, diced
– 1 cup pomegranate arils (fresh or dried)
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced persimmons, pomegranate arils, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted almonds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation: 10 minutes
– Total: 15 minutes
Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of this winter salad!
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions and tangy goat cheese in this rustic tart, perfect for a cozy dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat with olive oil and butter until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Place the caramelized onion mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with crumbled goat cheese and season with salt and pepper.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Brush the pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for golden glaze.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Pear and Almond Cake
Warm up with a delightful combination of sweet pears, aromatic spices, and crunchy almonds in this moist and flavorful cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add diced pear and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in sliced almonds and baking powder. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Serve warm with your favorite topping or enjoy at room temperature.
Hot Chocolate with Homemade Vanilla Whipped Cream
Get cozy on a chilly day with this classic hot chocolate recipe, elevated by the addition of creamy homemade vanilla whipped cream.
Ingredients:
For the Hot Chocolate:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Homemade Vanilla Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until simmering.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
To make the Homemade Vanilla Whipped Cream:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Serve the whipped cream on top of the hot chocolate.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Orange and Cardamom Shortbread Cookies
Experience the sweet and tangy combination of orange zest and cardamom in these crumbly shortbread cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cardamom.
3. Add softened butter to the bowl; mix until just combined, forming a crumbly mixture.
4. Stir in confectioners’ sugar and orange zest.
5. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface; gently knead 2-3 times until it comes together.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Braised Lamb Shanks with Garlic and Rosemary
Braised Lamb Shanks with Garlic and Rosemary Recipe
Succulent lamb shanks slow-cooked in a rich garlic and rosemary sauce, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Add rosemary to the pot and cook for an additional minute.
6. Pour in lamb broth and red wine (if using). Bring to a simmer.
7. Return the lamb shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
8. Braise for 2-3 hours or until tender, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Serve with crusty bread and roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Elevate your side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky goodness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the sprouts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. While the sprouts are cooking, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of water.
8. After the Brussels sprouts have cooked for 15 minutes, brush them with the maple glaze.
9. Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
10. Toss in the crispy bacon pieces and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Warm Apple Cider with Star Anise and Cloves
Elevate your fall festivities with this aromatic and comforting warm apple cider, infused with the warmth of star anise and the depth of cloves.
Ingredients:
– 2 gallons apple cider (chilled)
– 1 whole star anise
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chilled apple cider, star anise, and cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the flavors meld for at least 30 minutes, or until the aroma is pronounced.
4. If desired, add brown sugar to taste and stir until dissolved.
5. Continue to warm the cider for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches your desired temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Summary
Cozy up this winter solstice with these 18 delicious recipes, perfect for long nights. From Spiced Mulled Wine with Citrus and Cinnamon to Braised Lamb Shanks with Garlic and Rosemary, discover a variety of sweet and savory dishes to warm your belly and your heart. Try Creamy Butternut Squash and Sage Soup, Roasted Pork Loin with Apple and Thyme Glaze, or Hot Chocolate with Homemade Vanilla Whipped Cream for a taste of the season’s best. Treat yourself and loved ones to a feast of flavors that will make the winter solstice shine.
