The hassle of navigating around the kitchen and taking turns using the oven is one I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. Don’t get me wrong, I love spending time with my family, but there are many times when I wish my recipe book had more holiday recipes. If you have a gathering on the calendar this season or are just trying to cut down on your time in the kitchen, these recipes have you covered.
Although some of these require a little prep time and a stovetop, no oven is required. From simple appetizers to amazing main courses and bite-sized desserts, these no-bake holiday recipes are an easy way to enjoy the cooking process.
Holiday Charcuterie Board
Charcuterie is a must for every holiday for two reasons—one, it makes a wonderful centerpiece, and two, it takes no time to cook. Just assemble as you like and start snacking!
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
Holiday meals can be hard, fast. I find myself craving fruits and vegetables more often when surrounded by baked hams and mashed potatoes. For that reason, this Brussels sprouts salad is a no-bake holiday recipe everyone should appreciate.
Winter Kale Salad with Apple & Gruyere
Learning how to make kale taste good is the perfect skill for the holiday season. Take this festival green and pair it with sweet toppings like creamy gruyère and a crunchy addition like fresh apples for a quick and easy side salad.
Spicy Greens, Citrus, and Prosciutto Salad
Salty prosciutto deserves more than just a spot on your charcuterie board. This lightly ground meat pairs well with seasonal produce such as blood oranges and grapes, as well as traditional pairings such as parmesan cheese.
Creamy Goat Cheese with Warm Candied Bacon and Dates from Half Baked Harvest
From Europe to Texas, I’ve tried countless cheese dips, and this whipped goat cheese dip from Half Baked Harvest is still one of my favorites. There’s something about the crunchy candied bacon contrasted with the sour and tangy goat cheese that makes for a well-balanced appetizer.
Caprese Christmas Tree from Sparkles to Sprinkles
It doesn’t get more festive (or simpler) than this Caprese Christmas tree. Slice your tomatoes and mozzarella cheese, garnish with basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and you’ll have a show-stopping side.
Cheddar and Onion Cheese Ball from The Modern Proper
I can never say no to a good cheese ball. It’s one of those dishes that I don’t eat all year round, but when it comes to a holiday party, it’s hard to tear me away. Topped with green onions and filled with delicious cheese, this cheese ball will be gone before the main dish hits the table.
May0-Free Deviled Eggs from The Modern Proper
Classic poached eggs can be baked during the holidays. Everyone has their own family recipe, but I’m a big fan of this easy, no-fat option from The Modern Proper. The big plus of this dish is that you can customize the recipe to produce as many or as few eggs as you like.
Pumpkin Gnocchi
If you’re feeling young this holiday season and want to break away from the usual baked goods, this pumpkin gnocchi is full of warm and cozy spices that your guests are sure to “love” (pun intended).
Lamb Meatballs in Tomato Sauce and Fresh Ricotta
I’m not a big fan of turkey or ham, but a few years ago, one of my family members made lamb for our Passover celebration, and I was hooked. This recipe is obviously different from your traditional roast, but it’s an easy way to enjoy this protein without extensive cooking.
Slow-Cooker Pork Loin Roast from the kitchen
My in-laws usually cook beef during the holidays, but my partner and I secretly prefer pork. If you’re interested in trying a new protein, this recipe is a great place to start with a balanced combination of sugar and sugar.
Pumpkin Tiramisu
Individual desserts are perfect for serving a small, yet intimate crowd. Tiramisu is always my answer when I’m looking for a special and easy dessert to whip up during the holidays. It’s great to incorporate the flavors of the season like this recipe does.
No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Bars
As far as no-bake holiday recipes go, these pumpkin pie bars may be right up there. They are delicious and require very little time to prepare in the kitchen, meaning more effort can go into hosting and enjoying time with your friends and family.
No-Bake Brownies
Brownies are the most underrated holiday dessert. Regardless of the cooking time, it is difficult to refuse a wonderful, delicious meal. Plus, there are endless options to add to make these brownies an extra pinch.
Pumpkin and Gingersnap Pie
Although I’m a little partial to Camille’s pumpkin pie with gingersnap crust, this recipe requires no baking, earning it a spot on this list. It has all the same flavors, except for the oven!
Grand Marnier Truffles from Baker by Nature
Serve them after dinner or pack them up as a party favor to take home. No matter how you share these beautiful Marnier truffles, these are a must-make, no-bake holiday dessert.
Rum Balls from My Baking Addiction
Filled with rich chocolate and a hint of spiced rum, this bite-sized treat is a boozy and delicious dessert option to mix things up. Made with vanilla wafers and unsweetened cocoa powder, each bite gives you just the right amount of all the unique flavors.