ALONG WITH December’s hustle and bustle, our kitchens come alive with the spirit of the holidays. As friends and families gather, delightful treats take center stage, each dish a connection to cherished traditions. A medley of flavors accompanies these festive celebrations. From rich cocoa by the fireside to the potluck dishes that adorn our tables, these recipes capture the essence of family, love, and togetherness during this special season. GN
Holiday Ham with Cider Glaze: Submitted by Donna Simmons
5-6 lb. ham, cooked, rump or shank
2 c. apple cider or apple juice
1 c. honey
1/2 c. cider vinegar
1/4 c. Dijon mustard
2 t. chili powder
1 T. butter
1/2 t. apple pie spice
Score ham with diagonal cuts in a diamond pattern and place on rack in a shallow roasting pan. Bake until it registers 140°, about 1 1/2-2 hours. In a large saucepan, combine cider, honey, vinegar, mustard, and chili powder. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Boil gently, uncovered, for 15 minutes, stirring often. Remove half of mixture to a small mixing bowl. Stir in butter and 1/4 teaspoon pie spice. Set aside for sauce; use for glaze. Brush ham with glaze the last 20 minutes of cooking. Serve remaining sauce with ham.
Gingerbread Cookies: Submitted by Donna Simmons
3 c. AP flour
1/2 t. baking soda
1 t. baking powder
1 1/2 t. cinnamon
1 1/2 t. ginger
1/2 t. nutmeg
1/2 c. molasses
1/2 c. butter, melted
1/2 c. sugar
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 1/4 c. confectioners sugar
1/4 c. milk
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. In a small bowl, combine molasses, butter, and sugar. Add to flour mixture. Add egg; mix until smooth dough forms. Divide dough in half. Flatten between wax paper. Refrigerate for several hours. Press dough to 1/4” thickness. Cut into the desired shapes. Bake at 350° on a greased cookie sheet for 8-12 minutes. In a medium mixing bowl, combine confectioners sugar and milk. Spread onto cooled cookies.
Hot Cocoa: Submitted by Angela Putman
1/3 c. cocoa
1/3 c. sugar
1/3 c. water
5 c. milk
1/4 t. vanilla
dash salt whipped cream for garnish
In a saucepan, combine cocoa and sugar; add water. Bring to boil and cook 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Lower heat and slowly stir in milk. Heat but do not boil. Stir in vanilla and salt before serving. May top with whipped cream if desired.
