An Italian favorite, these Prosciutto and Melon Bites are an easy and delicious appetizer recipe perfect for summer entertaining or afternoon snack. This is a classic combination of salty and sweet that will never go out of style. In addition, a drizzle of balsamic glaze takes this prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe to whole new level. 

I don't know about you, but I'm always looking for easy summer appetizers and snacks. Not only are these types of recipes great for entertaining during this time of year, but I find they can also make a really light, delicious dinner. In this post, I want to show you how to make these Prosciutto and Melon Bites.

What makes this such a great appetizer recipe?

• It has that salty meets sweet combination. Salty prosciutto wrapped around sweet and juicy cantaloupe is a flavor pairing that so many love.
• It is easy to make. In just a matter of minutes you can whip up a big platter of these and they'll be perfect for snacking or taking to a picnic.
• It's presentation is gourmet. For something so simple, they look pretty fancy. The balsamic drizzle and fresh basil finish off the look.

Now, this could be one of those no-recipe recipes as the assembly process is pretty simple and straightforward. However, I'm going to walk you through it anyway. 

Want more easy appetizer recipes? Try these:

• Whipped Honey Goat Cheese
• Really Good Chip Dip
• Parmesan Truffle Popcorn
• Hot Chili Cheese Dip
• Seasoned Pretzels

How to Assemble:

For your convenience, I've provided a detailed ingredients list and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

1. Begin by cutting the cantaloupe. Cut in half, remove the seeds with a spoon, slice it into wedges, then remove the outer peel. 

2. Cut each piece of cantaloupe in half, then wrap each half with a piece of prosciutto. Place on a serving platter. 
3. Serve immediately or wrap with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator until ready to serve. 
4. Optional: Just before serving, drizzle with a balsamic glaze or honey.

It's that simple! Now, for a few questions that you may have about these prosciutto and melon bites.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What type of cheese goes best with prosciutto and melon bites?

If you're looking to serve cheese with your prosciutto and melon bites, I would recommend mozzarella or parmesan.

What can I use in place of prosciutto?

Capicola would be a great option if you can't find (or prefer not to use) prosciutto.

Can I use other types of melon?

Of course. Try honeydew or even watermelon.

How do I store the prosciutto and melon bites in the fridge?

Once made, wrap them in plastic wrap. If you're using the balsamic/honey drizzle, add it just before serving.

And that's a WRAP (pun intended) on these Prosciutto and Melon Bites. If you haven’t tasted these before, I encourage you to give them a try. The combination of flavors is delicious, so this appetizer may quickly become a new summer favorite.

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This lemon and blueberry bread bursting with bright and fresh flavors. It's easy to make too! This is a quick bread recipe, which allows you to whip it up in no time for a wonderful breakfast treat or afternoon snack.

Lemon and Blueberry Bread

Quick breads are among my favorite things to bake because they are simple, delicious, and as the name indicates...quick to put together. And this lemon and blueberry bread is no exception.

After I made an amazing cinnamon nut quick bread, I knew I wanted to make a bread with the classic combination of lemon and blueberries! The best thing about sweet bread is that anyone can make it. They are the perfect recipe for beginning bakers to practice their skills on.

I don't know about you, but I enjoy the combination of lemon and blueberry in this recipe. The flavor is refreshing and light, plus it pairs beautifully with a cup of tea.

I also love that this bread is loaded with blueberries. It contains one and a half cups, so you're certain to get a burst of blueberry goodness in every bite.

Also, I should mention that while this is technically called a bread, it's really more of a dessert or snack. Think of it as more similar to a pound cake than what you'd slather peanut butter and jelly on.

Here are the deets on how to make this lemon and blueberry quick bread.

Ingredients

This bread only uses fresh ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Here's more information about what you'll need before you begin:

• All-Purpose Flour: I used all-purpose white flour, but if you don't mind the color change, you can also use wheat. If you cannot have gluten, then use your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
• Sugar: Sweeten the batter with some granulated sugar.
• Baking Powder: This is what gives the bread its airy consistency.
• Salt: This enhances all the other flavors - even the sweet blueberries.
• Eggs: These are very important emulsifiers, mixing and gluing all the ingredients together.
• Milk: Full-fat milk is best, but you can also substitute it with oat or unsweetened plain almond milk.
• Butter: It's best to melt the butter before you use it. If you need a dairy-free recipe, you can use ghee.
• Sour Cream: Full-fat sour cream will give the richest and best flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest adds an irresistible tanginess to the bread.
• Vanilla Extract: Use real vanilla extract for some rich notes.
• Fresh Blueberries: Use fresh blueberries, not frozen ones. If you only have frozen blueberries, that can work too, you'll just need to let them thaw first. Once they do, dry them with a paper towel to remove the excess moisture.

How to Make Lemon and Blueberry Bread:

As with most quick breads, the preparation time for this recipe is only about 10 minutes. You've got to love that!

• Start by combining the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another.
• You might notice that I used sour cream in this quickbread recipe. It might sound odd, but please trust me on this one - it's my secret for a super moist and dense loaf.
• Once the wet and dry ingredients are ready, it's time to combine them. When they are well incorporated, gently stir in the blueberries.
• The last step is to pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and pop that into a preheated oven for a little over an hour. I told you a quick bread is simple to make!

Finito!

Doesn't this lemon and blueberry bread look divine? If you can resist, give the bread time to cool before slicing it. The texture will be better, and you won't risk burning your mouth!

Frequently Asked Questions about Lemon Blueberry Bread

Now that you know how to make lemon blueberry bread recipe, here are some questions people often ask about it. If you don’t see your question in this list, please leave it in the comments. I'll do my best to get back to you ASAP.

Want more quick bread recipes? You've got it! Check out this post HERE for 8 more delicious recipes!

How do you store leftover homemade sweet bread?

The best way to store homemade sweet bread is to keep the air off of it. Store it at room temperature in an airtight container for about three days.

If you want it to last even longer, keep it refrigerated.

Can you freeze lemon blueberry bread?

Yes, this is the perfect bread to freeze. Just bake it like normal, then let it cool completely. Once it is completely cooled down, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place it in a resealable freezer-safe food storage bag.

The bread will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 6 months.

How do you serve lemon blueberry bread?

I like to serve this lemon and blueberry bread with a little salted butter. However, if I'm feeling extra decadent I'll change it up a bit and whip up a simple glaze to drizzle on.

All you need to do is add fresh lemon juice (you don't need much) to a cup of confectioners' sugar until you achieve the desired drizzling consistency. Then grab a fork and drizzle it on to your bread like a pro!

That's a Wrap on Lemon Blueberry Bread!

Once you discover how easy it is to make lemon blueberry bread, you will be baking it up a lot more often. This is a fun bread to share at brunch, eat for breakfast, or take to a bake sale. It is showy and tastes as good as it looks.

No matter how you serve this lemon and blueberry bread, I have a feeling you're going to enjoy it as much as I do.

If you're looking for more quick bread recipes, try these:

• Cinnamon Nut Quick Bread
• Really Good Pumpkin Bread
• Trader Joe's Pancake Bread
• Banana Bread: 3 Ways
• Cinnamon Sour Cream Bread

Love this Recipe and Want More?

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Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

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This Limoncello Martini is a step up from the classic lemon drop martini. Made with vodka, limoncello, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and garnished with a snapdragon flower, this is a sweet, tangy, and bright cocktail perfect for any occasion.

A Tasty Lemon Libation

One of my favorite restaurants just down the road from where I live recently added a limoncello martini to their menu. I ordered it on a recent visit and knew after one sip that I needed to recreate this martini at home. 

As you can see, I did just that and now I want to share it with you. 

The other thing that I was surprised to learn when I ordered this cocktail is that snapdragon flowers are edible. I had to google it right away to confirm and sure enough, they are! It felt a bit serendipitous as I just happen to have a few growing in my backyard.

Since I didn't have the exact recipe that the restaurant used, I had to do some testing. (Which between you and me, I didn't mind at all.) The resulting martini is refreshing and bright with the perfect blend of sweet and tangy.

Want to give it a try? Let's gather the ingredients and I'll walk you through the recipe. 

Want more refreshing martini recipes? Try these:

• Pear Martini
• Strawberry Basil Martini
• Cosmopolitan
• Berry Watermelon Limeade Martini
• Peach Cosmo

Ingredients:

You'll need just a few really good ingredients for this limoncello martini. I always recommend that when you're making a recipe with only a few ingredients, you should use the highest quality you can find for optimum results. 

• Vodka: Grey Goose or Tito's is my go-to, but use what you love. 
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Please skip the little bottle of store-bought lemon juice. (You'll thank me.) Fresh makes all the difference. 
• Limoncello: Limoncello is so delicious and makes a wonderful after-dinner drink. It adds a refreshing lemon flavor to this recipe. 
• Elderflower Liqueur: This is one of my favorite liqueurs, so I was really happy to use it here. It's sweet, floral, and oh so delicious. (I prefer THIS brand.)
• Simple Syrup: As I mention in the recipe, this is optional. If you like your cocktails sweet, add in a splash. You can get my recipe HERE.
• Edible Flower: I'm using a snapdragon because they are growing in my backyard, but any edible flower will do. You can also use a lemon twist. 

How to Make a Lemon Drop Martini:

I'll walk you through the steps here. It's simple as can be! I've also provided a detailed ingredient list and instructions in the printable recipe card below. 

• Add the vodka, limoncello, elderflower liqueur, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. 
• Shake vigorously. 
• Strain into a martini glass. Garnish with an edible flower.

That's it! Now it's time to sit and savor. 

Cheers!

And that's another delicious and refreshing cocktail to add to your entertaining repertoire. I know you're going to love this limoncello martini recipe. It makes a brilliant signature martini you can serve any time of the year. Make it your own with a different garnish, unique martini glasses, and/or some other fun element. 

Enjoy!  

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If you like peaches and enjoy salsa, then you're going to love this spicy peach salsa. Being fresh, sweet, and spicy, it's delicious served with tortilla chips, on your favorite tacos, or on top of your favorite meat or fish. No matter how you enjoy it, you'll be making this unique salsa again and again. 

Let's make spicy peach salsa!

If you've never had peach salsa before, you are in for a treat. Chips with salsa is one of my favorite snacks, so I'm always looking for ways to shake it up. This spicy peach salsa is one delicious way to do just that. Not only does it go well with tortilla chips, but it's also scrumptious on tacos or piled high on your favorite meat or fish. 

My mom and I made this recipe when she was visiting.  Instantly, she was a big fan with the proof being we had it for lunch, dinner, and lunch again!!! It really is that good. And even though it involves a lot of chopping, it's very easy to put together. 

If you like this spicy peach salsa, then you'll love these:

• Sriracha Chicken Tacos
• Tilapia Fish Tacos
• Pulled Pork Sliders
• Jalapeño Margaritas

Before we get into the recipe instructions, we'll gather up the ingredients. 

Spicy Peach Salsa Ingredients:

Here's what you'll need to make this recipe the way I did, but feel free to mix it up and make it your own. 

• fresh peaches - Fresh ripe peaches are best in this recipe.
• jalapeño - Jalapeño makes the salsa spicy. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less.
• green bell pepper - Green pepper adds crunch and flavor.
• red onion - Onion gives a sharp bite of flavor.
• limes - Lime adds a bright freshness.
• tomatoes - It might seem weird to mix peaches and tomatoes, but they work well together. (Tomatoes are technically fruits after all.)
• cilantro - Cilantro is recommended here, but if you're not a fan, you can use parsley or coriander... or just omit the cilantro.
• kosher salt - Salt brings everything together.

How to Prepare:

This is one of those recipes where you don't need many instructions, but I'm going to share them regardless. I've also

 provided a detailed ingredients list and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

1. Add all the ingredients to a medium bowl and toss together to combine. 
2. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper. Add sugar if needed. (I didn't add any sugar to my recipe.) 

3. Serve immediately. 
4. This salsa can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. 

And that's it, my friend. Your spicy peach salsa is ready to be enjoyed however you'd like.

Recipe Notes:

Here are a few other things to note when making this recipe. 

• You may need to drain the excess liquid that occurs while the salsa rests. 
• Not a fan of cilantro? No worries! You can use flat leaf parsley or coriander instead.
• Serve with tortilla chips, spoon into your tacos, or pile onto your favorite protein (chicken, beef, pork, etc.) 

Frequently Asked Questions:

I assume you might have a few questions about this recipe, so I have answered some here. If I missed anything, feel free to ask your question in the comments below. 

Do I use fresh or canned peaches?

You'll want to stick with fresh peaches for this recipe. One of my favorite things about this salsa is how fresh and vibrant it tastes. You'll lose that with canned peaches.

Do you peel the peaches before adding them to the salsa?

Peeling the peaches isn't necessary for this recipe. The skins add color and texture to this dish. With that being said, if you prefer your peaches peeled, go for it.

How can I make this peach salsa spicy?

In the recipe below, I recommend removing the seeds and white pith inside of the jalapeño pepper. This is where the heat is in the jalapeño. If you want things hotter, leave some or all of the pith and seeds in the salsa. Want things even spicier, try using a habanero pepper.

How long can I store peach salsa?

I kept this in the refrigerator for about three days and it was still delicious. It does produce liquid as it sits, so depending on how you like your salsa, you may want to drain off some of that extra liquid.

You're Ready to Eat!

And that's a wrap on this spicy peach salsa. It's a fresh, bright, and yummy recipe I know you're going to love. Give it a try and let me know what you think.

Enjoy! 

Love this recipe and want more?

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Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

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Looking for a fun and festive way to decorate your holiday treats? Try making some sugared cranberries! These little berries are easy to make and add a pop of color and sweetness. They can be used in various recipes, from appetizers to desserts! These sugary cranberries are not only a delicious seasonal treat but also a beautiful garnish to all your holiday dishes and festive cocktails.

Easy-to-make sugared cranberries

Cranberries are super popular during the holiday season and with reason. They are absolutely delicious! You've got:

• Cranberry Sauce
• Champagne Cocktail With Cranberries
• Cranberry Orange Marmalade

And that's just to name a few popular recipes. Cranberries are very versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. What better way to enjoy them than with a little bit of sweetness? These sugared cranberries hit the spot.

Besides eating them as a snack, use these sugary cranberries to add to a holiday look to a cookie tray, cheeseboard, and holiday desserts. You can even use them as a cocktail garnish. This year, I used them to decorate my gingerbread house cake.

All you need to make candied cranberries are three ingredients: white sugar, water, and fresh cranberries! It's really that simple.

Want more cranberry recipes? Try these:

• Cranberry Brie Bites
• Marscapone Cranberry French Toast
• Cranberry Sweet Rolls
• Apple Cranberry Tart
• Cranberry Orange Marmalade

Ingredients for candied cranberries

Here's what you need to make this recipe:

• Cranberries: The main ingredient! You will need 1 bag of fresh cranberries for this recipe.
• Sugar: To make sure the cranberries are perfectly coated, you will need 2 cups of white sugar. Although, using another type of sugar might not be able to dissolve and coat the cranberries as effectively.
• Water: To help the sugar dissolve and coat the cranberries, you will need about 1/2 cup of cold water. It makes this delicious sugary syrup that pairs nicely with the tart cranberries!

How to make sugared cranberries for the holidays:

This recipe can't get any easier. All you need to do is...

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup of sugar with 1/2 cup of water.
• Then, stir until the sugar is dissolved (2-3 minutes) and then remove from the heat.
• After, gently fold in the cranberries until they are well coated.

• Using a colander, drain the liquid from the cranberries.
• Transfer the cranberries to a wire rack and let dry for at least an hour.

• Working in small batches, roll the cranberries in the remaining sugar until they are well coated.
• Let them dry for at least one hour on a wire rack.
• Serve and enjoy!

Note: I’ve provided the exact ingredients and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

How to serve sugared cranberries

First and foremost, they taste great by themselves or as part of a cheese board appetizer. The sugar shell offsets the tart cranberries perfectly for a juicy snack that everyone will love. Serve them with some pepperoni and you're good to go!

My all-time favorite way to serve them? Holiday cocktails! Not only do they add a bit of pizzazz to your drink, but they also look fabulous on a wood skewer placed atop the glass. When sugar comes in contact with a cocktail, it will dissolve and adds this sweet/tart flavor to the drink.

I think they would look especially wonderful with my Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail or Jingle Juice Holiday Punch. I most recently used them when I made my Very Merry Ornamentini!

Beyond those ideas, you can use them to garnish your cookie tray or any seasonal appetizer. Let me show you how easy they are to make!

Frequently asked questions about homemade sugary cranberries

Here are a few questions I've been asked when I have shared this easy cranberry recipe.

How long do sugared cranberries take to make?

The entire process takes about 2 hours, but most of that time is inactive! All you need to do is mix the ingredients together and wait for the cranberries to cool.

How long do sugared cranberries last?

If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, sugared cranberries will last up to two weeks!

Do sugared cranberries need to be refrigerated?

Yes, sugared cranberries should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 5-7 days, but they are best enjoyed within a few days of making them.

Can sugared cranberries be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let the cranberries thaw overnight in the refrigerator before eating.

That's a wrap on easy sugared cranberries!

Pretty simple, right? It's easy to see why these little guys make the perfect holiday garnish. Now you're ready to tackle the holidays with a delicious dessert recipe (that doubles as an adorable and festive village), plus some sparkly cranberries you can use in a variety of ways.

Enjoy and happy holidays!

Enjoy this recipe and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest! 

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

The post How To Make Sugared Cranberries In 3 Easy Steps appeared first on Inspired by Charm.

Welcome to the Ultimate list of 175+ creative Christmas ideas, recipes, crafts, DIY projects, entertaining inspiration, and so much more! This list of Christmas and holiday inspiration will become your new go-to for festive ideas and loads of Christmas cheer!

175+ Creative Christmas Ideas:

If you can believe it, this January will mark 12 years of blogging for me! I recently got a magazine in the mail, and a headline on it was “100+ ways to Holiday.” That made me think: With 12 years of blogging under my belt, I wonder if I could create a post of 100 Christmas Ideas based on things I’ve created and shared here on Inspired by Charm. So I sat down and started brainstorming and typing . . . and I came pretty close.

Below I’m sharing 175+ Christmas Ideas. For the most part, all of these ideas are inspired by things I’ve created here on IBC. My goal with this post is to update it year after year so that it becomes one epic list of creative Christmas ideas you can use to help celebrate the holidays.

I hope you enjoy this list not only as a collection of Inspired by Charm’s content but more importantly as an inspiring source of ideas for a magical, memorable, and joy-filled Christmas!

My Favorite Creative Christmas Ideas:

1. Serve up a cocktail in a Christmas ornament.
2. Get organized and plan ahead. Learn my tips for how I plan my Christmas Home Decor.
3. Make homemade hot cocoa mix to have and share.

4. Bake the best Christmas cookies.
5. Plant the BEST Christmas Party with these creative ideas and tips.
6. Make a yule log for a legendary holiday dessert.

7. Make theses frosted and soft eggnog cookies.
8. Creatively wrap presents for friends and family.
9. Craft Christmas ornaments out of oven bake clay.

10. Print festive gift tags for your holiday wrapping
11. Decorate a rainbow inspired tree.

12. Make homemade White Chocolate Chex Mix with red and green M&Ms to have and share.
13. Make an epic appetizer by crafting a Christmas tree out of cheese.
14. Set a vintage modern Christmas table for your and your friends!

15. Print out adorable Christmas recipe cards to share with friends.
16. Decorate a Christmas tree (or two).
17. Make this easy and crazy delicious three-ingredient holiday punch.

[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id="VbuXSapS" upload-date="2018-10-30T18:09:44.000Z" name="Jingle Juice Holiday Punch - Christmas Cocktails" description="How To Make Jingle Juice Holiday Punch! A delicious Christmas cocktail recipe."]

Get the RECIPE HERE!

18. Listen to a Christmas music playlist.
19. Create lottery ticket Christmas ornaments as gifts.
20. Build and paint colorful wood Christmas trees.

21. DIY these wood stockings for your mantel.
22. Add a Christmas tree to your bedroom.
23. Make a wreath out of cookie cutters.

24. String a wood bead garland.
25. Make a wreath from vintage ornaments.
26. Craft adorable and clever bags for Christmas cookies.

27. Style a festive bar cart... or two.
28. Put together a beautiful and creative holiday place setting.
29. Make the creamiest fudge with only three ingredients.
30. Learn how to add ribbon to your Christmas tree.

31. Make seasoned pretzels for snacking during Hallmark movies.
32. Enjoy White Russians while watching a Christmas parade.
33. Shake up a White Chocolate Peppermint Martini.

34. Bake classic cookies using clothespins.
35. Make homemade bath bombs to give as gifts.
36. Serve cranberry French toast for a holiday breakfast.
37. Bake a cake that looks like a gingerbread house.

38. Make a gingerbread cake in the shape of a tree.
39. Toss up some sugared cranberries for a festive garnish.
40. Craft Mushroom Christmas Tree ornaments out of clay.

38. Turn a chocolate chip cookie into an edible shot glass.
39. Create a beautiful holiday centerpiece for your table.

43. Add cranberries to pecan pie for a flavor upgrade.
44. Up your holiday entertaining with these festive touches.
45. Warm up with a Slow Cooker Sangria.
46. Craft festive ornaments out of concrete.

47. Roll out cute and tasty little cheeseballs.
48. Whip up some homemade eggnog.
49. Assemble these festive Christmas Charcuterie cups.

50. Set up a Bloody Mary Bar.
51. Make the best candy using a slow cooker.
52.  Spike some cherries, then dip them into chocolate.

Well my friends, we made it halfway! Are you ready for more Christmas inspiration? I hope these creative Christmas ideas are giving you a little inspiration to celebrate the holiday season.

I also want to mention that you can do one or one hundred of these ideas. This list of festive Christmas ideas is meant to inspire, not to make you feel overwhelmed. Set aside moments to celebrate and do what makes you happy this Christmas season.

Ready for more Christmas ideas? Let's do this!!

More Festive Christmas Ideas:

53. Jazz up plain ornaments with a paint pen.
54. Print Christmas bottle tags to make gift wrapping fun and easy.
55. Enjoy the twinkle of Christmas lights at night.

56. Add a creative chalkboard holiday label to your serveware.

57. Make a garland or a wreath out of marshmallows.

58. Stir up a holiday sangria mocktail.

59. Wow ‘em with Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake Bars.

60. Dazzle friends and family with Braided Nutella Bread.

61. Tickle taste buds with Cranberry Orange Walnut Tassies.

62. Bake these festive Christmas sprinkle cookie cups.

63. Make red pepper jelly to give as a gift or serve as an appetizer.

64. Make mini cheesecakes in mason jars.

65. Build a tortilla roll-up tree as a tasty holiday appetizer.

66. Decorate your mantel with rustic charm.

67. Bake mini skillet cookie cakes.

68. Make your own mulling spices.

69. Bake a gorgeous Christmas Cake to share with friends and family.

70. Decorate a flocked Christmas tree.

72. Serve a classic quiche to start the day.

71. Whip up this homemade pancake mix for a delicious breakfast or tasty gift idea.

73. Host a White Christmas Celebration.

74. Make Cinnamon Roll Skillet Bread.

75. Decorate a tree in green (or your favorite color).

76. Prepare overnight oats for guests.

77. String popcorn or cranberry garland for the tree.

78. Create a holiday dessert spread with a bar cart.

79. Create a delicious monkey bread in a slow cooker.

80. Add seasonal flavor to a classic old fashioned with cranberries.

81. Bake ugly sweater Christmas cookies.

82. Style a very merry entry table with chalkboard paint.

83. Create easy holiday artwork with washi tape.

84. Craft colorful coasters for a gift.

85. Decorate a tree entirely with vintage ornaments.

86. Or decorate a tree entirely inspired by memories of Christmases past.

87. Make a favorite holiday side dish: Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin.

88. Set up the ultimate holiday beverage cabinet.

89. Serve Berry Stuffed French Toast on Christmas morning.

90. Drive around the neighborhood to look at holiday lights as you enjoy hot cocoa and popcorn.

91. Heat up a batch of mulled wine to serve when company arrives.

92. Gift homemade herb butter and gourmet bread.

93. Shop the thrift stores and antique shops for unique and vintage holiday decorations.

94. Prepare a cheeseball or two in advance for unexpected holiday visitors.

95. Serve cranberry meatballs on Christmas Eve.

96. Attend a holiday concert or musical with a friend.

97. Make THE BEST veggie dip for your holiday crudite.

98. Assemble an array of the BEST Christmas appetizers.

99. Add a gradient rainbow wreath to your front door to welcome guests.

100. Whip up this red and green jalapeño dip in minutes.

101. Wrap something in bacon like these water chestnuts or these stuffed jalapeños.

102. Incorporate a little festive flare to your kitchen for the holidays.

103. Make this pizza bread for an unforgettable holiday appetizer.

104. Add a little festive flare to your mantel for the holidays.

105. Style this olive wreath holiday appetizer to pair with an epic cheese board.

106. Whip up one of my favorite cranberry recipes! (There are 12+ to choose from.)

107. Go antiquing / thrifting to start a collection of vintage Christmas decorations.

108. Create this adorable tree out of vintage ornaments to decorate your wall.

109. Add a string of colorful lights to your mantel for a nostalgic Christmas look.

110. Bake my favorite Christmas cookies: Cream wafers.

111. Craft vintage-inspired gift tags (free printable) with German glass glitter.

112. Whip up a batch of these colorful and delicious Peppermint Kiss Cookies.

113. Take time to craft a handmade holiday gift with these creative ideas.

114. Make classic gingerbread cookies to eat AND decorate your holiday home.

115. Make my FAVORITE pie: Graham Cracker Cream Pie!

116. Shake up these flavorful Chai Spiced White Russians for a holiday treat.

117. Add a little touch of "Merry & Bright" to your fireplace mantel.

118. Create a snow globe-inspired Christmas centerpiece for your table.

119. Set up a hot cocoa bar for impromptu treats.

120. Style a magical Christmas Mantel inspired by candlelight and a favorite holiday tune.

121. Fill a cabinet with festive holiday and Christmas ribbons to create a striking display.

122. Start a vintage Christmas  collection like I did with these plastic fawns on my living room mantel.

123. Bake these colorful and graphic Pinwheel Christmas Cookies.

124. Craft a festive cocktail by stirring up a delicious Holly Jolly Christmas Punch.

125. Craft bottle brush tree drink stirrers to add a festive touch to hot cocoa and cocktails.

126. Turn vintage Christmas graphics into adorable gift bags with this free iron-on printable.

127. Bake Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls for an epic holiday breakfast.

128. Craft a wreath out of gingerbread cookies.

129. Roast and season cashews to create a quick and delicious snack idea for company.

130. Create an epic tiered tray of Christmas sweets and treats.

131. Craft mug huggers out of gingerbread.

132. Style your entryway with festive decor as a holiday welcome to visitor.

132. Shake up a Naughty But Nice Christmas Cocktail.

133. Make the most adorable mushroom-shaped Christmas cookies.

134. Take a moment at night to enjoy the glow of the lights and candles of the holiday season.

135. Make gingerbread ornaments and add them to a small tree in your dining room.

136. Add a mini Christmas tree to your kitchen and decorate with cookie cutters.

137. Craft this DIY Paper Star Garland to decorate your garland or tree.

138. Use vintage Christmas decor to give your holiday decorating a nostalgic touch.

139. Whip up these Salted Caramel Crumb Bars because they are amazingly delicious.

140. Craft a wreath out of marshmallows!

141. Bake Chelsea Buns inspired by the British Baking Show.

142. Style a Winter Wonderland on your fireplace mantel.

143. Make shortbread cookies that are shaped like a wreath.

144. Roll up some flavorful Bourbon Balls for your Christmas Cookie platter.

145. Whip up a batch of my favorite Gingerbread Cookie Bars.

146. Make homemade Biscotti to enjoy and share!

147. Creative a village out of vintage cardboard Putz houses.

148. Get crafty and make homemade Christmas decor.

149. Craft colorful gift tags out of your own abstract art.

150. Impress your guests with this delicious and fancy Almond Swiss Roll.

151. Make Spiced Cranberry Simple Syrup to flavor your holiday cocktails and desserts.

152. Bake up a batch of peppermint sugar cookies.

153. Use old plaid shirts to craft handmade ornaments to gift or for the tree.

154. Make Cranberry Orange Marmalade to eat and to share.

155. Dress your staircase with this festive vintage inspired garland!

156. String a handmade popcorn garland. (It's easier than you think!)

157. Host a holiday cocktail party with these tasty drinks and bites.

158. Host a gift wrapping party.

159. Bake Bourbon Orange Biscotti to enjoy with tea or give as a gift.

160. Craft rustic wreaths out of wire and star anise.

161. Host a holiday cookie swap with friends and family.

162. Whip up an easy breakfast casserole for Christmas morning.

163. Bake a festive and beautiful Gingerbread Swiss Cake Roll.

164. Stir up this easy Pistachio Cranberry White Chocolate Candy.

165. Make a cheese board shaped liked a Christmas tree!

166. Craft a Paper Chain Garland to decorate your tree and mantel.

167. Whip up these Cranberry Brie Bites. They are easy and delicious!

168. Make Seafood Lasagna for a special holiday meal.

169. Stir up this addictively delicious White Chocolate Puff Corn

170. Whip up one of these tasty Christmas snack ideas.

171. Make this Apple Pie Moonshine to serve or give as a gift.

173. Bake and decorate festive donuts for Christmas morning!

174. Whip up the easiest gingerbread cake with crumb topping.

175. Make a delicious Christmas breakfast with one of these fabulous recipes.

176. Make realistic mushrooms out of meringue to decorate a Yule log!

177. Craft peppermint sugar scrub to give as a gift or use as holiday self care.

And LOTS MORE coming soon!

150+ Creative Christmas Ideas Continued...

And that's a wrap! 150+ Christmas ideas, recipes, decorating inspiration, entertaining ideas, and lots of holiday cheer! Did I miss anything? Feel free to add you favorite Christmas ideas and holiday traditions in the comments below.

Be sure to save this post like or add one of the images to your Pinterest board. I originally shared this list of Christmas Ideas in 2018, but will continue to add new ideas every year. I hope this list of holiday inspiration becomes a go-to source of inspiration for you.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and yours!

Enjoy this very merry list and want more?

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Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

The post 175+ Creative Christmas Ideas appeared first on Inspired by Charm.

Looking for a deliciously sweet and sophisticated cocktail to enjoy this holiday season? Look no further than this cherry amaretto cocktail! With its flavor combination of luscious cherries, smooth amaretto, and cream, this drink is sure to be a hit with everyone at your party.

You can never have enough cocktail recipe ideas for the holidays, right? Since I love experimenting with cocktail flavors almost as much as I love Christmas, I have another recipe to share with you. This one is for a Cherry Almond Cocktail.

Creamy amaretto cocktail

Like me, you've probably noticed that creamy drinks - eggnog, Kahlua and Cream, and White Russians - are especially popular around the holidays. Inspired by these classics, I thought about other flavors that would work well in a cream-based cocktail.

Cherry and almond immediately came to mind. It's one of my all-time favorite flavor combinations and perfect for the season.

The combination of cherry brandy and amaretto in this drink makes for an easy-sipping beverage that's wonderfully festive.

To top off this cocktail and make it extra fancy, I added a chocolate covered cherry. You can certainly use store-bought, but I recommend making your own.

Ingredients

The ingredient list for this one is fairly short. Here's what you'll need to whip this tasty amaretto cocktail up:

• cherry brandy - apparently you can make your own, but I keep it simple and just buy this one. ;)
• amaretto
• half and half - get the full fat kind! I've tried the fat free variety and it's...not great. It'll make your drink taste watery rather than decadant.

I like to top this drink with a chocolate covered spiked cherry. While this is certainly optional, I highly recommend giving it a try! To make this, you'll need:

• maraschino cherries with stems - the stems are important!
• liquor - cherry vodka or creme de cacao work well
• shortening
• chocolate chips - I like to use dark chocolate when I make these to serve with this amaretto cocktail, but you can try milk chocolate or white chocolate if you prefer.

Instructions

Let's make our cherry amaretto cocktail! First, grab a short tumbler and fill it with ice.

Then, all you need to do is measure out your ingredients and add them to the glass. Give it a stir to combine, then top with the spiked cherry to serve (see below).

How to make the spiked cherry garnish

A few years ago I shared this recipe for Chocolate Covered Spiked Cherries. What I did was soak the cherries in liqueur for a few days and then dip them in chocolate.

While they are delicious on their own, they also make a delightful garnish. You can get the full details on how to make them here.

I recommend making an entire batch and keeping them on hand. You never know when they might come in handy!

FAQs about this drink

Now that you know how to whip up this tasty cocktail, let me answer a few FAQs you might have.

What is amaretto?

Amaretto is an Italian liqueur made from a base of apricot or almond pits. The flavor is sweet, nutty, and slightly bitter, with notes of cherry and orange.

It is usually served as an after-dinner digestif and can be used in cocktails or even cooking recipes. I use it in my almond swiss roll as well as this delicious birthday cake martini!

How do I store amaretto?

The best way to store amaretto is in a cool, dark place. Since it is an alcoholic spirit, it should not be exposed to direct sunlight or heat. When I'm not using it, I tightly seal the bottle and store it in a cool dry place, like a cabinet.

If you prefer, you can also store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Many people who sip on amaretto by itself prefer it to be chilled, so it just depends how you forsee using it!

What glass should I use to serve a cherry amaretto cocktail?

For easy sipping, serve your cherry amaretto cocktail in a tumbler like I did! If you want a more elegant look, you can use a stemmed coupe or martini glass.

That's a wrap on this cherry amaretto cocktail!

There you have it - one of my favorite Christmas cocktails! Making it truly is so simple. Plus, if you have a well-stocked bar, you probably won't need too many other things to throw this together when company arrives.

If you like this recipe or are looking for something with a bit more kick, then be sure to check out my White Christmas Martini.

Enjoy the holidays!

Enjoy this and want more festive cocktails?

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Looking for an easy fudge recipe that will impress your friends and family this Christmas? Look no further! This 3-ingredient recipe is simple to follow and produces a delicious, creamy fudge every time.

I have decorated mine with festive sugar cake decorations, but you can get creative and use whatever toppings you like. Serve this fudge at your next holiday gathering and watch it disappear!

Homemade Christmas fudge

Right now, my mind is on holiday entertaining. That means all sorts of savory appetizers, festive cocktails, and decadent desserts are dancing in my head. Because the Christmas season can be a busy and stressful time, I'm all about recipes that impress but are simple and quick to make.

Well, lucky for you, this easy fudge recipe is just the ticket you need!

I discovered this fudge recipe about two decades ago, and it's become a family favorite ever since. There's a chance you might know of it too since almost everyone seems to have someone in their life who makes this holiday treat. For me, that person is my mom's friend Kathy.

After so many holiday parties, she taught me her recipe and I've been making it ever since!

What is a good fudge recipe?

When it comes to whipping up these delicious fudge bites, there are several things I absolutely adore about this recipe:

• Unlike a lot of fudge recipes, it's almost impossible to mess up.
• You only need three basic, easy-to-find ingredients.

It's so creamy and delicious. Making and eating it should be a crime (but thankfully it's not!).

Who knew a fudge recipe could be this good!?

Want more festive holiday treats? Try these:

• No-Bake Bourbon Balls
• Christmas Donuts
• Frosted Almond Sugar Cookies
• White Chocolate Puff Corn
• Cherry Walnut Snowball Cookies

Ingredients for Christmas fudge:

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this recipe.

• Candy Melts: To make fudge, you'll need two different kinds of candy melts. I used both white chocolate and milk chocolate. You will need 14 ounces of each.
• Peanut Butter: I love to use peanut butter where I can! I used creamy peanut butter to make this Christmas fudge, but you can substitute any type of nut butter.
• Sugar Cake Decorations: This is optional but adds a festive touch to the fudge. You can find these HERE or in the baking aisle of most grocery stores.

Depending on when you make this homemade fudge, you can decorate it with festive sprinkles, meringues, or other decorations. I decided to go with these beaded Christmas sugar bulbs! It really sets off the holiday vibe.

How to make easy chocolate fudge:

It's super easy to make this dessert. It can even be a fun baking activity to do with kids!

1. Add candy melts and creamy peanut butter to the top of a double boiler.
   • Tip: I don't have a double boiler, so I just place a heatproof glass bowl in a saucepan that has a little water in it. Just make sure the bowl doesn't come in contact with the water.)
2. Heat and stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
3. Pour fudge into a pan lined with a sheet of parchment paper.
4. Allow the fudge to set.
   • Tip: Do not refrigerate. It will become way too stiff and lose its smooth and creamy texture.
5. Share with friends and family and enjoy! I told you it's nearly impossible to mess this up.

And that's it, my friends. I like to dress my fudge up with these sugar cake decorations. They make it look more festive, don't you think? I found the light bulb candies here.

Note: I’ve provided the exact ingredients and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

Frequently asked questions about homemade fudge

Here are a few questions I've been asked when I shared this easy fudge recipe.

Can I mix in other toppings when I make this fudge?

Yes, you can! Feel free to add chopped nuts, dried fruit, or other treats. Just make sure that there aren't any large pieces that will prevent the fudge from setting properly.

Can I melt chocolate chips instead of candy melts?

Yes, but it won’t taste as good and the texture might be different. For the best results, I'd recommend using candy melts.

How long does easy fudge last?

Homemade fudge that is stored at room temperature can last up to four days, although it's best to keep it in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying. You can also store fudge in the refrigerator for a maximum of two weeks.

Can I freeze easy fudge?

Yes, you can! To freeze easy fudge, wrap it up in a few layers of plastic wrap or place it into an air-tight container. Then pop it into the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

That's a wrap on easy Christmas fudge!

That's pretty much it! Once it's completely set, cut the fudge into squares (or whatever shape you like. I sometimes cut them into holiday shapes like stars and Christmas trees).

If you want, you can transfer the fudge to a platter or plate with festive liners (just like I did for my Christmas party) and share it with your friends and family!

This easy fudge recipe is simple enough to make for impromptu gatherings, and it looks so festive with the sugar cake decorations.

I hope you enjoyed this easy Christmas fudge recipe! Be sure to let me know how it went in the comments section below! I'm always looking for new ideas to try out.

Happy Holidays!

LOVE THIS CHRISTMAS COOKIE AND WANT MORE?

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These chocolate-dipped Neapolitan Cookies are layered with flavor that includes coconut, cherry, and chocolate. Classic neapolitan ice cream comes to life in cookie form.  

Cookies with Layers of Flavor: 

I have a fun one for you today. We're making these chocolate-dipped neapolitan cookies. Not only are they layered in color, but each layer also has a different flavor which makes every bite a new experience. 

I've made and shared this neapolitan cookie recipe for Christmas; however, you could make and serve these cookies any time of the year. I mean, talk about a fabulous summer cookie, right? 

The Flavors in These Neapolitan Cookies: 

The traditional flavors of neapolitan ice cream are strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate. In these cookies, we've adjusted the flavor combination and have gone with: 

• cherry: almond extract and maraschino cherries create this flavor
• coconut: shredded sweetened coconut creates this flavor
• chocolate: chocolate syrup and cocoa powder create this flavor

I think this combination is a little more interesting and the flavors work well together. 

Want more flavorful cookies? Try these:

• White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies
• Buddies Kitchen Sink Cookies
• Black and White Pumpkin Cookies
• Shortbread Wreath Cookies
• Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprints

Slice and Bake:

This is a slice-and-bake style cookie which means the dough gets formed into a log, refrigerated (or in this case frozen), and then all you have to do is slice and bake. Love that! 

Oftentimes, slice-and-bake style cookies can be a little lackluster, so I always like to dress them up a bit. In this case, we are dipping them in chocolate. Talk about a fancy cookie! Yes, please!!!

When I previously made slice-and-bake cookies (my Pinwheel Christmas Cookies) I rimmed them in colored glitter before baking. You could totally do that here too if you wanted to skip the chocolate dipping process. 

No matter how you slice it (pun intended), this neapolitan cookie recipe makes a delicious and unique cookie that everyone will be intrigued to try. 

Ready to bake? Let's get straight into the recipe! 

How to Make: 

I will explain the recipe here, but you can find a detailed ingredient list and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

1. Line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with waxed paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. 
3. Cream together the butter and sugar. Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix to combine. 
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until combined. 
5. Divide the dough into three batches. 
6. To the first batch, add the almond extract, diced cherries, and red food coloring. Mix to combine. 

7. Spread evenly into the prepared pan. 
8. To the second batch, add the coconut. Mix to combine. 

9. Spread evenly over the first layer.
10. To the final batch, add the chocolate syrup and cocoa powder. Mix to combine. 

11. Spread over the second layer. 
12. Cover with wax paper and freeze for 4 hours or overnight. 

13. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. 
14. Remove the chilled dough from the pan. 
15. Cut in half lengthwise, then cut each portion of the dough into ¼-inch slices. 
16. Place two inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. 

14. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown. 
15. Transfer to wire racks to cool.
16. While the cookies cool, add the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening to a microwave-safe bowl. 
17. Cook at 30-second intervals, stirring in between until melted. 
18. Dip one end of the cookie into the chocolate. Place on waxed paper. 

All that's left to do is let the chocolate set before packing and storing in an airtight container. 

Voila! Your neapolitan cookies are ready to be enjoyed! There are a few steps involved in making this cookie but it's manageable and not overly difficult.

Slice, Bake, and Enjoy!

I hope you enjoyed these chocolate-dipped Neapolitan cookies. They are a fun and unique recipe perfect for the holiday season or any time of the year.

Happy baking!

Enjoy this cookie recipe and want more?

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Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

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Looking for the perfect holiday punch recipe? This Jingle Juice is sure to be a hit! This cocktail is simple, delicious, and beautiful! Even better? You only need three ingredients to craft this delicious holiday punch recipe that absolutely everyone will love!

One of my favorite things about the holiday season is all of the time spent with family and friends.

With get-togethers to attend and parties at your own place, it's great to have a few delicious go-to recipes in your repertoire. That's why I thought I'd tell you about my favorite (and super easy) drink to make for gatherings: Jingle Juice Holiday Punch.

The Easiest Holiday Punch

A couple of years ago a neighboring town hosted a Christmas open house in all of their little downtown shops. Adults had the option of buying a ticket and enjoying wine or a festive cocktail at each of the stores. I know, it sounds like trouble, but it was such a fun time.

One of the stores served this punch. It was delightful!

When I found out it was made with only three ingredients, I was even more impressed. I have no idea what the store owners called the punch so I decided to name it Jingle Juice because it's a kick to say.

More Holiday Cocktail Recipes

If this isn't the holiday punch you are looking for, or if you just want a few more options, here are some other great beverage options to try!

• Very Merry Ornamentini - cocktail served in an ornament
• Salted Caramel White Russians
• The BEST Mulled Wine
• White Christmas Martini
• Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail - one of my personal favorites
• Crock-Pot Sangria

Jingle Juice Ingredients

As I mentioned above you only need three ingredients to make this Jingle Juice Holiday Punch.

• Whipped Vodka - The one I like is from Pinnacle brand. Smirnoff also makes a Whipped Cream vodka. If you can't find whipped, try vanilla.
• Pink Champagne or Sparkling Rosé - I prefer one on the dry side to cut down on the sweetness of the punch.
• Cherry 7-up - I prefer the regular here, but you can certainly go with diet. If you can't find this, you can also use Sprint Cranberry Zero, Cranberry Ginger Ale, or any berry lemon-lime soda.

How to Make this Holiday Punch

You really don't need an explanation on how to put this together because it's that simple, but I'm going to tell you anyway. Plus, I'll give you some tips on how to fancify the recipe too!

There is also a printable recipe card with instructions at the end of this post.

1. Get a punch bowl or extra large pitcher and fill it with ice.

I decided to get fancy and make super-sized ice cubes (with these molds) that contained cranberries and rosemary. This is totally optional.

Another way to make it a bit more extra is to just toss in some cranberries. However, I think the ice cubes are such a fun touch and keep the holiday punch cold too.

2. Then add your three ingredients.

All you need is whipped vodka, pink champagne (or sparkling Rosé), and a 2-liter bottle of Cherry 7-up. Give it a quick stir and you're ready to go.

3. Pour, sip, and enjoy!

It's really that easy. Isn't that color gorgeous?

The resulting cocktail is delicious and so festive. It's definitely a crowd pleaser.

FAQs about Holiday Punch

I've made this recipe dozens of times over the years. I always get the same questions, so wanted to go ahead and answer them for you here in case you have them too!

Why is it called punch?

I took a deep dive to find the answer to this one! The rumor is that "punch" is from a hindi word that means "five". Punch was first discovered in India and traditionally had 5 ingredients (alcohol, sugar, juice, spice, and water), so the name makes perfect sense!

This punch is even more simple with just 3 ingredients, but we'll still call it punch. ;)

How can I make my holiday punch sweeter?

If you are a fan of drinks that are on the sweeter side, choose sweet pink champagne or sweet sparkling rosé. Prefer a less sweet holiday punch? Opt for a dry sparkling alcohol instead.

Typically, bottles will be labeled as sweet or dry, but if you aren't sure how to tell, ask someone at the liquor store.

What's the best way to serve this punch?

I'm serving up my punch in these simple, yet elegant double old-fashioned glasses. You can find them here.

You could also serve this in a punch bowl or beverage dispenser.

That's a wrap on Jingle Juice!

I hope you enjoyed this Jingle Juice Holiday Punch recipe. It's one of my favorites and I'm certain it will become a go-to for your Christmas entertaining.

Also, be sure to check out my other favorite holiday cocktail recipes here.

You'll definitely want to try my Very Merry Ornamentini. I shared a picture of it below. It's a delicious martini and the presentation is spectacular.

Love this festive cocktail and want more?

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Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

Jingle Juice Holiday Punch Recipe:

The post Jingle Juice Holiday Punch appeared first on Inspired by Charm.

Airy, delicious, and unbelievably realistic, these meringue mushrooms are a showstopper. Whether you're serving them on their own or using them to decorate a confection, everyone will be amazed and delighted. 

Let's Make Mushrooms from Meringue

I've been wanting to make a proper Bûche de Noël for several years now. Since a proper Bûche de Noël features meringue mushrooms, I had to make them too! 

(I will be sharing my Bûche de Noël in the coming days. Stay tuned for that! I'll update this post here once it's live.) 

Why I Love this Recipe: 

There are a few things I love about these meringue mushrooms... 

• First, they look so realistic! I shared them on Instagram and everyone was convinced they were just a plate of mushrooms until they read the description. 
• Second, they are pretty darn delicious. They are crispy, yet melt in your mouth. Plus, the sweetness with the chocolate and a kiss of salt is SO GOOD! 

I just LOVE how they look on my Bûche de Noël.

In previous years, when I made yule log or swiss roll-style cakes, I just used piped melted chocolate mushrooms and/or mushroom cookies to decorate my cakes. They looked adorable, but these meringue mushrooms definitely take it to the next level. 

More Roll Style Cakes:

• Pink Velvet Yule Log
• Gingerbread Swiss Roll
• Festive Almond Swiss Roll
• White Birch Yule log
• Pumpkin Roll

Before getting into the recipe, I want to say that making baked meringues (especially in the shape of mushrooms) is not the easiest recipe for novice bakers.

This is not to discourage you because you can do anything you put your mind to. I just wanted to give you a heads-up in regards to this recipe requiring some general baking know-how and skill. Proceed with care. 

Ingredients:

Here's what you'll need to make this recipe:

• egg whites - I used fresh eggs at room temperature and separated the whites from the yolks. 
• cream of tartar - This is essential as it helps to stabilize the whites. Without it, your meringue will be hollow. 
• kosher salt - Salt in baked goods is a must. It gives a great balance of flavors. 
• vanilla extract - While you may want to reach for clear, I opt for regular as the small kiss of brown color makes the mushrooms look more realistic. 
• unsweetened cocoa powder - You'll use this to create those brown spots/imperfections on your mushroom caps. It helps make the mushrooms look realistic. 
• dark chocolate melting wafers - To ensure that the chocolate sets properly, you'll want to use melting chocolate here rather than just chocolate chips. I use and trust the Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers. 

Gather up your ingredients and let's get baking! 

How to Make Meringue Mushrooms:

I will walk you through the recipe here. I've also provided a printable detailed recipe and ingredient list at the end of this post. 

1. Preheat your oven to 225 degrees F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large clean bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until they are foamy. 
3. Add in the cream of tartar, salt, and vanilla. 
4. Continue beating until soft peaks form. 
5. Slowly begin to sprinkle in the sugar as you continue to beat the egg whites. Beat until you reach stiff peaks. 
6. Transfer the meringue to a large pastry bag fitted with a large round tip. 
7. Pipe out the mushroom caps by squeezing mounds of meringue onto the prepared baking sheets. 

8. Pipe out the mushroom stems by squeezing out the meringue onto the prepared baking sheets and then pulling straight up. (Keep in mind that imperfections and different shapes and sizes will help the mushrooms to look more natural. 
9. Add the cocoa powder to a fine mesh sieve and lightly dust the caps. 

10. Bake for one hour, then set aside to cool completely.
11. Use a small knife to cut the tips off of the top of the stems. 
12. Melt the chocolate melting wafers.
13. Spread the chocolate onto the bottom of the caps, then press the top of a stem into the chocolate. 
14. Place upside down on a crumpled tea towel to allow the chocolate to set. 
15. Repeat with the remaining pieces. 

And that's it! Your meringue mushrooms are ready to enjoy or to use in decorating the confections of your choosing. 

Aren't they cool? Pretty realistic too! I told you. 

How to Store: 

Meringues can be stored at room temperature in a dry location. To avoid trapping any moisture, I would not use an airtight container. 

These meringues cannot be frozen. 

Happy Meringue Making! 

And that's a wrap on these whimsical and tasty meringue mushrooms. Aren't they great fun?

I hope you have the opportunity to make them at some point in your baking journey. The end results are just so rewarding. 

Enjoy! 

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These White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a family favorite! In fact, my family loved this recipe so much that they now refer to them as "crack cookies". If you love soft and chewy cookies with tons of flavor, this is the cookie for you.

While I tend to bake these during the holiday season, they work well any time of the year. You can't go wrong with the irresistible combination of white chocolate and cherry!

In fact, a couple of years ago, I made these particular cookies around Christmas. After my family sampled a few of the cookies, they quickly were deemed their favorite cookie. They are just incredibly delicious and, yes—totally addictive.

Now, not only do I make these cookies every Christmas, but I'm required to make them pretty much anytime our family gets together.

Fair warning: if you make this recipe, your family may have similar demands!

White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

The ingredients for these yummy shortbread cookies are pretty standard. With the exception of maybe 1-2 items, you likely already have these all in your pantry!

• Cherries: yes, these treats are made with real cherries. You'll need maraschino cherries and some of the liquid from the jar too.
• Flour: a basic all-purpose flour will do.
• Sugar: a basic granulated sugar will do.
• Kosher salt: you'll use just a tiny bit, but it helps add a lovely flavor balance to this recipe.
• Unsalted butter: to prep for this recipe, grab your butter and cut it into small cubes. You'll want them to be cold, not softened, however.
• White chocolate: I recommend grabbing a bar of high-quality white chocolate, then finely chopping it rather than using something like white chocolate chips. You'll get a much better flavor this way!
• Almond extract: Opt for pure almond extract and avoid imitation for the best flavor.
• Food coloring: I opt to use a touch of red food coloring to play up the cherry factor. However, feel free to use any other color, or skip the dye totally.
• Shortening: I use Crisco.
• Nonpareils: this is the technical name for those tiny, ball-shaped sprinkles you can see in the photo below. I used white, but you can switch it up if you prefer. You can also grab sprinkles (or be like me and use both!).
• Colored sanding sugar - I think the fine dusting of red sanding sugar gives these cookies even more festivity. Plus, I like the sensory experience of the slight crunch it adds to this soft cookie.

How to Make Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Preheat your oven, and set out all your ingredients.

Combine the flour, sugar, and salt together in a large bowl. Then, cut in the cubed butter by using a pastry blender. If you don't have a pastry blender, see the FAQ section below for alternative methods.

Next, stir in the cherries, some of the chopped white chocolate, and almond extract. If you are using food coloring, add a few drops in here. Then, knead the mixture until it forms a ball. If you find that the mixture is too dry and crumbly, add a tiny bit of cherry juice.

Roll out and shape the dough into 3/4" balls. Place them on an ungreased cookie sheet 2" apart, then flatten them. My trick for doing this is to use a flat-bottomed drinking glass that's been dipped in sugar to press down on the cookies.

Bake them until the centers are set. This takes about 10-12 minutes for me. Allow to cool for a minute or so, then move the cookies to a cooling rack.

While they are cooling, combine the remaining white chocolate with the shortening in a double boiler. Heat and stir until the chocolate is melted. Don't overcook! Dip half the cookie into the icing and then roll it in the nonpareils or dusting sugar. Allow the cookie to cool until the icing is set, then enjoy!

FAQs About Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Now that you know how to make this delicious cookie, let me answer a few FAQs I commonly get about them. Have another question? Drop it in the comments and I'll do my best to get back to you!

What is a shortbread cookie?

Shortbread cookies are a type of cookie made with a simple combination of butter, sugar, and flour.

It's believed that shortbread was first developed in Scotland sometime during the 12th century. It was once referred to as "biscuit bread" because it was made using leftover bits of dough from biscuit making.

Modern shortbread recipes still often include similar ingredients but have been adapted to suit different tastes. Today, you'll find lots of variations of shortbread cookies, including cherry shortbread cookies like the ones I just shared!

Some of my other favorite shortbread cookies include these salted caramel shortbread cookies, these pistachio shortbread cookies with dark chocolate drizzle, and these peanut butter shortbread cookies.

What can I use instead of a pastry blender?

If you don't have a pastry blender (the hand-held tool used to add butter into dough), don't panic. While that's certainly the easiest and most effective way to correctly incorporate butter into the dry ingredients, there are a few alternative methods you can try.

• One option is to use a food processor. You'll want to put it on the lowest setting possible, then do short, quick pulses. Do not overwork the dough or it will become too tough.
• Another option is to use two forks or knives and press the butter into the dry mixture in a criss-cross pattern. This will require quite a bit of elbow grease, but it should work!
• Lastly, you can use a potato masher. To do this, you'll need to work the butter into the flour mixture until it becomes crumbly and resembles coarse sand. Again, just make sure not to overwork it!

Can I freeze cherry shortbread cookies?

Yes, absolutely! While these cookies are best enjoyed fresh, you can definitely store them for later enjoyment. To do this, let your baked cherry shortbread cookies cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or bag.

When you're ready to enjoy them, let the frozen cookies thaw at room temperature before you ice them and dig in!

That's a Wrap on Cherry Shortbread Cookies!

So, if you're looking to indulge your sweet tooth with a classic yet delicious treat, give these cherry shortbread cookies a try.

Whether you're baking them up for yourself or sharing them with friends and family, they'll certainly be a hit. Enjoy!

Enjoy this cookie recipe and want more?

Join the IBC Mailing List to get all of my recipes, projects, and ideas sent straight to your inbox! I hope you’ll also follow along on Instagram and TikTok for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my process. There’s even more inspiration on Facebook and Pinterest! 

Have you tried this recipe? Follow me on Instagram, then share YOUR dish with #myIBC and tag @inspiredbycharm. It’s fun to see how folks are using recipes from IBC.

This recipe was adapted from Better Homes & Gardens.

The post White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies appeared first on Inspired by Charm.