Before we had movies, Christmas lived beatifically in the bindings of books -- from A Christmas Carol to A Child’s Christmas in Wales… down to How the Grinch Stole Christmas! This season, we’re bringing you 9 of our favorite bookish bites that are both memorable and mouth-watering. So, grab your favorite Christmas classic, a decadent mug of steaming hot cocoa, and enjoy one of these 9 literary pairings this season.
"The rooms were very still while the pages were softly turned and the winter sunshine crept in to touch the bright heads and serious faces with a Christmas greeting."
― Louisa May Alcott, Little Women
Let's cook with books!
Christmas Eve Mice
“’Twas the night before Christmas, when all thro’ the house. Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” ― A Visit from St. Nicholas
If you choose to hunker down with your kiddos and read A Visit from St. Nicholas, try this ear-isitable Christmas Eve Mice recipe by @justapinch. Made with Maraschino cherries, Hershey's kisses, and Oreos, these will have the whole house stirring!
Snowman Sugar Cookies
“It was the beginning of the greatest Christmas ever. Little food. No presents. But there was a snowman in their basement.” ― Markus Zusak, The Book Thief
Though not technically a Christmas classic in itself, this wonderful quote reminds us that no matter the circumstance, the best gifts are made with creativity and love, much like these unique Snowman Sugar Cookies by @goboldwithbutter!
How The Grinch Crinkled Christmas Cookies
“And what happened, then? Well, in Whoville, they say – that the Grinch’s small heart grew three sizes that day. And then – the true meaning of Christmas came through, and the Grinch found the strength of ten Grinches, plus two!” ― Dr. Seuss, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Just like the Grinch's heart, these How the Grinch Crinkled Christmas Cookies by TastyKitchen start cold and small but grow three times their size once backed with love!
Dangerously Rich and Creamy Hot Chocolate!
“We drank hot cocoa as thick and rich as melted chocolate bars.” ― Chris Van Allsburg, The Polar Express
If The Polar Express is your favorite Christmas book adventure, then you understand the search for the perfect replica of the train’s hot chocolate! Well, @glitterandgoulash has done it in their recipe for Dangerously Rich and Creamy Hot Chocolate, made from heavy cream, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips.
Get the recipe!
Ugly Sweater Pizza Party
“Instead of telling yourself that you feel nervous, tell yourself you are feeling excited because you have the chance to do something you love.” ― Cassi Eubank, Diary of an Ugly Christmas Sweater
This cute, little story of an ugly Christmas sweater reminds us that no matter what the world says, we each have the power to transform ourselves and our circumstances through thought and action alone. So, in the spirit of Christmas and defiant solidarity, try this delicious and fun recipe for Ugly Sweater Pizza Party by @forkandbeans and be inspired to be the good in the world.
Christmas Rice Krispies Treats: Holiday Ornaments
“She could not believe how lucky she was to have an ornament from Santa's own tree.” ― James Barbato, The Magic Christmas Ornament
This father/daughter penned holiday story, and these Christmas Rice Krispies Treats: Holiday Ornaments by @stacfrommd, remind of the importance of keeping holiday magic and excitement alive and, in turn, sharing it with others. It’s in the little things, like ornaments tied with memories that we cherish and renew our zeal for the season (and life).
Christmas Morning Vegan French Toast with Cranberry Syrup
“That was a very happy breakfast, though they didn't get any of it; and when they went away, leaving comfort behind, I think there were not in all the city four merrier people than the hungry little girls who gave away their breakfasts and contented themselves with bread and milk on Christmas morning.” ― Louisa May Alcott, Little Women
This Christmas Morning Vegan French Toast with Cranberry Syrup by @theendlessmeal is as dreamy as what the March girls woke up to in Little Women. This recipe, however, makes plenty to share, so you won’t need to give yours up in charity.
Tiny Tim’s Plum Pudding Recipe
“That was the pudding! In half a minute Mrs. Cratchit entered—flushed, but smiling proudly—with the pudding, like a speckled cannon-ball, so hard and firm, blazing in half of half-a-quartern of ignited brandy, and bright with Christmas holly stuck into the top.” ― Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol
Just as much as A Christmas Carol is a classic Christmas tradition, so is the pudding! This year, as you flit through the time-old tale of ghosts past and present, take a scoop of @keyingredient recipe for Tiny Tim’s Plum Pudding and remember the true meaning of Christmas and keep it in your heart all year long!
