Festive Chocolate Recipes for the Holiday Season

Fudgy Peppermint Brownie Cookies; Photo credit: Jessi Heggan

Chocolate recipes are a staple of holiday traditions, from sipping cocoa beside the fire to whipping up beloved family recipes and stuffing stockings. While sweets normally steal the spotlight when it comes to the favorite ingredient, the versatility of chocolate extends well beyond desserts.

Chocolate can bring a hint of decadence to any meal, adding rich flavor, balance and complexity to meat rubs, sauces and more. If you’re looking for a few fresh ideas for incorporating chocolate into your cooking this season, these sweet and savory recipes will take your holiday menu to the next level.

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Photo credit: Jessi Heggan

Fudgy Peppermint Brownie Cookies

Enjoy all the best parts of a chewy soft-baked cookie and a rich chocolate brownie in one with our Fudgy Peppermint Brownie Cookies. Add a sprinkling of crushed peppermint candies over the top for a festive holiday flair.

Photo credit: Jessi Heggan

Arugula, Pear and Cherry Salad with Chocolate-Balsamic Vinaigrette

You might not expect to find chocolate in a salad, but bittersweet dark chocolate pairs perfectly with sweet fruits and peppery arugula in an Arugula, Pear and Cherry Salad with Chocolate-Balsamic Vinaigrette. Finish off this flavorful salad with chopped pecans and crumbled goat cheese.

See more: Do-It-Yourself Holiday Food Gifts

Photo credit: Jessi Heggan

Mini Turtle Cheesecakes

Mini Turtle Cheesecakes make the perfect bite-sized treat for serving at holiday parties. This decadent recipe includes a sweet graham cracker and pecan crust filled with creamy cheesecake and topped with caramel sauce, chocolate and a pecan half.

Photo credit: Jessi Heggan

Cocoa-Rubbed Strip Steaks with Bacon-Bourbon Gravy

Need a restaurant-worthy dish to wow your holiday dinner guests this season? Try our easy yet impressive Cocoa-Rubbed Strip Steaks with Bacon-Bourbon Gravy. Simply cover strip steaks with a cocoa powder and spice rub, sear them in a cast-iron skillet, and top with a creamy gravy made with bacon, leeks and bourbon.

See more: Hickory Nut Gap Farm Rolled Flank Steak Recipe