Recipes

Holiday Hosting Boards

Published: 

Recipes/Boards by Sarah Juman-Yassin (Founder of Grazing Platters in the 6ix)

Snowman Cheese Ball
Snowman Cheese Ball Snowman Cheese Ball

Snowman Cheese Ball

The Snowman Cheese Ball is so much fun! What makes it extra special is how interactive it is. Kids absolutely love shaping the snowman, adding the little edible details, and then diving in for a bite. It’s part snack, part activity, and the perfect way to bring families together during the holidays.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened (use full-fat for the richest flavor - Note: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (for a salty kick; feta adds wonderful creaminess)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (these add a fresh bite; feel free to substitute with chives)
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Olives (for the eyes and buttons; black olives work well)
  • Thin pretzel sticks (these will be great for arms and the carrot-like nose)

Directions

  1. Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 cup shredded cheddar, 1/2 cup crumbled feta, 1/4 cup chopped green onions, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy. (Tip: Using a hand mixer can speed things up!)
  2. Shape the Snowman: With clean hands, take the mixture and shape it into a large ball for the snowman’s body and a smaller ball for the head. (Aim for about 2-3 inches for the head and 5-6 inches for the body.)
  3. Assemble the Snowman: Place the larger ball on a serving platter and gently stack the smaller ball on top to form the snowman.
  4. Decorate


Simple Christmas Bruschetta Wreath

This Simple Christmas Bruschetta Wreath is such a beautiful way to kick off any holiday gathering. It brings together classic bruschetta flavours—fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic—with creamy white cheese and crisp baguette slices. It’s festive, effortless, and looks just as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

  • 4 ripe Roma tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
  • 1/2 cup soft white cheese (ricotta or cream cheese)
  • Optional: Grated Parmesan

Directions

  1. Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes until golden and crisp.
  2. Prepare the Tomato Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to rest for 10 minutes to develop its flavors fully.
  3. Assemble the Wreath: Arrange the toasted baguette slices in a circular pattern on a round serving platter to mimic the shape of a festive wreath.
  4. Add White Cheese
  5. Top the Bruschetta: Spoon the tomato and cheese mixture onto each slice, leaving some of the edges exposed for a rustic look.
  6. Decorate the Wreath: Place fresh rosemary sprigs between the slices for a festive garnish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top if desired.


Snow Globe Cupcake

The easiest, most magical holiday dessert hack — and it starts with store-bought cupcakes!

Description

All you need is a pack of vanilla cupcakes, clear fillable ornaments, and a little imagination.

Decorate vanilla cupcakes with sugar decor, white sprinkles or sweetened coconut to look like snow.

Pop the top off your ornament, place it over your cupcake like a globe, and boom — instant winter wonderland!

These are perfect for holiday parties, or your dessert table when you want something that looks professional without the stress.

Enjoy!