Easy Holiday Appetizers & Desserts

The holiday season can be one of the best and most overwhelming times of the year. It tends to be a busy one for most, especially moms with all the holiday parties the children attend and family get together’s. I know for me, I used to be exhausted and not looking forward to those once cherished moments. I started finding ways I could still make impressive meals, but by cutting down my time and my stress. These ways included adding essential items from the grocer’s fridge and freezer aisles.

Frozen foods are real food, frozen. By freezing, these companies are preserving these foods at the peak of freshness, from the moment they’re harvested or procured. The freezer aisle comprises 3,700+ different, delicious foods ranging from nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables to decadent ice creams and novelties. All of these frozen and refrigerated foods can be effortlessly used in your holiday recipes without sacrificing the quality and taste.

I have compiled a list of some of my favorite appetizer and dessert recipes that include ingredients from the frozen and refrigerated section. Time to start spending more time with your family, and less time in the kitchen.

Butternut Squash, Ricotta and Sage Crostini

 

There is something about butternut squash that gets me so excited for the holiday season. With Thanksgiving almost here, you may already be trying to plan your menu or maybe you have a fun holiday party to attend next month. Whatever it is, these Butternut Squash, Ricotta and Sage Crostini’s are the perfect appetizer to any event this season. View RECIPE.

 

Mini Spinach Dip Bread Bowls

 

Spinach dip is by far my favorite appetizer to eat on Thanksgiving! I love the idea of making these spinach dip bowls. Less crowding around the table waiting on guests to scoop the dip and a far less clean up. Plus, who wouldn’t enjoy these. I can almost guarantee you will have guests coming up to you telling you how clever you are for making these. View RECIPE

Creamy Fruit Dip Recipe 

 

Fruit makes one of the best and healthiest appetizers and desserts. By serving it with this 3-ingredient fruit dip, you’ll have your guests passing on the pumpkin pie so they can have seconds of this super yummy and creamy fruit dip! View RECIPE

 

Baked Apple Cider Donuts

 

My kids love donuts, I mean who doesn’t? But sometimes because of my hectic mom schedule, I don’t have the time to make them from scratch. I found the simplest alternative that turns out just as delicious with nearly half the time and only three ingredients. View RECIPE

 

Blueberry Pull Apart Bread

 

Nothing like fresh baked goods to start your morning off right. We love frozen blueberries and tend to add them to almost everything: smoothies, waffles, pancakes, bread, etc. I love this recipe from our good friend at Bex Built a Family. It incorporates frozen blueberries so you can bake no matter what season we are in. View RECIPE

 

Toasted Marshmallow Shake

 

My weakness is milkshakes! I love ice cream and finding ways I can create some unique and delicious drinks. By incorporating ice cream found in the freezer section and sour cream found in the refrigerated section, you will have your family begging you to make more! View RECIPE

 

Turkey Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Frosting

 

This is a bonus recipe because it is, hands down one of our new favorite appetizers to bring to holiday parties. Who wouldn’t love meatloaf that looks like a popular dessert? These are wonderful because they are miniature and come out simply delicious and moist! View RECIPE

 

For more ideas, tips and recipes, check out www.EasyMeals.com and Easy Meals on Facebook. You’ll also find all sorts of recipe inspiration from the NFRA on Pinterest.

This is a partnered post on behalf of National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association through the Mom It Forward Blogger Network.