15 Instagrams That Will Give You Inspo for How to Set Your Christmas Table

Instagram is the best place to go for inspo of any kind, especially when it comes to holiday decor. You can borrow fabulous ideas with just a simple search of a hashtag and instantly have thousands of relevant posts at your fingertips (#sorrynotsorry, Google). The following tablescapes are here to inspire you to do bigger and better things this Christmas. Scroll on down and get ready for MAJOR holiday tablescape envy.

1. Make It Rein(deer): This playful table setting is perfect for the adults’ or kids’ table, complete with a darling reindeer ornament. (via @melinwonderland)

2. Au Naturale: You have to love a tablescape that is made up of organic elements found right in your backyard. Affordable AND beautiful. (via @loveandhoneywed)

3. Go for the Gold: This gilded table decor is as elegant as it is festive. The contrast of texture, from the faux fur to the sequined reindeer, adds lovely visual depth. (via @haneens_haven)

4. Stay Savory, Add Navy: Navy and gold are a perfect match. Add hand-lettered place holders and a fragrant sprig of rosemary for a personal touch. (via @decorista)

5. Nordic Winter Inspiration: You don’t need a ton of frills to create a gorgeous holiday table theme. Black and white cutout trees and votives set the perfect mood for your Christmas dinner. (via @die.wohnsinnige)

6. Gold Goes Neutral: Rustic meets classic in this grand tablescape fit for a queen. (via @bentleyblonde)

7. Mix Your Metals: Mixed metals is not only a fashion trend for 2015, but it’s also a gorgeous way to dress up your holiday table. (via @bespokedestinationevents)

8. Hold Off on the Holiday Elements: This minimalistic nordic-inspired tablescape is perfect if you’re dining with friends who celebrate different holidays. (via @stylizimoblog)

9. Bold Is Beautiful: Your guests’ moods will instantly lift when they see this colorful, starry tabletop. (via @theconranshoplondon)

10. Trinket Takeout: Adorning your place setting with a tiny trinket for your guests to take home is an adorable and thoughtful touch. (via @deborahrhodestable)

11. Balance Florals With Neutrals: Marsala is the color of the year. Christmas is the perfect time to accentuate it, and this simple tablescape shows that you can make it all about the stunning florals. (via @lindseybrunk)

12. Holiday Hangings: Black and gold are a timeless color combo. Try gifting each guest an ornament to adorn their tree for years to come. (via @k_spruce)

13. Masculine Appeal: Everything about these place settings is perfection: gold flatware, plaid napkins and a tree plank charger. (via @theswanksocial)

14. Red + Green… Says Who?: This GORGEOUS tablescape proves that red and green don’t have to be your go-to holiday colors. Switch it up and go with these chic blue, gold and pink tones. (via @eddieross)

15. Wintry Wishes in Neutrals: Sometimes, simplicity is key. Impress your guests with your pairing of snow white, metallics and a few natural touches. (via @copycatchic)

How pretty are these? Tag us on Instagram so we can see your gorgeous holiday tablescapes!

Nothing gets you in the holiday spirit quite like baking easy Christmas cookies (and making a mess in the kitchen with sugar, flour, and *all* the sprinkles). Thankfully, you don't have to be a trained pastry chef to create the best holiday cookies for Santa. Christmas cookie decorating doesn't necessarily mean sitting down with fancy candy topping and buckets of royal icing. It could be as simple as throwing together some easy Christmas cookie recipes with few ingredients or hacking cake mix to make the dough. Now that you have the confidence to get started, check out these easy Christmas recipes and get to baking!


Fun Cookie Cutters To Make Easy Christmas Cookies More Festive

Real Food Dieticians

Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Gluten-Free)

With marshmallow and chocolate chunks and a pinch of cayenne pepper, these cookies are the sweet delicious kick we want in our holiday cookie. (via Real Food Dietitians)

Clean Cuisine

Gingerbread Cookie Recipe

Here's a healthy but just-as-delicious take on the classic Gingerbread cookie. Gingerbread cookie recipe is delicious and healthy. It’s also gluten free and dairy free with a fresh taste of ginger and molasses. (via Clean Cuisine)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Oreo Ornament Cookies

This no-bake cookie recipe is so easy and clever! Simply use Oreo cookies dipped in melted chocolate and then decorated with more chocolate, festive sprinkles and a Rolo candy to look like your ornament topper. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Julia Frey of Vikalinka

Chocolate Candy Cane Cookie

Turn your holiday candy canes into these chocolate cookies, dipped into melted chocolate, for a festive cookie everyone will love. (via Julia Frey of Vikalinka)

Completely Delicious

Peppermint White Chocolate Chip Cookies

Drizzle your cookies with white chocolate and sprinkle sparkling sugar for a cookie party favorite. (via Completely Delicious)

Cranberry Christmas Cookies

You can make the cookie dough in this recipe ahead of time and freeze it to save you time during the Christmas rush. When you're ready for this baking recipe, just take them out of the freezer and arrange on a baking sheet. Fourteen minutes later, you'll be enjoying one of the best Christmas cookie recipes: warm cranberry white chocolate chunk cookies — filled with melty chocolate chips. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Recipe

Is all that red and green cramping your style? Give typical holiday colors a break with these pink pastel ornament Christmas cookie idea, complete with crushed candy cane sprinkles. Eloise would definitely approve. (via Brit + Co)

The Original Dish

Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookie Sandwiches with Raspberry Jam

These almond-flavored shortbread cookie sandwiches with raspberry jam and milk chocolate will be on your holiday cookie rotation for years to come. (via The Original Dish)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft and chewy and reminiscent of a cinnamon roll. OMG good! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Basic Gingerbread Cookies

This warmly spiced gingerbread cookie dough can act as a base for your favorite holiday shapes and decorations. Personally, we're suckers for this making snuggly sweaters with this easy Christmas cookie recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Hot Cocoa Cookies

Need a cup-shaped cookie to go with your steaming cup of hot cocoa? Try this frosted, easy holiday cookie recipe, made with store-bought ingredients. (via Brit + Co)

This Wife Cooks

Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

Top these peppermint-infused sugar cookies with Hershey's Candy Cane Kisses for your next cookie exchange! (via This Wife Cooks)

Pink Owl Kitchen

Cardamom Butter Cookies

Perfect with a cup of hot cocoa, these cardamom cookies are melt in your mouth! (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Vanilla and Bean

Chocolate Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies (Vegan)

These classic no-bake cookies are super simple and make tasty food gifts! (via Vanilla and Bean)

Woman Scribbles

Marbled Shortbread Cookies

These buttery cookies with coffee caramel and topped with chocolate are a sweet tooth's dream. (via Woman Scribbles)

Feel Good Foodie

Italian Christmas Cookies

These cookies are infused with anise seeds and topped with colorful sprinkles for extra festive fun. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Two Peas and Their Pod

Cranberry Orange White Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

These soft and chewy oatmeal cookies with tart dried cranberries, a hint of fresh orange, and creamy white chocolate are a classic crowd pleaser! (via Two Peas and Their Pod)

Barley & Sage

Espresso Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Add a coffee-flavored twist on classic chocolate crinkles! (via Barley & Sage)

Simon Bajada

Chocolate-Glazed Polish Gingerbread

This recipe from the new cookbook Crumbs: Cookies & Sweets from Around the World by food writer Ben Mims was inspired by a cookie recipe from Poland.

Cinnamon Bun Palmiers

These crunchy, delicate, heart-shaped cookies come together with puff pastry, cream cheese, and a cinnamon sugar coating. (via Brit + Co)

White Chocolate Candy Cane Fortune Cookies

This lightly pink holiday cookie idea is homemade, but in a pinch, just stock up at a Chinese restaurant and dip in white chocolate and crushed candy canes at home. (via Brit + Co)

Best Cookie Christmas Trees

These fun Christmas cookies are sure to wow all your holiday guests, including Santa himself. Plus, it's awesome to add a twist to the Christmas cookie game with zero baking. (via Brit + Co)

Gingerbread Emoji Cookies

Express those fond holiday emotions not with words but with a custom-made emoji expression. (via Brit + Co)

Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies

The holidays can be nutty, but baking Christmas cookies definitely makes things better. These goodies can be rolled out, cut, and decorated to your liking. Plus it makes for a fun date night or girls' day activity. (via Brit + Co)

Animal Cracker Sugar Cookies

Though there aren't any animal crackers in the actual recipe, the addition of honey and oat flour will make you think otherwise. Use the dough for all of your fave rolled or cut cookies. (via Brit + Co)

Oreo Chocolate Christmas Cookie Recipe

Though you can make any cut-and-bake cookies with the chocolate dough, we're partial to using it for these edible hot cocoa mugs. They are finished off with a sprinkle rim, Rudolph face, and candy cane handle. They're so cute they can almost pass for the real thing! (via Brit + Co)

Peppermint Sandwich Easy Christmas Cookies

Who needs store-bought Oreos when you can impress your friends with the homemade version? We also think that the scalloped edges are the perfect finishing touch. (via Brit + Co)

Olde Fashioned Einkorn Gingerbread Cookies

These Christmas cookies can also double as cute decor, at least until they're all gobbled up. Add some powdered sugar before serving or add peppercorn eyes and buttons and bake until all the moisture is gone (around 10 minutes) to display them through the holiday. (via Calico and Twine)

Vegan Raspberry Almond Linzer Cookies

Not only are these cookies tasty but they're extra cute. The hearts are perfect for Valentine's Day but for the holiday season swap your cookie cutters for some Classic Holiday Cookie Cutters. (via Two Spoons)

Slice 'n' Bake Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies + Whipped Buttercream Frosting

It's just not the holiday season without frosted sugar Christmas cookies. Ditch the idea of a perfect cookie and instead, top yours with a fluffy buttercream and whimsical decorations. The messier the better! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Frosted Peppermint Brownie Cookies

Why choose between cookies and brownies if you don't have to? This hybrid is the best of both worlds, with a luscious peppermint frosting on top. It's the thing of our candy cane dreams! It's oh-so-tempting to serve these warm with ice cream in lieu of the frosting! (via Cooking Classy)

Toffee White Chocolate Macadamia Cookies

Buttery toffee, smooth white chocolate, and rich macadamia nuts make these homemade Christmas cookies a natural pairing with hot chocolate. (via Lovely Little Kitchen)

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Cookies

Any combo of cinnamon and sugar tastes like the holidays to us. This easy Christmas cookie is great for all kinds of gatherings and is plain enough that even picky eaters will want one. (via Cozy Cravings)

Eggnog Frosted Chai Snickerdoodle Snowmen

Just when you thought mini Reese's cups couldn't get any better, they make impressively convincing snowmen hats on these unique Christmas cookies. Don't forget to save a couple cups to snack on later! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Ginger Spiced Sugar Cookies

The trick in these cute Christmas cookies is making a depression in the cookies with the bottom of a glass before sticking them in the oven, so you can fill each one with as much icing as you like. Load 'em up! (via The View from Great Island)

Cinnamon Spiced Almond Sugar Cookies

These cookies are made with healthier ingredients (like coconut sugar, cinnamon, and almonds) and are also grain-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free. That means you can gift them to pretty much everyone on your list. (via Cotter Crunch)

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Trees

If you're going to give your kids a cookie, you might as well hide a strawberry on top to balance it out. Dip the strawberry in green candy melts, add sprinkle ornaments, and let it fully harden before attaching it to the cookie with a blanket of white frosting snow. (via Lovely Little Kitchen)

Paleo Caramel Apple Gingersnaps

Gingerbread cookies are a mainstay of the easy holiday cookie table. This recipe is made healthier with dried apples, then drizzled with a paleo-friendly caramel sauce. (via Food Faith Fitness)

Hot Chocolate Cookies

Turn your favorite cup of cocoa into a festive + easy Christmas cookie with this recipe. This is definitely for the chocolate lovers out there — it's got double the chocolate and a cocoa powder topping for good measure. (via Amanda Wilens)

Eggnog Cookies

If you don't usually love eggnog, give this recipe a try before you write it off completely. There's only a touch of spice, but it's just enough to keep things interesting. (via Half Full)

No-Roll, Softbatch Sprinkles Cookies

If you love cookies but dread rolling out the dough and meticulously decorating them, use this recipe. The dough doesn't need to be rolled out before you form the cookies, and since the sprinkles go directly into the dough, the decorations are already done. (via Averie Cooks)

Chewy Molasses Cookies

Soft and chewy molasses cookies are a hallmark of the holidays. And unlike some, these don't need to be chilled before baking, so they can go from the bowl to the oven to your mouth in record time. (via A Cookie Named Desire)

Gluten-Free Chocolate Turtle Thumbprint Cookies

Chocolate, caramel, and nuts form the traditional turtle cookie — but these are a deliciously gluten-free version. (via The Skinny Fork)

Easiest Christmas Cookie: Whipped Shortbread

If you're more of a visual learner, follow along with the easiest Christmas cookie recipe of all, the whipped shortbread cookie.

Check out our online baking classes for more easy Christmas cookie recipe ideas and inspiration and follow us on Pinterest for more recipes!

Additional reporting by Justina Huddleston and Sara Cagle

This post has been updated.

Lead image via Half Baked Harvest

Okay let's just address the elephant in the room: no, I didn't love Nobody Wants This, despite the fact I'm a massive rom-com fan. (Don't worry, I absolutely still jumped on the Adam Brody Hot Rabbi train). After its premiere on September 26, 2024, the show racked up 10.3 million views in its first week, and quickly got renewed for season 2. But despite the insane popularity, I really didn't like it as much as I thought I would.

That's not to say I hated the show. There were definitely moments that gave me butterflies (hello INSANE first kiss!), and I enjoyed moments with Joanne and Morgan almost more than the rest of the series because they reminded me how much chaos my sister and I get into. Plus, as a victim of the abysmal online dating scene, I did appreciate the way the show emphasized how much dating can suck right now.

And that's the best thing about art — it's supposed to make you think and analyze and feel. And I definitely came away from Nobody Wants This with some interesting feelings.

Here's my very-subjective take on Nobody Wants This...and why I don't really get the hype.

1. ​I don't really see myself in Joanne.

Netflix

As someone who took solace in books and TV shows from an early age (a silver lining to the isolation of homeschooling), I've always felt drawn to characters that simultaneously make me feel seen and inspire me to be a better version of myself. But Kristin Bell's Joanne in Nobody Wants This left me feeling alienated rather than included.

I'm naturally quieter and more timid in large social situations so Joanne's brash, sharper edges caught me a little off guard — and honestly reminded me of past party environments I really didn't enjoy. "In my opinion Joanne is a generic, predictable character of a baddie who hides her insecurities behind the attitude," @niemownikomu says on Reddit.

But even though Joanne and I are so different, I was very touched by the contrast between her larger-than-life personality and her fear that romantic partners would be turned off by her independence. I definitely get that.

2. ​Teasing a romance between Morgan & Sasha is totally inappropriate.

Netflix

One detail that honestly pissed me off about Nobody Wants This was the will-they-won't-they between Morgan and Noah's married (!!!) brother Sasha. Romanticizing cheating on your spouse is never hot or spicy to me, and I breathed a HUGE sigh of relief when creator Erin Foster announced season 2 was ditching that would-be relationship.

3. ​It's way too early for Noah to be in a new relationship.

Stefania Rosini/Netflix

@the_yv_edit on TikTok made an entire video about Noah's red flags, revolving around the idea that a back & forth and up & down romance might be entertaining, but it'll drain you in the long run. And one opinion that kept coming up in the comments was that Noah shouldn't even be thinking about starting something with Joanne. "Him jumping into the relationship was the first and biggest red flag," one user says.

​4. Noah either doesn't do that much in 'Nobody Wants This'...

Netflix

One more thing that @the_yv_editpointed out was that Noah doesn't actually do anything that extraordinary for her. He walks her to her car after the dinner party in the pilot, and they have great communication (thank goodness, I'm all for romanticizing great communication), but that should be the bare minimum people!! Plus did we just gloss over the fact he literally hid her when she came to camp?!

5. Or he goes WAY overboard.

Netflix

And when Noah does ditch her at camp, and Joanne leaves for her work dinner, he winds up at the restaurant (sweet)"but then HE SHOULD HAVE LEFT. Not pulled out candles, commandeered a table, and done the Shabbat ritual in front of her CLIENTS," lizzardmuzic says on Reddit. "I was cringing the whole time and thought it would be an issue, but I guess it was supposed to be a huge romantic gesture? I'm pissed. Everyone in this sub thinks Noah is too perfect, but I don't like him much. If anything, I think they wrote Joanne too perfect."

6. The 'Nobody Wants This' ending left me more stressed than hopeful.

Saeed Adyani/Netflix

This is probably my Type-A oldest daughter realism kicking in, but I can't stop thinking about the end of Nobody Wants This. Considering romantic chemistry only lasts a few years, giving up your life-long dreams to see if a relationship works out really stressed me out. "It was very enjoyable. I just think in reality when the heat cools down as it inevitably does in these kind of relationships somewhere in his life he would truly regret his choice!" Reddit user Artistic_Incident569 says.

But that's what Nobody Wants This is all about right? Taking huge risks and turning your life upside down for love. And I'll admit that that in and of itself is pretty romantic.

What did you think about Nobody Wants This? Let us know what you're excited to see in season 2 on Facebook and read up on 5 Shows That Are (Almost) As Good As Nobody Wants This for even more.

There are almost as many Christmas Eve dinner ideas as there are cuisines. And that's a good thing, because you can't expect to power through Santa's big night on Christmas cookieand cocktail recipes alone (as delicious as that actually sounds right now). Your house may be the kind to appreciate some Christmas Eve buffet menu ideas. Or perhaps dinner options to eat in your PJs is what you and your loved ones are after. Whatever your style is, here are 50 recipes for a Christmas Eve spread that will put a spring in your step when you roll out of bed Christmas Day.

STARTERS

The Real Food Dietitians

Whipped Feta Dip With Roasted Olives

Go easy on yourself this holiday with this Mediterranean-inspired dip that takes just minutes to make! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Clean Cuisine

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms

Serve these party-appropriate stuffed mushrooms made with cheese, peppers, and fresh herbs. (via Clean Cuisine)

Averie Cooks

Antipasto Tree

Turn your charcuterie board ingredients into a festive tree with mozzarella cheese, olives, pepperoncini peppers, and fresh rosemary! (via Averie Cooks)

Damn Delicious

Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus

This veggie side is super simple, calling for just two ingredients and 10 minutes of prep work. Throw them in a skillet right before showtime and let the prosciutto get nice and crisp while the asparagus turns bright green and tender. They turn out perfect every time, trust us. (via Damn Delicious)

Kitchen Gidget

Puerto Rican Papas Rellenas

There's nothing more tasty on earth than crispy potato croquettes, unless it's potato croquettes stuffed with savory picadillo. Prepare for the onslaught, because *everyone* is going to want this Christmas Eve dinner menu idea. (via Kitchen Gidget)

This Wife Cooks

Red Onion Dip

Kick your guests' tastebuds in gear with this easy and delicious dip! (via This Wife Cooks)

Fake Ginger

Maple Pecan Baked Brie

Baked brie is so ooey-gooey delicious that it's definitely one of our favorite Christmas Eve dishes, and this one calls for ingredients you probably already have on hand. Serve it as an appetizer with a crisp white wine or in place of rolls at the table. It's always a crowd pleaser and goes great with dessert. (via Fake Ginger)

Brit + Co

Bacon Pastry Twists + Beer Cheese Dip

It doesn't have to be a game day to enjoy the this tasty Christmas Eve food idea. Serve these appetizers to everyone before dinner, or snack on them as you're preparing the rest of the food. Either way, you'll love this recipe! (Brit + Co)

Delicious Christmas Dinner Side Dishes

Brit + Co

Creamy, Cheesy Gratin

With sweet potatoes, Gruyère, cream, and sage all mixed in together, this is one easy Christmas Eve dinner dish (or Christmas brunch idea) that you'll never leave off your holiday menu ever again. (via Brit + Co)

Crowded Kitchen

Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate and Candied Pecans

This shaved Brussels sprout salad with pomegranate, candied pecans and a lemon dijon vinaigrette went viral and is perfect for potlucks! (via Crowded Kitchen)

Hello Little Home

Sourdough Stuffing

This vegetarian stuffing is easy and loaded with flavor, making it perfect for your Christmas feast! (via Hello Little Home)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Skip the box in favor of this homemade recipe that takes less than 30 minutes! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Feel Good Foodie

Kale Pear Salad with Candied Walnuts

This kale salad is loaded with pears, and cranberries, topped with walnuts, and blue cheese with a homemade vinaigrette, making it perfect for the holiday table. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Brit + Co

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad

Butternut squash is one of those seasonal foods that's perfect in salads and adds a bit of weight to any Christmas Eve recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Curry

This side dish can also serve as a main course for any plant-based eaters around your dinner table this Christmas Eve. The flavors of pumpkin and vegetables keep things light and bright, while the spicy curry will warm you to your toes. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

A Green Bean Casserole for Every Dietary Need

Green bean casserole is so tasty that everyone should be able to enjoy it! With mushroom sauce, beans, and plenty of vegan and gluten-free swaps, this dish will be a Christmas favorite. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

There's nothing quite as cozy as a bowl of warm soup on Christmas Eve, and this slow cooker version is about as convenient as it gets. More time for wrapping presents! (via Brit + Co)

Half Baked Harvest

Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Pozole

This green pozole is bubbling over with the goodness of peppers and tomatillos, zucchini and sweet corn, avocado and cotija cheese — with fresh baked tortilla strips and roasted pumpkin seeds on top. One bite and your taste buds will be singing hallelujah! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Brit + Co

Romanesco Holiday Trees With Parmesan Snow

If you need a festive and easy Christmas Eve dinner idea, think of these pointy florets like miniature Christmas trees. Set them in a creamy cheese sauce and dust with Parmesan for a snowy (and tasty) side dish for your dinner. (via Brit + Co)

Vikalinka

Pan Fried Zucchini with Basil and Pecorino

Side dishes don't have to be underwhelming before your big Christmas dinner. Whip up this delicious pan of fried zucchini with basil and Pecorino Romano cheese that will make your guests ask for the recipe! (via Vikalinka)

Averie Cooks

Sweet Potato Cornbread

If you can't wait until Christmas to treat your family something sweet, make this sweet potato cornbread to go with your meal! You can either serve it as a side dish or treat it like dessert. (via Averie Cooks)

Seasons and Suppers

Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Make-ahead sides are a real life saver at holiday time. These potatoes are whipped up with cream cheese, sour cream and eggs, so you can keep them in the fridge until the very last minute and they'll bake up to perfection, casserole style. (via Seasons and Suppers)

Bowl of Delicious

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Toss Brussels sprouts with bacon grease, maple syrup, salt, and pepper, then roast until perfectly crispy and browned. So tasty! (via Bowl of Delicious)

The Iron You

The Best Baked Spinach Rice

This rice casserole is rich with three kinds of cheese, spices and lemon zest. Make a double batch and hold one back in the fridge for leftovers; you'll be thanking yourself amid tomorrow's wrapping paper frenzy. (via The Iron You)

Carlsbad Cravings

Secret Ingredient Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots

The trick to feeding a crowd with your Christmas Eve meal ideas is to make a meat or fish entreé with a plethora of easy and tasty sides. Well… nothing could be easier than these carrots that caramelize slowly to perfection in a balsamic glaze in a low-heat oven. This is one sweet veg you won't have to beg the kids to eat. (via Carlsbad Cravings)

The Best Christmas Dinner Main Courses

MAIN COURSES

Brit + Co

Cranberry-Glazed Roast Turkey

Make a turkey full of the flavors of the season with this simple, easy-to-follow recipe. (via Brit + Co)

A Spicy Perspective

Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Ham Glaze

Made with a flavorful brandy and brown sugar glaze, this baked ham is the perfect main dish for Christmas. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Brit + Co

Crisp, Golden Turkey

Here's everything you need to know about prepping, roasting, and serving the best bird you'll eat this year. You'll learn how to thought and season the turkey, as well as everything else you need in the kitchen to prepare it just right. (via Brit + Co)

Julia Frey of Vikalinka

Mushroom Wellington

Not just for vegetarians at the table, this Mushroom Wellington, flavored with roasted garlic, thyme and Parmesan cheese, then baked in flaky puff pastry, is an everyone pleaser! (via Julia Frey of Vikalinka)

The Original Dish

Spiced Rack of Lamb With Citrus Salad

Racks of lamb served with a fresh, vibrant citrus salad is a unique, refreshing take on holiday dinner. (via The Original Dish)

NeighborFood

Garlic Rosemary Prime Rib Roast With Horseradish Cream

Prime rib is always a showstopper, but the real star of this show is the homemade horseradish sauce. It cuts right through the richness of the beef, adding just the right amount of savory zing to this Christmas Eve dinner recipe. (via NeighborFood)

Donna Hay

Vegetable Béchamel Lasagna

If you haven't had lasagna made the old school way, with béchamel sauce instead of cheese, you are in for a *tasty* treat. This is one meatless dish even the carnivores in the house will be clamoring for — definitely add it to your Christmas eve dinner menu! (via Donna Hay)

Half Baked Harvest

White Wine Miso Braised Pot Roast

Slow-cook a beef pot roast braised in wine with onions, carrots, and fresh thyme, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a one-pot meal that’ warms a holiday crowd. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Iowa Girl Eats

Crock Pot Mojo Pork With Cuban-Style Black Beans

This pork shoulder is cooked the traditional way — in a tasty citrus trio of orange, lemon and lime juice, spiked with onion, jalapeño, herbs, spices and an entire head of garlic. Start it in the morning and it will bubble away happily in your slow cooker all day, giving you time (and counter space) to get the rest of the feast prepared. (via Iowa Girl Eats)

No. 2 Pencil

Slow Cooker Ham With Maple Brown Sugar Glaze

Ham is one of those hearty dishes that's great for feeding a crowd, but it's actually pretty tricky to get it just right. This recipe uses the slow cooker to your advantage, gently heating the meat all day in delectable juices without ever drying it out. Serve it in slices the next day for a Christmas morning breakfast add-on. (via No. 2 Pencil)

Two Peas and Their Pod

Beef Stroganoff

This 30-minute meal makes a great holiday main with tender strips of beef, mushrooms, and a rich and creamy sauce, serve dover egg noodles or mashed potatoes. (via Two Peas And Their Pod)

Salt & Lavender

Ranch Pork Tenderloin

If you're making a whole feast, this 30-minute meal with the tastiest gravy and tender and juicy pork would be the perfect addition! (via Salt & Lavender)

Pinch of Yum

Carnitas Tamale Pie

Christmas Eve menu ideas for a buffet cannot be complete without pie! Tamales are a tradition this time of year, but you know the old saying: It takes a village! If you're craving the flavor but dreading the assembly line, your new go-to recipe has arrived. (via Pinch of Yum)

Nerds With Knives

Lasagna Bolognese With Fontina Béchamel

Sometimes you want to mark a special occasion with a challenging dish. This lasagna bolognese is made completely from scratch, including the pasta, and your guests will appreciate that effort with every delicious bite they take. (via Nerds With Knives)

Crystal & Co.

Easiest Ever Lasagna Roll Up Recipe

When you love the *thought* of made-from-scratch lasagna but you just don't have the time, roll ups to the rescue! This Christmas Eve party menu idea is jump-started using store-bought ingredients, but no one will ever taste the difference. (via Crystal & Co.)

Host The Toast

Crock Pot General Tso's Chicken

Do you have fond memories of Chinese takeout on Christmas Eve? Before you dive into your Christmas desserts, serve up this crockpot version of everyone's fave, which tastes every bit as good as the real thing in case you were wondering. (via Host The Toast)

Christmas Eve Food Directly from the Sea

A Spicy Perspective

Lobster Fra Diavolo

When it comes to seafood, lobster is the crème de la crème. This Christmas Eve recipe, flavored the old fashioned way with clam juice and cognac, is sure to impress everyone at your holiday party table. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Nicky's Kitchen Sanctuary

Fish Pie With Cheesy Mash

Nothing beats a creamy fish pie when the *crust* is made of mashed taters. Here's a meal that's guaranteed to taste better if you eat it in your jammies followed by your favorite holiday cocktail. (via Nicky's Kitchen Sanctuary)

Saveur

Whole Roasted Branzino With Fennel and Onions

Whole roasted fish dishes are an Italian tradition on feast days. While this one looks like a culinary work of art sitting on your table, it actually comes together easily and calls for just seven ingredients. (via Saveur)

Christmas Eve Sweet Treats

Completely Delicious

Gingerbread Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream

This stunning gingerbread layer cake with cream cheese buttercream is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for the holidays! (via Completely Delicious)

Vanilla and Bean

Dark Chocolate Shortbread Cookies

Indulge in a cookie dessert that is delicious and not at all hard to make! (via Vanilla and Bean)

The Fast Recipe

Cookies With Strawberry Jam

Make these quick and easy thumbprint cookies with only five ingredients. (via The Fast Recipe)

Barley & Sage

Black Forest Cupcakes

For a decadent and delicious twist on holiday dessert, try these chocolate cupcakes with cherry filling and whipped cream. (via Barley & Sage)

Averie Cooks

Mini Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins

These sweet fall treats are sure to become a fan-favorite when you serve them as part of your Christmas Eve dinner. (via Averie Cooks)

Completely Delicious

Fry Bread with Cinnamon Butter Honey

This recipe makes us think about funnel cake combined with yummy cinnamon butter honey. (via Completely Delicious)

Love these Christmas Eve dinner ideas? Follow us on Pinterest and check out our online cooking classes for more inspo.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Jasmine Williams.

Featured image via Half Baked Harvest

When people hear I've never seen Love Actually, the reactions are all generally the same: genuine shock. It's not that I purposefully avoided the beloved Christmas movie — I just never really got around to watching it. I had to make room for my annual The Holiday rewatch! But this year? This year, I decided to change all that by finally popping on this pop culture phenomenon. And honestly, I was left with so many questions...

Here's every unhinged thought and question I had while watching this cult classic Christmas movieLove Actually fanatics, please send answers ASAP!

Scroll down to see the 25 questions I had while watching Love Actually for the first time!

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1. Is it just me, or is it totally wild to mention 9/11 at the very beginning of a Christmas movie?!

I understand this came out in 2003, so it's not too far removed from 9/11, but there's something off about bringing that up at the start. The message is sweet — people reached out to those they loved on that terrible day — but it's also incredibly sad. I'm not saying every moment of a holiday movie needs to be happy, but goodness gracious this is a depressing way to set the tone.

2. Why is Jamie's girlfriend wearing a turtle neck in bed?

Oh...oh, that's why. I mean she had to think that would be a dead giveaway that she didn't plan on resting during her "cold." I've never once put on real clothes when I was sick — I'm in pajamas 24/7! Although, I guess she also didn't plan on wearing much of anything later on...regardless, weird choices all around.

3. Who would honestly think it's a good idea to call a total stranger their "future wife" out of nowhere?

Listen, I get that Colin Frissel is supposed to be the erratic, kooky character who just wants to find love here, but I really don't understand his tactics. Instead of actually trying to get to know any of these women, he fires off these wild comments without a second thought. And then he has the audacity to say that British women are too stuck up to like him? Sorry, dude, but maybe you're just too inconsiderate and unaware to pull any British women — and most women in general.

4. Could Keira Knightley be any more beautiful?!

Okay, I know this isn't a plot point or anything, but holy moly! She looks truly angelic when she walks in for the wedding. No wonder Mark is head over heels for her!

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5. Does it feel like people are dressed awfully casually for a wedding? (I'm looking at you, Sarah)

Maybe 2003 was a more casual time, maybe daytime British weddings are super chill. I'm not sure what the reason would be, but I couldn't get past how casually dressed the wedding guests were for Juliet and Peter's wedding. Sarah's hat alone was enough to throw me off, TBH.

6. Wait, was this one of the first flash mobs? I'm not even kidding.

I actually had to Google this, but apparently flash mobs did really get started in 2003. So while Mark's surprise for Juliet and Peter isn't the first, it's certainly on-theme for the time!

7. Did he actually just put that food he ate BACK on the tray?

This is genuinely a germaphobe's nightmare — it's me, i'm the germaphobe. Seriously, though, Colin has got to work on his manners if he really wants to find someone to date him. I'm very confused how he thinks this behavior would attract anyone.

8. Have Liam Neeson's eyes always been this blue?

Again, not a plot point, but very distracting. I mean those babies are bright!

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9. What is Professor Snape doing here?!

I kid, I kid. But seriously, his voice takes me back to Harry Potter immediately.

10. How is it okay for Harry to ask Sarah about her love life — and royally interject in it like that — as her boss?

Don't get me wrong, I know people make friendships outside of work and talk frankly with their coworkers. But suggesting she tell Karl she wants "lots of sex and babies" with him? Yeah, that's definitely HR-report worthy in any workplace literally ever. Rein it in, Harry.

11. Are they allowed to say whatever they want on British radios?

Speaking of just saying inappropriate things at relatively inappropriate times, Billy — and the hosts for that matter — really are pretty crass! I'm not a prude by any means (ask my friends), but I was shocked at what they said on live air. I guess it keeps things interesting?

12. WHO flirts with their boss so blatantly like that?

Mia, most simply put, is BOLD AF. She openly flirts with Harry in the office, literally spreads her legs in front of him at her desk, and asks to dance during a slow song at their company holiday party while his wife is literally right there. I wanna know her backstory because these are wild choices. She doesn't even try to be secretive!

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13. Why don't Karen and Daniel end up together? They seem to share the most real, authentic love.

Honestly, I love platonic love, so I don't wanna take that away from them. However, there is a part of me that things Karen and Daniel could be the best couple. They seem to truly get each other in a way most of the other actual couples don't. But I guess that's on the purity of friendship?

14. At what point are we supposed to care about Billy?

This singer just really seems like a jerk, and he truly isn't compelling in the least. (And this is coming from someone who loves Bill Nighy!)

15. Oh my god, did they actually just say what I think they did about those dolls?

Needless to say, we would never get a line like this today. I'll leave it at that.

16. Would Jamie's book actually be salvageable at all after flying into the lake?

I need someone who used typewriters a lot to tell me how durable those typed pages would actually be. Would the water totally ruin the ink? Wouldn't the pages stick together irreparably after you took them out of the water? Literally what is he gonna do to finish this thriller? As a fellow writer, I'm stressed on his behalf.

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17. Why didn't Mark just tell Juliet he was filming these shots as a gift for his best friend?

Boom, problem solved. Instead, he acted like such a weirdo and made it so clear he was in love with her.

18. Did Mark actually tell Juliet just to show herself out of his apartment?

As if he couldn't make it weirder...

19. I'm not trying to be rude, but how is Harry hot enough for Mia to be throwing herself at him like this?!

Who you find attractive is so subjective, but to risk your job and someone's marriage for Professor Snape? Maybe it's his power, maybe it's his elusive (very clearly Scorpio) nature. Whatever it is, I'm just not seeing it. Sorry girly!

20. How many times will Laura Linney play a woman with a brother named Ben in the midst of a mental health crisis?

Ozark, anyone?

Universal Pictures

21. What happens AFTER Juliet kisses Mark?!

I seriously don't know how they move forward normally after this confession and subsequent kiss. First of all, the confession was totally unfair to Peter. How is Mark gonna hold this in all this time, only to blow it all up after they're already married? And then for Juliet to kiss him? Is she giving him a false hope? Does she really like him? Do they keep this a secret? Is this all they need? Honestly, this left me with more questions than answers.

22. Is Billy trying to come out? Or is he saying he platonically loves his manager?

I'm honestly so confused. He called Frank the love of his life, and I just can't tell. (Especially after that awkward hug?)

23. Isn't it a little wild for Jamie to ask Aurelia to marry him? Couldn't they just date first?

I am definitely not blaming him for his girlfriend cheating on him, but I'm sure that level of quick intensity landed him here to begin with. Like come on dude, maybe get to know a girl first! (Still, these two are very sweet — one of the actually compelling couples in this story!)

24. Is that Denise Richards?!

At least her jacket's on correctly here... 😂

25. Why is this movie so SAD?

While I loved seeing Sam and Joanna, John and Just Judy, and the Prime Minister and Natalie find their happy ending, for a Christmas movie, there's ultimately not a lot of happy holiday spirit here... Maybe it's just me, but it feels like a total bummer for most of the movie! BRB while I pop on The Holidayinstead.

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There's no worse feeling than going through your entire skincare routine just to realize the products meant to cleanse your skin and remove makeup actually didn't do anything at all. Because leftover mascara is truly the bane of my existence, I've tested tons of face wipes that really get the job done.

These are the best face wipes for sensitive skin (and all skin types!) that effectively clean your complexion from dirt, grime, and any pesky makeup.

Amazon

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Facial Cleansing Towelettes

These face wipes are my absolute go-to, especially when I'm traveling and don't have room in my carry-on for an entire bottle of micellar water. They leave my skin feeling so fresh. Plus, they deliver tons of moisture since they're formulated with hyaluronic acid – no stripped skin around here!

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Of course, the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Facial Cleansing Towelettes are impressively effective at removing every single trace of makeup, from foundation to eyeliner and mascara. I find that I only really need one wipe to fully clean my face!

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up&up Unscented Facial Wipes

B+C Head of Content, Ali, adores these face wipes from Target because they're capable of wiping stubborn mascara right off and don’t ever leave her skin feeling stripped of its moisture. They're formulated without fragrance, making them one of the best face wipes for sensitive skin. They're friendly around the eye area, too. The best part is they're super affordable at just $3 a pop!

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Cetaphil Gentle Makeup Removing Face Wipes

Cetaphil is the bomb when it comes to skincare products for sensitive skin. Their fragrance-free, makeup-removing face wipes are made with aloe vera, chamomile, and green tea that help further soothe the skin after your makeup's gone. They are also amazing at removing dirt, excess oil, and other impurities.

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Ursa Major Essential Face Wipes

I am capital 'o' Obsessed with these face wipes from Ursa Major. The pack comes with 20 individually-wrapped wipes, which are perfect to take on-the-go for a little refresh. I use them most frequently after the gym, especially if I have somewhere to be right after a workout.

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The Ursa Major Essential Face Wipes simultaneously clean, exfoliate, soothe, and hydrate using Ursa Major's 4-in-1 Essential Face Tonic, which is lightly infused with uplifting scented notes of orange, lavender, and fir. They're truly a treat for the skin.

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Honest Beauty Fragrance Free Cleansing Makeup Remover Facial Wipes

These face wipes are as gentle as can be. The formula is certifiably hypoallergenic, cruelty-free, dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested, and non-comedogenic. Plus, they don't dry out the skin!

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What I like most about the Honest Beauty Fragrance Free Cleansing Makeup Remover Facial Wipes is the cheerful packaging – day or night, using them feels like a dream and offers the perfect dose of self-care.

Target

up&up Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes

B+C Head of Content, Ali, also loves these Target face wipes and can't leave the store without grabbing 4 at a time. The gentle, calming scent allows for such a luxurious wind-down experience when it's time to remove your makeup at the end of the day. They're so good at removing long-lasting makeup — including waterproof mascara. Score!

Amazon

Burt's Bees Rose Water Face Wipes

Since I typically rely on micellar water to remove my makeup when I'm posted up at home, I really love these Burt's Bees face wipes infused with it. They get the job done super quick, while the rose water helps soothe my skin so it's not dry or inflamed at the end of the day.

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