The holiday season is all about indulgence, warmth, and a little extra magic and what better way to capture that spirit than with a Christmas Cookie Cocktail?
Imagine the flavors of your favorite festive cookie, wrapped in a creamy, spiced, and slightly sweet cocktail that’s as cozy as a Holiday sweater. If there is one thing I enjoy more than a good cookie, it might be a delicious martini.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking to sip on something special by the fire, this must-have Christmas cocktail is guaranteed to bring joy to your festivities.
So, let’s talk about this Christmas Cocktail, A Snickerdoodle Martini!
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Why You Will Love Making This Christmas Cocktail
As you may already know, I love to cook but did you know I also have a soft spot for festive holiday cocktails? Whether it’s a Peppermint White Russian, a Spiced Eggnog Martini, or this delightful Christmas Cookie Martini, I can’t resist the sweet, cozy flavors of the season served in an elegant glass.
Some cocktail recipes call for advanced mixology skills, but this Christmas Cookie Martini is delightfully simple. With just three main ingredients and a handful of festive garnishes, you’ll have a holiday treat that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Shake everything up with ice, pour it into a gorgeous glass, and add a little seasonal flair, no stress, just holiday cheer.
Now, let’s walk through the tools, ingredients, and steps to whip up this crowd-pleasing holiday cocktail!
RumChata: RumChata is a creamy cinnamon vanilla rum liquor. This is the base for this cinnamon sugar-based cookie.
White Chocolate Liquor: White Chocolate Liquor is the secret ingredient. This is what gives the martini that decadence and dessert flavor that will make your taste buds smile. I like to use Godiva white chocolate liquor.
Vanilla Vodka: Adding Vanilla Vodka is akin to adding vanilla extract to a recipe. It adds that little umph the martini needs.
Ice: Ice for shaking or stirring, we are not picky here! Let’s cool it all down while also thinning with some of that icy cool water.
Garnishes
Whipped Cream: the perfect topper for this decadence.
Cinnamon Sugar: A pop of browns on the whipped cream gives the martini that classic snickerdoodle look. I used date sugar, which happens to be the perfect color!
Snickerdoodle Cookies
How to Make this Snickerdoodle Martini
Step 1: Prepare the Martini
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and the martini ingredients.
Step 2: Shake
Close the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds to chill and mix the ingredients.
Step 3: Strain & Serve
Strain the mixture into martini glasses.
Serve with a Snickerdoodle cookie garnish, whipped cream, a cinnamon stick, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
Pro Tip:
Chill your martini glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving to keep your drink extra frosty and delicious.
Sharper Nutrition Fix: Rum Chata History
Did you know the iconic RumChata Liquor has been manufactured in Wisconsin since 2009? This liquor was created to taste like a mixture of rum and horchata. So, here are several trivia facts about the lovely RumChata.
Per Thrillist, RumChata was the world’s first rum-based cream liquor!
RumChata does not need to be refrigerated and a 1.5oz serving has 140 calories.
Another famous RumChata creation is the Cinnamon Toast Crunch shot. Mix RumChata and fireball whisky.
Horchata: a milky beverage made from ground almonds, tiger nuts, or rice.
Have a Snickerdoodle Martini! This martini is sweet, creamy and absolutely scrumptious. Be sure to garnish with whipped cream and cinnamon sugar to give the martini an extra special touch.
Life-Changing Healthy Holiday Eating Tips (Now with 2 New Additions!)
The holiday season is here, bringing joy, celebrations, and all the delicious meals we look forward to. This year, I’ve updated my list with two new tips to offer a fresh, balanced approach to healthy eating during the holidays.
Whether you’re aiming to stay on track, indulge guilt-free, or keep some sense of routine, these practical, dietitian-approved strategies will help you enjoy the season to the fullest while feeling your best.
Here are my non-diet tips to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and stress-free this holiday season!
1. Plan Ahead
Preparing at least one healthy dish to bring to the festivities or eating a balanced snack beforehand can make a big difference in creating a healthier, more balanced holiday experience.
Bringing a dish you know aligns with your health goals ensures there’s always something nutritious available to enjoy. Eating a light, protein-packed snack before heading out helps curb hunger and prevents overindulging when you arrive.
With just a little planning, you’ll feel more in control and ready to savor the celebration without going overboard.
2. Avoid Skipping Meals
Skipping meals before the big feast often leads to overeating, so I stick to my usual eating patterns throughout the day.
Starting with a healthy breakfast sets the tone for mindful eating and helps me approach the holiday as any other day, rather than an excuse to overindulge.
By avoiding fasting and maintaining balance, I can enjoy the festive meal without the risk of overconsumption.
3. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is an often-overlooked but crucial part of healthy holiday eating. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help curb unnecessary snacking, as thirst is often mistaken for hunger.
Starting your day with a glass of water and keeping a water bottle nearby during gatherings can make it easier to maintain this habit.
Staying hydrated also aids digestion and keeps you feeling energized, helping you enjoy the festivities without overindulging.
4. Choose a Smaller Plate
Using a smaller plate is a simple yet effective strategy for portion control, backed by research and endorsed by many dietitians and health experts.
This approach leverages the Delboeuf illusion—a phenomenon where the same amount of food appears more substantial on a smaller plate than on a larger one. A full, smaller plate can feel more satisfying and appealing, helping you enjoy your meal while naturally limiting portion sizes.
This subtle trick can make a big difference in managing your holiday eating without feeling deprived.
5. Portion Awareness
Start with small servings and focus on selecting only the holiday dishes you truly enjoy. Being mindful of portion sizes can help you savor your meal without overdoing it.
Embrace the simple practice of taking smaller portions initially and pause before going back for seconds to assess your hunger. This approach not only helps with calorie control but also allows you to fully appreciate the flavors of your favorite holiday treats.
Speaking of taking a pause…
6. Pause and Reflect
Before indulging in seconds, try the simple practice of waiting 15 to 20 minutes after finishing your meal. This pause gives your brain time to process satiety signals, helping you determine if you’re truly still hungry.
Similarly, eating slowly allows your brain to catch up with your body’s fullness cues, making it easier to avoid overeating while still enjoying every bite. This mindful approach can naturally lead to consuming fewer calories and feeling more satisfied.
7. Veggie Focus
Filling your plate with colorful, nutrient-packed vegetables is a smart strategy to prioritize healthier options during holiday meals.
Start by selecting a variety of veggies, whether it’s a fresh salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or green beans, and make them the centerpiece of your plate. Enjoy these first to satisfy your hunger and boost your intake of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Then, savor smaller portions of your other holiday favorites, like mac n’ cheese or stuffing, without feeling deprived.
This approach not only balances indulgence with nourishment but also helps you enjoy your meal guilt-free.
8. Mindful Eating (& Drinking)
Practicing mindful eating during the holidays is essential for fostering a healthier relationship with food and preventing overindulgence.
It encourages you to fully savor and appreciate the flavors, textures, and aromas of your favorite dishes and drinks without unnecessary excess. Calories add up quickly, especially from holiday beverages like mulled cider, eggnog, and wine, which often contain high amounts of sugar and calories.
Before reaching for a third cup of cider, pause and consider swapping it for a glass of water, herbal tea, or sparkling water with a splash of cider for a festive twist.
This approach helps you stay present and enjoy the holiday spirit while making balanced choices.
9. Stay Active
Incorporating physical activity before or after a holiday feast is a fantastic way to balance out indulgent meals while creating meaningful memories with loved ones. Activities like a turkey trot, Santa fun run, or a winter stroll can help build an appetite or aid digestion, all while adding a festive touch to the day.
You don’t need to sign up for a 5K to stay active, though. A simple post-meal walk or multiple short strolls throughout the day can be just as effective. Walking with family or friends is a wonderful way to enjoy quality, uninterrupted time together.
So set aside the smartphones, lace up your shoes, and make movement part of your holiday tradition.
10. Relax, Unwind, & Enjoy
The most important holiday eating tip is to relax and enjoy the season. Focus on the joy and magic of the holidays, not just the food.
Choose dishes that truly bring you joy, and skip those that don’t excite your taste buds, there’s no obligation to finish everything.
Savor each bite mindfully, appreciating the flavors and textures, and avoid eating out of habit. Indulge guilt-free in your favorite treats, knowing you can return to your healthy habits after the holidays.
The 80/20 Approach: Balance and Flexibility
The holidays are all about enjoyment, so aim for an 80/20 balance with your eating habits.
Focus on making healthy choices 80% of the time, like filling your plate with veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains. For the remaining 20%, enjoy your favorite indulgent treats guilt-free.
This approach allows you to savor the season while still prioritizing your health, making it easier to stay on track without feeling restricted.
Must-Have Recipes and Tips for Your Holiday Cookie Exchange
The holiday season is the perfect time of year to gather with friends and family, and what better way to celebrate than with a holiday cookie exchange?
Besides classic gingerbread cookies and sugar cookies, this fun tradition is a delicious way to share homemade cookies and discover new favorite recipes. Whether it’s your first exchange or an annual cookie exchange you’ve hosted for years, having an assortment of easy cookie recipes is key to making the event a success.
Below are my 10 Must-Have Holiday Cookies for a Cookie Exchange, guaranteed to bring joy and sweetness to your Christmas season.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hosting a Holiday Cookie Exchange
Planning a cookie exchange is as much fun as the event itself! Start with the first things: setting a date and venue. Once you’ve got those details, focus on building the guest listand sharing the details to make your gathering a success.
Here’s how to get started:
Pick a Date and Venue: Choose a time that works for most guests. You can host it at home for a cozy feel, at a community center for more space, or even virtually for those who can’t meet in person.
Invite Guests: Share the concept and create an inclusive atmosphere by asking about dietary preferences or restrictions, such as vegan, gluten-free, or nut allergies.
Decide on Quantities: Set a designated number of cookies for each participant to bring. A dozen cookies per attendee is a good rule of thumb to ensure there’s plenty to share.
Encourage Recipe Sharing: Ask guests to bring printed or digital copies of their recipes so everyone can recreate their favorite treats at home.
Creating a Cozy Atmosphere for Your Cookie Exchange
Along with the cookies, don’t forget that hosting is part of the fun! Set the tone for a warm and festive gathering by creating a cozy atmosphere that invites guests to relax and enjoy themselves.
Drink Station: Set up a self-serve drink station featuring hot cocoa, coffee, and tea. Include fun toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, cinnamon sticks, and candy canes to make the drinks extra special.
Light Snacks: Offer a few savory options like cheese and crackers, a veggie platter, or spiced nuts to balance out all the sweets.
Decor and Ambiance: Add seasonal touches like string lights, candles, or holiday-themed napkins and plates to elevate the vibe.
Music: Play a cheerful playlist in the background to keep the energy lively and festive.
The Rules for a Smooth Cookie Exchange
Establishing clear rules ahead of time ensures your cookie exchange runs smoothly and everyone knows what to expect. With a little planning, you can create a fun and organized event where all participants can share and enjoy treats stress-free. These three simple guidelines will help set the stage for a successful and delicious gathering!
Bring Enough Cookies:
Everyone should bring enough to share and trade (e.g., one dozen per participant).
Label Your Cookies:
Include ingredient lists for transparency, especially for dietary restrictions.
Pack for Portability:
Use eco-friendly packaging for easy transportation and gifting.
Must-Try Recipes for Your Holiday Cookie Exchange
Of course consider your favorite cookie recipes to bring, but if you are feeling stuck here are some of my favorites!
Classic Christmas Cookies
These timeless recipes are perfect for any cookie exchange party and are sure to be crowd-pleasers.
Snowballs
These buttery cookies are a family favorite and a staple of our holiday celebrations. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate powdered sugar coating, they’re as festive as they are delicious.
Perfect for a cookie exchange or enjoying at home, these timeless treats always bring a touch of nostalgia to the season.
Sweet and simple, these cookies are a favorite of mine for all holidays. Rolled into inch-sized balls and filled with jam or chocolate, they’re versatile enough to match any festive theme.
Their buttery texture and vibrant fillings make them as beautiful as they are delicious, perfect for any cookie exchange or dessert table.
Super Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies with Marshmallows
These semi-homemade cookies are a blog favorite for their gooey marshmallow centers and quick prep time. Perfect for busy holiday schedules, they’re a crowd-pleaser that never sacrifices flavor for simplicity.
These bars take all the flavors you love from classic peanut butter blossoms and transform them into a fun, shareable format.
With their rich peanut butter base and signature chocolate topping, they’re an easy way to recreate a favorite holiday cookie in a crowd-friendly style.
A healthy “cookie” made with minimal ingredients, super easy to make, and packed with flavor. Stuffed with nut butter and drizzled with chocolate, they taste like a Snickers bar but with a wholesome twist.
This creamy, cookie-inspired cocktail is the perfect festive drink to add to your holiday celebrations. Sweet, indulgent, and made for adults, it’s a fun way to complement your cookie exchange.
From simple ingredient swaps to boosting the nutritional value of your cookies, here’s how to make your creations shine, without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Ingredient Swaps:
Use flax eggs or aquafaba as egg substitutes, and coconut oil or vegan butter in place of dairy butter.
Sweetener Choices:
Opt for coconut sugar, maple syrup, or dates instead of refined sugar.
Nutritional Boosts:
Add chia seeds, hemp hearts, or fortified plant-based milk for extra nutrients.
Batch Testing:
Test your recipe in advance to ensure it meets taste and dietary goals.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re hosting or participating, these tips will help you plan the perfect event that’s delicious, memorable, and enjoyable for everyone.
So, grab your favorite recipe, invite your friends, and get ready to make your next cookie swap a holiday tradition that’s as sweet as it is meaningful.
Who doesn’t love an easy, comforting bowl of instant ramen? Exactly, no one. That’s why I’ve come up with these 5 game-changing Shin Ramen hacks to elevate your favorite noodles.
These simple tweaks make Shin Ramen not only more filling but also tailored to meet your nutritional needs. In this post, I’ll walk you through five easy ways to transform instant ramen into a truly satisfying meal.
Here’s the lineup:
Veggies
Protein
Aromatic Oils
Fresh Flavors
Ramen Broth Upgrades
Each hack is simple yet delivers incredible flavor. Before we dive in, let me share a quick note on why Shin Ramen (Ramyun) is my go-to instant noodle of choice.
Shin Ramyun
Shin Ramyun is a soft and chewy noodle combined with a spicy broth creating the perfect instant ramen. Fair warning, it is a spicy broth, be warned!
The spicy flavor has beef, mushrooms, carrots, and peppers. A Nongshim product, this ramen is increasing in popularity in the US but Korea is one of the largest consumers of Shin Ramyun.
For more about my favorite ramen noodle check out Nongshim’s page all about Shin Ramyun.
Bump Up The Veggies
My favorite shin ramen hack is simple – add vegetables!
Whether it’s a scoop of kimchi, a 1/4 cup of frozen veggies, or a handful of leafy greens, veggies bring beautiful colors and flavors.
In my Vegan Kimchi Instant Ramen recipe, I add both frozen veggies and spicy kimchi. These veggies add green, red, and golden hues to my steaming bowl of noodles and broth. I love how the kimchi adds spicy-sour flavors, while the frozen veggies (peas, corn, and edamame) add buttery and sweet pops to every bite.
Pack in the Protein
Adding protein to your shin ramen bowl is a scientifically proven way to increase that feeling of satiety (or fullness). Getting sufficient protein is also critical if you do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week or are just being an active human.
Some of my favorite protein additions include:
Roasted Chicken
Baked or Stir-fried Tempeh
Baked, Stir-fried, or Silken Tofu
High-protein veggies such as edamame, peas, and beans
Another protein option you probably didn’t think of is A protein-packed noodle!
Feeding multiple people with your instant ramen recipe? Add Shin ramen and some other protein-packed noodles all in the same pot! Who says you can’t use 2 different noodles?
If you are on a high-protein diet, it does not get much easier than making instant ramen that starts with 20+ of protein per package. Immi Instant Ramen is 100% plant-based and packed with protein.
They have yummy flavors such as Black Garlic “Chicken”, Tom Yum “Shrimp”, and Spicy “Beef”. My favorite flavor is the Tom Yum (Shrimp).
Add Aromatic Oils
Aromatic oil is the finishing oil one might drizzle over hot broth and ramen noodles. The definition of Aromatic oil is an oil that has been cooked with other ingredients and thus takes on those flavors.
Examples of aromatic oils:
Garlic oil
Chili oil
I also like to use toasted sesame oil. While this technically is not an “aromatic oil” it is loaded with a lovely and nutty sesame flavor and is an easy addition to any instant ramen bowl.
Include Fresh Flavors
Now that you have added your aromatic oils, it is time to think about some other aromatics and flavors.
Try adding the following fresh flavors to your instant noodles:
Fresh herbs & scallions
Nori
Soy sauce & fish sauce
Rice wine vinegar
Peanut butter
Ginger
Citrus
Kimchi & pickled vegetables
Follow your taste buds and you can’t go wrong.
Bonus flavors: Add a little Kewpie mayo or cheese to your ramen bowl. This shin ramen hack makes super creamy ramen bowls.
The Last Shin Ramen Hack – Ditch the Seasoning Packet
I saved this upgrade for last because, in all honestly, sometimes I do opt for the seasoning packet added to the water. Hey, it’s tasty! Usually, I’ll only use a portion of it and add some other little additions of my own.
Below are some examples of broths you might make for your quick and easy at-home ramen.
Veggie scraps broth – boiling then straining veggie scraps from your freezer or another meal/dish
Homemade Chicken broth – using the carcass of a rotisserie chicken with some veggies such as onions, carrots and celery
And to doctor up store-bought veggie or chicken broth I might:
Add some miso paste to your instant ramen.
You can use broth from a box or bouillon, and some grocers even have ramen soup broth ready to go in a box, like this Organic Ramen Broth from Imagine.
Drop in some peanut and fish sauce for some Thai-inspired slurping.
Plop some curry paste and coconut milk for a coconut curry broth.
More on Ramen Broth
You can even make a Traditional Japanese Cuisine Ramen Broth. Note that this is a time-consuming process but also a work of art. There are different classifications of broth, Shio (salt) Shoyu (soy sauce), miso (fermented bean paste), and tonkotsu (pork).
For a basic (not traditional) yet quick broth, you can use some chicken or vegetable stock with some garlic, onion, and ginger powder, perhaps a little soy sauce, maybe some peanut butter, or even some chili peppers or hot sauce. You can get creative here.
If you looking for flexitarian dinner ideas where we focus on plants and don’t sacrifice flavor you have come to the right place. In this article, we will explore a variety of mouthwatering Flexitarian dinner ideas and recipes that strike the perfect balance between flavors, textures, and nutrition.
But first, a little more about Flexitarian Diets.
What is a Flexitarian Diet?
A flexitarian diet is a flexible and inclusive approach to eating that emphasizes plant-based foods while allowing for the occasional inclusion of meat or other animal products. The term “flexitarian” is a blend of “flexible” and “vegetarian,” capturing the essence of a dietary pattern that adapts to individual preferences and health goals.
Flexitarian Diet – Key Principles
Let’s keep things really simple with just three key principles
Plant-focused healthy eating
Occasional Inclusion of Meat, fish, or other animal products like milk, eggs, and yogurt.
Balanced Nutrition with healthy recipes
Here are 23 Flexitarian Dinner Ideas
From hearty vegetable stir-fries to savory grain bowls and creatively crafted plant-centric dishes, flexitarian dinners celebrate the best of both worlds. Whether you’re a seasoned flexitarian or just exploring the concept, these healthy dinner ideas are sure to add vibrancy to your dining table.
Whether you are vegetarian, vegan, flexitarian, or something else, these meals will appeal to you on those busy weeknights.
#1 Grain Bowl with Tofu
Savor the goodness of a Grain Bowl with Tofu where nutty grains meet savory tofu. Add some chopped fresh veggies with cucumber, onions, peppers, and greens for some added veggies.
Embrace the flavors of Vegan Yakisoba-inspired noodles. This is a plant-based delight that is inspired by Japanese cuisine. Add lots of veggies like mushrooms, edamame, spinach, and onions. Round this recipe out with some baked tofu or tempeh.
Spicy Tuna with Crispy Rice is one of my favorite easy weekday meals. Keep things even simpler buy serving this over a simple and quick sushi rice, no crisping needed!
I have relied on instant ramen for an easy healthy meal since college. I love to add eggs, vegetables (like frozen veggies), and other flavorings for a super easy meal any time of the week.
Enjoy this burger with a whole wheat bun and either oven-roasted sweet potato wedges or a simple salad. I like to make extra burgers for future easy weeknight meals.
Like the Tik Tok Baked Feta Pasta, my Pasta with Goat Cheese Bake is full of tomatoes and is served with pasta. I like to add a dollop of Harissa for an extra spicy kick.
Feeling fancy one weeknight? Make this Layered Arugula Salad. Option to pickle your own beets or grab store-bought. However, using the slightly sweet Apple Walnut Dressing is fantastic with the blend of flavors and the smoked fish.
I LOVE a veggie-packed chili. Honestly, I prefer this over any meat chilis. The secret ingredient in this chili is riced cauliflower. It’s bulky like ground meat but its cauliflower!
This AIP-compliant meal was made for a friend. She was struggling to find a variety of AIP-compliant recipes. However, this recipe is so good, that no AIP-compliant restrictions are needed!
I love this recipe on a cold night. Every bite of this Spicy Butternut Squash Farro “Risotto” is warming and nutritious. Looking for more protein? Serve this with some rotisserie chicken or some sausages.
Air-Fryer Chicken Wings is a go-to air-fryer meal in my house. They are seriously better than at your local watering hole! Serve them alongside a Kale Apple Walnut Salad to round out the meal.
I am a cottage cheese girly and cottage cheese has so many applications! This salad is a great way to get creative with cottage cheese, I love it with some fresh farmers’ market tomatoes.
Try my Glass Noodle Salad with Crispy Tofu. I love to pack this with shredded veggies like carrots. Top this with some Nuoc Cham Sauce and lots of fresh herbs!
Warm, comforting, and packed with vibrant flavors, this Thai-inspired chicken noodle soup combines tender chicken, rice noodles, and a rich, aromatic coconut broth for a flexitarian-friendly dinner everyone will love.
#25 Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles with Peanut Sauce and Veggies
Quick, flavorful, and packed with colorful veggies, this dish features Trader Joe’s Thai wheat noodles tossed in a creamy peanut sauce for a satisfying flexitarian dinner in no time. Curious about the blend itself? Check out Are Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles Good?: Dietitian Review for an in-depth look!
#26 Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Inspired by Greek Salads
This vibrant dish combines Trader Joe’s Harvest Grain Blend with fresh veggies, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing, bringing the flavors of a classic Greek salad to your flexitarian table. Curious about the blend itself? Check out Is Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Good? A Dietitian’s Review for an in-depth look!
#27 Eggplant Salad with Farro and Roasted Chicken or Fish
Hearty, wholesome, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this eggplant salad pairs nutty farro with roasted chicken or fish for a versatile flexitarian dinner that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Creamy burrata, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze come together in this classic Caprese salad, perfectly paired with crusty bread for a simple yet indulgent flexitarian dinner.
