Recipes for Yule

Yule recipes are warm, hearty dishes and drinks that are made to celebrate the season's theme of abundance, community and celebration - and of course, feasting! Here's some ideas for your Yule table.   

Mulled Cider or Wine

A classic Yule drink, mulled cider or wine is perfect for warming up during the cold solstice nights.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of red wine (or 1 quart apple cider for a non-alcoholic version)
• 1 orange, sliced
• 3-4 cinnamon sticks
• 5-6 whole cloves
• 2-3 star anise pods
• 1/4 cup honey or sugar (to taste)
• Optional: brandy or rum for added warmth

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a large pot or slow cooker.
2. Heat gently on low, allowing the flavors to infuse without boiling (about 30-45 minutes).
3. Serve warm, garnished with an orange slice or cinnamon stick.

 

 Yule Log Cake 

Inspired by the traditional burning of the Yule log, this dessert is a festive and delicious centerpiece.

Ingredients for the Cake:

• 4 eggs
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup flour
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Ingredients for the Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredients for the Frosting:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Add vanilla, cocoa powder, salt, and flour, and mix until smooth.
3. Spread the batter evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from oven and carefully roll the cake (with the parchment paper) into a log shape. Let it cool completely.
5. For the filling, whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Unroll the cake, spread the filling, and re-roll it.
6. For the frosting, beat the butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Frost the outside of the cake and use a fork to create a "log" texture. Dust with powdered sugar to resemble snow.

Roast Chestnuts

Ingredients:

• Fresh chestnuts

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut a small "X" on the flat side of each chestnut (this helps them cook evenly and makes peeling easier).
3. Spread the chestnuts on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, until the shells start to peel away and the nuts are tender.
4. Peel and enjoy while warm.

Spiced Gingerbread Cookies 

Gingerbread is a classic Yule and wintertime treat, also decorating it is a super fun family activity ! 

Ingredients:

• 3 cups flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and spices.
2. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg, molasses, and water, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients.
3. Chill the dough for at least an hour.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into desired shapes (stars, trees, etc.).
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes until firm. Decorate with icing or sugar as desired.



Winter Solstice Stew

A hearty stew is perfect for a Yule feast, symbolizing warmth and sustenance during the cold months.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef or lamb stew meat (or use mushrooms and root vegetables for a vegetarian version)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 cups broth (beef or vegetable)
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Brown the meat (or vegetables) and remove from the pot.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
3. Add the carrots, potatoes, broth, wine, and herbs. Return the meat to the pot.
4. Simmer on low for 1-2 hours, until the meat is tender and the flavours are well blended. Season to taste.

 

We hope these recipes are a helpful start to get you celebrating in the weeks to come ! Merry Yule from The Ravenwood!