It’s the season for all things concerning holiday cheer and merriment, with invitations gowing through the mail for Christmas parties, gatherings, and get-togethers. December is truly the most wonderful time of the year to spend some quality time with friends and family. But with so many social events, it’s also the most likely time of year to be low on funds. 

With a bottle of wine here and a potluck dish there, attending house parties and cooking for family can really tax the pocket. Here are a few budget-friendly holiday dish options to keep you socializing and baking without breaking the bank; you probably have many of the ingredients in your cabinet already!

Santa’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies are a must during the holidays. Whether you bake them for an event or leave them out for Santa, this easy recipe tastes like the magic of Christmas all wrapped up in a cookie.

Christmas Wassail

The word “wassail” comes from the Anglo-Saxon phrase waes hael, which translates to “good health.” In older Christmas tradition, carolers would go door-to-door singing carols and offering listeners a drink from the wassail bowl. Nothing will make a holiday gathering feel more inviting than a bowl of this warm, traditional drink. (Note: This requires 4-5 hours in a slow cooker.)

Leftover Ham Sliders

A perfect way to eat the same meal in a new, delicious way (a real crowd-pleaser for picky children).

Braided Bread Loaf

This dish is as beautiful as it is delicious; it will steal the spotlight on any table. (Note: Allow for at least three hours of time for bread to rise, bake, and cool before any event.)