The holidays are a time for getting together with friends and family and eating delicious foods. In the USA, there are many drinks, dishes, and desserts that are popular during the holiday season. Some of these traditional American holiday foods have origins in other countries, while some are centuries-old traditions. Each has become an important part of holiday celebrations for many American families.

Traditional American Holiday Foods

Apple cider

Apple cider is a non-alcoholic drink made from apples. In the winter, it is often served with spices (such as cinnamon and clove); sometimes, people add alcohol to it or top it with whipped cream. It is an autumn and winter tradition.

Candy canes

Who doesn’t love these happy, red and white striped candies? They are used in decorations and sometimes in recipes (such as the peppermint bark dessert). You might see them on Christmas trees or in other holiday displays.

Cranberry sauce

Cranberry sauce is made from cranberries, orange juice, sugar, and sometimes other spices. It’s a delicious treat to put on turkey and bread. It’s also great for turkey sandwiches. Yum!

Eggnog

Eggnog is a drink made from eggs, cream, milk, sugar, and spices. Many add rum to the drink to make it alcoholic. It’s not healthy by any means, but it’s delicious . . . and a holiday tradition for many Americans.

Gingerbread

Gingerbread is a staple holiday dessert. Many bake gingerbread and give loaves to friends; others make gingerbread cookies or decorate gingerbread houses. In fact, it’s a tradition for many families to spend an evening making gingerbread houses.

Green bean casserole

Green bean casserole is a dish made from green beans, mushrooms, and cream. The dish is topped with fried onions. This casserole is one of those foods that you rarely see on most American dinner tables the rest of the year. Who knows why? It’s delicious!

Pecan pie

Pecan pie is a very sweet pie made from pecans and corn syrup. It’s another dish that Americans rarely eat outside of the holidays, and maybe that’s a good thing . . . it’s delicious, and very rich!

Turkey with stuffing

Turkey with stuffing is a staple of many American holiday dinners. The turkey is stuffed with bread and spices and becomes flavored with the cooked juices of the bird. The result is a delicious and rich side dish that is perfect to serve with turkey.

Sweet potatoes with marshmallows

Sweet potatoes are already sweet . . . but some Americans make them even sweeter by putting marshmallows on top and then baking them. It’s like having dessert for dinner: that’s OK for the holidays, right?

From us at IEC@DVC, Happy Holidays to you and your family!