In case you missed them, we’ve compiled our favorite blog posts of the week all in one place so you can read, get inspired — and cook!
 How to Candy Citrus ZestCandied citrus zest makes a beautiful garnish for desserts and sweet snacks during the holidays, when oranges, lemons and grapefruits are at their best. Follow these simple steps below to create your own candied peel. |
 Slow-Cooking Made SimpleYour slow cooker can be a lifesaver during the busy holiday season, when parties and out-of-town guests abound. Try one of these simplified recipes, requiring 10 ingredients or less — many of which you may already have in your pantry. |
 Chocolate Pomegranate ClustersWhat is there not to love about a two-ingredient recipe—especially during this joyful, but busy, time of year? With one pomegranate and a handful of chocolate chips, you can create a dazzling tray of chocolate pomegranate clusters that are sure to draw ooo’s and aah’s from your holiday crowd. |
 Decorating Holiday Wreath Cupcakes with Jennifer Shea of Trophy CupcakesThese wreath cupcakes are easier to decorate than they look and are sure to impress all of your holiday guests. Follow these steps to pull them off. |
 A Fried, Festive Menu for ChanukahHowever you spell it, with C’s or H’s and any wide variety of N usages, Chanukah is a time to embrace the technique of frying in your kitchen. Since the holiday celebrates a miracle involving oil, fried food is the focal point of the meal. |
 Sweet Pecan KugelThere are many kugel recipes out there, but this is a particular favorite. It’s sweet, but it’s versatile; it can accompany breakfast or a light lunch, and it works well as a side dish with meat, chicken or fish for dinner. And it’s delicious as a dessert, too! |
 Cozy & Elegant Holiday Dinner PartyThe holidays are the perfect time to up the elegance factor a bit when it comes to entertaining. Here’s our expert’s formula for a cozy, memorable holiday dinner party. |
 Host a Holiday Dessert BuffetFor your next holiday party, skip the savories and serve just desserts. Set them out buffet-style so guests can help themselves. Open some bottles of bubbly, have coffee and hot tea at the ready, and let the party begin. |
 Holiday Cheese Plate, 4 WaysWhether served as an hors d’oeuvre before dinner or as a sweet-savory treat after the meal, a cheese plate adds an elegant touch to any occasion. Stock your refrigerator with a few “special occasion” cheeses, flavorful nuts and fresh, seasonal fruit, and you’ll have an almost instant crowd-pleasing course. |