In our house, Christmas doesn’t really start with the tree — it starts in the kitchen.
Every year, around November, I find myself craving that sweet, creamy carbonara or hearing “Christmas in Our Hearts” while cooking dinner. The scent of butter and cheese in the air feels like a warm-up to the holidays.
The “ber” months are truly magical in the Philippines. The malls are glowing, parols start appearing on windows, and every family gathering somehow turns into a mini-feast. So why wait for December? Let’s bring the holiday cheer early — through the recipes that make Christmas feel close enough to taste.
5 Simple Recipes to Kickstart Holiday Mood
- Pinoy-Style Carbonara
Creamy, cheesy, and sprinkled with bacon bits — this is my family’s official “first sign of Christmas” meal. Every spoonful brings instant holiday nostalgia. - Sweet-Style Spaghetti
The most iconic Pinoy celebration food ever. Sweet, saucy, and full of hotdog slices — it’s not fancy, but it’s love in every twirl of pasta. - No-Bake Graham Dessert Cups
You know the holidays are coming when the fridge is full of these. I layer them in small jars, so the kids can grab one anytime (and so I can sneak one during midnight editing sessions 😅). - Homemade Ham and Cheese Rolls
Soft, buttery, and addictive. These rolls fill the house with the smell of freshly baked happiness. Perfect with hot cocoa or morning coffee. - Nutella Hot Cocoa
The ultimate ber-month hug in a mug. Suddenly it feels like you’re in a Christmas movie — even if you’re still wearing tsinelas.
Every year, I remind myself that Christmas isn’t about rushing through shopping lists or perfect tablescapes. It’s about small, cozy moments — the smell of butter, laughter in the kitchen, and the warmth of shared food.
So go ahead, start early. Play Jose Mari Chan. Make that pasta. Sip that cocoa. Because the holidays aren’t about when you celebrate — they’re about how you feel when you do. 💛
