The winter holiday season is Karina Wang’s favorite time of the year. Filled with joyful spirit, family and friend appreciation, and delicious foods, Christmas and New Year’s Day have many valuable traditions, one of which is having a family meal around the dinner table, often overflowing with traditional dishes that everyone stuffs themselves with. As long as she can remember, she has tried many of these foods each year, both homemade and at restaurants. Here is a compiled list of her personal favorites.

1.Roasted Ham

Every year, roasted ham is what’s at the very center of our dining table during the holidays. Glazed and seasoned, the indescribable taste and softness of the meat is everyone’s favorite part of the meal.

2.Stuffing

A mixture of bread, butter, meat, onions, spices, and much more, stuffing combines a multitude of components to create one extremely delectable dish, which is why it almost tops this list.

3.Mac & Cheese

You may have had mac and cheese a thousand times before. But have you ever tried making it yourself? By using your own cheese and pasta, it will taste completely different. It’s also a great vegan dish. I tried a vegan version once last year and it tasted just as good – if not, better – than regular mac and cheese.

4.Mashed Potatoes & Gravy

Mashed potatoes is an essential part of your holiday dinner. But don’t go with a store-bought mix. Homemade mashed potatoes are a whole different story. Its heavenly taste and aroma will attract everyone’s attention.

5.Eggnog

Traditional eggnog is an easy homemade drink that can be made with just four ingredients: milk, cream, sugar, and eggs. The creamy texture will melt in your mouth and have you craving more. Top it with cinnamon if you want an extra boost in flavor.

6.Gingerbread

From cookies to houses to cakes, gingerbread can be used to make a variety of deserts. Making gingerbread houses is definitely one of my favorite winter holiday activities to do with my friends or family.

7.Bûche de Noël (Yule Log)

After learning about this desert in French class, I just had to try it. Made from sponge cake, Bûche de Noël is traditionally topped with chocolate and raspberry jam, and shaped intricately into a log. It is savoring to both your eyes and taste buds.

8.Fruitcake

There’s no desert more traditional than fruitcake, which also known as ‘Christmas Cake’ in many other countries. Decorating the cake is the most enjoyable part. By using icing, fondue, and other elements, you can create an edible masterpiece.

9.Soufflé

Originated in France, soufflés are a delectable complement to a holiday meal. The fluffiness and softness of the egg component will satiate your test buds.

10.Apple Pie

The delicious sweetness a warm apple pie brings on a cold winter day is the perfect desert after a holiday meal. Simple and easy-to-make, the traditional apple pie is more than enough to have you grabbing another piece.