Kelli Avila July 17, 2026

Hi...I can't believe it's almost the end of the year,

And if you can't either, you might just still be looking for the perfect recipe to make for your holiday table. This is your reminder that dessert does not have to be complicated to be good. The best recipes are the ones that fit your table, your schedule, and your comfort level in the kitchen.

While I have a full list of pies perfect for the holiday, here are a few options (pies and beyond) that may just be the perfect for your table!

No-Bake Cannoli Pie This one is is popular year round, but it's hitting the top charts right now! get the recipe

More Italian-inspired pies:

• ​Mascarpone Roasted Plum Tart​
• ​Sweet Ricotta Pie​
• ​Pistachio Pie​

Anise Cookies A december tradition in my house, these ones are simple to put together with the perfect texture. Our family will be making these tomorrow! get the recipe

More cookies:

• ​Italian Almond Cookies ​
• ​Soft Orange Drop Cookies​
• ​Pie Crust Cookies​
• ​Easy Snickerdoodle Cookies (from Everyday Family Eats)

French Silk Pie One of the most technical recipe on my website, it's worth every effort it takes. get the recipe

For chocolate lovers:

• ​Chocolate Cream Pie​
• ​Easy Dark Chocolate Pudding​
• ​Chocolate Shortbread​

Cranberry Custard Pie As beautiful as it is delicious, this Cranberry Custard Pie has a creamy, smooth filling tucked in a delicate, ginger-laced pastry crust. get the recipe

More cranberry recipes:

• ​Mini Cranberry Pear Pies​
• ​Blueberry Cranberry Pie​

Eggnog Custard with Gingerbread Crust Easy to make, even easier to love. read the article

More Festive Pies:

• ​Candy Cane Pie​
• ​Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie​
• ​Hot Cocoa Pie​

This email is coming to you from Vermont, a place I’ve sent many emails from before while staying at my best friend’s mountain home. If you’ve been following along for a while, you know that while I am cancer free, I have had to have some follow up surgeries and am currently recovering from one right now. The surgery was successful, and I feel incredibly lucky to be healing in one of my favorite places in the world, surrounded by all the people I love. While I've spent many holidays with my best friends before, this one is extra special for many reasons, which I'll be able to share more about at a later date.

For now, I’m sending my warmest wishes for a peaceful holiday to you and yours. I know how layered this season can be, carrying joy, grief, and everything in between. Wherever it finds you, I hope you’re able to move through it with gentleness toward yourself and the people you love.

And of course, lots of good food.