Hosting the Holidays Like a Pro: Stress-Free Recipes with Select Brands Appliances

Hosting the Holidays Like a Pro: Stress-Free Recipes with Select Brands Appliances

The holidays are here, and while the season sparkles with joy, hosting can feel like running a marathon with a turkey in one hand and a timer in the other. What if we told you there’s a secret weapon to making holiday hosting easy-breezy—without the mess, stress, or even turning on the oven? This year, your MVP lineup comes straight from Select Brands with appliances that turn festive chaos into effortless cheer.

From brunch to desserts and everything in between, we’ve got 12 creative recipes that wow your guests and give you back the gift of time. Let’s dive into this ultimate holiday hosting guide featuring treats so delicious, your oven won’t even get an invite! Make sure to read to the end, where we have bonus show stopping recipes!

1. Festive Brunch Bites with the Babycakes Cake Pop Maker

Start the day with holiday magic and make brunch a little fancier (and easier) with bite-sized delights. The Babycakes Cake Pop Maker isn’t just for desserts—it’s a versatile resource for sweet and savory treats!

Cheesy Brunch Balls
Ingredients:

• 1 cup pancake mix
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled turkey bacon
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Directions:

1. Preheat the Babycakes Cake Pop Maker.
2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
3. Spoon batter into the cake pop wells and close the lid. Cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
4. Serve with maple syrup for dipping.

Pro Tip: These cheese balls can double as appetizers when topped with a little sour cream and fresh chives.

2. “No-Oven Needed” Holiday Treats: Mickey 3-in-1 Treat Maker

Want to win over kids and adults alike? The Mickey 3-in-1 Treat Maker is a holiday game changer. It’s perfect for waffles, brownies, and pancakes—delicious and ready in minutes.

Mickey Gingerbread Waffles
Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups waffle mix
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Directions:

1. Preheat the Mickey Treat Maker on waffle mode.
2. Combine waffle mix, milk, molasses, and spices in a bowl.
3. Pour batter into the waffle plates and cook until crispy.
4. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Pro Tip: Create a mini gingerbread waffle bar by setting out toppings like berries, mini chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint.

3. Guilt-Free Appetizers: Toastmaster Air Fryer

Say goodbye to deep frying and hello to crispy, healthier snacks with the Toastmaster Air Fryer. It’s fast, mess-free, and keeps your guests munching happily.

Crispy Air-Fried Zucchini Chips
Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1 egg, beaten

Directions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F.
2. Dip zucchini slices into the egg, then coat with a mix of panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Place in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

Pro Tip: Air fryers can reheat leftovers like a dream, so keep it handy post-dinner for perfectly crisped next-day snacks!

4. Cozy Holiday Beverages: TRU Espresso Machine

No holiday gathering is complete without a toasty beverage. Enter the TRU Espresso Machine, your secret weapon for café-quality drinks in minutes.

Peppermint Mocha Magic
Ingredients:

• 1 shot espresso
• 1 cup steamed milk
• 2 tbsp dark chocolate syrup
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish

Directions:

1. Brew a fresh shot of espresso using the TRU Espresso Machine.
2. Mix espresso, steamed milk, chocolate syrup, and peppermint extract.
3. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for a festive finish.

Pro Tip: Make it a holiday bar! Set out toppings like cinnamon, caramel drizzle, and cocoa powder for guests to customize their own drinks.

5. Toastmaster Skillet: Holiday Veggie Frittata

Serve up a quick, healthy, and hearty dish for brunch or dinner with this one-skillet wonder. It’s colorful, packed with veggies, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the Toastmaster Skillet over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add spinach, tomatoes, and red bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
6. Slice and serve hot—no oven required!

6. Toastmaster Griddle: Holiday “Reindeer” Pancake Platter

Make holiday mornings extra fun with these reindeer pancakes. Use the griddle for quick, mess-free cooking and get the kids involved in decorating!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups pancake mix (any variety)
• 1 1/4 cups milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Fresh fruit for decoration (bananas, strawberries, blueberries)
• Chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat the Toastmaster Griddle
2. Mix pancake batter according to package instructions. Add vanilla extract for some festive flavor.
3. Pour the batter into 3 shapes: a large oval (for the head) and 2 smaller ovals (for the ears). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Assemble the “reindeer” face using banana slices for eyes, blueberries for pupils, and a strawberry slice for the nose. Add chocolate chips for extra decoration.
5. Serve with syrup and enjoy!

7. Toastmaster Convection/Toaster Oven XL: Ultimate Holiday Pizza Party

Skip delivery and make a large, festive pizza to share with friends and family. Bonus: The convection oven gives it that perfect crispy crust!

Ingredients:

• 1 large pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1/2 cup spinach leaves
• 1/4 cup red and green bell peppers, diced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Directions:

1. Preheat the Toastmaster Convection/Toaster Oven XL to 425°F.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to fit the toaster oven’s large tray.
3. Spread marinara sauce evenly over the dough, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese.
4. Arrange pepperoni, spinach, and diced bell peppers to create a festive “holiday wreath” design. Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Slice and serve hot.

8. Dessert: Espresso Chocolate Mousse Cups

Rich, creamy, and topped with a touch of espresso, this dessert is the perfect ending to your holiday feast.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp brewed espresso (using the TRU Espresso Machine)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or raspberries

Directions:

1. Melt the dark chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring until smooth. Stir in the brewed espresso and vanilla extract.
2. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold the melted chocolate mixture into the whipped cream until fully combined.
4. Spoon into small serving cups and refrigerate for 1 hour.
5. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a festive finish.

9. Espresso Bar Idea: DIY Holiday Coffee Station

Create a cozy espresso bar for your guests using the TRU Espresso Machine. Add a variety of syrups, toppings, and fun mix-ins so everyone can customize their drinks.

Holiday Coffee Bar Essentials:

• Brewed espresso or cappuccino
• Flavored syrups: peppermint, caramel, vanilla
• Toppings: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, candy canes, cinnamon sticks
• Add-ons: almond milk, oat milk, or half-and-half
• Fun garnishes: a sprinkle of cocoa powder or nutmeg

Pro Tip: Offer printed recipe cards for drinks like Peppermint Mochas and Caramel Cappuccinos so guests can get creative with their orders.

10. Mickey Shorts Mini Donuts

Inspired by Kaila’s adorable photo, these Mickey Shorts Mini Donuts are a show-stopping, kid-friendly treat using the Mickey 3-in-1 Treat Maker.

Ingredients:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
• 1 cup red candy melts
• 2 tbsp yellow candy melts (or yellow M&M’s for buttons)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Mickey 3-in-1 Treat Maker on donut mode.
2. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package instructions.
3. Spoon batter into the donut wells and close the lid. Bake for 4-5 minutes until cooked through.
4. Melt the red candy melts in the microwave. Dip the tops of each donut in the red coating to mimic “Mickey’s shorts.”
5. Add two dots of yellow candy melts (or yellow M&M’s) for the buttons while the red coating is still soft.
6. Let set for 10 minutes and serve to delighted guests!

BONUS!!! Here are two show-stopping, holiday-worthy recipes sure to impress. Starting with a show-stopping Cornish Hen recipe using the Toastmaster XL Convection/Toaster Oven. This dish is elegant, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding a crowd of 8-10 people. And a show-stopping dessert with our Babycakes cake pop maker, you can build a cake pop holiday village. 

Bonus Main Entree: Herb-Roasted Cornish Hens with Garlic and Lemon

Impress your guests with perfectly roasted Cornish hens—crispy, golden skin on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside. The Toastmaster XL Convection/Toaster Oven ensures even cooking for a hassle-free main dish that’s both festive and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 4 Cornish hens (about 1.5 lbs each)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 lemons, quartered (for stuffing)
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Prep the Hens:
• Pat the Cornish hens dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
• Season the cavities with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stuff each hen with 1-2 lemon wedges and a sprig of rosemary.
2. Make the Marinade:
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat the Hens:
• Brush the marinade generously over the Cornish hens, ensuring an even coating. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to soak up the flavors.
4. Preheat the XL Toastmaster Oven:
• Set the oven to 375°F on convection mode.
5. Roast the Hens:
• Place the hens breast-side up on a large oven-safe roasting tray or sheet pan that fits in the Toastmaster XL Convection/Toaster Oven. Arrange them with space in between for even airflow.
• Roast for 45-55 minutes, rotating the tray halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—the internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
• For extra crispy skin, increase the temperature to 400°F for the last 5-7 minutes of roasting.
6. Rest and Serve:
• Allow the hens to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve with extra lemon wedges for a bright finish.

Serving Ideas:

• Pair the Cornish hens with roasted root vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a bright arugula and pomegranate salad for a balanced holiday feast. You can make the veggies in the Toastmaster skillet! 

Pro Tip: If prepping ahead, marinate the hens overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. Bring to room temperature before roasting for even cooking.

This recipe combines ease, elegance, and incredible flavor, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. The Toastmaster XL Convection/Toaster Oven ensures you achieve golden perfection without ever turning on the main oven! ✨

Bonus Dessert Showstopper: Build a Cake Pop Village

Let’s face it—dessert is the grand finale of any holiday party. This year, create a Cake Pop Gingerbread Village with the Babycakes Cake Pop Maker. It’s fun, easy, and inspires kids (and adults!) to get creative.

Ingredients:

• 1 box gingerbread cake mix (plus required ingredients)
• White and colored icing
• Assorted sprinkles, candy pieces, and edible glitter

Directions:

1. Prepare gingerbread cake mix according to package instructions.
2. Bake in the Babycakes Cake Pop Maker for 4-5 minutes until cooked through.
3. Use icing to “glue” cake pops into mini house shapes, adding doors, windows, and candy decor.
4. Finish with sprinkles and edible glitter for extra holiday sparkle.

Pro Tip: Set up a decorating station with bowls of candies and frosting for a fun, interactive dessert activity.

These recipes combine fun, flavor, and holiday cheer while making the most of Select Brands appliances. From brunch to dessert and everything in between, your hosting game just got easier, breezier, and a whole lot tastier!

Hosting the holidays doesn’t have to mean hours in the kitchen or piles of dishes. With the help of Select Brands appliances—like the Mickey Treat Maker, Toastmaster Air Fryer, Babycakes Cake Pop Maker, and TRU Espresso Machine—you can pull off a stress-free, festive feast with style.

Ready to host like a pro? Explore these products and turn your holiday season into a celebration everyone will remember:
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Tags: Holiday Hosting Tips, Easy Holiday Recipes, Guilt-Free Holiday Treats, Air Fryer Recipes, Cake Pop Ideas, Holiday Espresso Drinks, Select Brands Appliances