From morning to night, these dishes will make your Christmas bright.

One thing you don’t have to stress about is the food.

These are the recipes that help me get by during thisbusy seasonI hope they do the same for you.

Southern Living The Redbird Cake sliced on a cake plate to serve

Credit:Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Torie Cox; Prop Stylist: Lydia Pursell

That’s always a plus.

Cheddar Cheese Straws

Christmas can’t commence at my house until the cheese straws are made.

It was a tradition started by my grandmother and I’m proud to say we are keeping it alive.

Blood Orange Holiday Punch

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox

You’re not wrong.

But they’re just a blank canvas waiting for my creative family to go to town.

I don’t know who has more funme or my 5-year-old nephew.

Cheddar Cheese Straws

Credit: Lee Harrelson

OK, it’s me for sure.

She was an excellent cook.

Joyce, however, made and served her ambrosia from the fridge’s crisper drawer.

Southern Living Easy Sugar Cookies on a cooling rack ready to serve

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

But that’s a whole ‘nother story.

Luscious Orange Panna Cotta

If you’re like, “What’s panna cotta?”

And it’s SUPER simple.

Stuffed Ham-and-Cheese Croissant Casserole

Credit: Jennifer Causey; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Stylist: Missie Neville Crawford

And despite what you or your grandmother might consider a salad, this dish is delightful.

Honestly, that’s just the tip of my holiday cooking iceberg.

Our Best Ambrosia Ever

Credit: Greg DuPree; Food Styling: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Styling: Kay E. Clarke

Herb-Crusted Beef Tenderloin

Credit:GREG DUPREE; FOOD STYLING: CHELSEA ZIMMER; PROP STYLING: CHRISTINE KEELY

Southern Living Twice Baked Duchess Potatoes on a platter to serve

Credit:Greg Dupree; Prop Stylist: Ginny Branch; Food Stylist: Micah Morton

Luscious Orange Panna Cotta

Credit: Jennifer Davick; Styling: Lydia DeGaris Pursell

Pear Salad

Credit: Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox