Holiday Appetizer Inspiration From Stepanie’s Recipe Journal

Stephanie’s Recipe Journal has brought us delightfully cozy dishes so far this season and we’ve been savoring every second since we premiered the new show in September. The new format with 30-minute long episodes has allowed for full, step-by-step tutorials from Stephanie along with her stories, tips and tricks and we have an all-new episode this month just in time for the holidays.
Stephanie is keeping the cozy vibes of her recipes going with this next episode, featuring a variety of crowd-pleasing bites for your next holiday party. Tune in Saturday, December 20, at 12:30pm on ThinkTV16 and 1:30pm on CET, and Tuesday, December 23, at 10:30am on ThinkTV14 as she shows you how to elevate your entertaining this year with these simple, make-ahead appetizers. The show will also be available to stream on YouTube and the PBS App.
This episode’s recipes are festive, flavorful and sure to impress at any party this season, from sweet and savory bacon-wrapped dates for your next family Christmas party to zesty marinated olives to kick off the New Year’s Eve countdown. Other featured dishes include flaky prosciutto, homemade pesto and gruyere pinwheels. With tips for prepping ahead and serving with ease, this Stephanie’s Recipe Journal is your go-to guide for stress-free, holiday hosting.
Check out the latest three recipes from Stephanie’s Recipe Journal below and stay tuned for new episodes each month. Stephanie’s Recipe’s Journal airs on Saturdays at 10:30am on ThinkTV14 and 12pm on ThinkTV16.
Challah Bread – September Episode
In the first episode of Stephanie’s Recipe Journal, Stephanie introduces a soft, golden challah bread from scratch. Learn two beautiful braiding techniques—a classic 4-strand loaf and a braided bun—perfect for impressing at any table. Step-by-step tips make these recipes easy for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Watch the tutorial and download the full recipe card on our website: https://thinktv.org/challah-bread-4-strand-8-strand-techniques/.
Checkerboard Cake – October Episode
In this episode, Stephanie shows viewers how to elevate a simple boxed cake mix into a gorgeous checkerboard cake layered with rich chocolate buttercream. Learn the tricks to achieve the checkerboard effect—perfect for birthdays, parties, or impressing guests with minimal effort! Watch the tutorial and download the full recipe card on our website: https://thinktv.org/checkerboard-cake-made-easy-step-by-step-guide/.
Pumpkin-Shaped Cinnamon – November Episode
In this festive fall episode, Stephanie shows viewers how to make soft, gooey cinnamon rolls shaped like cute little pumpkins! These creative rolls are perfect for autumn brunches, Halloween treats, or Thanksgiving breakfast. Easy to make and fun to share, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite! Watch the tutorial and download the full recipe card on our website: https://thinktv.org/pumpkin-shaped-cinnamon-rolls-the-cutest-fall-treat/.
And don’t worry, episodes of The Baking Journal are still available on our website, YouTube channel (@stephaniesrecipejournal) and the PBS App! You can always revisit Stephanie’s classic holiday recipes like her white chocolate-dipped ginger cookies and the Christmas Tree cheeseball appetizer. Explore the full archive of tips and tricks here: https://thinktv.org/stephanies-recipe-journal/full-episodes/.

