The High-Holiday Handbook: Infused Recipes That Sleigh

---

Holidays are about indulgence, joy, and making memories you want to remember. So, why not bring a little extra cheer to the table this year? Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or crashing a friend’s party with a tray of edible goodness, this is your ultimate guide to infused holiday treats and drinks that won’t just elevate the spirit—they’ll sleigh the season. And don’t worry if you’re no culinary wizard; we’ve kept these recipes simple, festive, and foolproof.

---

The Appetizers:

Let’s face it: no holiday party is complete without a platter of perfectly tender, bite-sized meatballs. These savory delights are simmered in a lightly infused marinara sauce that whispers “holiday magic” with every bite. They’re rich, flavorful, and pack just enough of a punch to leave your guests craving more—without overshadowing the rest of the meal. A touch of cannabis infusion transforms these classic cocktail meatballs into the perfect prelude to your holiday feast. Whether your guests are dipping or savoring them straight off the skewer, these flavor-packed bites promise to be the ultimate party starter.

Infused Mini Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

---

Ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup infused olive oil
• For the Marinara Sauce:
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tbsp infused olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
   • Add the infused olive oil and mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
   • Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them on a plate or tray.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1–2 tablespoons of regular olive oil to the pan.
   • Sear the meatballs in batches, turning gently until they’re browned on all sides (about 6–8 minutes). They don’t need to be fully cooked through yet.
4. Simmer in Sauce:
   • Remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
   • In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and stir in the infused olive oil. Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
   • Return the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they’re fully coated in the sauce. Cover and let them simmer over low heat for 10–12 minutes, until fully cooked.
5. Serve:
   • Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish. Provide toothpicks or skewers for easy snacking. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan if desired.

Infusion Notes:

• Adjust the amount of infused olive oil to suit your desired potency. Start with less if you’re unsure and provide clear dosage guidance for guests.

Make-Ahead Tip:

• You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. Simply thaw and simmer in marinara before serving.

These flavorful bites are sure to be a hit, offering a savory start to your festive cannabis-infused holiday party!

---

The Drinks

When it comes to elevating the holiday spirit—literally—there’s nothing quite like a perfectly crafted drink. For this festive gathering, we’re serving up two show-stopping beverages: one warm and comforting, the other cool and invigorating.

First, the Holiday Hot Cocoa, a decadent blend of rich chocolate and creamy goodness with just the right dose of infused magic. It’s the ultimate cozy companion, perfect for sipping while catching up with friends or lounging by the fire. This isn’t your average cocoa; it’s a warm hug with a kick that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Then there’s the Festive Infused Sangria, a fruity, effervescent delight that captures the celebratory vibe of the season. With bright citrus, juicy berries, and a splash of sparkling joy, this cocktail is as refreshing as it is dazzling. Each sip feels like a party on your palate, and it pairs beautifully with just about everything on the menu.

These drinks don’t just quench thirst—they set the tone for a night of good vibes and great company. Whether your guests are looking to warm up or wind down, these infused libations are guaranteed to please.

Holiday Hot Cocoa (Infused)

---

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or to taste)
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon infused butter or coconut oil
• Whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium-low heat until warm, but not boiling.
2. Whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until fully dissolved.
3. Add the chocolate chips and stir continuously until melted and smooth.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and infused butter or coconut oil. Whisk until the infusion is fully incorporated.
5. Pour the hot cocoa into mugs and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy buzz!

---

Festive Infused Sangria

---

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of red wine (750 ml)
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brandy or infused tincture
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 orange, thinly sliced
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1 cup sparkling water or soda (for topping off)
• Ice (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, orange juice, brandy or tincture, and simple syrup. Stir well to combine.
2. Add the orange slices, apple slices, cranberries, and pomegranate seeds. Stir gently to mix the fruit into the liquid.
3. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Before serving, give the sangria a good stir and taste. Adjust sweetness with additional simple syrup if needed.
5. Pour the sangria into glasses, adding a few pieces of fruit from the pitcher to each glass. Top off with sparkling water or soda for a fizzy finish.
6. Serve over ice, if desired, and let the festivities flow!

---

The Main Course:

When the time comes to sit down and savor the main course, you want dishes that not only impress but truly delight—a centerpiece that brings the whole table together in a harmony of flavor and warmth. Enter our Cannabis-Infused Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, a decadent, velvety bowl of pure comfort food. It’s rich without being overwhelming, with just the right balance of garlic, Parmesan, and creamy indulgence, elevated by a subtle infusion that sets it apart.

To complement this star dish, we’ve got a bright and zesty Infused Lemon Zest Roasted Broccoli, roasted to perfection for a crisp and tender bite that offsets the creamy pasta beautifully. And what’s a holiday meal without garlic bread? Our Garlic Bread with Infused Herb Butter ensures every last bit of sauce is scooped up, leaving no flavor behind.

This main event is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of cannabis cuisine done right—simple, inviting, and oh-so-satisfying. Get ready to impress your guests and turn a holiday feast into an unforgettable experience.

Cannabis-Infused Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

---

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces of fettuccine or pasta of your choice
• 2 tablespoons cannabis-infused olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the cannabis-infused olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not let it brown).
3. Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Incorporate the cheese: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and is smooth. Stir in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well-coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

---

Infused Lemon Zest Roasted Broccoli

---

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons cannabis-infused olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season the broccoli: In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with the cannabis-infused olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast: Spread the broccoli evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the broccoli is tender and slightly crispy on the edges.
4. Serve: Plate the roasted broccoli alongside the pasta for a bright, citrusy side.

---

Garlic Bread with Infused Herb Butter

---

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf French bread or baguette, sliced lengthwise
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon cannabis-infused olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, cannabis-infused olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
2. Spread the butter: Generously spread the infused butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread.
3. Bake: Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
4. Serve warm: Slice into individual servings and pair with the pasta and broccoli for the perfect finish to your main course.

---

DESSERT

And just when you thought the night couldn’t get any sweeter, here comes dessert to steal the show. Picture this: rich, gooey chocolate fudge brownies with a perfectly subtle cannabis twist. They’re the kind of treat that has your guests asking for seconds before they’ve even finished the first bite. These brownies are indulgent, festive, and the ultimate way to end a holiday meal with a little extra cheer. Whether you serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or let them shine on their own, they’re guaranteed to be the star of the dessert table.

Infused Chocolate Fudge Brownies

---

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted infused butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for extra fudginess)

---

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Melt the Infused Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, melt the cannabis-infused butter until smooth and liquid. Let it cool slightly.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Whisk until well blended. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
5. Create the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool and Slice: Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

---

Whether you’re hosting friends or simply indulging in a festive night at home, this holiday menu brings flavor, fun, and a little herbal flair to the table. Remember, the key to a perfect infused holiday party is moderation and communication. Let your guests know what’s infused, savor each dish, and enjoy the holiday magic responsibly. Here’s to great food, good company, and a high-spirited season!

---

_{^{© 2024 Pot Culture Magazine. All rights reserved. This content is the exclusive property of Pot Culture Magazine and may not be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission from the publisher, except for brief quotations in critical reviews.}}