11 New Cracker Barrel Christmas Foods Worth Trying This Year

Holiday menus have a special way of bringing people together, and Cracker Barrel perfectly captures that Christmas magic with dishes that feel both nostalgic and thoughtfully reimagined. This year’s seasonal lineup blends classic Southern comfort with festive flavors that surprise, delight, and invite curiosity. From sweet indulgences to hearty favorites, each dish is crafted to warm both the heart and the table, making your Christmas celebrations cozier, richer, and filled with memorable moments shared with family and friends.

1. Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Peppermint hot chocolate is a seasonal hug in a mug, built from the simple pleasures of rich cocoa brightened by a cool peppermint note. Cracker Barrel’s version stitches together creamy chocolate, steamed milk, and a measured peppermint lift so each sip feels festive without being overly sweet. The whipped topping melts gradually, creating a soft, velvety finish that deepens the experience. This drink serves as a reliable holiday companion in the restaurant since it pairs well with breakfast, dessert, or a mid-afternoon break. It is approachable for all ages, easy to carry out, and consistent in flavor, which makes it a dependable seasonal addition for guests seeking comfort in a familiar form.

2. Cinnamon Roll Pie

Cinnamon roll pie translates everything people love about warm, gooey rolls into a shareable dessert that captures the spirit of holiday mornings. Soft layers of dough bake together with ribbons of cinnamon and brown sugar that caramelize at the edges, creating an inviting aroma that signals comfort before the first bite. The glaze across the top adds a gentle sweetness that complements rather than overwhelms the filling. The pie format makes it simple to slice, store, transport, and reheat, which is why it has become such a practical favorite for brunch crowds and families celebrating at home. This combination of convenience and classic flavors positions it as a standout holiday offering.

3. Country Fried Turkey

Country Fried Turkey presents a comforting reimagining of a traditional holiday protein, offering crisp edges around tender slices of turkey that hold moisture remarkably well. By using a seasoned breading and frying technique, the dish introduces a satisfying contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft interior. It cooks more quickly than a roasted bird, making it efficient for busy kitchens and equally appealing to diners who want holiday flavor in a more casual, hearty format. The dish pairs naturally with gravies and Southern sides, maintaining the sense of a complete holiday plate while bringing something fresh to the table. It is a festive option that remains grounded in familiar, friendly flavors.

4. Pumpkin Spice Latte

Pumpkin Spice Latte brings the comforting flavors of autumn into a warm, aromatic cup that feels like a gentle holiday hug. Rich espresso blends with creamy pumpkin puree and classic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, creating a smooth, perfectly balanced drink that pleases both the senses and the soul. Steamed milk softens the bold flavors while a light touch of sweetness rounds out the experience. Ideal for breakfast, a cozy afternoon, or a festive treat, this seasonal favorite captures the nostalgia and warmth of holiday traditions in every sip.

5. Holiday Sugar Cookies

Holiday sugar cookies are an approachable favorite that succeeds because of their simplicity. Soft vanilla dough forms a tender base that holds its shape well during baking, while icing adds color, sweetness, and a subtle crunch. These cookies travel easily, stack neatly, and appeal to nearly every age group, making them ideal for gatherings and gift boxes. Their flavor profile remains deliberately familiar so that they complement rather than compete with richer holiday desserts. With consistent texture and festive decoration, they fit seamlessly into seasonal displays and serve as dependable crowd pleasers.

6. Strawberry Cheesecake Danish

The strawberry cheesecake Danish blends the richness of cheesecake with the flakiness of laminated pastry and the brightness of strawberry topping. This combination creates an experience that is both indulgent and balanced, offering layers of texture that feel satisfying without becoming heavy. The sweet tang of the filling pairs well with the slight crispness of the pastry edges, while the fruit element adds welcome color and acidity. It works well for breakfast or an afternoon treat, and it handles reheating with minimal loss of quality. For holiday crowds, it is visually appealing and universally inviting, making it a smart addition to seasonal displays.

7. Cinnamon Bread

Cinnamon bread takes the comfort of a warm loaf and elevates it with ribbons of cinnamon sugar that melt into the crumb, creating a tender, fragrant result. Toasting brings out the buttery aroma, while spreads like butter or preserves enhance its warmth. The loaf’s structure allows for clean slicing and easy reheating, which makes it versatile for both breakfast trays and gifting. Its traditional flavor profile appeals to families and evokes a sense of homemade holiday baking without requiring the time and effort of crafting a loaf from scratch. For many visitors, cinnamon bread becomes a repeat purchase that signals the start of the festive season.

8. Pecan Pie

Pecan pie delivers deeply caramelized sweetness supported by a flaky crust and a generous layer of pecans that toast lightly during baking. The filling, rich with buttery and nutty notes, strikes a balance between smooth custard and crunchy pecans, producing a texture that feels celebratory and indulgent. The pie slices cleanly, reheats well, and pairs naturally with whipped cream or ice cream. Because it is a dessert rooted in regional tradition, it carries emotional significance for many diners who associate it with family gatherings and holiday tables. It stands out as a centerpiece dessert that feels both classic and satisfying.

9. Smoky Southern Turkey

Smoky Southern turkey brings an added depth of flavor to traditional turkey by incorporating a smoke-influenced seasoning or cooking method that enriches the meat without overshadowing its natural taste. The smoke accent adds warmth and complexity that works well with gravies and savory sides. The result is a turkey that feels familiar yet elevated, giving diners something special to enjoy during the holiday period. This preparation method also helps maintain juiciness and delivers a more memorable aroma when served. It is a fitting addition for guests who want something classic yet slightly more adventurous.

10. Cinnamon Holiday Ham

Cinnamon holiday ham blends the sweetness of cured ham with a spiced glaze that highlights cinnamon, along with supporting notes of brown sugar and citrus. This glaze creates a shiny, caramelized exterior that enhances the ham’s natural saltiness and builds a balanced sweet-savory contrast. The dish slices neatly, stays moist, and performs well in both plated and buffet settings. It serves as an eye-catching centerpiece that feels festive without requiring complicated preparation. Diners appreciate its comforting familiarity combined with a gentle modern flavor twist.

11. Maple Bacon Griddle Cakes

Maple bacon griddle cakes offer a satisfying mix of soft, fluffy pancakes paired with crisp, smoky bacon and the rich sweetness of maple. The salty bacon pieces stand out against the warm batter, while the maple syrup or glaze ties the flavors together into a cohesive dish. These griddle cakes suit celebratory breakfasts and brunches, and they appeal to guests who enjoy bold combinations of sweet and savory in a single bite. The pancakes hold their texture well when stacked and served, making them practical for holiday mornings when tables fill quickly. This dish captures the sense of festive indulgence that makes seasonal menus memorable.