Christmas Deviled Eggs: A Festive and Flavorful Holiday Appetizer
Herb-packed bites in vibrant red and green hues bring festive cheer to any gathering.
Deviled eggs are a timeless treat at holiday gatherings, but they shine especially bright at Christmas. These Christmas deviled eggs blend classic flavors with a vibrant, herbaceous twist and festive decorations, becoming a star at your breakfast spread, lunch, or party buffets. Whether you’re preparing a formal holiday brunch or a spirited family meal, these eggs promise color, cheer, and craveable taste in every bite.
Why Christmas Deviled Eggs?
Deviled eggs suit every season, but for Christmas, creative presentation turns them into edible decorations for your table:
- Herb-rich filling offers a fresh, green note – think parsley and dill – boosting both taste and color.
- Festive toppings (chopped red bell pepper and optional green coloring) mimic Christmas trees and ornaments.
- Easy, make-ahead prep makes holiday entertaining simple and stress-free.
Bring this classic recipe up a notch for a crowd-pleasing addition to your Christmas menu.
Ingredients for Festive Deviled Eggs
- 12 large eggs
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 3 Tbsp dill pickle relish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1 drop green food coloring (optional, for extra vibrancy)
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced (for garnish)
Optional substitutions: Use chopped pimentos for red garnish, or small pieces of yellow bell pepper for extra color accents.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Boil the Eggs
Fill a large pot with about 2 inches of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Carefully lower in the eggs and cook for 12 minutes. - Cool and Peel
Transfer eggs with a slotted spoon to a large bowl of ice water. Cool for 2 minutes, then tap each egg on both ends and return to the ice water for 10 more minutes. Peel the eggs under cold running water, which makes shells easier to remove. - Halve the Eggs
Slice the eggs in half lengthwise with a sharp knife. Gently scoop out yolks into a mixing bowl or the bowl of a food processor. - Make the Filling
Combine yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish, parsley, dill, food coloring (if using), salt, and pepper. Process for 1-2 minutes, or mash with a fork until smooth and the herbs are well incorporated. - Fill the Eggs
Spoon the filling into a large pastry or zip-top plastic bag. Snip off a corner to create about a 1/2-inch opening. Pipe the filling into the empty egg halves. - Create Festive Decorations
For a Christmas tree look, pipe a triangle shape over the hole in the egg white. Sprinkle with chopped red bell pepper for “ornaments.” Add extra dill for a “needles” effect, or use yellow bell pepper for stars or tree trunks. - Serve or Store
Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Tips for the Best Deviled Eggs
- Save the egg carton: Use it to hold cooked eggs before peeling, or to transport the finished eggs to your gathering.
- Boil the eggs gently: Lower the eggs into boiling water slowly with a slotted spoon to prevent cracking.
- Shock in ice water: Rapid cooling stops the cooking and makes peeling easier.
- Piping perfection: For cleaner presentation, use a disposable pastry or zip-top bag instead of a spoon.
- Make ahead: Boil and peel eggs up to three days ahead; fill and decorate eggs up to 24 hours ahead for maximum freshness.
Deviled Eggs: Decoration Ideas
Christmas deviled eggs invite creativity with decorations. Here are a few fun options:
- Holiday Tree: Pipe filling in a tree shape, topped with a sprinkle of red pepper “ornaments.”
- Stars and trunks: Use thin strips of yellow bell pepper for stars, or brown/yellow for trunks.
- Festive confetti: Try chopped pimentos, parsley, or even edible glitter for extra sparkle.
- Natural green: Boost color naturally with extra parsley, dill, or chives instead of food coloring.
Expert Answers to Common Deviled Egg Questions
How do you decorate Christmas deviled eggs?
After mixing the filling, transfer it to a bag for piping. For a green hue, add a droplet or two of green food coloring before piping. Draw a triangle on each filled egg for a tree effect, then sprinkle red pepper pieces or pimentos for ornaments, and finish with sprigs of dill for an evergreen look.
Can you make deviled eggs ahead of time?
Yes. Boiled and peeled eggs can be refrigerated up to three days in advance. Finished deviled eggs (with filling and decor) will keep well in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. For best results, store decorated side up, either on a deviled egg plate (tightly wrapped) or in a sealed plastic container.
What others are reading
Should you put vinegar in deviled eggs?
A touch of acidity brightens the filling, so a small amount of vinegar, or vinegary components such as pickle relish, mustard, or even pickle brine, is beneficial. The Christmas deviled eggs recipe uses both mustard and relish for this effect; you can also substitute a teaspoon of actual vinegar or pickle juice for added tang.
How many deviled eggs should you serve per person?
Plan on 2 to 3 deviled eggs (halves) per guest for appetizers or as a side dish. Using a dozen eggs yields 24 deviled eggs, enough for 8 to 12 people. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 24 hours to enjoy the next day.
How do you keep deviled eggs fresh for serving?
Serve deviled eggs cold, directly from the refrigerator, for the best texture and food safety. If transporting or storing overnight, keep eggs in a single layer in an egg carton or on a plate, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in a sealed container.
Variations and Personal Touches
The base recipe is highly adaptable to suit your tastes or traditions. Here are some tempting ideas:
- Change the mustard: Try Dijon or spicy brown for deeper flavor.
- Add a kick: Stir in a squirt of hot sauce or diced pickled jalapeños for heat.
- Sweeter profile: Include a teaspoon of sugar for Southern-style eggs.
- Tangy twist: Add white vinegar or use more pickle juice for extra zing.
- Crunch: Fold in finely diced celery or scallions for texture.
Classic toppings like paprika, chives, or even bacon bits make fun alternatives if you’re making a larger batch or want a buffet of flavors.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
- Deviled egg plates: Special platters with indentations keep eggs upright and show off their decorations.
- Egg cartons: Use repurposed, cleaned egg cartons for transporting or casual display.
- With smoked salmon or ham: Garnish with curls of smoked salmon or ham strips for an elevated party treat.
- Buffet centerpiece: Arrange deviled eggs in a wreath, alternating with sprigs of dill, to create an edible holiday centerpiece.
- Paired sides: Serve alongside breakfast casseroles, holiday meats, or fresh fruit for a balanced brunch spread.
FAQ: Christmas Deviled Eggs
Q: How can I ensure my eggs are easy to peel?
A: Use older eggs when possible and shock immediately in ice water after boiling. Gently roll on the counter and peel under running water for best results.
Q: What can I do if my deviled egg filling is too runny?
A: Add a bit more chopped herbs, mashed yolk, or a touch of cream cheese to thicken the mixture. Mix a little at a time until you reach the desired texture.
Q: Are there dairy-free or lighter alternatives for mayo?
A: Substitute with Greek yogurt or a high-quality vegan mayo for a lighter or dairy-free version. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Q: Can I freeze deviled eggs?
A: No, deviled eggs do not freeze well as their texture changes significantly upon thawing. Always serve fresh for best quality.
Nutritional Information
| Per serving (2 halves) | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Total fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Sodium | 190mg |
Conclusion: Celebrate with Christmas Deviled Eggs
Add color, joy, and flavor to your holiday table this year with Christmas deviled eggs. Their refreshing, herbaceous filling, eye-catching presentation, and make-ahead convenience make them an essential addition to every festive menu. Mix, match, and decorate for your crew—these cheerful eggs are sure to disappear quickly!
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a41462624/christmas-deviled-eggs-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eESOVN3xxQU
- https://www.businessinsider.com/review-ree-drummonds-deviled-eggs-recipe-comparison-grandmothers-recipe-2023-12
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a42804105/deviled-eggs-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/g64445282/different-deviled-egg-recipes/
- https://insanelygoodrecipes.com/pioneer-woman-deviled-eggs/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
