Seasonal Recipes for December

December is the heart of winter in the UK, bringing festive flavours, comforting meals and some of the most traditional seasonal ingredients of the year. It’s the perfect time for warming dishes, roasted vegetables, hearty stews and simple recipes that celebrate winter produce. For early winter recipes browse my November recipe collection.

From Brussels sprouts and parsnips to apples, cranberries and citrus fruits, December seasonal recipes are all about making the most of rich, earthy ingredients and classic festive flavours. Whether you’re planning cosy dinners or looking for easy seasonal meals, this guide will help you cook with what’s best right now. Planning ahead for healthy winter meals and reset recipes, check out my January recipe collection.

What’s in season in December in the UK

December produce is centred around hardy winter vegetables and festive fruits, ideal for warming, nourishing meals.

Vegetables in season

Brussels sprouts – At their peak and sweeter when roasted
Carrots and parsnips – Perfect for roasting and soups
Cabbage and kale – Great in stews, sides and braised dishes
Leeks – Ideal for soups and pies
Potatoes – A staple for comfort food
Swede, turnips and celeriac – Earthy and perfect for winter cooking

Fruits in season

Apples and pears (stored) – Great for desserts and cooking
Cranberries – A festive staple for sauces and dishes
Clementines and citrus fruits – Sweet, fresh and widely available

December is known for its root vegetables and winter greens, alongside festive ingredients like sprouts and parsnips that are central to seasonal cooking. Look out also for beetroot, cauliflower, Jerusalem artichokes, potato, sweet potato PLUS chestnut, clementine, pomegranate, passion fruit, Sevilla orange, tangerine.