5 recipes to try for the holidays

Christmas will forever hold a special place in my heart, along with the family traditions that come along with.

I will always connect my special holiday memories with the taste of eggnog, the smell of a King's Crown roast, the sound of fizzy bubbles popping in glasses of champagne and of course, eating fresh-baked cookies.

Here is a list of five recipes that hold a dear place in my heart. Trust me — you should try them this holiday season!

Alton Brown's French Toast

Anyone who's heard of Alton Brown knows that he makes some of the best food known to humans. These amazing french toast slices are the best way to follow up Christmas morning festivities or just to eat every day over the holidays...don't worry, we won't judge.

Find the recipe here.

Chai Spice Butter Cookies

Reminiscent of a Starbucks Chai Latte, these cookies are perfect for Santa or those weird family members who don't like chocolate chip cookies (seriously, what is WRONG with those people???).

Find the recipe here.

Garlic Bread "Fries" with Marinara "Ketchup"

I put these on the list simply because the last time I made them for a friend's holiday party, they were devoured in about a minute. These babies are more addictive than crack, and also a lot easier to make! (Not that I would know, just a guesstimate).

Find the recipe here.

Salted Caramel Pie

For all you northerners going to UNC, us southerners LOVE our pie. LOVE. Get into the holiday spirit the southern way by gaining a couple pounds and eating this entire pie by yourself-- it's that good.