Happy holidays from all of us at La Brea Bakery! This season is busy, but it’s also magical—and we’re here to make it easier and more enjoyable for you.
We’re honored to be part of your celebrations, whether it’s a cozy breakfast, a festive feast, or simply sharing a loaf of wholesome artisan bread with loved ones. Thank you for allowing us to bring warmth and flavor to your table year after year.
To help you through the hustle and bustle, we’ve gathered our favorite holiday hosting tips, crowd-pleasing recipe ideas, and creative ways to make the most of any leftover La Brea Bakery bread.
Easy But Impressive Appetizer Recipes
Made with only four pure ingredients—flour, water, salt, and our signature Original Starter—La Brea Bakery artisan bread brings authentic flavor and texture to your holiday appetizer spread.
Here are a few of our favorite easy-to-prepare recipes that are sure to impress your guests:
Honey Toast with Fresh Ricotta and Pistachios
Top sliced and lightly toasted La Brea Bakery Sourdough Baguette with fresh ricotta cheese, top with crushed pistachios, and drizzle with honey. Finish with a pinch of salt and lemon zest.
Wine Pairing Suggestion: Moscato or Sauvignon Blanc
Roasted Balsamic Cranberry and Brie Crostini
A sweet and savory blend of fresh cranberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, and rosemary tops crispy, flavorful crostini made from La Brea Bakery Sourdough Baguette.
Wine Pairing Suggestion: Pinot Noir or Sparkling Rosé
Parmesan Cheese Crisps
Our Three Cheese Semolina Loaf makes the perfect Parmesan Cheese Crisps. Simply cut into slices, brush with olive oil, sprinkle with shredded parmesan cheese, and bake until they’re lightly golden brown and crispy.
Wine Pairing Suggestion: Unoaked Chardonnay or Sparkling Prosecco
Charcuterie Board
La Brea Bakery French Baguette makes the perfect foundation for a charcuterie board featuring a variety of cheeses, meats, fruits, nuts, and spreads.
Wine Pairing Suggestion: Beaujolais or Riesling
Olive Bar
Pick up a variety of marinated olives from your local supermarket’s olive or salad bar, and set up your own mini olive bar with an assortment of warm La Brea Bakery breads.
Wine Pairing Suggestion: Albariño or Dry Rosé
Easy Bruschetta
Slice La Brea Bakery Take & Bake Ciabatta Rolls into manageable pieces and toast until crisp. Top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.
Wine Pairing Suggestion: Chianti or Sauvignon Blanc
Smoked Salmon Crostini
Slice La Brea Bakery French Baguette into bite-size pieces and toast them lightly. Spread cream cheese on each slice and layer with high-quality smoked salmon. Garnish with capers, red onion, and a sprinkle of dill.
Wine Pairing Suggestion: Brut Champagne or Cava.
Your Go-To Checklist for a Stress-Free Holiday Gathering
Simplify your holiday hosting with these easy, time-saving tips for planning a memorable get-together.
Two Weeks Before
- Choose your date and time.
- Decide on a theme like “cozy and casual” or “holiday classics.”
- Plan your guest list and send invitations.
- Create your menu including easy-to-make dishes and store-bought options.
- Ask guests to bring a dish, drinks, or help with set up.
One Week Before
- Make a grocery list.
- Check your pantry for items you already have on hand.
- Gather napkins, plates, and simple decorations (like candles or greenery).
- Tidy up spaces guests will use the most, like the kitchen, living room, dining area, and bathrooms.
Three to Five Days Before
- Confirm the food and drinks your guests will bring.
- Do your grocery shopping for everything else you’ll need.
- Prep make-ahead dishes and freeze when possible.
The Day Before
- Arrange seating, decorate, and set the table.
- Chop veggies, marinate proteins, and mix batters.
- Ensure you have enough drinks, ice, and serving utensils.
The Day Of
- Start cooking early, focusing on any dishes that need to be served fresh.
- Set up a snack or bread board to keep guests happy as you finalize the main meal.
- Light candles or turn on holiday lights to create a festive ambiance.
- Relax and enjoy! Welcome guests warmly and focus on making memories.
From all of us to you, here’s to a season full of joy, great food, and special moments.
Find La Brea Bakery breads at your local in-store bakery and bring home the magic of artisan baking.
Let’s Get Social
Share your creations made with La Brea Bakery bread by using #LaBreaBakery on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest.
