Grand Prize: Cherry Fudge Truffle Coconut Cheesecake
Cherries and chocolate come together in this dazzling coconut cheesecake. It's a holiday showstopper! —Jeanne Holt, Mendota Heights, Minnesota
1st Place: Frozen Brandy Old-Fashioneds
Both sides of my family are from the Midwest, so our strong brandy tradition is evident in both the traditional slush we make for the holidays and the Wisconsin old-fashioned cocktails we enjoy year-round. I decided to combine those recipes into something completely new. It goes very quickly at family gatherings! —Stephanie Vaughan, Madison, Wisconsin
2nd Place: Sticky Maple Pepper Glazed Chicken Wings
This is one of my favorite appetizers to make over the holidays! The coarse ground pepper cuts the sweetness of the maple syrup by adding just the right amount of heat. These chicken wings are best fresh out of the oven (they are nice and crispy), but they are also delicious if made ahead and kept warm in a slow cooker. —Shannon Dobos, Calgary, Alberta
3rd Place: Chicken Piccata Meatballs
The classic chicken piccata entree is my favorite dish, but I wanted another way to have all the same flavors. These chicken piccata meatballs are the perfect solution, whether served alone or with a sauce like marinara or buffalo! Serve over buttered noodles if you'd like, or stick toothpicks in them for appetizers. —Dawn Collins, Rowley, Massachusetts
Runner-Up: Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake
After making some delicious dessert bars, I was determined to turn the recipe into a chocolate peppermint cheesecake. This festive dessert is the result and one of my favorites to serve for the holidays. Whether I share it with family or give it as a gift, it always receives rave reviews. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Runner-Up: Mushroom and Olive Bruschetta
I tried this delicious bruschetta toast at a party and knew I had to make it myself. Since I couldn't find the person who brought the dish, I began trying to duplicate it on my own. The original was made on an English muffin, but party rye or baguette slices work as well. —Lynne German, Woodland Hills, California
Runner-Up: Honey-Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad
Even if you dislike Brussels sprouts salad, you will love this dish. The dressing is truly tasty, and it pairs so nicely with the apples, grapes and walnuts. You can also add whatever cheese, nuts or fruit you prefer. —Sheila Sturrock, Coldwater, Ontario
Runner-Up: Florentine Ciabatta
I came up with this appetizer because of my love for white pizza. I've served this ciabatta pizza at many holiday parties, and it's always a big hit among both children and adults. —Noreen McCormick Danek, Cromwell, Connecticut
Runner-Up: Nacho Triangles with Salsa-Ranch Dipping Sauce
These nacho bites are a fun fusion of Greek appetizers and flavors of the American Southwest. The simple dipping sauce is a perfect match—the ranch balances out the heat of the jalapeno and chipotle peppers—and takes the recipe to the next level. —Angela Spengler, Niceville, Florida
Runner-Up: Pesto Shrimp and Artichoke Linguine
In our home, holiday indulgence is all about pesto shrimp! This is our go-to dish for both Christmas Eve and Easter brunch. It also makes a wonderful appetizer before a prime rib dinner. For a pop of color, I sometimes add lightly sauteed diced red pepper. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Runner-Up: Fig and Goat Cheese Meatballs
Around the holidays, saucy cocktail meatballs are always the first appetizer to go. In this dish, the sweet flavor of the fig glaze goes perfectly with the pork and tangy goat cheese. Serve hot from the skillet or gently reheat them for a make-ahead appetizer. —Kim Banick, Turner, Oregon
Runner-Up: Cajun Crab Poppers
My brother moved to New Orleans and I love visiting him and his family whenever I can. These easy jalapeno poppers are stuffed with crab, cajun seasonings and bacon. They're a little hot and spicy, just like a visit to New Orleans! —Elizabeth Lubin, Huntington Beach, California
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Caroline Stanko