When does the festive season begin for you? For Anna Olson, it's when she bakes her first pumpkin pie of the year. Pumpkin pie isn't something she bakes on any old Tuesday evening, so it signifies something very special when she does: the start of the holidays For Anna, the holidays are a time for spending with family and friends, for coming together, celebrating traditions and, of course, cooking delicious food In this festive cookbook, Anna shares the recipes she loves to make during the holiday season (and, really, almost every day).

Part one of the book has menus and recipes for every festive event you can think of--from Thanksgiving, or a festive brunch to traditional Christmas dinner, or an elegant New Year's evening--as well as recipes for cozy nights at home, lighter meals for the times in between, and ideas for reinventing leftovers for when it's all over With recipes for both traditional favorites (the perfect roast turkey), and inventive and inspiring alternatives ("turketta," turkey breast done porchetta-style that's perfect for smaller gatherings), there is something for everyone in Anna's guide to the holidays. Take your pick from an array of recipes that will help you easily entertain a crowd--be it a holiday open house or Sports Sunday event--with Bacon and Parmesan Goug res, Chicken Schnitzel Sliders and Lobster Mac 'n' Cheese Squares. And, of course, it wouldn't be an Anna Olson book without baking...

Part 2 has more than 60 recipes for centerpiece cakes, delectable pies, tarts, classic cookies, confections and more. Whip up some Gingerbread White Chocolate Mousse Cake for a festive dessert, follow Anna's advice on creating the perfect dessert table or butter tart bar for your guests, and be inspired by recipes for edible gifts, from Confetti Sugar Cookies to Milk Chocolate S'mores Bark.

And to combat holiday stress, Anna includes a healthy dose of practical advice for navigating the season--with strategies for planning menus, advice on what to make ahead for every recipe, step-by-step methods and photography, and hundreds of hints and tips. Get set for a stress-free, sensational season