Cooking aboard during the holidays can feel like a puzzle. Tiny counters, compact appliances, and a hungry crew. But with the right recipes, you can still enjoy holiday treats without a full kitchen. These easy, galley-friendly ideas bring the season's best flavors to any boat, and as always, Waterway Guide is here to help you navigate the season--from your next passage to your next meal in the galley.

1. Cinnamon-Maple Skillet Apples

Equipment needed: One pan

Warm, spiced apples bring all the Christmas-morning vibes without requiring an oven or much counter space.

Ingredients:

• 2-3 apples, sliced
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1-2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium.
2. Add apple slices and cook until they soften.
3. Stir in maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Let everything simmer 3-4 minutes until the apples caramelize.

2. No-Bake Peppermint Fudge

Equipment needed: Small pot + silicone muffin cups or a baking sheet

These little fudge bites are rich, festive, and ridiculously easy making them ideal for a holiday dessert or a mid-passage morale boost.

• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 3 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• Crushed candy cane for topping

1. Melt chocolate chips and condensed milk together on the lowest heat setting.
2. Stir in peppermint extract.
3. Spoon the mixture into silicone cups, or pour the mixture onto a baking sheet with parchment paper
4. Top with crushed candy canes and let set in the fridge or cooler.

3. Holiday Cranberry Brie Flatbread (Stovetop Version)

• 1 small naan or flatbread
• 2-3 tbsp canned cranberry sauce
• 2-3 slices brie
• Drizzle of honey or maple syrup
• Optional: rosemary or dried thyme

1. Warm the skillet over medium-low.
2. Place the flatbread in the pan and spread cranberry sauce on top.
3. Add brie slices and cover the pan with a lid for 3-5 minutes to melt the cheese.
4. Drizzle with honey and finish with herbs.

Celebrating the Holidays on the Water

Whether you're anchored in a quiet cove, cruising, or tied up at your winter marina, a few simple holiday flavors can make your onboard celebration feel extra special. These recipes rely on minimal ingredients, minimal equipment, and maximum cheer--perfect for creating warm memories wherever your route leads.