As the holidays approach, NVD’s journalism class gets excited about sharing their favorite recipes. Ready to encapsulate the holiday and family spirit, classmates describe how their dish encourages holiday excitement and tell the story of tradition that comes along with each sweet and savory delight. 

Mia Harrison, our editor in chief, shared her Milk Bar Crack Pie recipe. This once-a-year dessert reminds her of quality time spent with family and holiday excitement. 

“This recipe is special because it is the only time we have it throughout the year, so we always look forward to it… My sister always makes it, and it takes over 24 hours. It’s a big deal in our kitchen,” said Harrison. 

Anna Schwartz, senior managing editor, showed her grandmother’s Swedish cookies. Reminiscent of her and her mother’s childhood, this family recipe goes back generations. 

“When I think of these cookies, I think of my mom and grandma rolling out the cookie dough. My sisters and I always cut out the cookies using special cookie cutters. We always have a holiday movie or Christmas songs playing in the back,” said Schwartz. 

Meanwhile, Sophie Halper, our junior managing editor, shared her favorite holiday dish: sweet potato casserole. She loves the versatility this sweet side gives to a savory meal. 

“My family has been making this dish since before I was born. I remember having it specifically at Thanksgiving and Rosh Hashanah dinners. It’s always the last dish that’s made because of the warm marshmallows, so my family knows that whenever we smell it, everything is almost ready to eat,” said Halper. 

Next up, our opinion editor, Jamison Goldberg, gave us her family’s carrot cake recipe. She loves the memories associated with this cake.

“I love this dish because it makes me think of cooking with my grandma and family, and spending a lot of time together; celebrating and listening to music,” said Goldberg. 

Finally, our teacher, Ms. Miano, shares her special connection with her father through their family favorite ricotta cavatelli. She explains how the tradition has been passed down for generations. 

“When I think of this dish, I always think of my dad and I in the kitchen – special memories. While cooking, we always had bonding just him and I. Now, I have this bonding time with my kids, too. … My family has been making this dish for 90-100 years,” said Miano. 

Every recipe comes with its own meaningful memories from the staff who contributed it. We hope those traditions bring some holiday spirit your way!