5 DIY Christmas Recipes: Christmas on a Budget
Have you ever noticed when you put certain words into things, it can change the whole dynamic of the sentence? If I were to say I’d like a recipe – this could be anything from a loaf of bred, to a beef wellington, to a chicken casserole. However, if I were to ask for Christmas recipes, I immediately think of fruity cakes with icing and decorations, chocolatey treats, and the worlds best Christmas dinners.
Adding the word Christmas can also have an impact financially. Turkey vs Christmas turkey. Delivery vs Christmas delivery. Cake vs Christmas cake.
Here at Green Dollar Bills, we say no to high prices, and yes to cheaper alternatives. We don’t want to pay over the odds for anything, never mind our Christmas grub! Check out the below for 5 great recipes that are festive, can be easily made at home and are super cost effective!

Christmas Turkey
Until I hosted my first Christmas, I never realised just how expensive Christmas Turkey is. I wanted to order from the butchers, just like my step mum always did, and wear an apron, sip on wine and generally look fantastic. But with the price of butchers Turkey knocking me sideways, I realised I needed a cheaper alternative, without sacrificing my Crimbo turkey dream! All you need is a frozen turkey from one of the supermarkets –Tesco are currently selling one to feed 14 people for £20, and a touch of Gordan Ramsey! Follow the recipe, and your Turkey will be the talk of the table for all the right reasons!
Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
A great recipe that goes a long way, and is perfect for the whole of the festive period, and all you need is a slow cooker! Follow the recipe for the most amazing hot chocolate you have ever tasted, and top with mini marshmallows, syrup, whipped cream, shaved chocolate or even a cheeky shot of liquor for the grown-ups! Stick on a Christmas film, put on your sweats and curl up on the sofa for the perfect evening drink!
Christmas Cookies
A great one if you have young ones to keep busy, or just like festive sweet treats! These Snowman biscuits make 20 per batch, and are great fun to decorate and get creative! You can also pre-bake and freeze these bad boys, meaning less time cooking and more time showing off your artistic skills!
Yule Log
Love all things chocolate? Then a Yule Log is a must have in your Christmas recipes! For only 50p per serving, this festive fancy is a show-stopping piece that looks fantastic in the centre of your table.
Cinnamon Chocolate Hazelnut Puff Pastry
I love this festive and easy to make treat; it looks so festive and is great as an afternoon snack to share with loved ones. It also tastes amazing, and is super easy to make, considering how intricate it looks!
Share with us your favourite Christmas recipe hacks, and if you try any of these out be sure to send us a pic on twitter!