STG Direct Featured Article: Holiday Recipes from St. George Kitchens

The holiday season in St. George, Utah, is a time to celebrate community, family, and the unique flavors that make our region special. Nestled between red rock cliffs and desert beauty, our kitchens come alive this time of year with recipes that blend tradition and local charm. Here are some holiday favorites inspired by the heart of St. George.

Red Rock Cinnamon Rolls

A tribute to the fiery hues of our iconic landscapes.

Ingredients:

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (105–115°F)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• Filling:
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup melted butter
• Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh-squeezed orange juice (from locally grown citrus, if available!)

Directions:

1. Combine yeast and warm milk; let it sit until foamy.
2. Mix in sugar, salt, eggs, and flour until a dough forms. Add butter and knead until smooth.
3. Let dough rise for 1 hour, then roll out into a rectangle.
4. Spread filling ingredients over the dough, roll it up, and slice into rolls.
5. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes. Drizzle glaze on warm rolls.

Southern Utah Pomegranate Salad

Perfect for showcasing locally grown pomegranates from nearby orchards.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh pomegranate arils
• 1 head butter lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup candied pecans
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• Dressing:
  • 3 tbsp pomegranate juice
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Whisk together dressing ingredients and set aside.
2. Toss lettuce, pomegranate arils, pecans, feta, and cranberries in a large bowl.
3. Drizzle dressing over the salad before serving.

Pine Valley Pumpkin Bread

Inspired by the crisp mountain air of Pine Valley, this bread warms every holiday gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp cloves
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients. In another bowl, mix pumpkin, sugars, eggs, and oil.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in walnuts.
4. Pour into the loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes.

Desert Sage Hot Chocolate

A warm, fragrant drink that nods to the desert herbs of the region.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp finely crushed dried sage (optional, for a local twist)
• Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping

Directions:

1. Heat milk and cream over medium heat, stirring frequently.
2. Add chocolate, stirring until melted. Stir in vanilla, cinnamon, and sage.
3. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or marshmallows.

These recipes are a love letter to St. George and its flavors—earthy, vibrant, and full of warmth. Whether you’re baking for a big holiday party or cozying up with family, these dishes bring the taste of Southern Utah to your table.

What are your favorite local holiday recipes? 

Brought To You By: Rylan Pinarelli RP Real Estate