There’s a store in my English hometown that I have loved since I was a child. It's filled with cozy throws, cotton pyjamas, and cream kitchenware that feels like it's straight out of Kate Winslet’s cottage in The Holiday.
When I saw the Staub Enameled Cast Iron French Oven with the Snowflake Lid, it immediately transported me back to that dream. Made from cast iron – a shining example of the best non-toxic cookware – this piece is as practical as it is charming. Even better, while scrolling through Williams Sonoma, I realised the price had been lowered. It's a little holiday miracle.
Williams Sonoma is also exclusively stocking the Staub Pine Tree Braiser (see below), which is shallow and wide for sautéing or simmering. The rich green colorway is equally festive and on-trend for Fall table decor ideas.
However, I've already fallen head over heels for the snowflake cocotte. I think it would make the perfect centerpiece for my holiday table (hello, White Christmas) – but it's also a romantic way to elevate your everyday Winter cooking.
I tested Staub when I was researching the best cast iron cookware, and I highly rated the brand's designs, materials, and durability. I tested the 7QT Staub Oval Cocotte in festive 'grenadine-red' color, and begged the brand to let me keep it.
My cocotte even doubles as an alternative to the best turkey roasting pans, since the cast iron walls roast meat with crispy, caramelised skin and tender interiors. Anything from Staub always garners compliments from family and friends, too, when they see it on the stovetop.
More Picks for an Elegant and Cozy Christmas Kitchen
I didn't mean these suggestions to be entirely from European brands, but now I realize that Staub, Le Creuset, and Emile Henry are French heritage icons. I suppose there's nobody who does cozy, timeless, chic better.
From hot cocoa to morning coffee – or even after-dinner herbal teas when you're hosting – you can't get more timeless than Le Creuset's stoneware mugs.
This braiser isn't just a pretty face. The surface of the interior is matte black enamel, which contains traces of quartz to provide superior heat-retention and a rough surface for beautiful browning.
Our Living editor, Martha, first put me onto these ruffled pie dishes for American pot pies – and I've been seeing them everywhere at the moment. Emile Henry is another iconic French brand that has been crafting bakeware since 1850.
If you're in the mood for more Euro-Christmas vibes, I recommend settling down in a cozy armchair to read our latest feature, How I Host Christmas: With Skye McAlpine. She's a London-based cook who brings heart, wholesome Italian holiday magic to her table.
