I have a phobia, though I doubt it has an official medical name. It is the fear of running out of butter, particularly during the holiday season (let’s be honest, also kind of all the time). During Thanksgiving and Christmas I keep extra pounds stashed in my freezer because it calms me to feel prepared. And it’s not just with butter, but with a slew of pantry items. Grocery stores get crowded, shelves thin out, and it’s a drag to scramble for that one missing ingredient. The secret to staying calm, collected and happy during the stressful holidays? A well-prepped pantry.

Here’s your guide to stocking up now, before the holiday rush hits.

Baking Needs

Holiday baking is practically a sport, and the essentials often vanish first. Stock these now so you’re never caught mid-recipe without them:

• All-purpose flour, cake flour, and bread flour
• Granulated sugar, brown sugar, and powdered sugar
• Baking powder, baking soda, and yeast
• Vanilla extract and other flavorings (almond, peppermint)
• Chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and baking chocolate
• Nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds) and dried fruits (cranberries, raisins)
• Butter (freeze extra) 

Entertaining Needs

From cocktail hours to casual drop-ins, these pantry and fridge staples make hosting effortless:

• Crackers, crostini, and baguettes (freeze bread ahead)
• Cheese varieties (hard cheeses last longer)
• Olives, pickles, and antipasto jars
• Sparkling water, mixers, and shelf-stable juices
• Wine and spirits (popular bottles sell out fast)
• Festive extras: cranberry sauce, specialty mustards, chutneys

Houseguest Essentials

When family or friends stay over, mornings and snack times can be the trickiest. Keep these on hand:

• Coffee, tea, and hot cocoa mix
• Oatmeal and granola
• Pancake mix, syrup, and jam
• Cereal and shelf-stable milk alternatives
• Snack bars, popcorn, and pretzels
• Holiday treats: gingerbread cookies, biscotti, or seasonal chocolates

Last-Minute Dinner Staples

Because not every night can be a feast, these quick-fix items save the day:

• Pasta, rice, and couscous
• Canned tomatoes, beans, and broths
• Frozen vegetables and pre-made pie crusts
• Jarred pasta sauce and curry paste
• Rotisserie chicken (buy fresh, freeze portions)

The Takeaway

Think of your pantry as your holiday safety net. By stocking up now on baking basics, entertaining must-haves, guest-friendly snacks, and quick dinner staples, you’ll glide through the season with less stress and more joy.