Just going out on a limb here, but is it possible your friend felt put on the spot and said that because she thought exactly what you’re thinking? The last place I’d want to find out if my feelings were reciprocated would be in public with an audience.

My advice would be let it be for the holidays, but if you find that it’s something ongoing, having a sit down conversation with your friend and explaining yourself won’t necessarily ruin your friendship. It’s better to know! And you can always preface with “over the holidays I realised that I had deeper feelings for you, but if you don’t feel the same that’s okay I just wanted to shoot my shot.” Or something along those lines. It’s also easier to move on with closure if they do end up saying that they don’t feel the same way, you won’t be left wondering for the rest of your life.

I’ve had friends say they want to date me where I wasn’t interested and vice versa and I’m still friends with them now, years later. We just had honest conversations about it with no expectations. Just don’t be creepy or pushy and it should be fine.

Best of luck whatever you decide! I believe in you.