15 Classic Christmas Cookie Recipes for Holiday Baking

The holiday season is here, and nothing says joy like the smell of Christmas cookies baking. In the US, people eat over 2 billion cookies during the holidays. This shows how much everyone loves holiday baking.

This guide has lots of classic cookie recipes for you to try. You’ll find everything from traditional sugar cookies to cookies from around the world. Whether you’re new to baking or have been doing it for years, you’ll get helpful tips and tricks. You’ll learn how to bake, store, and even package your cookies as gifts.

Key Takeaways

• Discover 15 time-honored Christmas cookie recipes perfect for holiday baking
• Learn expert tips for baking success and creative gift packaging ideas
• Explore international cookie specialties and traditional favorites
• Find practical advice on baking techniques and storage solutions
• Get inspired to create delicious holiday treats that become part of your family traditions

The Magic of Holiday Cookie Traditions

As the holiday season comes, families all over the world bake Christmas cookies. This special activity is more than just making treats. It’s about connecting with loved ones and celebrating a rich cultural heritage.

The history of Christmas cookies goes back centuries. Back then, special ingredients like spices and nuts were only used during holidays. These ingredients helped make fancy cookies that were given as gifts or eaten at parties. Holiday cookie traditions have changed over time, shaped by different cultures and places.

Family cookie recipes are precious gifts passed down through generations. They carry memories and link the past to the present. Baking together creates special moments and brings back happy memories. Many families also join in cookie exchange parties, a fun way to meet others.

These traditions mean more than just cookies. They show the emotional and cultural value of holiday baking in American homes. By keeping these traditions alive, families make new memories and honor their heritage.

15 Classic Christmas Cookie Recipes for Holiday Baking

As the holiday season comes near, dive into our guide to 15 classic Christmas cookie recipes. These recipes are sure to become your family’s favorites. They offer a wide range of flavors, textures, and traditions, making your holiday baking special and varied.

Our selection has traditional sugar cookies, chocolate treats, and spiced specialties. You’ll also find nutty delights and fruit-based cookies. Whether you’re new to baking or an expert, there’s something here for you.

The recipes are sorted into categories for easy finding. You’ll find classic cut-out sugar cookies and international treats like Italian Pizzelle or Swedish Pepparkakor. Our guide mixes old favorites with new traditions for your family.

We provide tips on prep times, make-ahead options, and storage. This helps you plan your holiday baking smoothly.

Traditional Sugar Cookies

As the holiday season comes, bakers make traditional sugar cookies. These treats are a big part of Christmas. They are delicious and great for getting creative.

We will look at two main types of sugar cookies. These are Classic Cut-Out Sugar Cookies and Snickerdoodles.

1. Classic Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Classic Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are loved by many. They are sweet and have a nice vanilla taste. They are also firm but soft to eat.

Ingredients

You need good ingredients for these cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating

Using good butter and vanilla is key for flavor.

Instructions

To make the perfect cookies, follow these steps:

1. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading.
2. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Use cookie cutters to create desired shapes.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Decorating Tips

Decorating is fun. Use royal icing to make designs. Add sprinkles or colored sugars to match your theme.

2. Snickerdoodles

Snickerdoodles are known for their cinnamon-sugar coating. They have a tangy taste and a chewy center.

Ingredients

Snickerdoodles need these ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cream of tartar
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 Tbsp cinnamon sugar (for rolling)

Cream of tartar gives them a special tangy flavor.

Instructions

To make Snickerdoodles, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll the dough balls in cinnamon sugar mixture.
3. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.

Storage Tips

Keep Snickerdoodles fresh in an airtight container. Watch out for moisture. Use parchment paper to keep decorations fresh.

Chocolate Holiday Favorites

Chocolate holiday cookies are a must for Christmas. They bring people together. Homes fill with chocolate and sweet memories.

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a holiday classic. They have deep chocolate flavor and a beautiful crinkled surface. The dough is coated in powdered sugar before baking.

Ingredients

• High-quality cocoa powder
• Melted chocolate for depth of flavor
• Powdered sugar for coating
• Eggs and butter for richness

Instructions

1. Mix the dough ingredients together until well combined.
2. Chill the dough to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
3. Roll the dough into balls and coat in powdered sugar.
4. Bake until the cookies are set and the powdered sugar coating is crinkled.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings. Serve with hot chocolate, coffee, or dessert wines. Their dramatic appearance is great for gift boxes or cookie trays.

Peppermint Chocolate Cookies

Peppermint Chocolate Cookies mix peppermint with chocolate. They feel like candy canes and winter freshness.

Ingredients

• Peppermint extract or crushed peppermint candies
• High-quality chocolate chips or chunks
• Cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor

Instructions

To make Peppermint Chocolate Cookies, mix the dough ingredients together. Chill the dough if needed. Scoop onto baking sheets and bake until set. Balance peppermint with chocolate.

Flavor Variations

Try adding white chocolate chunks or dipping in melted white chocolate. You can also add coffee or vanilla to mix with peppermint and chocolate.

Spiced Christmas Classics

Spiced Christmas cookies are a big part of holiday traditions. They mix flavors that remind us of Christmases long ago. These cookies help us connect with our heritage and share holiday joy.

Gingerbread Men

Gingerbread men are a classic Christmas cookie. They have a mix of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and molasses. This mix makes them taste both traditional and inviting.

Ingredients

Gingerbread men need dry spices and molasses for their taste. Recipes often include:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 large eggs

Instructions

Chill the dough to let flavors mix and firm up. Roll it to the right thickness for the perfect cookies.

1. Combine dry ingredients in a bowl.
2. Cream butter and sugar, then add molasses and eggs.
3. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
4. Chill the dough and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes and bake at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.

Decorating Ideas

Decorating gingerbread men is fun and creative. Use royal icing or candies for unique designs.

“The art of decorating gingerbread men is a cherished holiday tradition that brings families together.” –

Molasses Cookies

Molasses cookies are known for their rich flavor and chewy texture. The type of molasses used changes the flavor, with light, dark, and blackstrap molasses offering different tastes.

Ingredients

Dark molasses is often used for its strong flavor in molasses cookies.

Instructions

Don’t overmix the dough for a crackled top. Roll the cookies in sugar before baking.

Texture Tips

For chewy centers and crisp edges, bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Pfeffernüsse (German Spice Cookies)

Pfeffernüsse, or German spice cookies, are a holiday treat. They have a unique spice mix, including black pepper.

Ingredients

The spice mix includes ground black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger.

Instructions

Traditionally, the dough is aged. This develops the flavor and texture of the cookies.

Cultural Significance

Pfeffernüsse have a long history in German Christmas traditions. They were brought to America by German immigrants. Today, they are a beloved holiday cookie, cherished for their unique flavor and cultural heritage.

Nutty Holiday Delights

Holiday cookies are special, and nutty ones are the best. Nuts make them taste richer and feel better in your mouth. They go great with sweet things like sugar and chocolate.

Peanut Butter Blossoms

Peanut Butter Blossoms are a favorite in America. They mix creamy peanut butter with chocolate kiss candies. They’re easy to make and loved by everyone.

Ingredients

Choosing creamy or chunky peanut butter changes the cookie’s feel. Creamy peanut butter makes it smooth. Chunky peanut butter adds a fun crunch. The sugar you pick also matters; brown sugar makes them taste deeper, while white sugar is lighter.

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Chocolate kiss candies

Instructions

First, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make the dough into balls and roll them in sugar. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until they’re lightly golden. Then, press a chocolate kiss into each cookie. The heat will melt the chocolate, sticking it in place.

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Form dough into balls and roll in sugar.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
4. Press chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.

Chocolate Selection Tips

The kind of chocolate kiss you use matters a lot. Milk chocolate is classic, but try dark chocolate, caramel-filled chocolate, or seasonal varieties for something new. Finding the right chocolate can make your cookies extra special.

Italian Almond Cookies

Italian Almond Cookies are a big deal in Italy. They’re made with almond flour and have a soft, almond-flavored taste. They’re fancy and perfect for holiday cookie platters.

Ingredients

Using good almond extract is key for these cookies. Almond flour or ground almonds add texture and taste. Sliced almonds on top make them crunchy.

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 eggs
• Sliced almonds for garnish

Instructions

To make these cookies, mix dry ingredients like almond flour and sugar. Beat eggs and almond extract separately. Then, mix the wet and dry ingredients together. Let the dough rest to blend the flavors. Shape into balls and bake until they’re lightly golden.

Serving Traditions

In Italy, these cookies are served with espresso, dessert wine, or citrus liqueurs. They look great on a fancy platter or tin, making them even more festive.

Fruit and Jam Festive Cookies

Fruit and jam festive cookies add flavor and color to holiday baking. They make your holiday cookie platter special.

Thumbprint Cookies

Thumbprint cookies are a holiday favorite. They have a buttery base and a jam-filled center. They’re great for many jam flavors.

Ingredients

Good thumbprint cookies start with the right ingredients. You need:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Jam or preserves for filling

Instructions

To make thumbprint cookies, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Roll the dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Make an indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb or the back of a spoon. Fill with your chosen jam.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Jam Selection Guide

The jam you choose changes the cookie’s flavor and look. Try these seasonal jams:

Cranberry Orange Shortbread

Cranberry orange shortbread is a refreshing twist on traditional shortbread. It combines the tanginess of cranberries and the brightness of orange zest.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 tablespoon orange juice

Instructions

To make cranberry orange shortbread, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the flour, cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough into the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
5. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

Make-Ahead Options

Cranberry orange shortbread can be made ahead. Freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Or store the baked shortbread in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

International Christmas Cookie Traditions

Christmas cookies from around the world are a big part of holiday fun. These treats bring special flavors and stories from their countries. They make our holiday baking even more special.

Italian Pizzelle

Italian Pizzelle are thin, waffle-like cookies. They are a big part of Italian Christmas. A special iron makes them have a cool pattern.

Ingredients

Pizzelle have a special flavor from anise extract. But, some recipes use vanilla or chocolate for a twist. They are made with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter or oil.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter or oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon anise extract (or vanilla/chocolate for variations)

Instructions

Getting the batter right is key for crisp Pizzelle. It should spread fast in the iron but not be too thin. Cook until they’re golden.

1. Preheat the pizzelle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Drop a small amount of batter onto the center of the iron.
3. Cook until the edges are golden brown, usually about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
4. Remove carefully and shape if desired while still warm.

Equipment Needed

A pizzelle iron is essential for making Pizzelle. You can find them for stovetop or electric irons. Choose based on cookie size and cooking method preference.

Swedish Pepparkakor

Swedish Pepparkakor are thin, spiced cookies. They taste like gingerbread but are unique. They’re a favorite in Swedish homes at Christmas.

Ingredients

Pepparkakor use a special spice mix. It includes cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. This mix gives them a warm, deep flavor.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light molasses

Instructions

Roll the dough very thin for Pepparkakor. Bake until they’re crisp. This makes them perfect for breaking.

Traditional Shapes

Pepparkakor are cut into shapes like hearts and stars. These shapes are special and often decorate Christmas trees.

Mexican Wedding Cookies

Mexican Wedding Cookies are soft and nutty. They’re covered in powdered sugar. They’re a holiday favorite.

Ingredients

These cookies often use pecans but you can try walnuts or almonds too. They’re made with butter, sugar, flour, and nuts.

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Don’t overmix the dough for these cookies. Mix just until it comes together. Chill the dough before baking.

Storage Recommendations

Keep Mexican Wedding Cookies fresh in an airtight container. The powdered sugar can get soggy. Roll them in sugar just before serving. If they lose their shape, baking them again can fix it.

Quick and Easy Options

Easy holiday baking is within reach with these simple yet elegant cookie recipes perfect for busy schedules. When you’re short on time, having a few quick and delicious cookie options can be a real lifesaver. One such treat is the Chocolate Peppermint Bark Cookies, a clever twist on the popular holiday candy that’s both easy to make and impressive to give or share.

15. Chocolate Peppermint Bark Cookies

These cookies combine the best of both worlds. They use pre-made cookie dough and add high-quality chocolate and real peppermint. The result is a cookie that’s not only quick to make but also tastes like it was made with love and care.

Ingredients

• 1 package of pre-made sugar cookie dough
• 1 cup of high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
• Optional: white chocolate chips for drizzling, toasted nuts for added texture

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven according to the cookie dough package instructions.
2. Scoop the cookie dough into balls and bake on a prepared baking sheet.
3. Once the cookies are cool, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each heating.
4. Dip the tops of the cooled cookies in the melted chocolate, then sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
5. If desired, drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with toasted nuts before the chocolate sets.

Gifting Ideas

These cookies are sturdy enough to be packaged in cellophane bags or wrapped in decorative paper, making them perfect for gifting. Consider layering them in a decorative tin with parchment paper between layers for a beautiful and thoughtful gift. The peppermint flavor and chocolate coating also make them an excellent candidate for creating festive cookie platters or gift boxes.

To customize your gifting, you can vary the type of cookie base, add different toppings, or experiment with various chocolate drizzles. This flexibility makes the Chocolate Peppermint Bark Cookies a versatile option for last-minute holiday baking.

Essential Holiday Baking Tips

Bakers can make holiday cookies easier with a few tips. It’s key to have the right tools and know-how.

Must-Have Tools for Cookie Success

Right tools are crucial for holiday baking. You’ll need:

• Silicone baking mats for even cooking and easy cleanup
• Offset spatulas for smooth frosting application
• Proper cooling racks that prevent condensation and promote air circulation
• Cookie scoops for uniform cookie sizes

These tools help make cookies look pro with less work.

Batch Baking Strategies

Batch baking is key for big holiday cookie batches. To work better:

• Prioritize doughs that need chilling for best results
• Sort recipes by oven temperature to save time
• Get workspaces ready and clean up between batches for smooth flow

These tips help bakers make many cookie types without stress.

Storing and Preserving Your Holiday Cookies

Storing cookies right keeps them fresh. To keep cookies fresh:

• Use airtight containers to keep moisture and air out
• Put parchment or wax paper between cookie layers to stop sticking
• Freezing cookies keeps them fresh longer

Follow these tips to enjoy cookies for weeks. You can also share them without worrying about freshness.

Creating Festive Cookie Gift Packages

Turning your cookies into beautiful gift packages is a great way to share holiday joy. You can give them to family, friends, or coworkers. Beautifully wrapped cookies can make anyone’s day better.

Creative Packaging Ideas

There are many ways to package your holiday cookies. Try using sustainable alternatives like fabric wraps or biodegradable boxes. Decorate them with things like dried orange slices or cinnamon sticks.

You can also use glass jars with custom labels. This adds a charming, eco-friendly touch. For a fancier look, check out specialty stores or online for decorative tins, boxes, and bags. Add custom gift tags or labels to make your gifts extra special.

Perfect Cookie Combinations

Choosing the right cookies is key to a great gift package. Mix different flavors, textures, and looks for a perfect mix. For example, pair spiced cookies with chocolate ones.

Think about how many cookies to give. A big batch is good for family, but a small set is better for individual gifts. Make sure the cookies can travel well if you’re sending them. Pick ones that stay fresh and don’t break during shipping.

Conclusion

Holiday baking is more than just making cookies. It’s about making memories that last a lifetime. The 15 classic Christmas cookie recipes in this article show how different cultures add to our holiday fun.

These cookies, like German Pfeffernüsse and Mexican Wedding Cookies, show the diversity of our celebrations. They connect us to our families and cultures. By baking these, we create our own holiday traditions.

This holiday season, bake with kids or friends to start new traditions. Plan well to make it fun, not stressful. Try a favorite recipe and a new one to make your holiday baking special.