25 Easy Christmas Cookies You Can Make in 30 Minutes
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25 Easy Christmas Cookies You Can Make in 30 Minutes

The holiday season is here. It’s time to bake Christmas cookies for family and gifts. But, finding time to bake can be hard.

Don’t worry, we’ve got quick and tasty cookie recipes for you. They can be made in 30 minutes or less. This guide has 25 easy and delicious recipes to brighten your holiday.

Key Takeaways

  • 25 quick and delicious Christmas cookie recipes
  • Easy holiday baking ideas for busy schedules
  • Fast cookie recipes using simple ingredients
  • 30-minute Christmas treats perfect for last-minute gatherings
  • Variety of cookie types, including classic favorites and no-bake options

The Joy of Quick Christmas Baking

As the holiday season comes, many of us want to make traditional Christmas treats. But our busy lives get in the way. Quick Christmas baking is a great solution. It lets us enjoy the holiday spirit without using too much time.

One big plus of fast Christmas baking is it helps when guests show up unexpectedly. With quick festive cookies, you can make a batch fast. This way, you’re always ready for holiday visitors.

Efficient holiday baking is not just about saving time. It keeps the joy and tradition of holiday baking alive. Quick cookie recipes let you bake with kids. This makes special memories and teaches them baking skills.

Many think quick recipes mean less taste. But that’s not always true. 30-minute Christmas cookies can taste great and be easy to make. With a little planning and the right tools, baking can be fun and fast.

Baking during the holidays is good for our minds. It makes memories, keeps traditions alive, and brings comfort. With quick Christmas baking, you get these benefits without the stress of long baking times.

By using efficient holiday baking tips, you can have tasty homemade treats and a stress-free holiday. It’s the best of both worlds.

Classic Christmas Cookies in a Flash

Making traditional Christmas cookies doesn’t have to take a lot of time. You can make your favorite holiday treats quickly. These classic cookies are easy to make, even when you’re busy.

1. Simple Sugar Cookies with Festive Sprinkles

Sugar cookies are a classic Christmas treat. They can be made in under 30 minutes. Use room temperature ingredients and keep decorating simple to get them ready fast.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla.
  4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.
  5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
  6. Place on prepared baking sheet, sprinkle with festive sprinkles.
  7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Quick Tips

To make perfect sugar cookies, measure flour right and don’t overbake. Try adding citrus zest or almond extract for a twist.

2. Quick Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a holiday favorite. They can be made quickly without losing flavor. Use pre-measured spice blends and a no-chill dough for fast results.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp molasses

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
  2. Whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
  3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses.
  4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.
  5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
  6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until firm to the touch.

Quick Tips

Bake until firm but not hard for the best texture. Add more ginger or cinnamon for extra spice.

3. Easy Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread cookies are a classic Scottish treat. They can be made quickly and easily. Use quality butter and a simple pressing technique for fast results.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
  2. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Gradually mix in flour and salt until a dough forms.
  4. Press dough into a disk or rectangle shape.
  5. Cut into desired shapes or squares.
  6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.

Quick Tips

For the best flavor, use high-quality butter. Try adding lemon zest or mini chocolate chips for a twist.

4. Speedy Snickerdoodles

Snickerdoodles are a cinnamon-sugar cookie classic. They can be made quickly. Use a quick mixing method and a simplified rolling technique for fast results.

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, softened
  • 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 Tbsp cinnamon sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
  2. Whisk together flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
  4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.
  5. Roll dough into balls, then roll in cinnamon sugar.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.

Quick Tips

For perfect snickerdoodles, bake until firm but not hard. Add more cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.

5. 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

These peanut butter cookies are simple and delicious. They can be made with just three ingredients. Use the right peanut butter for the best taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 egg

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
  2. Mix peanut butter, sugar, and egg until smooth.
  3. Drop by spoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet.
  4. Flatten with a fork.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Quick Tips

For the best results, use natural peanut butter. Add chocolate chips or holiday M&Ms for a twist.

No-Bake Christmas Treats for Last-Minute Gatherings

When the holiday rush is on, and oven space is limited, no-bake Christmas treats come to the rescue. These treats are perfect for busy holiday schedules or warm-climate Christmas celebrations. They offer a variety of flavors and textures without baking.

Chocolate Peppermint No-Bake Cookies

These no-bake cookies mix classic holiday flavors of chocolate and peppermint. They’re easy to make and perfect for last-minute guests or quick gifts.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
  2. Stir in the peppermint extract.
  3. Roll the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes.
  5. Roll the balls in powdered sugar to coat.
  6. Garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, if desired.

Quick Tips

To get the right consistency, make sure the mix isn’t too sticky or too dry. Adjust with more confectioners’ sugar or peanut butter if needed. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Cornflake Christmas Wreaths

These festive treats look like mini Christmas wreaths. They’re made with cornflakes, marshmallows, and green food coloring. They’re easy to make and look impressive.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cornflakes
  • 1 cup marshmallows
  • 1/4 cup green food coloring
  • 1/4 cup melted butter or margarine
  • Red candies or M&M’s for decoration

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter or margarine over low heat.
  2. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the green food coloring.
  4. Add the cornflakes and stir until well coated.
  5. Shape into wreath forms on a greased surface.
  6. Decorate with red candies or M&M’s.

Quick Tips

To get the perfect green color, start with a few drops of green food coloring and add more as needed. Grease your hands or the surface with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Peanut Butter Snowballs

These no-bake peanut butter cookies are rolled in powdered sugar to look like snowballs. They’re a sweet and festive holiday treat.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar for coating

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, graham cracker crumbs (if using), and salt. Mix until well combined.
  2. Roll into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. Roll the balls in powdered sugar to coat.
  4. Refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes.

Quick Tips

To prevent the powdered sugar from absorbing into the cookies, coat them just before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

No-Bake TreatMain IngredientsPrep Time
Chocolate Peppermint No-Bake CookiesOats, Peanut Butter, Cocoa Powder, Peppermint Extract20 minutes
Cornflake Christmas WreathsCornflakes, Marshmallows, Green Food Coloring15 minutes
Peanut Butter SnowballsPeanut Butter, Confectioners’ Sugar, Graham Cracker Crumbs20 minutes

White Chocolate Peppermint Pretzels

These treats mix crunchy pretzels, smooth white chocolate, and refreshing peppermint. They’re a perfect holiday snack.

Ingredients

  • 1 bag pretzels
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • Crushed candy canes or sprinkles for decoration (optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
  2. Stir in the peppermint extract.
  3. Dip pretzels into the melted white chocolate, coating completely.
  4. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes or sprinkles, if desired.
  6. Refrigerate until set, about 30 minutes.

Quick Tips

To prevent the white chocolate from seizing, melt it slowly and stir constantly. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Holiday Oreo Truffles

These decadent truffles are made with crushed Oreo cookies and cream cheese, then coated in chocolate. They’re a luxurious holiday treat.

Ingredients

  • 1 package Oreo cookies
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup melted chocolate (white, milk, or dark)

Instructions

  1. Crush the Oreo cookies in a food processor until fine crumbs.
  2. Mix the crushed Oreos with the cream cheese and powdered sugar until well combined.
  3. Roll into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
  4. Dip the balls into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
  5. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Refrigerate until set, about 30 minutes.

Quick Tips

To get the right consistency, make sure the mix isn’t too sticky or too dry. Adjust with more cream cheese or powdered sugar if needed. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

No-Bake Christmas Treats

Festive Drop Cookies for Busy Holiday Bakers

Festive drop cookies are great for busy holiday bakers. They are easy to make and don’t need rolling or cutting. Just mix, scoop, and bake for delicious cookies.

festive drop cookies

11. Quick Chocolate Chip Cookies with Holiday M&Ms

Make classic chocolate chip cookies festive with red and green M&Ms. It’s easy and adds color and taste. You can also try different chocolate and M&M flavors.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup holiday M&Ms

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl. Cream butter and sugars, then add eggs.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then stir in chocolate chips and M&Ms.
  4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Quick Tips

Bake for 10 minutes for chewy cookies or 12 minutes for crisper edges. Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookies. Store in an airtight container. Try peppermint extract or white chocolate chips for a festive twist.

12. Cranberry White Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

These cookies are a mix of healthy and festive. They have oats, cranberries, and white chocolate chips. They’re perfect for a healthier holiday treat.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl. Cream butter and sugars, then add eggs.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then stir in cranberries and white chocolate chips.
  4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Quick Tips

Chill the dough for 30 minutes to prevent spreading. Bake for 10 minutes for chewiness. Store in an airtight container. Add orange zest or pistachios for extra holiday color and flavor.

13. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Make crinkle cookies without long chilling. This recipe is quick and easy. It gives you a fudgy interior and a striking look.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl. Cream sugar and butter, then add eggs and vanilla.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients.
  4. Roll tablespoon-sized balls in powdered sugar and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.

Quick Tips

Roll balls in powdered sugar just before baking for the best crackle. Avoid overbaking to keep the powdered sugar. Store in an airtight container. Add espresso powder or peppermint extract for extra flavor.

14. Peppermint Mocha Cookies

Make a holiday favorite into a cookie. These cookies have peppermint and mocha flavors. They’re easy to make and delicious.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp peppermint extract
  • 1 tsp instant coffee powder
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl. Cream butter and sugars, then add eggs, peppermint extract, and coffee powder.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then stir in chocolate chips.
  4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Quick Tips

Adjust coffee powder to taste for the best flavor. Bake for 10 minutes for a soft center. Store in an airtight container. Add crushed candy canes or a simple espresso glaze for extra festivity.

15. Coconut Macaroons with Red and Green Cherries

These cookies are gluten-free and easy to make. They have coconut, cherries, and are perfect for the holidays.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Red and green candied cherries for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix coconut, condensed milk, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
  3. Stir in egg whites and vanilla extract.
  4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Top each cookie with a candied cherry.
  6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden.

Quick Tips

Chill the dough for 30 minutes to prevent spreading. Bake until lightly golden for the best texture. Store in an airtight container. Try dipping in chocolate or adding almond extract for extra flavor.

25 Easy Christmas Cookies You Can Make in 30 Minutes or Less

Creating a festive holiday spread is easy and quick. These recipes are fast and full of holiday cheer. They use holiday colors and flavors, and can be made in 30 minutes or less.

16. Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

These cookies are bright red and have a cool crackle. They taste like red velvet and are easy to make.

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then chill the dough for 5 minutes.
  4. Roll dough into balls, then coat with powdered sugar.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.

Quick Tips

Use high-quality red food coloring for bright red. Coat dough balls well with powdered sugar for the crackle. Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

17. Thumbprint Cookies with Holiday Jam

This cookie recipe is simple and festive. It uses red and green holiday jams for color. The cookies are buttery and filled with jam.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Holiday jam (red or green)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  5. Shape into balls, make indentations, and fill with jam.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Quick Tips

Chill the shaped cookies for 5 minutes before baking. Avoid overbaking for a tender texture. Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

18. Powdered Snowball Cookies

This version of the classic snowball cookie is quick and easy. It has a melt-in-your-mouth texture without long chilling or complex techniques.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  5. Shape into balls and bake for 12-15 minutes.
  6. Roll warm cookies in powdered sugar.

Quick Tips

Avoid overmixing for the best texture. Roll cookies in powdered sugar while still warm. Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

19. Lemon Crinkle Cookies with White Chocolate Drizzle

This cookie is bright and citrusy, with a festive white chocolate finish. It’s a refreshing change from usual holiday flavors.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  5. Roll into balls, coat with powdered sugar, and bake for 10-12 minutes.
  6. Drizzle with melted white chocolate.

Quick Tips

Coat dough balls evenly with powdered sugar for the crackle. Melt white chocolate and drizzle quickly for a pretty pattern. Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

20. Almond Crescents

This version of the classic crescent-shaped almond cookie is quick and easy. It has a tender, nutty texture without long chilling or complex shaping.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in almond flour and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  5. Shape into crescents and bake for 12-15 minutes.
  6. Dust with powdered sugar.

Quick Tips

Avoid overbaking for the best texture. Dip ends in melted chocolate for a festive look. Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Holiday Cookie Mix Hacks and Shortcuts

Turning store-bought cookie mixes into homemade treats is a big win for busy holiday bakers. With a few simple tricks, you can make delicious cookies that will impress everyone.

21. Christmas Cake Mix Cookies

Using cake mix to make cookies is a smart shortcut. It makes soft, tasty cookies with little effort. Just add a few extra things to the mix.

Ingredients

  • 1 box of cake mix (any flavor)
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • Optional mix-ins (e.g., chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix the cake mix, oil, and eggs in a bowl until well combined.
  3. Add your chosen mix-ins and fold them into the dough.
  4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Quick Tips

For the best results, use a high-quality cake mix and don’t overmix the dough. You can also customize the cookies with different mix-ins to match your holiday theme.

22. Peppermint Cookie Sandwiches from Mix

Make impressive sandwich cookies using a prepared cookie mix and a quick peppermint filling. This method gives you the look of sandwich cookies without the usual time.

Ingredients

  • 1 package of cookie mix
  • 1/2 cup of peppermint buttercream frosting
  • Crushed candy canes or sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

  1. Bake the cookies according to the mix instructions.
  2. Prepare the peppermint filling by mixing the frosting with a few drops of peppermint extract.
  3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a small amount of filling on one cookie and topping with another.

Quick Tips

For an extra festive touch, roll the edges of the sandwiches in crushed candy canes. You can also use colored frosting to match your holiday color scheme.

23. Refrigerated Dough Holiday Pinwheels

Turn store-bought refrigerated sugar cookie dough into impressive spiral pinwheel cookies with festive colors. This method makes striking cookies with little effort.

Ingredients

  • 1 package of refrigerated sugar cookie dough
  • Food coloring
  • Optional: sprinkles or other decorations

Instructions

  1. Divide the dough into two portions and color each with a different food coloring.
  2. Roll out each portion into a thin sheet.
  3. Place one sheet on top of the other and roll into a tight log.
  4. Slice into thin pinwheels.

Quick Tips

To achieve vibrant colors, use gel or paste food coloring. You can also add sprinkles between the layers for extra festivity.

24. Sugar Cookie Mix Christmas Bars

Turn sugar cookie mix into festive bar cookies with holiday colors and flavors. This method saves time by not needing to shape individual cookies.

Ingredients

  • 1 package of sugar cookie mix
  • 1/4 cup of melted butter
  • Optional: holiday-themed sprinkles or mix-ins

Instructions

  1. Mix the cookie mix with melted butter until well combined.
  2. Press the mixture into a lined or greased baking pan.
  3. Add your chosen decorations on top.
  4. Bake according to the mix instructions.

Quick Tips

For a layered effect, press in a second color of dough on top. You can also swirl in a contrasting color for a marbled effect.

25. Mint Brownie Mix Cookies

Make rich, fudgy cookies with holiday mint flavor from boxed brownie mix. This clever hack makes bakery-style cookies with the chocolate-mint combo in no time.

Ingredients

  • 1 box of brownie mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract
  • Optional: chocolate mint chips or crushed candy canes

Instructions

  1. Mix the brownie mix with eggs and peppermint extract.
  2. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet.
  3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set.

Quick Tips

For an extra minty kick, press a chocolate mint chip into the top of each cookie immediately after baking. You can also sprinkle with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.

Cookie TypePreparation TimeSpecial Ingredients
Christmas Cake Mix Cookies15 minutesCake mix, mix-ins
Peppermint Cookie Sandwiches20 minutesPeppermint frosting, crushed candy canes
Refrigerated Dough Pinwheels20 minutesRefrigerated dough, food coloring
Sugar Cookie Mix Bars15 minutesSugar cookie mix, melted butter
Mint Brownie Mix Cookies15 minutesBrownie mix, peppermint extract

Holiday Cookie Mix Hacks

Conclusion

The holiday season is here, and Christmas baking is a big tradition. But, it can be hard with a busy schedule. Luckily, quick Christmas baking recipes can help a lot.

This article has 25 easy holiday cookies that can be made in 30 minutes or less. They let you enjoy baking without feeling stressed.

There are many types of cookies, from classic sugar cookies to no-bake treats. You can even use cookie mixes for shortcuts. These recipes help you make yummy treats for holidays and gifts.

By organizing your ingredients and using the right tools, you can make many cookies quickly. This includes using a cookie scoop.

Try new flavors and techniques to make your own special cookies. These recipes let you bake without spending too much time. So, start baking and make this holiday season unforgettable with your family.

FAQ

What are the benefits of using pre-made mixes for holiday baking?

Pre-made mixes save time and reduce baking mistakes. They offer a solid base for adding festive touches.

How can I make holiday cookies more festive?

Add seasonal mix-ins and spices. Use sprinkles, colored sugar, or white chocolate for decoration.

What are some quick and easy no-bake Christmas treats?

Try chocolate peppermint no-bake cookies and cornflake wreaths. Also, peanut butter snowballs, white chocolate pretzels, and Oreo truffles are great.

How can I customize store-bought cookie mixes?

Add festive mix-ins and change flavors with extracts. Use sprinkles and colored sugar for looks.

What are some tips for achieving the perfect texture in holiday cookies?

Measure ingredients well and use the right sugar. Don’t overmix. Chilling dough helps with texture.

How can I make holiday cookies more gift-worthy?

Package them nicely in festive tins. Add ribbons or gift tags for a special touch.

What are some time-saving techniques for holiday baking?

Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookies. Prepare ingredients first. Silicone mats help too.

Can I make holiday cookies ahead of time?

Yes, many can be made ahead and stored in airtight containers. Some can even be frozen.

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