Christmas Cookie Recipes Roundup

Are you ready to impress your guests this holiday season? Looking to gift your neighbors, teachers, or mailman with a delicious box of holiday goodness? Look no further than this collection of 10 classic Christmas cookie recipes. From gingerbread to sugar cookies, this roundup has everything you need to add a touch of nostalgia and sweetness to your festivities. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, these timeless recipes are sure to delight your loved ones and become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.

While these are classic Christmas cookies, I always include some chocolate chip cookies. Swap out the chocolate chips for red and green M&Ms, and it’s an instant holiday classic.

These Christmas cookie recipes make the perfect gift either by themselves or with something else. I have used both these cookie boxes and the traditional cookie tins when gifting my baked goods. I also print out the recipe and include it with the box.

Christmas Cookie Recipes that I made each year as a homemade gift.

Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a beloved holiday treat that has been a part of Christmas traditions for centuries. With their warm spices and rich history, gingerbread cookies are a delight for both baking and eating during the festive season.

History of Gingerbread

The history of gingerbread dates back to ancient Greece, where it was used for ceremonial purposes and later adopted by the Romans. The tradition of making gingerbread spread throughout Europe, with different regions developing their own recipe variations. In the 16th century, Queen Elizabeth I of England is credited with creating the first gingerbread men, which were decorated to resemble important guests at her court. Over time, gingerbread became associated with Christmas in Europe and eventually made its way to America, where it continues to be a cherished holiday treat.

Christmas Cookie Recipe: Classic Gingerbread

Create a batch of classic gingerbread cookies with this simple recipe:

Ingredients:

3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla, and mix until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Divide the dough in half and wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

These delicious gingerbread cookies can be decorated with icing or enjoyed as is, bringing the warmth and aroma of the holiday season into your home.

Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are a classic staple of the holiday season, beloved for their simple yet comforting flavor and their versatility in terms of decoration. Let’s explore the origins of sugar cookies and a traditional sugar cookie recipe that will delight your guests this Christmas.

Origins of Sugar Cookies

The origins of sugar cookies can be traced back to the 1700s in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, where German Protestant settlers created the “Nazareth Sugar Jumbles” – the earliest known version of what we now call sugar cookies. These cookies were often cut into simple shapes and sprinkled with sugar, making them a precursor to the modern sugar cookie. Over time, the recipe evolved to include butter, sugar, flour, eggs, and vanilla, resulting in today’s delicious treat.

Christmas Cookie Pro Tip: Don’t roll out all your dough at once. Divide it into smaller sections so that you can keep it cold. Make sure you use good cookie cutters like this set from Amazon and freeze your cut cookies before you put them in the over so they keep their shape.

Traditional Sugar Cookie Recipe

Here’s a simple and delightful traditional sugar cookie recipe that will bring the warmth of the holiday season to your kitchen:

Ingredients:

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla.
Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let them cool on wire racks before decorating.

These sugar cookies can be decorated with colorful icing, sprinkles, or any other festive toppings to add a personalized touch. Enjoy creating and sharing these delightful treats with your loved ones this holiday season.

Snickerdoodles

Legend of the Snickerdoodle

Have you ever wondered about the origin of the Snickerdoodle? Legend has it that this popular cookie has German and Dutch roots, with the name possibly originating from the German word Schneckennudeln, which refers to a snail-shaped sweet bun. As the recipe traveled to America, it evolved into the beloved cinnamon-sugar-coated cookie we know today. The simple yet irresistible combination of butter, sugar, and cinnamon makes Snickerdoodles a classic holiday treat that never goes out of style.

Timeless Snickerdoodle Recipe

Looking for a fail-proof Snickerdoodle recipe to impress your guests this holiday season? Here’s a timeless recipe that’s guaranteed to delight:

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and 1 1/2 cups sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs and mix well.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until well combined. [If possible, cover with plastic wrap and let the dough sit overnight.]
In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of sugar and 3 teaspoons of cinnamon.
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Snickerdoodles are sure to fill your home with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and spice, perfect for spreading holiday cheer to family and friends.

Christmas Cookie Pro Tip: Don’t leave all the baking to the last minute. Bake the cookies ahead of time and freeze them!

Peppermint Bark Cookies: A Delicious Christmas Treat

Peppermint bark is a classic holiday treat that evokes the festive spirit of Christmas. It combines the refreshing taste of peppermint with the rich flavor of chocolate, making it a beloved dessert during the holiday season. One delightful way to incorporate the flavors of peppermint bark into your Christmas baking is by making Peppermint Bark Cookies. Here’s a simple and delightful recipe to add a festive touch to your holiday cookie platter.

Peppermint Bark’s Christmas Connection

Peppermint has been associated with Christmas for centuries, with its cool and invigorating flavor symbolizing the joy and cheer of the holiday season. The combination of peppermint and chocolate, often in the form of peppermint bark, has become a staple treat during Christmas celebrations. The sweet and minty flavor of peppermint bark perfectly captures the essence of Christmas, making it a popular choice for holiday desserts.

Peppermint Bark Cookie Recipe

To create these delightful Peppermint Bark Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract and egg until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and white chocolate chips.
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Peppermint Bark Cookies are a delightful combination of buttery cookies, chocolate, and the refreshing taste of peppermint. They are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings, adding a touch of festive flair to your Christmas cookie spread.

I’ve also make this version of Christmas Bark each year and include milk and dark chocolate versions. It is so easy, but hard not to eat it right as it comes out of the oven.

Linzer Cookies

Linzer cookies are a classic European Christmas treat that delights with their exquisite appearance and delectable flavor. Originating from the Austrian city of Linz, these cookies have a rich, buttery texture. They are traditionally filled with vibrant raspberry jam, adding a burst of fruity goodness to every bite. The intricate design of two almond-flour butter cookies sandwiching the fruity center is a true testament to the artistry of holiday baking. I use this Linzer cookie cutter set.

European Origins of Linzer Cookies

Linzer cookies trace their roots back to the 17th century in the city of Linz, Austria. The Linzer Torte, a famous Austrian pastry, inspired the creation of these delightful cookies. With a history as rich and crumbly as its own texture, Linzer cookies have become a beloved staple of Christmas baking across Europe, and their popularity has transcended continents over the years.

Linzer Cookie Recipe

For those eager to recreate the magic of these European delicacies, here’s a simple yet scrumptious Linzer cookie recipe:

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup almond flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam
Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and cinnamon.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture until well combined.
Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out one disk of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
Use a cookie cutter to cut out an equal number of the top and bottom cookies. For half of the cookies, use a smaller cookie cutter to cut out a small shape in the center.
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a thin layer of raspberry jam on the bottom cookies and sandwich with the top cookies.
Dust the assembled cookies with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

These delectable Linzer cookies will add a touch of European charm to any holiday gathering, leaving your guests enchanted with their festive allure and irresistible taste.

Thumbprint Cookies

When it comes to classic Christmas cookies, Thumbprint Cookies are an absolute essential. The melt-in-your-mouth buttery cookie dough, often rolled in chopped nuts and filled with vibrant jams or chocolate, makes them a delightful addition to any holiday spread.

Thumbprint Cookie Traditions

Thumbprint Cookies have a long-standing tradition in many households during the holidays. Their unique name comes from how they are formed – by pressing a thumb into the center of each cookie dough ball to create a well for the filling. This tradition often brings families together, as each member can customize their cookies with their favorite fillings, resulting in a colorful and delicious assortment.

Thumbprint Cookie Recipe

Here’s a simple and delightful recipe for Thumbprint Cookies that is sure to become a holiday favorite in your home:

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large egg whites, lightly beaten
1 1/2 cups finely chopped nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
Your choice of jam or chocolate for filling

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks and vanilla.
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until well combined.
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Dip each ball into the lightly beaten egg whites, then roll in the chopped nuts to coat.
Place the coated balls 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. Press your thumb into the center of each ball to create a well.
Bake for 12-14 minutes or until set but not browned.
Remove from the oven and immediately re-press the centers with the back of a spoon if needed.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a minute, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, fill each cookie with your choice of jam or chocolate.

These Thumbprint Cookies are a perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and nutty flavors, making them a must-have for any holiday gathering.

Pecan Snowball Cookies: A Holiday Classic

Pecan Snowball Cookie Heritage

Pecan snowball cookies, Mexican wedding cookies, or Russian tea cakes are a holiday treat with a rich cultural heritage. These delicate, buttery cookies, studded with crunchy pecans and dusted with powdered sugar, have been a staple of holiday celebrations for generations. The tradition of making pecan snowball cookies has been passed down through families, each recipe carrying with it a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

Pecan Snowball Cookie Recipe

Creating these delightful pecan snowball cookies is a joyous holiday tradition. To make a batch of these classic cookies, start by combining softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and finely chopped pecans in a mixing bowl. Gradually add flour until a dough forms. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet. After baking and allowing them to cool slightly, gently roll the cookies in powdered sugar until they are generously coated. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth delight that will add a touch of old-fashioned charm to any holiday gathering.

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Who doesn’t love a classic chocolate crinkle cookie? With a history as rich as their flavor, these cookies are a must-have for any holiday gathering. Let’s dive into the story behind these delectable treats, and then we’ll whip up a delightful recipe for you to try at home.

The History of Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Chocolate crinkle cookies have been a beloved holiday treat for generations. The exact origins of this cookie are somewhat mysterious, but it’s believed to have been popularized in the United States in the early to mid-20th century. Some say it originated from a mistake in baking, while others credit its creation to a stroke of genius in a kitchen. Regardless of its origin story, chocolate crinkle cookies have stood the test of time and continue to bring joy to countless families during the festive season.

Chocolate Crinkle Cookie Recipe

Now, let’s get down to the good stuff – the recipe! Here’s a simple yet oh-so-delicious chocolate crinkle cookie recipe that will surely impress your guests this holiday season.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups white sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar for rolling

Instructions:

In a medium bowl, mix together cocoa, white sugar, and vegetable oil. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the cocoa mixture. Cover dough and chill for at least 4 hours.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and then roll them in confectioners’ sugar. Place them onto the prepared cookie sheets and flatten slightly.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Now that you have the inside scoop on the history of chocolate crinkle cookies and a scrumptious recipe to try, it’s time to get into the holiday baking spirit!

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: A Classic Holiday Treat

The Evolution of Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

You can trace the origins of oatmeal raisin cookies back to the 19th Century when oats became a popular ingredient in baking. The combination of oats and raisins provided a delightful texture and a hint of natural sweetness. Over the years, the recipe evolved as home bakers experimented with the addition of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, giving rise to the beloved classic oatmeal raisin cookie we know today.

Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe

Here’s a simple and delightful oatmeal raisin cookie recipe to add a touch of nostalgia to your holiday baking:

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups old-fashioned oats
1 1/2 cups raisins

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture.
Stir in the oats and raisins until well blended.
Use a cookie scoop to drop rounded scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

These oatmeal raisin cookies, with their chewy texture and comforting flavors, are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.

Italian Anise Cookies

If you’re looking for a unique and delightful addition to your classic Christmas cookie repertoire, Italian Anise Cookies are a must-try. These traditional Italian cookies have a distinct licorice-like flavor and a tender, cake-like texture that sets them apart from other holiday treats.

Italian Anise Cookie Tradition

Italian Anise Cookies, also known as “Biscotti all’Anice,” have been a staple of Italian holiday celebrations for generations. These confections are often enjoyed during Christmas when families gather to bake and share these aromatic delights. The anise flavor and delicate glaze make them a beloved treat, enjoyed with a cup of espresso or a glass of Vin Santo.

Italian Anise Cookie Recipe

To make Italian Anise Cookies, you’ll need ingredients such as flour, sugar, butter, eggs, anise extract, baking powder, and powdered sugar for the glaze. The dough is shaped into small balls and then flattened before baking to achieve its characteristic shape. The secret to achieving the perfect texture and flavor is to allow the anise flavor to develop in the dough fully. Once baked, the cookies are finished with a simple powdered sugar glaze, adding a touch of sweetness to complement the aromatic anise flavor.

Explore the allure of Italian Anise Cookies, and bring a taste of Italian tradition to your holiday gatherings with this delightful recipe.