Christmas Cookie Recipe

Name: Christmas Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Icing and sprinkles for decoration

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Create a festive atmosphere this holiday season with these delightful Christmas cookies. Featuring a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a blend of warm spices, these cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Adorned with colorful icing and sprinkles, they make a charming addition to any Christmas dessert table. Easy to make and perfect for holiday baking traditions, these cookies will bring joy to your celebrations.

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2025-12-10T16:06:15.173Z

These Christmas cookies are not just a treat; they are a tradition! Each bite is filled with the warmth of the holiday season.

The Joy of Holiday Baking

Baking during the holiday season is a cherished tradition for many families. The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect time to gather with loved ones. As you mix the ingredients and roll out the dough, it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories with family. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these Christmas cookies offer a simple yet rewarding baking experience.

The process of baking cookies is not just about creating delicious treats; it’s about the joy of sharing. These delightful Christmas cookies are ideal for making with children, allowing them to express their creativity through decorating with colorful icing and toppings. Consider hosting a cookie-decorating party where friends and family can come together, enjoy holiday music, and bond over frosting and sprinkles. It’s a wonderful way to kick off the festive season and build camaraderie.

A Delicious Tradition

Christmas cookies have been a part of holiday celebrations for centuries, originating from various cultures around the world. Each family often contributes their special recipes, creating a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions. By incorporating these recipes into your own holiday festivities, you can carry on the legacy of sharing and joy that comes with holiday baking. Making these cookies each year can become a beloved tradition that your family looks forward to.

As you prepare to bake these festive cookies, don’t hesitate to put your unique spin on the classic recipe. You can experiment by adding your favorite spices, using different colored icing, or even incorporating unexpected ingredients like dried fruits or nuts. Personalizing your cookies not only enhances their flavor but also allows your creativity to shine, ensuring each batch is as unique as your family’s traditions.

Perfect for Gifting

One of the best parts of making Christmas cookies is the joy of giving. These cookies make wonderful gifts for neighbors, friends, and coworkers. Pack them in decorative boxes or treat bags, adding a personal touch with handwritten notes or festive tags. Homemade gifts carry sentimental value, showing that you took the time to create something special just for them.

Not only do these cookies bring joy when shared, but they also serve as delightful accompaniments to holiday gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or attending a holiday party, bringing along a batch of these cookies will surely impress your host and guests alike. The bright and colorful decorations will catch the eye, and the tasty flavors will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients

Basic Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Icing and sprinkles for decoration

Mix these ingredients to create your cookie dough.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In another large bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until fluffy.

Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Bake Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Decorate

Let cool, then decorate with icing and sprinkles.

Enjoy your delicious Christmas cookies!

Storage Tips for Freshness

To keep your Christmas cookies fresh and delicious for as long as possible, proper storage is key. Allow the cookies to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, especially if you have decorated some with icing. Stored this way, they can last for up to a week at room temperature or even longer in the refrigerator.

If you plan to make your cookies ahead of time, consider freezing them. You can freeze the unbaked dough, scooped into tablespoon-sized portions, for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This allows you to enjoy fresh cookies anytime during the holiday season with minimal effort.

Baking with Kids

Involving children in the baking process can be an enjoyable experience that teaches valuable skills and fosters a love for cooking. Prepare your kitchen with all the necessary ingredients and tools to ensure a smooth experience. Assign them fun tasks, such as measuring ingredients or mixing the dough, and watch their excitement grow as they see the cookies transform in the oven.

Remember to let them express their creativity when decorating! Provide a variety of icings, sprinkles, and toppings, and encourage them to create their own unique designs. This not only brings joy but also fosters a sense of achievement when they share their completed creations with family and friends.

Making the Most of Your Ingredients

Quality ingredients can elevate your Christmas cookie recipe significantly. Whenever possible, opt for high-quality butter and pure vanilla extract, as they provide deeper flavors than their cheaper counterparts. Likewise, using freshly ground spices rather than pre-ground can enhance the overall depth of flavor in your cookies.

Consider incorporating seasonal ingredients such as peppermint extract or orange zest for an added holiday twist. These extras can transform an already delightful cookie into something truly special, making your holiday baking even more memorable. Experimenting with different flavor profiles can create new family favorites that last for years to come.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can use margarine or a dairy-free alternative.