Print

Christmas Cookie Recipes: 15 Easy Festive Treats for Holiday Baking

Christmas cookie recipes - featured image
Print Recipe

These cozy Christmas cookie recipes are quick, easy, and perfect for holiday gatherings. With simple ingredients and festive flavors, they bring comfort and joy to every celebration.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg or ginger (optional)
  • 1 cup mini chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
  • Zest from 1 orange
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or cherries
  • 1 cup white chocolate chunks
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds, optional)
  • Colored sprinkles
  • Royal icing (powdered sugar, egg whites, lemon juice)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting or glaze)
  • Cocoa powder (optional, for chocolate cookies)
  • Shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions

  1. Set out all ingredients and equipment. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. Add eggs and vanilla extract. Beat until combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and chosen spices.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
  6. Fold in mix-ins: chocolate chips, peppermint, dried fruit, nuts, etc. Chill dough for 30 minutes if too soft.
  7. For drop cookies, scoop tablespoon portions onto baking sheets. For cutouts, roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness and cut with cookie cutters.
  8. Decorate with sprinkles, nuts, or extra chocolate chips as desired.
  9. Bake 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden and centers look just set. Add 2-3 minutes for larger cookies.
  10. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
  11. Once cool, decorate with royal icing or powdered sugar. Store in airtight containers for up to a week or freeze for longer.

Notes

Chill dough for thicker, chewier cookies. Don’t overmix once flour is added. Use parchment paper for easy cleanup. Decorate after cookies are fully cooled. Swap flour and butter for gluten-free or dairy-free options. Store with a slice of bread to keep cookies soft.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas cookies, holiday baking, festive treats, easy cookies, cookie recipes, gluten-free cookies, dairy-free cookies, Christmas dessert, holiday party, cookie exchange

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/christmas-cookie-recipes-15-easy-festive-treats-for-holiday-baking/