The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than baking up a storm of festive cookies? This year, we’re celebrating with 18 irresistible holiday cookie recipes that are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. From classic gingerbread men to peppermint chocolate crinkles and everything in between, these sweet treats are guaranteed to bring joy to all who taste them.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, our collection of holiday cookie recipes has something for everyone. We’ve got soft and chewy sugar cookies with sprinkles, buttery shortbread cookies with jam centers, and even salted caramel thumbprint cookies that are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why wait? Get baking and make this holiday season one to remember!
Read on for our top 18 festive best holiday cookie recipes…
Classic Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing
Classic Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing Recipe
These soft and chewy gingerbread cookies are infused with the warmth of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, perfect for snacking or decorating. Paired with a rich royal icing, they make a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before decorating with royal icing (recipe not included).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies with Sprinkles
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these tender and flavorful sugar cookies, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 tbsp milk
– Sprinkles of your choice (colored or plain)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and milk.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Fold in sprinkles of your choice.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These festive cookies combine the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate with a delightful crinkled surface. Perfect for the holiday season!
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
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (about 6-8 canes)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in crushed candy canes and peppermint extract.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Chocolate Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the warmth of oatmeal with the brightness of cranberries and the creaminess of white chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Stir in white chocolate chips and cranberries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Brighten up your holiday season with these decadent cookies that combine the richness of chocolate and peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Buttery Shortbread Cookies with Jam Centers
Buttery Shortbread Cookies with Jam Centers Recipe
Get ready to delight your senses with these tender, buttery shortbread cookies filled with a sweet surprise – a fruity jam center.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup jam of your choice (e.g., raspberry, strawberry, or apricot)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, salt, and confectioners’ sugar; mix until just combined.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place a spoonful of jam in the center of each cookie. Fold dough over filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies
Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
These chewy cookies combine the richness of caramel with the savory flavor of flaky sea salt, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 1 cup caramel bits (or chopped caramel candies)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and sea salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
4. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) of space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and immediately press a caramel bit into the center of each cookie.
6. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Start your day with a sweet treat that combines the warm spices of cinnamon rolls with the classic taste of sugar cookies.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggnog Snickerdoodles
Warm up with these creamy, sweet, and spicy cookies infused with the flavors of eggnog.
Ingredients:
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup eggnog
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggnog, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Raspberry Almond Linzer Cookies
Delight your taste buds with these sweet and tangy cookies, featuring a buttery shortbread crust, a layer of raspberry jam, and a crunchy almond topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and granulated sugar; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spoon raspberry jam onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
6. Fold other half over jam; press edges to seal.
7. Cut into shapes or strips; place on prepared baking sheet.
8. Sprinkle almonds on top and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Espresso Cookies
These cookies combine the deep flavors of espresso and dark chocolate to create a truly indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and espresso powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Candy Cane Blossom Cookies
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these festive and flavorful cookies, perfect for the holiday season!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (about 6-8 canes)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add crushed candy canes and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Orange Cardamom Spiced Cookies
Escape to a warm and inviting treat with these aromatic cookies infused with the sweetness of orange and the warmth of cardamom.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Add orange zest, orange juice, and cardamom to the wet ingredients. Mix well.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Toffee Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Rich, chewy cookies filled with the sweetness of toffee, crunch of pecans, and bite of dark chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup toffee bits
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in toffee bits, pecans, and chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles
These soft, chewy cookies are infused with the warm spices of pumpkin pie and topped with a crinkly sugar crust. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture. Stir until just combined.
6. Roll dough into balls, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
7. Place balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Glazed Snowball Cookies
These tender cookies are infused with the brightness of lemon and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Lemon glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and lemon juice.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Mix until smooth and drizzle over cooled cookies.
Hazelnut Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of hazelnuts and dark chocolate with a delightful crinkled surface. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these treats are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons hazelnut extract
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, butter, white granulated sugar, and brown sugar until just combined.
3. Stir in hazelnut extract, vanilla extract, and chopped hazelnuts.
4. Gradually add chocolate chips; mix until dough forms.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Vanilla Bean Spritz Cookies
These classic cookies are a delightful twist on the traditional spritz cookie, with the added warmth and aroma of vanilla beans. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 teaspoons ground vanilla bean
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Colored sprinkles or nonpareils for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and ground vanilla bean; mix well.
3. Gradually add flour and baking powder, mixing until just combined.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat this holiday season with these 18 irresistible cookie recipes. From classic gingerbread cookies with royal icing to peppermint chocolate crinkle cookies and double chocolate peppermint treats, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for soft and chewy sugar cookies or crunchy shortbread with jam centers, this collection has it all. With flavors ranging from cinnamon roll sugar cookies to hazelnut chocolate crinkles, these holiday cookie recipes are sure to bring joy to your family and friends.