The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than baking up a storm of sweet treats? From classic sugar cookies to innovative flavor combinations, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 easy cookie recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re looking for something old-fashioned or something new and exciting, we’ve rounded up the most mouthwatering Christmas cookie recipes to make your holiday baking a breeze.
Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies
Get into the holiday spirit with these classic sugar cookies, perfect for decorating and sharing with loved ones. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be whipping up a batch of festive treats in no time.
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
– 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 powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Easy Peanut Butter Blossoms
Easy Peanut Butter Blossoms: A Classic Holiday Treat
These bite-sized treats are a staple of holiday cookie exchanges and parties. With just a few ingredients, you can create a sweet and salty masterpiece that’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup Hershey’s Kisses milk chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
4. Beat in the egg.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Place a Hershey’s Kiss on top of each ball, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Gingerbread Cookies
These soft and chewy gingerbread cookies are perfect for a sweet treat any time of the year. With just the right amount of spice and sweetness, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 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
– 2 teaspoons 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, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
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 the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These soft-baked cookies have a delightful crinkled surface and a rich chocolate flavor. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these treats are sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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 together butter, white granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shortbread Christmas Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that’s perfect for gift-giving or snacking on. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these tender and crumbly cookies in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: red and green sprinkles or chopped nuts for decoration
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Brighten up your day with these refreshing Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies! This recipe combines the classic flavors of chocolate and peppermint for a sweet treat that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 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
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 together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. 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 lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Snowball Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes)
Classic Snowball Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes) Recipe
These tender and buttery cookies are rolled in powdered sugar, creating a delightful crunch on the outside and a soft center. Perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until combined.
5. Roll dough into balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Roll in powdered sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Red Velvet Christmas Cookies
Brighten up your holiday season with these soft and chewy Red Velvet Christmas Cookies, infused with the subtle flavor of cocoa powder and the vibrant hue of red food coloring.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
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 cocoa powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by red food coloring and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. If using pecans, fold them into the dough.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal Cranberry White Chocolate Cookies
Sweet and chewy cookies packed with the warmth of oats, the tartness of cranberries, and the creaminess of white chocolate – perfect for a cozy treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 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 and oats.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in white chocolate chips and cranberries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
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
Eggnog Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the warm spices of eggnog, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season. With a hint of nutmeg and a subtle sweetness, these cookies will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and nutmeg in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggnog, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes per batch
Christmas Thumbprint Cookies
Bring a touch of holiday cheer to your cookie platter with these soft, chewy, and deliciously flavorful thumbprint cookies. Perfect for snacking or gifting, they’re sure to be a hit at any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 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 sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out small balls of dough (about 1 inch) and flatten slightly with your thumb.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of dark chocolate with the invigorating flavor of peppermint, perfect for a festive holiday treat or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and chocolate chips.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
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 edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes per batch
Lemon Snowdrop Cookies
These citrusy cookies are perfect for brightening up any day. With a delicate lemon flavor and a tender, chewy texture, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp 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, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add lemon juice, vanilla extract, and dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Snickerdoodle Christmas Cookies
These soft and chewy snickerdoodles are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of sugar, making them a perfect treat for your holiday gathering. With their crinkled surface and tender centers, these cookies will become a new favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or cinnamon 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, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll balls of dough about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
These soft and buttery cookies are filled with the sweetness of white chocolate and the crunch of toasted macadamia nuts. Perfect for a sweet treat or gift-giving.
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
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
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.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Spiced Molasses Cookies
Warm up with the rich flavors of Spiced Molasses Cookies, perfect for a cozy evening or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dark molasses
– 2 large eggs
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, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Christmas M&M Cookies
Get into the holiday spirit with these festive Christmas M&M cookies, perfect for snacking and sharing with friends and family.
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
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups M&M’s Christmas mix
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, followed by M&M’s Christmas mix (and nuts if using).
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Almond Joy Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the rich flavors of coconut and toasted almonds, making them a perfect treat for anyone who loves the classic Almond Joy candy bar. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delicious cookies at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in coconut and almonds.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 delicious and easy cookie recipes! From classic sugar cookies to creative twists like peanut butter blossoms and peppermint chocolate chip, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to leave out for Santa or a batch of festive cookies to share with friends and family, these recipes are sure to be a hit. With ingredients and instructions easy to follow, even the most novice bakers can join in on the fun.