As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting from your kitchen becomes a staple of festive fun. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newcomer to the world of sweet treats, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a plate full of warm, gooey, and oh-so-delicious Christmas cookies.
To help get your holiday baking off to a tasty start, we’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering cookie recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic gingerbread and sugar cookies, to innovative flavors like eggnog snickerdoodles and caramel stuffed chocolate cookies, there’s something for every taste bud on this list.
Classic Gingerbread Cookies
Warm up to the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies with this timeless recipe. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving, these chewy treats are infused with the spices and warmth of the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 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 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 cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
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.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set.
Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate with a delightful crinkled texture, perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up.
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 (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in peppermint extract and crushed candy canes.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in chocolate chips.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are a timeless favorite, perfectly paired with a rich and creamy royal icing. Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Royal icing (see below for recipe)
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, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Royal Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp meringue powder
– 2 tbsp water
Combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water in a bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the richness of white chocolate with the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful flavor combination. Perfect for a snack or dessert.
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 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 egg
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. Stir in white chocolate chips.
4. Add cranberries and egg to the wet ingredients; mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until a dough forms.
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
Eggnog Snickerdoodles
These soft and chewy snickerdoodles are infused with the warm spices of eggnog, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cream of tartar
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp eggnog
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (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, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add eggnog, vanilla extract, and nutmeg to the wet ingredients. Mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these decadent cookies that combine the richness of double chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint. Perfect for a holiday treat or a pick-me-up any time of the year!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (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 and peppermint extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and chocolate chips. Add to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Molasses Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these soft, chewy cookies infused with the deep flavor of molasses and a hint of warm spices.
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
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup blackstrap molasses
– 1 large egg
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 cloves. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies
Add a pop of color and whimsy to your holiday baking with these adorable Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies. Moist, flavorful cookies get a festive twist with a hidden surprise – a dollop of creamy filling in the center!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup red velvet emulsion (or red food coloring)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 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, sugar, red velvet emulsion, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
3. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
4. Use your thumb (or a spoon) to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
Snowball Cookies with Powdered Sugar
These classic cookies are a winter wonderland treat that’s sure to delight. With their sweet and crunchy exterior, soft center, and powdery coating, they’re the perfect indulgence for any season.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 egg and 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, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. While still warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar to coat.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Transform the classic cinnamon roll into a sweet and chewy cookie with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 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, baking soda, and cinnamon. Set aside.
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 a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., logs or squares).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Peanut Butter Blossoms with Hershey Kisses
These soft and chewy peanut butter cookies are transformed into a festive treat by topping them with a Hershey’s Kiss. The perfect combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and crunch makes for an irresistible holiday cookie.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
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 peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugars and mix until combined. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until dough forms.
5. Roll dough into balls (about 1 inch). Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
7. Remove from oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Orange Cardamom Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with the warm, aromatic flavors of cardamom and the brightness of orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons finely ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter, sugar, cardamom, and orange zest until smooth.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
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 the rim of a glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Maple Walnut Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the warmth of maple syrup and the crunch of walnuts, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With just 10 ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation.
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 pure maple syrup
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– Optional: confectioners’ sugar for dusting
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 butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in maple syrup and egg.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and whisked dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
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
Almond Joy Stuffed Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with the rich flavors of Almond Joys! These chewy cookies are filled with a surprise center of coconut, almonds, and chocolate, making them a unique treat for any occasion.
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 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup Almond Joy candy pieces, chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Semi-sweet chocolate chips for drizzling (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 eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in chopped Almond Joy pieces, coconut, and almonds.
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.
7. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cherry Almond Snowflake Cookies
Brighten up your holiday season with these delicate, flavorful cookies that combine the sweetness of cherries and the crunch of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 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, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and almond extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Stir in chopped cherries.
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Warm up to the flavors of fall with these soft and chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies, topped with a tangy Cream Cheese Frosting.
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 canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Cream cheese frosting (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 soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Beat together until smooth and creamy. Spread or pipe onto cooled cookies.
Caramel Stuffed Chocolate Cookies
Rich, chewy cookies filled with a gooey caramel center and topped with velvety chocolate – a perfect treat for any occasion!
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
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup semisweet 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 butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in 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 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and immediately press a small spoonful of caramel sauce into the center of each cookie.
8. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Raspberry Linzer Cookies
Raspberry Linzer Cookies Recipe
Classic Austrian-inspired cookies filled with sweet and tangy raspberry jam, these Raspberry Linzer Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup raspberry jam
– 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 confectioners’ sugar. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Press dough into a disk; wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
4. Roll out chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, circles).
5. Spoon a small amount of jam onto one half of the cookie, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Top with another cookie half.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Toffee Pecan Cookies
These sweet treats combine the richness of toffee with the crunch of pecans and a hint of sea salt for a delightful cookie experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp sea salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup toffee bits (such as Heath toffees)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and sea salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in pecans and toffee bits.
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
Hot Cocoa Cookies with Marshmallows
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy cookies infused with the flavors of hot cocoa and topped with fluffy marshmallows. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a special treat.
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 hot cocoa mix (dry)
– Marshmallows for topping
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 eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in hot cocoa mix until well combined.
5. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes. Top with marshmallows.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 delicious and festive Christmas cookie recipes! From classic gingerbread to decadent double chocolate peppermint, there’s something for every taste. Try your hand at soft sugar cookies with royal icing or spicy molasses cookies. Or, indulge in peanut butter blossoms with Hershey kisses or caramel-stuffed chocolate cookies. These sweet treats are sure to bring joy to friends and family this holiday season. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to be a hit.
