Christmas Cookies Recipe: Christmas cookies are more than just sweet treats—they’re a tradition, a way to bring family and friends together during the holiday season. Whether you’re making them for a festive party, gifting them to loved ones, or simply enjoying them with a cup of hot cocoa, these cookies are a must-have for the holidays.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through an easy yet delicious Christmas cookie recipe, step by step, to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time.
Essential Ingredients for Christmas Cookies
Before you start baking, gather these key ingredients:
Basic Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour – The base of the dough
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and flavor
- Granulated sugar – For sweetness and texture
- Brown sugar – Gives a deeper, caramel-like sweetness
- Eggs – Helps bind the dough together
- Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and aroma
- Baking powder – Ensures cookies rise properly
- Salt – Enhances the flavors
Optional Add-ons:
- Cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger – For festive spice
- Chocolate chips or chunks – For an extra treat
- Nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts) – Adds crunch
- Sprinkles and edible glitter – For decoration
Dietary Substitutions:
- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version
- Swap butter with coconut oil for dairy-free cookies
- Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener
Tools and Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters (stars, trees, snowflakes, etc.)
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Piping bags for decorating
Step-by-Step Christmas Cookie Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
- In a large bowl, beat 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until the dough forms.
- If the dough is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling.
Step 2: Rolling and Cutting Shapes
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
- Use festive cookie cutters to cut out shapes like stars, Christmas trees, and snowflakes.
- Carefully place the cut-out cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Baking the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the cookies for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before decorating.
Step 4: Decorating with Icing and Sprinkles
- Mix 2 cups of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract to make icing.
- Divide the icing into bowls and add different food colors.
- Use piping bags or small brushes to decorate the cookies with icing, sprinkles, and edible glitter.
Step 5: Storing the Cookies Properly
- Let the icing dry completely before storing.
- Place cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to two weeks.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed bag for up to three months.
Best Tips for Perfect Christmas Cookies
- Chill the dough to prevent cookies from spreading too much.
- Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and ensure even baking.
- Don’t overbake! Remove cookies when they are just set for a softer texture.
- Decorate after cooling to prevent icing from melting.
Creative Christmas Cookie Ideas
Christmas Tree Cookies: Use green icing and sprinkle mini candies as ornaments.
Snowflake Cookies: Pipe delicate icing patterns for a frosty look.
Santa Face Cookies: Use red, white, and black icing for a fun Santa design.
Reindeer Cookies: Add pretzel antlers and chocolate chip eyes.
FAQs about Christmas Cookies Recipe
What are the best types of flour for Christmas cookies?
For most Christmas cookies, all-purpose flour is ideal because it provides a good structure without making the cookies too dense. If you’re aiming for a lighter, more delicate texture, consider using cake flour for recipes like sugar cookies or shortbread.
How long can I store Christmas cookies?
Most Christmas cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Make sure to let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I make Christmas cookies in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare Christmas cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for 2 to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
What is the secret to soft and chewy Christmas cookies?
To achieve soft and chewy cookies, make sure not to overbake them. Remove them from the oven when they’re just set and still look a little underdone in the middle. They’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool.
Can I decorate my Christmas cookies without icing?
Yes, you can use a variety of decorations such as sprinkles, colored sugars, or edible glitters before baking. For a natural touch, consider pressing nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips into the cookies before they go into the oven.
What’s a good egg substitute in Christmas cookie recipes for allergies?
For those with egg allergies, alternatives like applesauce, mashed bananas, or commercial egg replacers can work well in many Christmas cookie recipes, depending on the desired texture.
Now you’re all set to bake the perfect Christmas cookies! Have fun and enjoy the holiday spirit.
