5 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Holiday Baking

Christmas is just around the corner, which means it's the perfect time to start baking those delightful holiday treats that bring everyone together. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, there's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air. Here are five of the best Christmas cookie recipes that you can make to celebrate the season:

1. Classic Sugar Cookies

Start your holiday baking adventure with the most versatile and beloved cookie of all – the Classic Sugar Cookie. This recipe provides the perfect canvas for decorating with festive colors.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups white sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Method:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
  2. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
  3. Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
  4. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until cookies are set but not browned. Cool completely before decorating.

🎄 Note: For a softer texture, slightly reduce baking time and check at the 7-minute mark.

2. Gingerbread Men

No Christmas is complete without the spicy warmth of gingerbread. These adorable Gingerbread Men not only taste delicious but are fun to decorate too!

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¾ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • 1 ¾ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup dark brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup molasses
• Method:
  1. Combine dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves).
  2. Beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy, add egg and molasses. Gradually mix in dry ingredients.
  3. Roll out dough, cut into gingerbread men shapes, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.

3. Peppermint Bark Cookies

For a unique twist, try these Peppermint Bark Cookies, which combine the freshness of peppermint with the richness of chocolate.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • Crushed peppermint candies for topping
• Method:
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix butter, sugar, egg, and peppermint extract.
  2. Combine flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt; stir into the butter mixture.
  3. Fold in white chocolate chips. Drop by tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.
  4. Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies before baking for 8-10 minutes.

🎅 Note: These cookies are perfect for a festive exchange or as gifts. Make sure to let them cool before transferring to avoid crumbling.

4. Classic Shortbread

Enjoy the simplicity of Classic Shortbread, where the quality of ingredients truly shines through.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
• Method:
  1. Cream butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in flour and salt until dough forms.
  2. Press dough into an ungreased baking pan or roll out and cut into desired shapes.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

5. Coconut Macaroons

For a tropical twist on traditional Christmas cookies, Coconut Macaroons are both easy to make and delightfully chewy.

• Ingredients:
  • 14 ounces sweetened shredded coconut
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 3/4 cup egg whites (about 5 large eggs)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
• Method:
  1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
  2. Drop heaping tablespoons onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden.

In wrapping up our journey through some of the best Christmas cookie recipes, we've explored a delightful array of flavors that are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday festivities. Each recipe, from the timeless elegance of sugar cookies to the tropical delight of coconut macaroons, offers something unique, ensuring there's a treat for everyone. Embrace these holiday traditions, whether it's through baking with family or gifting these delicious creations to friends and neighbors. Remember, the beauty of Christmas lies not just in the eating but in the love and effort put into making these special moments. So, don your apron, preheat your oven, and let the sweet scent of holiday cookies fill your home with warmth and happiness.

Can I freeze Christmas cookies?

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Yes, many types of cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cookies with icing should be frozen before decorating for best results.

What are some tips for decorating cookies?

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Allow cookies to cool completely. Use quality icing, and let each layer of icing set before adding details or layering colors. Edible markers, fondant, and sprinkles are great for detailed work.

How long will homemade cookies last?

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If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, most cookies will last about a week. Cookies with perishable fillings or toppings, like whipped cream or fresh fruit, should be refrigerated and consumed within a couple of days.