5 Delicious Christmas Cookie Recipes to Bake Now

Vanilla Bean Shortbread Stars

Vanilla bean shortbread stars bring an elegant touch to your Christmas cookie collection. These cookies are rich, buttery, and have that unique depth of flavor from real vanilla beans. Here’s how you can create these heavenly treats at home:

• Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Seeds from 1 vanilla bean
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor. Add the vanilla bean seeds.
3. Pulse to mix, then add the butter, pulsing until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Cut out star shapes and place them on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just golden.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving or decorating with royal icing.

🍪 Note: Real vanilla beans elevate the flavor, but if they're unavailable, use vanilla extract instead, reducing it to 1 teaspoon.

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Chocolate and peppermint is a classic Christmas flavor combination that can't go wrong. Here's a recipe for decadent chocolate peppermint cookies:

• Ingredients:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
• Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add peppermint extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients.
5. Stir in white chocolate chips and 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies.
6. Scoop dough onto a baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then press the remaining peppermint candies onto cookies.
8. Allow to cool on the sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutmeg Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies infused with nutmeg bring a warm, spiced aroma that is quintessential for the holiday season. Here's a recipe to indulge in this comforting treat:

• Ingredients:
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons nutmeg
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla.
4. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll in sugar or colored sugar crystals for decoration.
6. Place on ungreased baking sheets, space about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until edges are slightly brown.
8. Transfer to wire racks to cool.

Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies aren't just for building houses; they are delicious on their own with their warm, spicy flavors:

• Ingredients:
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2/3 cup molasses
• 1 egg
• Instructions:
1. Whisk together flour, salt, baking soda, and spices.
2. In a separate bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and molasses until creamy. Add egg and mix well.
3. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until a dough forms.
4. Divide dough in half, wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
7. Cut out desired shapes, and place cookies on a baking sheet.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes until set.
9. Cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.

🛠 Note: You can use gingerbread cookies for decoration or simply sprinkle them with icing sugar or make royal icing for detailed decorations.

Cranberry Orange Shortbread

Cranberry and orange make for a vibrant combination that adds a festive touch to your cookie platter:

• Ingredients:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons finely grated orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter, sugar, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
3. Whisk together flour and salt, then gradually add to the butter mixture.
4. Mix in cranberries and orange juice until well combined.
5. Roll dough into a log, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. Slice log into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place on prepared sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
8. Let cool on the sheet for a few minutes before moving to a wire rack.

As the aroma of these Christmas cookie recipes fills your kitchen, you'll embrace the spirit of the season with every bite. Baking these treats is not just about the end result but also the joy of preparing, sharing, and creating memories. Each recipe brings its unique flavor profile, from the subtle sophistication of vanilla bean shortbread stars to the bold taste of chocolate peppermint. They serve not only as delightful desserts but as opportunities to connect with loved ones during holiday gatherings. Whether you're baking for a family get-together, a cookie exchange, or simply to bring some cheer into your home, these recipes are sure to deliver joy. Enjoy the process, share the cookies, and let these delicious creations be the taste of the holidays for you and your loved ones.

Can these cookies be made in advance?

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Yes, most of these cookies can be made in advance. Shortbread cookies like vanilla bean stars and cranberry orange shortbread can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Gingerbread and sugar cookies will also keep well, but they may soften over time. For the best texture, consider freezing cookies without icing for up to three months and thawing them before decorating.

What’s the best way to store these cookies?

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For optimal freshness, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Use parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking. Keep away from strong-smelling foods to preserve flavor. For decorated cookies, store them with care to avoid smudging or breaking icing.

Can I substitute ingredients in these recipes?

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Yes, many ingredients can be substituted. Here are some general rules:

• Butter: Use high-quality margarine or plant-based butter for vegan options.
• Flour: While all-purpose flour is ideal, you can use a gluten-free blend for dietary needs. Results might vary in texture.
• Sugar: Swap out some or all of the white sugar for brown sugar or use a natural sweetener, keeping in mind it might affect the cookie’s texture.
• Spices: Feel free to adjust spice levels to suit your taste or dietary restrictions.