Christmas Cookies Receipes

Christmas is a time of year filled with joy, celebrations, and traditions that vary around the world. One of the most cherished traditions, regardless of where you are, is baking cookies. Cookies during Christmas serve as delightful treats, gifts, and decorations. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, there's a cookie recipe that will suit your festive spirit. In this post, we'll explore some beloved Christmas cookie recipes that are sure to bring some holiday cheer into your home.

Classic Sugar Cookies

Begin your holiday baking with the classic sugar cookie. These are perfect for decorating with vibrant icing, edible glitter, and sprinkles, making them a favorite with children and adults alike.

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Icing and decorations of your choice

Instructions:

1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
2. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mix well.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
4. Divide the dough into two equal parts, wrap each in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Roll out one portion of dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared sheets.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to brown. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Decorate as desired with icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter.

🎄 Note: For extra flavor, consider adding zest from an orange or a splash of almond extract to your sugar cookie dough.

Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are synonymous with Christmas. Their spicy warmth and iconic shape make them a must-have on your holiday cookie tray.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 3/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
2. In another bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla, beating until well combined.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into two parts, wrap each in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut into shapes. Place on baking sheets.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes. Cool before decorating.

🎁 Note: Gingerbread men can also be used for DIY decorations, making them ideal for holiday crafts.

Peppermint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

For a twist on traditional holiday flavors, these thumbprint cookies combine the richness of chocolate with the coolness of peppermint.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup white chocolate, melted
• Crushed peppermint candies for topping

Instructions:

1. Cream butter and sugar together, then add egg yolks and vanilla, mixing well.
2. Sift together flour, cocoa, and salt, then incorporate into the wet ingredients.
3. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls, place on a lined baking sheet, and make an indentation in the center of each.
4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Let cool, then fill the indentations with melted white chocolate and top with crushed peppermint.

❄️ Note: Adjust the peppermint flavor by controlling how much peppermint extract you add to the melted white chocolate.

Conclusion:

Baking Christmas cookies can transform your home into a warm, inviting space filled with the aroma of holiday spices and treats. Whether you're baking traditional sugar cookies for decoration or spicy gingerbread for the pure joy of eating them, each recipe carries with it the spirit of the season. Sharing these homemade cookies with friends, family, or simply enjoying them by a crackling fire can make Christmas that much more memorable. The act of baking, in itself, is a gift of time and love, making each cookie not just a treat but a token of holiday goodwill.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

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Yes, you can! Sugar and gingerbread cookies can be made several days in advance. Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Frost and decorate as close to serving as possible for the best texture and appearance.

What’s the best way to store these cookies?

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Store cookies in airtight containers, separating layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. Keep at room temperature for soft cookies or in the refrigerator for a crisper texture. Peppermint thumbprint cookies are best refrigerated due to the white chocolate filling.

Can I freeze the dough for later use?

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Absolutely. The dough for all these cookies can be frozen. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.