The holiday season brings with it an undeniable urge to bake and share the joy through homemade cookies. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, these easy Christmas cookie recipes will bring festive cheer and sweet treats to your table. Let's dive into simple yet delightful recipes perfect for holiday baking!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Nothing says Christmas quite like the combination of chocolate and peppermint.
- 2 3⁄4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1⁄2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 1⁄2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1⁄2 cup crushed peppermint candies
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add egg and vanilla to the butter mixture, mixing well.
- Gradually stir in the flour mixture.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and peppermint candies.
- Drop rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly toasted.
🎄 Note: For extra sparkle, dust these cookies with powdered sugar before serving!
Gingerbread Men
These classic gingerbread cookies are fun to make and decorate.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3⁄4 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground ginger
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1⁄2 tsp ground cloves
- 1⁄2 tsp salt
- 3⁄4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1⁄2 cup molasses
- 2 eggs
- Royal icing or powdered sugar icing for decoration
Steps:
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, spices, and salt.
- Add butter, mix until the dough is crumbly.
- Add molasses and eggs; mix until combined.
- Divide the dough in half, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1⁄4 inch thick.
- Cut out gingerbread men with cookie cutters.
- Place cookies on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Let cool before decorating with icing.
Simple Sugar Cookies
The base for holiday decorating or just enjoying on their own.
- 2 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1⁄2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 1⁄2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients.
- Roll the dough into balls or use a cookie press for shapes.
- Place on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven.
🍪 Note: For a festive touch, sprinkle with colored sugar before baking or frost after cooling.
To wrap up our baking journey, these easy Christmas cookie recipes are designed to ensure that everyone can partake in the holiday fun, regardless of baking expertise. Whether you're creating memories with family by decorating gingerbread men, enjoying the rich flavors of peppermint chocolate chip cookies, or savoring the simplicity of sugar cookies, each recipe offers a chance to add sweetness to the festive season. Share these treats with neighbors, friends, or just indulge in them with a cup of hot cocoa. This holiday baking will not only fill your home with delightful scents but also your heart with the joy of giving and sharing.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
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Yes, cookie dough can often be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn.
What’s the best way to keep cookies fresh?
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Store cookies in an airtight container. For soft cookies, include a piece of bread to keep them moist. For crisp cookies, keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their crunch.
Can I freeze baked cookies?
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Yes, you can freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer bag or airtight container to prevent them from sticking together.
