Christmas cookies are a beloved holiday treat that bring warmth and joy to any festive gathering. From traditional gingerbread men to colorful frosted sugar cookies, these sweet delights are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Baking them together can create wonderful memories, and the best part is decorating them in endless creative ways. So, gather your ingredients and get in the holiday spirit!
Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies
Chocolate Chip Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic holiday treat. These cookies are round and dusted with powdered sugar, resembling little snowballs. They are not only cute but also delicious, filled with rich chocolate chips that melt in your mouth.
The contrast of the snowy exterior and the chocolate chips makes for a beautiful presentation. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they add a fun touch to any dessert table. Plus, they’re easy to make and sure to impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy.
- Add vanilla extract, flour, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Form small balls of dough and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let them cool for a few minutes, then dust with powdered sugar.
- Enjoy your festive treats!
Peppermint Crunch Biscotti
Peppermint Crunch Biscotti are a festive treat perfect for the holiday season. These delightful biscotti are light, crunchy, and packed with the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate. Their bright red and white toppings not only make them visually appealing but also add an extra layer of sweetness.
In the image, you can see the biscotti beautifully arranged in a bowl. They are decorated with tiny peppermint pieces and colorful candy sprinkles, making them an inviting addition to any holiday dessert table. The green pine branches and scattered peppermint candies in the background enhance the festive vibe, reminding us of cheerful gatherings and cozy moments.
These cookies are ideal for dipping in hot cocoa or coffee, making every sip a treat. They also make great gifts for friends and family, adding a special homemade touch to your holiday cheer.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warmed milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter over the surface, and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly. Roll tightly and slice into individual rolls.
- Bake the Rolls: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread the frosting over warm rolls before serving.
Festive Spritz Cookies
Spritz cookies are a holiday favorite, brightening any gathering with their cheerful shapes and vibrant colors. The assortment of star and tree designs is a feast for the eyes, showcasing a playful mix of icing and sprinkles. Each cookie is unique, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.
The image captures the essence of the holiday spirit, with cookies featuring festive decorations. The bright reds, greens, and yellows stand out beautifully against the backdrop. These cookies not only taste good, but they also bring joy and warmth to the season, inviting everyone to indulge in a sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warmed milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter over the surface, and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly. Roll tightly and slice into individual rolls.
- Bake the Rolls: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread the frosting over warm rolls before serving.
Classic Gingerbread Men
Gingerbread men are a classic treat during the holiday season. Their charming shapes and festive decorations make them a favorite among both kids and adults. The image shows a tray filled with beautifully crafted gingerbread men, each adorned with colorful icing and candy. The smiles on their faces add a touch of warmth to any holiday gathering.
These cookies are not just tasty; they also bring back memories of baking with family and friends. The aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses fills the air, creating a cozy atmosphere. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or decorated for a party, gingerbread men are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warmed milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter over the surface, and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly. Roll tightly and slice into individual rolls.
- Bake the Rolls: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread the frosting over warm rolls before serving.
Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies
These Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that brings holiday cheer to any gathering. The cookies have a soft, buttery texture, perfect for melting in your mouth. The shiny red jam in the center adds a festive touch, making them a favorite during the holiday season.
The image shows a beautiful arrangement of these cookies, each featuring a charming thumbprint filled with sweet jam. Surrounding the cookies are some seasonal decorations, like pine branches and berries, enhancing the holiday vibe. These treats are not just cute; they are delicious too!
Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. The rich flavor of eggnog combined with the sweetness of the jam creates a unique taste that everyone will love. These cookies are a must-try for your Christmas baking!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warmed milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter over the surface, and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly. Roll tightly and slice into individual rolls.
- Bake the Rolls: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread the frosting over warm rolls before serving.
Chocolate Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies
These Chocolate Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies are a festive treat that brings joy and flavor to any holiday gathering. The rich chocolate dough is beautifully swirled with a creamy peppermint layer, making each bite a delight. The addition of crushed candy canes on top adds a crunchy texture and an extra burst of peppermint flavor.
Visually, these cookies are striking. The vibrant red of the serving cloth contrasts nicely with the deep chocolate hues of the cookies. The spirals showcase the amazing combination of chocolate and peppermint, while the crushed candy canes add a playful touch. Each cookie looks like a little piece of holiday magic.
Perfect for sharing at holiday parties or as a sweet gift, these cookies are sure to impress. They not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any dessert table. Let’s get baking and spread some holiday cheer with these delicious Chocolate Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In another large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Add the Egg and Extracts: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide the Dough: Split the dough in half. To one half, stir in the crushed candy canes and white chocolate chips.
- Roll the Doughs: Roll out each half between sheets of parchment paper to about 1/4 inch thick. Layer the peppermint dough over the chocolate dough and roll tightly.
- Chill: Wrap the rolled dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat and Slice: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes until set. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
Frosted Sugar Cookies
Frosted sugar cookies are a classic holiday treat that bring joy to any festive gathering. These cookies are soft, sweet, and perfect for decorating. The image showcases an assortment of beautifully decorated cookies, including trees, snowflakes, and a charming penguin. Each cookie features vibrant colors and delightful designs that make them almost too pretty to eat!
The fun part of making frosted sugar cookies is the decoration. You can let your creativity shine by using different colored icings and sprinkles. The cookies in the image are adorned with festive greens, reds, and whites, capturing the spirit of the season. Whether you’re baking with family or hosting a cookie decorating party, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
Enjoying these cookies fresh out of the oven, perhaps with a glass of milk, is a nostalgic experience. They make wonderful gifts too, packaged in a festive box or tin. Everyone loves a delicious homemade cookie during the holidays!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warmed milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter over the surface, and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly. Roll tightly and slice into individual rolls.
- Bake the Rolls: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread the frosting over warm rolls before serving.
Nutty Pecan Sandies
Nutty Pecan Sandies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. These cookies are not just tasty; they bring warmth and comfort, perfect for chilly winter days. The image shows a cozy setup with a bowl of these cookies, highlighted by the rich textures of pecans and a backdrop of hot chocolate. It’s a celebration of flavors that instantly invites smiles.
The cookies themselves are golden brown, studded with crunchy pecans. Their buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with the festive spirit in the air. This combination makes them a favorite for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings at home. The bowl of cookies sits next to a mug of hot chocolate topped with fluffy marshmallows, creating a scene that’s all about comfort.
These cookies are simple to make, making them a great choice for holiday baking. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them solo, Nutty Pecan Sandies will surely bring joy. Below is a recipe to create your own batch of these lovely cookies!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add in the vanilla extract and mix well.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture.
- Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cranberry Orange Oatmeal Cookies
Cranberry Orange Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that blend the tangy taste of cranberries with the bright flavor of oranges. These cookies are perfect for the holiday season, adding a festive touch to your dessert table.
The image shows a stack of these delicious cookies, showcasing their chewy texture and the vibrant colors of the cranberries. Fresh orange slices nearby hint at the citrus flavor that brightens each bite. The combination of oats and fruit creates a wholesome feel, making them a great snack for any time of day.
These cookies are not only tasty but also easy to make. They deliver a wonderful balance of sweetness and tartness, making them a hit with friends and family. Baking a batch fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that brings everyone together.
Give these Cranberry Orange Oatmeal Cookies a try for your next holiday gathering or simply as a cozy treat on a chilly day. They are sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. Then stir in the orange zest.
- In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Fold in the dried cranberries.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Caramel-Stuffed Chocolate Cookies
These caramel-stuffed chocolate cookies are a delightful treat for the holiday season. Picture a tray filled with rich, dark cookies topped with a glossy layer of warm caramel. The contrast of the deep chocolate and the luscious, gooey caramel creates a tempting visual that’s hard to resist.
Each cookie is a little bundle of joy, featuring a soft texture that almost melts in your mouth. The chocolate base is rich, while the sweet caramel adds just the right touch of indulgence. Sprinkling a bit of sea salt on top not only enhances the flavors but also gives them a beautiful finish.
These cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying at home with a cup of hot cocoa. They bring a cozy vibe to any holiday celebration, making them a must-try this season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Take a small amount of dough, flatten it in your palm, and add a teaspoon of caramel sauce in the center. Wrap the dough around the caramel, rolling it into a ball.
- Place the cookie balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press a few chocolate chips on top of each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.