Christmas cookie recipes holiday

Published on: November 26, 2025

Assorted Christmas cookies decorated for the holiday season

Christmas cookie recipes holiday, Christmas baking recipes, Christmas food are the ultimate festive treat that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of spices and sweetness. These cookies have a delightful blend of soft, chewy interiors with a warm, spiced exterior, making them a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity—crafted with seasonal ingredients that add a touch of sustainability and warmth to your holiday gatherings. Check out more desserts here: {internal_link_1}.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Christmas cookie recipes holiday, Christmas baking recipes, Christmas food is perfect for any holiday gathering, from cozy family nights to festive parties. Its easy preparation means you can whip up a batch in no time, while the rich flavors and beautiful presentation make it a standout. Versatile enough for all occasions, it can be decorated for the holidays or enjoyed plain—allowing you to customize each bite to your liking.

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

Emphasizing the charm of the season, these cookies feature ingredients that evoke the spirit of winter. Think warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that fill your home with their enticing aroma, while rich molasses brings depth and sweetness. The vibrant colors of holiday sprinkles and chocolate chips easily enhance visual appeal, creating a festive treat that captivates both adults and children. By opting for local and seasonal ingredients, you not only support sustainability but elevate the taste of these delightful cookies.

What You’ll Need

All-Purpose Flour (2 ½ cups) – For a chewy texture; whole wheat flour can be a hearty substitute.
Brown Sugar (1 cup) – Adds moisture and deep flavor; coconut sugar works as a healthier alternative.
Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Provides sweetness and a delightful contrast in textures.
Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened) – Creates richness; for vegan options, use vegan butter or coconut oil.
Eggs (2 large) – Binds the ingredients; flaxseed meal with water can replace them for a vegan choice.
Baking Soda (2 tsp) – Ensures the cookies rise beautifully.
Spices: Cinnamon (1 tsp), Nutmeg (½ tsp), Cloves (½ tsp) – For that classic holiday flavor.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Elevates the flavor profile.
Chocolate Chips/Sprinkles – Optional, for decoration or added sweetness.

How to Make This Recipe

Prepare the Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. The mixture should be silky and smooth, fragrant with a buttery aroma.
Mix the Ingredients
Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until well incorporated. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and spices. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough should be thick and aromatic, with visible specks of spice.
Shape or Cook
Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving ample space in between each for spreading. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the edges start to turn golden. The cookies should remain soft in the center; they’ll firm up as they cool.
Finish or Garnish
If desired, sprinkle some additional chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles on top immediately after removing from the oven. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, stack the cookies on a festive plate or package them as gifts. The combination of spices, sweetness, and the soft, chewy texture invites everyone to enjoy a taste of joy this holiday season.

Essential Tools

Mixing bowls (medium and large)
Electric mixer or whisk
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Cookie scoop or spoon for portioning
Measuring cups and spoons

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

To keep your Christmas cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to freezer bags. These cookies can also be made ahead of time, and their flavors deepen when allowed to sit for a day, making them perfect for prepping in advance.

Perfect Pairings

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm glass of milk, hot cocoa, or even a spiced chai tea to enhance the holiday spirit. For a festive touch, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with melted chocolate. Presenting them on a beautifully decorated platter adds to their charm and makes a delightful centerpiece for any gathering.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Dough Too Dry: If the dough feels crumbly, add a splash of milk until it reaches a pliable consistency.
Chocolate Coating Breaks: Ensure melted chocolate is smooth and warm to achieve a perfect coating.
Unevenly Shaped Balls: Use a cookie scoop for consistently sized cookies that bake evenly.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Be sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off for even texture.
For a more vibrant flavor, try toasting the spices before adding them to the dough to enhance the aroma.
For decorative flair, consider adding colored sugar or festive sprinkles on top before baking.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Spice up your cookies by incorporating different extracts like almond or peppermint for a unique flavor twist. You can also swap in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, or make them more decadent by adding nuts. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a blend of gluten-free flours.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

These cookies can be easily adapted for various dietary needs. For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use vegan butter. Ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free if necessary. Monitor for allergens like nuts, gluten, and dairy in your substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw before baking.
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a chia/flaxseed egg (1 tbsp of seeds mixed with 3 tbsp of water).
How do I know when the cookies are done?
They should look set at the edges and slightly underbaked in the center for chewier cookies.
Can I freeze baked cookies?
Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container, layered between parchment paper, for up to 3 months in the freezer.
What’s the best way to store cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

These Christmas cookies are not just treats; they are a way to gather around the table and create memories with family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, get cozy, and indulge in deliciousness this holiday season. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us on social media or leave a comment below! For more festive recipes, visit our dessert category page.

Christmas Cookies

Author: meta-savory
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious Christmas cookies with a warm, spiced flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
1 cup Brown Sugar
½ cup Granulated Sugar
1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
2 large Eggs
2 tsp Baking Soda
1 tsp Cinnamon
½ tsp Nutmeg
½ tsp Cloves
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Chocolate Chips/Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until well incorporated.
In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and spices.
Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each for spreading.
Bake for about 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
Sprinkle with additional chocolate chips or sprinkles immediately after removing from oven.
Allow to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.