21 Easy Christmas Cookies Recipes Ideas
As the festive season approaches, the smell of freshly baked Christmas cookies fills the air, bringing warmth and joy to homes everywhere. Nothing brings people together quite like the tradition of baking cookies during the holidays.
From classic favorites to creative twists, there’s a recipe for everyone. Here are 21 easy Christmas cookies recipes ideas that will delight your family and friends!
1. Classic Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies are a holiday staple, known for their simplicity and versatility. With a soft texture and subtle sweetness, they serve as the perfect canvas for creativity.
To make them, combine flour, sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla, and baking powder. Roll out the dough, cut out festive shapes, and decorate with icing and sprinkles. These cookies are a favorite among kids and adults alike!
2. Gingerbread Men
Nothing says Christmas quite like the scent of gingerbread men baking in the oven. This traditional recipe includes molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, giving the cookies their distinctive flavor. After baking, let the kids help decorate them with icing and candies. Not only are they fun to make, but they also double as festive decorations!
3. Peppermint Bark Cookies
For a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie, try peppermint bark cookies. Start with a base of chocolate chip cookie dough, then swirl in melted white chocolate and crushed peppermint candies. The result is a deliciously festive treat that combines chocolate and mint in every bite.
4. Snickerdoodles
These cinnamon-sugar coated cookies are a delightful treat that adds a cozy touch to any holiday gathering.
Made with butter, sugar, flour, eggs, and a generous amount of cinnamon, snickerdoodles are soft, chewy, and irresistibly delicious. They’re easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser!
5. Thumbprint Cookies
Thumbprint cookies are not only tasty but also beautiful to behold. Start with a buttery cookie dough, then make an indention in the center using your thumb (or a spoon) before filling it with your favorite jam or chocolate. Whether you opt for raspberry, apricot, or chocolate ganache, these cookies are sure to impress.
6. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
With their striking appearance, chocolate crinkle cookies look festive and taste heavenly. The secret lies in the cocoa powder and powdered sugar coating, which creates a beautiful contrast when baked. These cookies have a rich chocolate flavor and a chewy texture, making them a must-try for any chocolate lover.
7. Almond Joy Cookies
Inspired by the beloved candy bar, Almond Joy cookies combine chocolate, coconut, and almonds for a tropical twist.
The base is a simple cookie dough mixed with shredded coconut and topped with whole almonds and chocolate drizzle. These cookies are perfect for those who enjoy a little bit of paradise in every bite.
8. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
For a heartier option, oatmeal raisin cookies are an excellent choice. Packed with oats, raisins, and warm spices, these cookies provide a comforting taste of home. They’re chewy and satisfying, making them a great addition to your holiday cookie tray.
9. Nutella-Stuffed Cookies
If you’re a fan of Nutella, these cookies are for you! Make a simple chocolate cookie dough and stuff each cookie with a spoonful of Nutella before baking. The result is a gooey, chocolatey center that will have everyone coming back for more.
10. Pecan Sandies
These buttery, crumbly cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday spread. Made with finely chopped pecans and a hint of vanilla, pecan sandies are simple to make and incredibly delicious. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch!
11. Linzer Cookies
Originating from Austria, Linzer cookies are a beautiful and delicious addition to your Christmas cookie collection. They consist of two almond-flavored cookies sandwiched together with a layer of raspberry or apricot jam. Dust with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
12. M&M Cookies
Bring some color to your holiday cookie platter with M&M cookies. These chewy cookies are made with classic chocolate chip dough but are loaded with colorful M&M candies instead. They’re perfect for adding a fun twist to your cookie offerings!
13. Coconut Macaroons
These chewy, sweet treats are a great option for coconut lovers. Made with shredded coconut, egg whites, and sugar, coconut macaroons are simple to prepare and can be dipped in chocolate for an extra special touch. They’re gluten-free and delicious!
14. Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti
Biscotti are perfect for dipping in hot cocoa or coffee during the chilly holiday season. Make a basic almond biscotti dough, slice it into logs, bake until crisp, and dip the ends in melted chocolate. These crunchy cookies are perfect for gift-giving!
15. Red Velvet Cookies
Add a pop of color to your cookie tray with red velvet cookies. Made with cocoa powder and red food coloring, these cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with cream cheese frosting. They’re not only festive but also deliciously rich!
16. Toffee Cookies
Combine rich, buttery toffee bits with your favorite cookie dough for a delightful treat. Toffee cookies are sweet and crunchy, perfect for those who love a little extra texture in their cookies. They’re a fantastic option for a cookie swap!
17. Cranberry Orange Cookies
Brighten up your cookie platter with cranberry orange cookies. The tartness of cranberries combined with the citrusy zing of orange zest creates a refreshing flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the dough. These cookies are a great way to use up leftover cranberries after the holidays!
18. S’mores Cookies
Bring the campfire favorite indoors with s’mores cookies. Made with graham cracker crumbs, chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows, these cookies capture the essence of s’mores in every bite. They’re gooey, sweet, and sure to be a hit at any gathering.
19. Spiced Molasses Cookies
Spiced molasses cookies are a warm and comforting option for the holiday season. Made with molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, these cookies have a rich flavor and chewy texture. Roll them in sugar before baking for a sparkling finish!
20. Eggnog Cookies
Capture the essence of the holiday season with eggnog cookies. Flavored with nutmeg and vanilla, these soft and chewy cookies are a unique twist on traditional holiday flavors. Drizzle them with a simple eggnog glaze for an added festive touch.
21. Holiday Spritz Cookies
These delicate, buttery cookies are perfect for any festive occasion. Spritz cookies are made using a cookie press, allowing for beautiful shapes and designs. They can be flavored with almond or vanilla and decorated with sprinkles or icing for a colorful addition to your cookie tray.
Conclusion
Baking Christmas cookies is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories with loved ones.
From classic favorites to innovative new flavors, these 21 easy Christmas cookies recipes ideas will help you fill your home with the spirit of the holidays.
So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to spread some festive cheer with your baking creations!
Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or enjoying them with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations. Happy baking!