20 Classic Christmas Cookie Recipes You Should Try!
The holiday season isn’t complete without the warm, comforting smell of cookies baking in the oven. For me, it’s a tradition that turns my kitchen into a magical, festive wonderland. I don’t bake a lot during the rest of the year, but once Christmas season rolls around my house is like a mini bakery! There’s something so nostalgic about rolling out dough, cutting fun shapes, and decorating cookies while sipping on hot cocoa. That’s why I’ve rounded up 20 classic Christmas cookie recipes you can’t miss- these are the timeless treats that make the holidays truly special!
Whether you’re a pro baker or someone just getting into the holiday spirit like me, this list has something for everyone. From beautifully decorated sugar cookies to rich, fudgy chocolate crinkles, these recipes will bring the magic of Christmas right to your kitchen!
And if you’re looking for something to sip on with your cookies, try these fun and festive Christmas cocktails!
Before You Bake: Get Prepared!
Before we dive into these classic Christmas cookie recipes, let’s make sure your kitchen is ready for the holidays.
Stock Your Pantry
Christmas baking is all about preparation. Make sure you have these essentials:
- Basics: Flour, sugar (white and brown), baking powder and baking soda
- Flavours: Vanilla extract, spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger
- Extras: Chocolate chips, sprinkles, nuts, and icing sugar
Essential Tools
Here are the tools that will make your cookie-baking experience a breeze:
- Mixing bowls and a stand or hand mixer
- Baking sheets, parchment paper, and a cooling rack
- Cookie cutters for fun festive shapes
Tips for Beginners
If you’re new to baking, don’t stress- these tips will help you nail every batch:
- Preheat your oven before you start
- Measure ingredients accurately- cooking isn’t exact but baking is!
- Chill your dough when needed to avoid spreading
20 Classic Christmas Cookie Recipes You Can’t Miss
Ready to bake some holiday magic? Here are 20 cookies that will make your Christmas extra special!
1. Sugar Cookies
No list of classic Christmas cookie recipes is complete without sugar cookies! These buttery, sweet treats are the ultimate holiday staple. What makes sugar cookies so special is their versatility- you can roll out the dough, cut them into festive shapes, and decorate them with colourful icing, sprinkles, or even edible glitter! Whether you’re keeping them simple or going all-out with intricate designs, sugar cookies bring holiday magic to any kitchen. To elevate the flavour, consider adding a hint of almond extract- it’s a game changer!
2. Gingerbread Cookies
Gingerbread cookies are Christmas in edible form! With their warm blend of spices like cinnamon, ginger and cloves, these cookies evoke cozy nights by the fire. Their sturdy dough makes them perfect for cutting into classic gingerbread people, snowflakes, or even crafting an entire gingerbread house. Chilling the dough before rolling helps maintain those sharp edges, ensuring every cookie comes out picture-perfect. Decorating them with royal icing and candy is a fun activity for all ages- and they’re just as delicious as they are charming!
3. Chocolate Chip Cookies
While chocolate chip cookies might not scream Christmas at first glance, they earn their spot on any holiday baking list when you add a festive twist. Toss in red and green M&Ms, or drizzle them with white chocolate for a seasonal upgrade. The beauty of chocolate chip cookies lies in their simplicity: a chewy centre, crispy edges, and gooey chocolate in every bite. For an extra-special touch, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top before baking to bring out the rich chocolate flavour.
4. Snickerdoodles
Soft, chewy, and coated in cinnamon sugar, snickerdoodles are the ultimate comfort cookie. Their slightly tangy flavour, thanks to the cream of tartar, sets them apart from other holiday treats. These cookies are easy to whip up and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Rolling the dough in a generous amount of cinnamon sugar creates a deliciously cozy flavour that’s practically synonymous with the holiday season. Pair them with a warm mug of hot chocolate (with Bailey’s if you’re so inclined) and you’ve got the perfect Christmas snack!
5. Peanut Butter Blossoms
Peanut butter blossoms are the sweet-and-salty heroes of the classic Christmas cookie world. These soft peanut butter cookies, topped with a chocolate Hersey’s Kiss, are a nostalgic favourite for many. Rolling the dough in sugar before baking gives them a subtle sparkle, making them extra festive. The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate is a flavour match made in heaven, and they’re as easy to make as they are to devour!
6. Linzer Cookies
Linzer cookies are like little works of art on your holiday cookie tray. These delicate sandwich cookies are made with buttery, almond-infused dough and filled with jam- typically raspberry or apricot. A dusting of powdered sugar gives them a snow-kissed appearance that’s perfect for Christmas. Their light, crumbly texture and sweet-tart filling make them an elegant addition to any dessert spread. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different jams to find your favourite combination!
7. Shortbread Cookies
Shortbread cookies are a classic Christmas cookie for a reason- they’re simple, buttery, and utterly satisfying! With just a few ingredients, these cookies manage to melt in your mouth and leave you wanting more. You can keep them plain, or dress them up with a drizzle of chocolate, festive sprinkles, or even a pinch of sea salt. For a touch of authenticity, prick the dough with a fork before baking to give them that traditional shortbread look.
8. Thumbprint Cookies
Thumbprint cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat! These soft, buttery cookies feature a delightful dollop of jam or chocolate in the centre, making them as visually appealing as they are tasty. Chilling the dough before baking ensures the cookies hold their shape, and filling the centres with colourful jams adds a festive flair. These cookies are perfect for adding a pop of colour to your holiday cookie platter!
9. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Chocolate crinkle cookies are like little snow-dusted treasures. Their fudgy, brownie-like interior is balanced by the crackly powdered sugar coating that makes them look like they’ve just been kissed by winter frost. Chilling the dough overnight not only intensifies the chocolate flavour but also helps achieve those signature crinkles. These cookies are rich, indulgent, and a surefire hit with chocolate lovers!
10. Spritz Cookies
Spritz cookies are a holiday favourite thanks to their delicate texture and festive shapes. Made with a cookie press, they’re light, buttery, and melt in your mouth. You can dye the dough with food colouring to create red and green variations or decorate them with sprinkles for extra cheer. These cookies come together quickly, making them a great option for busy holiday schedules.
11. Biscotti
Biscotti might not be the first cookie you think of during Christmas, but their crunchy texture and ability to pair perfectly with coffee or hot chocolate make them a holiday winner. Adding cranberries, pistachios, or even a touch of orange zest gives them a festive twist. Biscotti are also sturdy enough to gift- wrap them up in a pretty bag, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade present.
12. Rum Balls
Rum balls are the ultimate no-bake holiday treat! Made with crushed cookies, cocoa powder, and a splash of rum, these bite-sized delights are packed with flavour. They’re rolled in powdered sugar or cocoa for a finished look and are a fun option for adult gatherings. If you’re serving kids, swap the rum for orange juice for a family-friendly version!
13. Italian Pizzelle
Pizzelle are delicate, waffle-like cookies that are as beautiful as they are tasty. These Italian treats are traditionally flavoured with anise, but you can use vanilla or lemon if you prefer. Made with a special pizzelle iron, they have intricate patterns that make them look almost too pretty to eat. They’re perfect on their own or rolled into cannoli shells for an extra-special touch.
14. Rugelach
Rugelach is a tender, flaky cookie made with cream cheese dough and filled with cinnamon, chocolate, nuts or jam. These crescent-shaped pastries are a delightful addition to any classic Christmas cookies spread. Their buttery texture and sweet, spiced filling make them an instant hit, and they’re surprisingly easy to make!
15. Macarons
French macarons are a sophisticated treat that can be customized for the holidays with festive colours and flavours like peppermint or eggnog. While they can be a bit tricky to perfect, their light, airy texture and sweet filling make them worth the effort. Plus, they look absolutely stunning on a cookie platter.
16. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Oatmeal raisin cookies may seem humble, but their chewy texture and warm spices make them a cozy addition to your classic Christmas cookies lineup. Adding a handful of white chocolate chips or dried cranberries can five them a festive flair. They’re a great option for anyone who loves a hearty, comforting cookie!
17. Peppermint Bark Cookies
Peppermint bark cookies combine the best of both worlds: the rich flavour of chocolate and the refreshing crunch of peppermint candy. These cookies are a holiday classic that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. A drizzle of white chocolate over the top adds an extra layer of indulgence.
18. Stained Glass Cookies
Stained glass cookies are not only delicious but also a showstopper on any classic Christmas cookie tray! Made by cutting out the centres of sugar cookies and filling them with crushed candy, these cookies bake into colourful, edible ornaments. They’re a fun project and look especially beautiful hanging on a Christmas tree!
19. Russian Tea Cakes
Also known as snowball cookies, Russian tea cakes are buttery, nutty, and coated in powdered sugar. They practically melt in your mouth and look just like little snowballs, making them perfect for Christmas. Double-rolling them in powdered sugar ensures they’re as sweet as they are festive!
20. Peppermint Chocolate Crinkles
A holiday twist on the classic chocolate crinkle cookie, these treats incorporate crushed peppermint candy for an extra burst of flavour. The fudgy interior and crackly exterior pair beautifully with the cooling peppermint, making these cookies the perfect festive indulgence.
Baking during the holidays is about more than just making cookies- it’s about creating memories, sharing joy, and indulging in the simple pleasures of the season. These classic Christmas cookie recipes are more than just delicious; they’re a way to bring a little extra magic into your home!
Which of these cookies are you excited to try? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to tag me if you share your creations on Tiktok or Instagram! Happy baking, and may your holiday season be as sweet as your cookie tray!
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