Christmas Cookies

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Every December, my kitchen transforms into a cozy cookie workshop, and the centerpiece of that festive baking frenzy is always a big, colorful batch of Christmas Cookies. There’s something so nostalgic and comforting about the scent of vanilla, peppermint, and fresh-baked sugar dough swirling through the house. I love how every cookie tray feels like a patchwork of holiday joy—each one decorated with care, loaded with different flavors, and perfect for gifting (or sneaking a few for myself).

From peppermint chocolate drops to frosted sugar cookie trees and buttery shortbread with a sparkle of sugar, these cookies are more than just treats—they’re a tradition. Whether you’re baking with kids, assembling a platter for a holiday party, or just indulging in the spirit of the season, this recipe collection brings variety, flavor, and plenty of festive cheer.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cookie Recipe

These cookies are a holiday win for so many reasons. You get a beautiful mix of textures—from soft and chewy to crisp and buttery—and the decorations make them look like they came straight from a bakery. They’re ideal for cookie exchanges, make charming edible gifts, and can easily be customized with your favorite toppings, mix-ins, or shapes.

Each cookie has its own personality, and together they make a spread that’s as festive as a decorated tree. Plus, the doughs can be made ahead, frozen, and baked when you’re ready—super handy for a stress-free holiday prep.

What Kind of Cookie Dough Should I Use?

You can go with a variety of cookie bases to suit your style or time limits. Classic sugar cookie dough is perfect for cut-outs like trees and candy canes. Chocolate cookie dough is rich and pairs beautifully with peppermint or fudge toppings. For a more rustic touch, go with a soft gingerbread dough or oatmeal base.

Store-bought doughs can work in a pinch, especially if you’re decorating with kids or short on time. But if you can make your own, the flavor payoff is totally worth it.

Options for Substitutions

• Butter Alternatives: You can substitute vegan butter or margarine in most doughs if you’re avoiding dairy.
• Gluten-Free Flour: A 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend works well for most cookies without drastically changing texture.
• Sugar Swaps: Use coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener if you’re cutting back on refined sugar.
• Egg Replacements: Try flax eggs or commercial egg replacers if you’re making a vegan version.
• Toppings: Swap crushed peppermint with mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, or crushed freeze-dried fruit depending on your flavor preference or dietary needs.

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Ingredients for This Christmas Cookie Recipe

• Unsalted Butter: The base for most cookie doughs, giving them richness and tenderness.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and structure. Also used for rolling dough balls or sprinkling for extra sparkle.
• Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a touch of molasses flavor, perfect for chewy cookies.
• Eggs: Help bind the dough and create structure. Also add moisture and richness.
• All-Purpose Flour: The go-to flour for classic cookies. It provides the necessary structure for all types of doughs.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Leavening agents that ensure the cookies rise and spread just the right amount.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Essential for warm, classic cookie flavor.
• Almond Extract (optional): A holiday favorite that adds depth and a sweet nutty touch.
• Crushed Peppermint Candies: Add crunch and festive flair to chocolate or sugar cookies.
• Mini Marshmallows & Chocolate Chunks: Perfect for loaded cookies like s’mores or rocky road styles.
• Holiday Sprinkles & Colored Sugar: Great for decorating sugar cookies and adding a festive touch.
• Royal Icing or Buttercream: Used for decorating sugar cookie cutouts with color and precision.

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Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by creaming together the unsalted butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This creates the base of your cookies. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract (and almond extract if using). Slowly mix in your dry ingredients—flour, baking soda/powder, and salt—until just combined.

If you’re making multiple types of cookies, divide the dough and mix in different add-ins (like chocolate chunks or crushed peppermints) to each portion.

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Step 2: Chill the Dough

This step is essential for helping the cookies hold their shape and intensify their flavor. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For sugar cookie cut-outs, chilling is non-negotiable.

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Step 3: Shape and Decorate

Roll out chilled sugar cookie dough on a floured surface and cut into festive shapes using holiday cookie cutters. For drop cookies, scoop dough onto baking sheets. Decorate with sprinkles, crushed candy, or press marshmallows or chocolate into the top.

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Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies according to type:

• Sugar cookies: 8–10 minutes
• Chocolate or peppermint drops: 10–12 minutes
• Loaded or thicker cookies: 12–14 minutes

Cookies should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center when removed.

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Step 5: Cool and Frost

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks. Once fully cooled, decorate with icing or buttercream if desired. Add final touches like extra sprinkles, edible glitter, or drizzled chocolate.

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Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Arrange your cookies on a festive tray or box. Include a variety of shapes, colors, and textures. This makes your holiday presentation extra special—whether for a party or as a sweet homemade gift.

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How Long to Prepare the Christmas Cookies

Preparation Time

Depending on the variety and batch size, the prep takes about 25–35 minutes. That includes mixing doughs, separating batches for different cookies, and prepping decorations or toppings. If you’re planning to make detailed cut-out cookies or several types at once, set aside a full hour.

Chill and Bake Time

Chilling the dough is crucial—it takes about 1 to 2 hours for best results. Baking time per batch ranges from 8 to 14 minutes depending on the cookie type. Decorating can add another 30 minutes to an hour if you’re going all out with frosting and details.

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Tips for Perfect Christmas Cookies

• Chill the Dough: Especially important for sugar cookies to prevent spreading and maintain clean shapes.
• Use Room Temp Ingredients: Butter and eggs should be softened for smooth mixing.
• Avoid Overmixing: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep cookies tender.
• Bake Evenly: Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
• Cool Completely Before Decorating: Icing on warm cookies will melt and slide right off.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping Chill Time: Warm dough spreads too much and ruins cookie shapes.
• Overbaking: Cookies continue to bake on the tray after coming out of the oven. Remove while slightly soft in the center.
• Too Much Flour: Leads to dry, crumbly cookies. Always spoon and level flour for accuracy.
• Crowded Baking Sheet: Leave space between cookies to allow proper spread.
• Unbalanced Add-ins: Too many mix-ins can make the dough fall apart or bake unevenly.

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What to Serve With Christmas Cookies?

1. Hot Cocoa with Whipped Cream

Perfectly rich and sweet, and it enhances all the peppermint and chocolate flavors in the cookies.

2. Mulled Wine or Cider

Warm spiced drinks pair well with buttery cookies and add a grown-up festive vibe.

3. Eggnog

Classic and creamy, eggnog is a holiday staple that complements sweet treats.

4. Coffee or Espresso

For a bold contrast to the sugar, a strong coffee or espresso sharpens the flavor profile.

5. Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop alongside warm cookies is irresistible, especially with chocolate or gingerbread cookies.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature

Store cookies in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 5 days. Use parchment between layers to avoid smudging decorations.

Freezing Dough

Unbaked cookie dough can be wrapped and frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Freezing Baked Cookies

Most cookies freeze well after baking. Let them cool completely, then layer with wax paper in a sealed container. Thaw at room temperature when ready to serve.

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Estimated Nutrition

Note: Per average cookie (varies by type)

• Calories: 140–180
• Sugar: 12g
• Fat: 6–9g
• Saturated Fat: 3–5g
• Carbohydrates: 20–24g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 1–2g
• Sodium: 80–120mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make Christmas cookies?

You can make the dough up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Baked cookies last for 5 days or can be frozen for longer.

Can I freeze decorated cookies?

Yes, but handle with care. Royal icing holds up best. Layer with wax paper in an airtight container.

What’s the best icing for decorating?

Royal icing is best for detailed work and hardens well. Buttercream is softer and great for spreading.

How do I make cookies stay soft?

Store them with a slice of bread in the container to keep moisture levels up.

Can I double or triple the batch?

Absolutely. These recipes scale well—just make sure your mixer can handle the volume and adjust baking batches accordingly.

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Conclusion

Christmas cookies are more than just a festive treat—they’re a joyful expression of the season. Whether you’re building a tray to share, baking with loved ones, or just treating yourself to something sweet, this cookie collection brings color, flavor, and holiday cheer to every bite. With these tips, tricks, and variations, your cookies will not only taste incredible but look picture-perfect too. So roll up your sleeves and let the cookie magic begin!

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