Christmas Cookies

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

There’s just something magical about a tray full of Christmas Cookies fresh out of the oven. Each one is like a tiny gift wrapped in sugar, frosting, and joy. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping holiday tins for friends, or simply indulging your own sweet tooth, these cookies are the perfect way to bring festive cheer to any table.

From classic sugar cookie cutouts to candy cane-inspired swirls, Christmas cookies are a tradition that never gets old. This batch blends vibrant colors, nostalgic shapes, and playful toppings like crushed peppermint and holiday sprinkles. They’re not only delicious, but also double as edible decorations that look stunning on dessert boards or nestled into gift boxes.

---

What Kind of Cookie Dough Should I Use?

The base for these Christmas cookies is a rich, buttery sugar cookie dough. It holds its shape beautifully, making it ideal for cookie cutters in all your favorite holiday shapes like stars, snowflakes, and Christmas trees. Plus, the dough is versatile enough to adapt to different toppings, glazes, and mix-ins, allowing you to customize each batch with a bit of flair.

---

Ingredients for the Christmas Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure, flour gives these cookies their soft yet sturdy bite, perfect for decorating.

Unsalted Butter – Creamy butter adds richness and helps the cookies bake up tender and flavorful.

Granulated Sugar – For sweetness and that slightly crisp edge. It’s the base for a classic sugar cookie profile.

Eggs – Help bind the dough together and give a little chew to the texture.

Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.

Baking Powder – A gentle lift without spreading too much.

Salt – Just a pinch to balance all the sweetness.

Decorations – Think royal icing, crushed peppermint, colorful sprinkles, and mini chocolate chips for that festive finish.

---

How To Make the Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process adds air to the dough, giving the cookies a softer texture.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, which helps develop the cookie’s flavor base.

Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing on low until the dough comes together.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least an hour. This helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and cut without sticking.

Step 5: Roll and Cut the Cookies

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use your favorite holiday cookie cutters to create festive shapes.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Let them cool completely before decorating.

Step 7: Decorate with Holiday Flair

Once cooled, unleash your creativity with royal icing, sprinkles, crushed candy canes, and colored sugars. Each cookie can have its own personality!

---

How to Serve and Store Christmas Cookies

These cookies are as delightful to serve as they are to eat. Arrange them on a festive platter for holiday gatherings, pack them into tins for thoughtful edible gifts, or wrap them in clear bags tied with ribbon for stocking stuffers. Pair with a glass of milk or a mug of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat.

To store, keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies in a single layer, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Decorate after thawing to preserve icing texture and design.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make Christmas cookies?

You can bake the cookies up to a week ahead and store them in an airtight container. If freezing, do so up to 3 months in advance.

Can I freeze decorated cookies?

It’s best to freeze them undecorated to avoid smudging or dulling the icing. Decorate after thawing for a fresh, vibrant look.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

This often happens if the dough wasn’t chilled long enough. Make sure to refrigerate for at least one hour before rolling and baking.

How do I get sharp edges on cutout cookies?

Roll the dough evenly and use metal cookie cutters. Chilling the cut shapes for 10 minutes before baking also helps.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly but the cookies will still hold their shape.

What icing works best for decorating?

Royal icing is the go-to for clean, detailed designs that set firmly. For a softer bite, try a simple powdered sugar glaze.

---

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If these Christmas Cookies brought a little magic to your kitchen, you’ll want to explore these other deliciously fun cookie creations too:

• Whipped Shortbread Cookies that melt in your mouth with every buttery bite.
• Cotton Candy Cookies for a playful and colorful treat kids love.
• Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies to add a sweet-tart cherry twist.
• Cheesecake Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies with gooey centers and crisp edges.
• Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars for soft-baked goodness with a nutty flair.

These recipes bring the same charm and creativity as our Christmas cookies, with flavors you can enjoy all year long.

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go all-in with the crushed peppermint or opt for a simpler glaze? Did the kids help decorate?

I love seeing how your cookie traditions take shape, and don’t forget—you can find more festive ideas on my Pinterest at Life with Nina Recipes.

---

Print