30 Pretty Christmas Cookies Easy Recipes

Name: 30 Pretty Christmas Cookies Easy Recipes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 30 cookies
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups white sugar; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Royal icing; Colored sprinkles; Chocolate chips; Candy canes, crushed; Colored sugar

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Discover a delightful collection of 30 easy-to-make Christmas cookie recipes that are not only beautiful but also delicious. Perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holiday season!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:29:01.899Z

These Christmas cookies are not just treats; they are a holiday tradition! Each cookie is crafted with love and brings a festive spirit to your gatherings.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        A beautiful assortment that adds charm to any holiday platter
Simple recipes that anyone can master
Perfect for gifting or decorating your home

      

The Joy of Holiday Baking

Baking Christmas cookies is a cherished tradition that brings families together. The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for the holiday season. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, these easy recipes will help you create beautiful and delicious cookies that everyone will adore.

Involving children in the baking process can also be a wonderful way to create lasting memories. They can help with mixing the dough, rolling it out, and, of course, decorating! This hands-on experience fosters creativity and enthusiasm, making it a delightful activity for all ages.

Perfect for Sharing and Gifting

These Christmas cookies are not only tasty but also visually appealing, making them ideal for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re attending a holiday party or hosting your own, a colorful platter of cookies adds charm and festivity to any gathering. It’s a simple yet thoughtful way to spread holiday cheer.

Additionally, these cookies make fantastic gifts. Package them in decorative boxes or tins, and you’ll have a personalized gift that shows you care. A selection of homemade cookies can be a delightful surprise for neighbors, teachers, and co-workers, making the holiday season even more special.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of these Christmas cookie recipes is their versatility. You can easily adapt the flavors and decorations to suit your preferences. From peppermint-infused cookies to gingerbread men adorned with colorful icing, the possibilities are endless. This allows you to create a unique selection that reflects your taste and creativity.

Moreover, with various decorating options available, you can transform simple cookies into festive masterpieces. Use royal icing to pipe intricate designs, sprinkle colorful sugars, or even add chocolate chips for an extra treat. This adaptability makes these cookies not only fun to bake but also a canvas for your culinary artistry.

Ingredients

Basic Cookie Dough

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Decorations

Royal icing
Colored sprinkles
Chocolate chips
Candy canes, crushed
Colored sugar

Mix and match these ingredients for a festive variety of flavors and designs!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder. In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.

Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will help in rolling out the cookies.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough and cut into festive shapes using cookie cutters. Place on ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to wire racks.

Decorate

Once cooled, decorate the cookies with royal icing, sprinkles, or any toppings of your choice.

Enjoy your beautifully decorated Christmas cookies!

Tips for Successful Baking

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, make sure to follow the recipe closely. Accurate measurements are crucial, especially when it comes to flour. Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid packing it down, which can lead to dense cookies.

Another important tip is to let your butter soften at room temperature. This will help integrate it smoothly with the sugar, creating a light and fluffy dough. Additionally, chilling the dough before baking helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much, resulting in a beautifully shaped cookie.

Storing Your Cookies

Once your cookies are baked and decorated, proper storage is essential to keep them fresh. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they can last for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing your cookies. Just ensure they are fully cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours. This way, you can savor the flavors of the holidays even after the festivities have ended!

Exploring Flavor Variations

While the basic cookie dough recipe is delicious on its own, don’t hesitate to explore different flavor variations. You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, holiday flavor or incorporate citrus zest for a refreshing twist. Adding extracts such as almond or peppermint can also elevate the taste profile.

For a fun surprise, consider mixing in ingredients like dried fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chunks. These additions not only enhance flavor but also create delightful textures, making each bite a unique experience. Experimenting with flavors can lead to discovering your new favorite holiday cookie!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce as an egg substitute.

→ How can I make the icing harden?

Use a royal icing recipe that includes meringue powder, which will harden when dried.

→ What flavors can I add to the cookies?

You can add almond extract, peppermint extract, or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for added flavor.