Christmas Cookie Recipe

Name: Christmas Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24.0
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp baking powder; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 ½ cups white sugar; 1 egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp almond extract; 3 cups confectioners' sugar; 2 tbsp milk; Colorful sprinkles

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Celebrate the holiday season with these delightful Christmas cookies that are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Soft and chewy, these festive treats are adorned with colorful sprinkles and icing, making them a joyful addition to any festive gathering. Ideal for cookie exchanges or cozy nights by the fire, this recipe will fill your home with the sweet aroma of vanilla and spices, bringing holiday cheer to all.

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2025-11-23T14:08:52.844Z

Every holiday season, these cookies bring smiles to faces young and old. They are not just treats, but cherished memories wrapped in colorful paper and love.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Christmas cookies are not just for the holiday season; they can be enjoyed year-round. The soft and chewy texture pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of cocoa or a steaming mug of coffee, making them an ideal choice for cozy gatherings. Whether you're hosting a festive party or simply enjoying a quiet night in, these cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will love.

In addition to being tasty, these cookies offer a fun opportunity to get creative. You can experiment with different types of sprinkles or even add in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for a personal touch. This versatility allows you to customize the cookies to suit various preferences, making them a go-to recipe for many occasions.

The Joy of Baking Together

Baking these Christmas cookies is an excellent way to bond with friends and family. Invite your loved ones to join in on the fun and create lasting memories together as you roll out the dough and decorate the cookies. Not only does this activity strengthen relationships, but it also encourages teamwork and creativity, making it a cherished tradition in many households.

As you bake, you can share stories, laughter, and even a few kitchen mishaps, all while filling your home with the enchanting aroma of vanilla and spices. These shared experiences not only enhance the joy of baking but also create priceless moments that will be looked back on fondly during future holidays.

Storage and Freshness Tips

To keep your Christmas cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their soft and chewy texture for several days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months, ready to be enjoyed whenever a sweet craving strikes!

If you decide to freeze your decorated cookies, be cautious with the icing, as it may not hold up as well once thawed. Instead, you might want to freeze the plain cookies and apply frosting and sprinkles when you're ready to serve them. This ensures that your cookies look and taste just as delightful as the day they were baked.

Ingredients

Christmas Cookies

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups white sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp almond extract
3 cups confectioners' sugar
2 tbsp milk
Colorful sprinkles

Gather all the ingredients before you start for an efficient baking experience.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder. In another bowl, cream butter, white sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients.

Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into balls, and place them on a greased baking sheet.

Bake

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

Prepare the Icing

For the icing, mix confectioners' sugar with milk until smooth. Decorate cooled cookies with icing and add sprinkles.

Let the cookies set for a while before serving for best results.

The Science of Perfect Cookies

Understanding the science behind baking can significantly enhance your cookie-making skills. Ingredients like baking soda and baking powder play crucial roles by helping your cookies rise and become fluffy. Using room temperature butter is also essential, as it ensures proper creaming with sugar, leading to the perfect cookie texture.

Another critical factor is the mixing method. Overmixing your dough can lead to tough cookies, as it develops the gluten in the flour. For soft and chewy results, mix just until the ingredients are combined. This attention to detail is what will elevate your cookies from good to truly exceptional.

Incorporating Seasonal Flavors

While the traditional vanilla and almond extracts in this recipe are delightful, feel free to incorporate seasonal flavors to bring a unique twist to your Christmas cookies. For example, adding a touch of peppermint extract can evoke the essence of the holidays, making your cookies feel festive and aromatic.

You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, which add warmth and depth to the flavor profile. These enhancements not only elevate your cookie recipe but also delight your taste buds with unexpected flavors that celebrate the spirit of the season.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the cookies after baking. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can use margarine or a vegan butter substitute if you prefer.