Holiday Cookie Recipes to Try

Name: Holiday Cookie Recipes to Try
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 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 almond extract; 3 to 4 tablespoons buttermilk; 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1 egg; 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons peppermint extract; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Crushed candy canes for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Explore a variety of delightful holiday cookie recipes that will bring joy to your festive celebrations.

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:35:57.117Z

Gather around the oven this holiday season as we dive into the heartwarming tradition of baking cookies. From classic gingerbread to festive peppermint delights, these recipes are sure to create sweet memories.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        A delightful variety that caters to all taste buds
Perfect for gifting or sharing at holiday gatherings
Easy to make and decorate with loved ones

      

A Sweet Tradition

Holiday cookies have long been a cherished tradition in many cultures around the world. These treats symbolize warmth, joy, and togetherness, making them the perfect addition to any festive celebration. Whether you're baking with family or creating a batch to share with friends, the process of making cookies during the holidays brings people closer together.

From classic sugar cookies to spiced gingerbread, each recipe tells a story and evokes memories of past celebrations. The aromas of baking cookies wafting through the house can instantly ignite the holiday spirit, creating an atmosphere of happiness and nostalgia.

Versatile and Fun to Decorate

One of the best aspects of holiday cookies is their versatility. You can customize each recipe to suit your preferences or to cater to different dietary needs. From gluten-free options to vegan adaptations, everyone can enjoy these festive treats. This flexibility not only makes baking inclusive but also allows for creativity in the kitchen.

Decorating cookies is another delightful activity that enhances the holiday experience. Gather your loved ones around the table, equip them with icing, sprinkles, and other toppings, and watch as each person showcases their unique style. The laughter and joy shared during this process create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Perfect for Gifting

Holiday cookies make excellent gifts, adding a personal touch to your holiday cheer. Handcrafted treats show loved ones that you care, and beautifully packaged cookies can brighten anyone's day. Consider creating a cookie box filled with a variety of flavors to delight friends and family during the festive season.

Additionally, these cookies can be a great conversation starter at holiday gatherings. Sharing stories about your baking adventures and the recipes used can create connections and spark joy. So, whether you're shipping cookies across the country or sharing them at a local party, they are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

Classic Sugar Cookies

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 almond extract
3 to 4 tablespoons buttermilk

Gingerbread Cookies

3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg
1/2 cup unsulfured molasses

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons peppermint extract
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Crushed candy canes for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla (and almond for sugar cookies) until well combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder (and spices for gingerbread). Gradually add to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.

Chill the Dough

For best results, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.

Shape and Bake

Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into desired shapes. Place on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.

Cool and Decorate

Allow cookies to cool on wire racks before decorating with icing or sprinkles.

Enjoy your homemade cookies with family and friends!

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To achieve the best results with your holiday cookies, always measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure consistency, particularly with flour and sugar. Additionally, be mindful of the temperature of your ingredients; for instance, softened butter is crucial for creating the right dough texture and incorporating air for lightness.

Chilling the dough before baking is another key step. This helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and enhances the flavors. If you're short on time, consider chilling the dough for at least 15 minutes to achieve good results.

Storing Your Cookies

Proper storage is essential to keep your holiday cookies fresh and delicious. Once cooled, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. For cookies that are frosted or decorated, it's best to layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.

If you want to extend the shelf life of your cookies, consider freezing them. Most cookie recipes freeze well, and this means you can enjoy your holiday treats well into the new year. Just make sure to wrap them tightly or use freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What is the best way to store cookies?

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute ingredients?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free flour or dairy-free butter as needed.

→ How can I make my cookies chewy?

To achieve chewier cookies, use brown sugar instead of white sugar and slightly underbake them.