‘Tis the season for baking! There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh-baked cookies wafting from your oven to get you in the holiday spirit. And with so many delicious and easy-to-make recipes out there, it can be hard to choose just which ones to try. In this article, we’ll share 20 festive and flavorful holiday cookie recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic sugar cookies to peanut butter blossoms and snickerdoodles, we’ve got you covered with a variety of sweet treats perfect for decorating your tree, packing in lunchboxes, or sharing with friends and family.
Classic Sugar Cookies with Holiday Sprinkles
Brighten up your holiday season with these soft, chewy, and flavorful sugar cookies, perfectly decorated with festive sprinkles.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Holiday sprinkles for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Divide dough into 2 portions. Roll out each portion to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut shapes or use a cookie cutter of your choice. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between cookies.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Peanut Butter Blossoms
These chewy peanut butter blossoms are a classic favorite that’s easy to make and perfect for snacking or as a treat for kids.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, powdered sugar, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Stir in oats and chocolate chips until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Gingerbread Cookies
Soft Gingerbread Cookies Recipe
Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. This soft gingerbread cookie recipe is easy to make and yields a deliciously chewy result.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs, then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.
5. Mix until a dough forms. If too sticky, add a little water.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These soft and chewy chocolate cookies are a classic favorite, with a delightful crinkled surface that adds to their irresistible charm. With only a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of these delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, brown sugar, and baking powder in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Shortbread Snowflake Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are transformed into dainty snowflakes with the addition of powdered sugar and a touch of creativity. Perfect for holiday parties, coffee dates, or simply as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Use a cookie cutter or a glass to cut out shapes. Gather scraps, re-roll, and cut again.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before decorating with colored sugar or sprinkles (if using).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
These refreshing cookies combine the sweetness of chocolate chips with the invigorating zing of peppermint, perfect for a holiday treat or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal Cranberry White Chocolate Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these chewy oatmeal cookies filled with sweet and tangy cranberries, topped with a hint of white chocolate. Perfect for snacking or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, sugar, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in cranberries and white chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Snickerdoodle Holiday Cookies
Add a touch of warm spice to your holiday baking with these soft and chewy Snickerdoodle cookies, perfect for gift-giving or enjoying with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons cinnamon-sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in cinnamon-sugar mixture.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies have a deep red color and a delicious crinkled surface, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With the addition of cocoa powder and buttermilk, these cookies have a rich and velvety texture that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and red food coloring.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add cocoa powder and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in buttermilk and vanilla extract.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Lemon Snowdrop Cookies
Brighten up your day with these refreshing Lemon Snowdrop Cookies, perfect for a sweet treat or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add lemon juice and vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Eggnog Cookies with Rum Glaze
Get cozy this holiday season with these soft-baked eggnog cookies topped with a rich rum glaze. Perfect for a festive gathering or as a special treat for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Rum glaze ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp dark rum
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggnog, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. To make rum glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and dark rum in a small bowl. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Cinnamon Butter Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of pure maple syrup, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Treat your taste buds to a refreshing twist on classic chocolate cookies with the added zing of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Almond Joy Cookies
Almond Joy Cookies Recipe
Experience the combination of crispy coconut and rich chocolate in these bite-sized treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chopped almonds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, coconut, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cookies will remain soft and chewy. Allow to cool before serving. Garnish with chopped almonds if desired.
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Transform traditional sugar cookies into a sweet treat by infusing them with the warm spices and gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls. These soft, chewy cookies are perfect for any occasion that calls for a delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating until just combined.
5. Stir in cinnamon and pecans (if using).
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Warm up your holiday season with these soft and chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies, perfectly paired with a tangy Cream Cheese Frosting.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– Salt to taste
– Cream Cheese Frosting (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree and eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar to taste
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, adding vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar to desired consistency.
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
A sweet and nutty treat that combines the richness of white chocolate with the crunch of macadamia nuts, these cookies are perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
These sweet and tangy cookies are a perfect treat for any occasion. A simple dough is rolled out, cut into shapes, and filled with a burst of fresh raspberry jam.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Fresh raspberry jam for filling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place a small spoonful of raspberry jam in the center of each cookie.
7. Fold the dough over the jam, pressing edges together to seal.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Toffee Pecan Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy cookies filled with the rich flavors of toffee and pecans. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, these cookies are easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup toffee bits
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in pecans and toffee bits.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Funfetti Holiday Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are packed with festive funfetti and a hint of vanilla, making them a perfect treat for your holiday gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be whipping up a batch in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup funfetti sprinkles
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in funfetti sprinkles.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 easy and delicious cookie recipes! From classic sugar cookies to creative twists like peanut butter blossoms and snickerdoodles, there’s something for everyone. Try soft gingerbread cookies, chocolate crinkle cookies, or shortbread snowflake cookies for a sweet treat. For a taste of winter wonderland, make peppermint chocolate chip cookies or oatmeal cranberry white chocolate cookies. And don’t forget to try the eggnog cookies with rum glaze and maple cinnamon butter cookies for an extra-special touch. These festive cookie recipes are sure to be a hit!
