Holiday Cookie Recipes to Try

Name: Holiday Cookie Recipes to Try
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 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; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 teaspoon almond extract; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Discover a delightful collection of holiday cookie recipes that will bring joy to your festive celebrations.

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:40:51.747Z

Holiday baking is a cherished tradition that brings families together. These cookie recipes are perfect for gifting, sharing, and enjoying with loved ones.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A variety of flavors to suit every palate
Perfect for holiday gifting and gatherings
Fun and easy to make with kids

      

A Sweet Tradition

Holiday cookie baking is a cherished tradition in many households. The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the home creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that signals the arrival of the festive season. Gathering around the kitchen to roll dough, cut shapes, and decorate cookies is not just about making treats; it's about creating memories with loved ones. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice, these holiday cookie recipes offer something for everyone to enjoy.

Each cookie tells a story, from the classic sugar cookies adorned with colorful sprinkles to the rich and gooey chocolate chip cookies that never fail to delight. These recipes are designed to be straightforward and approachable, making them ideal for bakers of all skill levels. So, roll up your sleeves and let the holiday spirit inspire your baking adventures!

Gift from the Heart

Cookies make for wonderful holiday gifts. They are not only delicious but also show thoughtfulness and care. Imagine presenting a beautifully wrapped box of homemade cookies to friends, family, or neighbors. It's a heartfelt gesture that spreads joy and warmth during the holiday season. You can even customize your cookie selections based on the preferences of your recipients, ensuring that your gifts are personal and well-received.

Consider creating a cookie assortment with a variety of flavors. This way, you can cater to different tastes while showcasing your baking skills. Packaging them in festive tins or boxes adds an extra touch to your gift, making it visually appealing and inviting. With these holiday cookie recipes, you’ll have plenty of options to create delightful gifts that everyone will appreciate.

Fun for Everyone

Baking cookies during the holidays is a fantastic activity to involve kids. It’s a fun way to teach them valuable skills such as measuring ingredients, following recipes, and even a bit of kitchen science. Plus, the excitement of decorating cookies with icing and sprinkles can ignite their creativity. Making cookies together fosters teamwork and can lead to cherished moments that they will remember for years to come.

Encouraging kids to express their personality through cookie designs not only sparks joy but also helps build their confidence. Allow them to experiment with different toppings and shapes, creating unique treats that they can proudly share with family and friends. This shared experience is not just about baking; it's about bonding and creating lasting memories that embody the spirit of the holidays.

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
3/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon almond extract

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Mix and match these ingredients to create your perfect holiday cookie!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder. In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla, then gradually blend in the dry ingredients.

Shape and Bake

Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until golden. Let cool on wire racks.

Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a glass of milk!

Classic Sugar Cookies

Classic sugar cookies are a staple during the holidays, known for their soft texture and sweet flavor. They offer a blank canvas for creativity, making them perfect for decorating. You can use royal icing or colored sprinkles to personalize them for any festive occasion. Moreover, these cookies can be cut into various shapes, from Christmas trees to snowflakes, making them a delightful addition to your holiday spread.

These cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust the flavors by adding citrus zest or spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. This allows you to put a unique twist on a classic recipe. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored in a festive tin, classic sugar cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone during the holiday season.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies are a timeless favorite, adored by people of all ages. The combination of soft, chewy cookie and rich, melty chocolate creates an irresistible treat. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, as they can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Offering them straight from the oven with a glass of milk is always a hit!

For an extra touch, consider adding nuts or experimenting with different types of chocolate chips, like dark chocolate or white chocolate. You can even include a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a gourmet touch. These variations can elevate your cookies and make them stand out on any holiday dessert table. No matter how you choose to make them, chocolate chip cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use applesauce or a flaxseed meal mix as an egg substitute.

→ Can I add nuts to the cookies?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts can add a nice crunch and flavor to your cookies.

→ How do I store the cookies?

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