Easy Christmas Cookies

Christmas time is cookie time! The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, the joy of decorating them with loved ones, and the satisfying crunch of a perfectly made treat – it’s all part of what makes the holiday season so special. But let’s be honest, sometimes the thought of complicated recipes and intricate designs can be a little overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a collection of easy Christmas cookie recipes that are perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you’ll find something here to delight your taste buds and spread some holiday cheer.

Why Easy Christmas Cookies?

The holidays are already a busy time, filled with shopping, decorating, and attending festive gatherings. Who has time to spend hours in the kitchen wrestling with finicky dough and complex instructions? Easy Christmas cookies offer a delicious and stress-free way to enjoy the season. They require minimal ingredients, simple techniques, and relatively short baking times, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: spending quality time with family and friends.

Furthermore, easy cookie recipes are incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt them to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Want to add some nuts or chocolate chips? Go for it! Need a gluten-free or vegan option? There are plenty of delicious alternatives available. The possibilities are endless, making them the perfect blank canvas for your creativity.

And let’s not forget the joy of baking with children! Easy recipes are ideal for getting little ones involved in the kitchen. They can help with measuring ingredients, mixing the dough, and of course, decorating the finished cookies. It’s a fun and educational activity that creates lasting memories and fosters a love of baking.

Our Top Picks for Easy Christmas Cookies

Now, let’s dive into some of our favorite easy Christmas cookie recipes. We’ve included a variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences, from classic sugar cookies to decadent chocolate treats. Each recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward, with clear instructions and helpful tips to ensure success. So, grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up some holiday magic!

Classic Sugar Cookies

No Christmas cookie collection is complete without classic sugar cookies. These buttery and sweet treats are the perfect base for decorating with colorful frosting, sprinkles, and edible glitter. This recipe is incredibly simple and yields a dough that’s easy to work with, making it ideal for beginners.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
8. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
9. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about ½ inch between each cookie.
10. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Decorate with frosting, sprinkles, and other decorations as desired.

Tips and Variations:

• For the best results, use high-quality butter and vanilla extract.
• Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
• To make flavored sugar cookies, add a teaspoon of lemon zest, orange zest, or almond extract to the dough.
• You can also add food coloring to the dough for festive colors.

Peanut Butter Blossoms

These classic cookies are a favorite for a reason. The soft and chewy peanut butter cookie base combined with the rich chocolate kiss on top is a match made in heaven. They’re incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
7. Roll each ball in granulated sugar.
8. Place the balls on ungreased baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips and Variations:

• Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture.
• Don’t overbake the cookies, as they will become dry.
• If the cookies are too soft, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• For a festive twist, use Hershey’s Kisses with holiday-themed wrappers.
• You can also use other types of chocolate candies, such as peanut butter cups or caramel-filled chocolates.

No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

For a truly effortless treat, these no-bake cookies are a perfect choice. They’re quick, easy, and require no oven time whatsoever. Plus, they’re packed with chocolatey goodness and satisfyingly chewy oats.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• ½ cup milk
• 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 cups quick-cooking oats
• ½ cup peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, milk, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
4. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
5. Stir in the oats, peanut butter, and vanilla extract.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Let the cookies cool completely until set.

Tips and Variations:

• Use quick-cooking oats, not rolled oats, for the best texture.
• Don’t overcook the mixture, as the cookies will become dry.
• If the cookies are too soft, add a little more oats.
• For a richer flavor, use dark cocoa powder.
• You can also add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or chocolate chips to the mixture.

Gingerbread Men

Gingerbread men are a quintessential Christmas cookie. Their festive shape and warm, spicy flavor instantly evoke the holiday spirit. While they can be a bit more involved than other cookies, this recipe is designed to be simple and manageable, even for beginner bakers.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the molasses and egg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
8. Use gingerbread man cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
9. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about ½ inch between each cookie.
10. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Decorate with frosting, candies, and other decorations as desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Use high-quality molasses for the best flavor.
• Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
• For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough.
• You can also add chopped nuts or candied ginger to the dough.

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

These cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. The cracked, powdered sugar coating creates a stunning visual effect, while the rich chocolate flavor and fudgy texture make them irresistible. They’re surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for coating

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Cover the dough and chill for at least 2 hours.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
8. Roll each ball in powdered sugar, ensuring it is completely coated.
9. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
10. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set around the edges but still soft in the center.
11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips and Variations:

• Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven and for creating the signature crinkle effect.
• Make sure the cookies are completely coated in powdered sugar before baking.
• Don’t overbake the cookies, as they will become dry.
• For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder.
• You can also add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough.

Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread cookies are known for their buttery, crumbly texture and delicate flavor. They’re a simple yet elegant treat that’s perfect for the holidays. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough will be crumbly.
5. Press the dough into the prepared baking sheet, creating an even layer.
6. Use a fork to prick the surface of the dough all over.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Let the shortbread cool completely in the baking sheet before cutting it into squares or triangles.

Tips and Variations:

• Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix the dough, as this will make the shortbread tough.
• Press the dough firmly into the baking sheet to create a dense, even layer.
• For a festive touch, sprinkle the shortbread with granulated sugar before baking.
• You can also add lemon zest, orange zest, or vanilla extract to the dough.

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal raisin cookies are a classic comfort food that’s perfect for the holidays. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor from the oats, raisins, and spices. This recipe is easy to make and yields a batch of delicious cookies that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup raisins

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in the oats and raisins.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips and Variations:

• Use rolled oats, not quick-cooking oats, for the best texture.
• Soak the raisins in warm water for 15 minutes before adding them to the dough to plump them up.
• Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut to the dough for extra flavor and texture.
• For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the dough.

Tips for Perfect Christmas Cookies

Now that you have a selection of easy Christmas cookie recipes to choose from, here are some general tips to ensure that your baking endeavors are a success:

• Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor and texture of your cookies. Opt for high-quality butter, vanilla extract, and other flavorings for the best results.
• Measure accurately: Baking is a science, so accurate measurements are crucial. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure that you’re using the correct amount of each ingredient.
• Cream butter and sugar properly: Creaming together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy is an important step in many cookie recipes. This process incorporates air into the dough, which helps to create a tender and light texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing the dough can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. It also allows the flavors to meld together.
• Use parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Don’t overbake the cookies: Overbaked cookies will be dry and crumbly. Bake the cookies until they are set around the edges but still soft in the center.
• Let the cookies cool completely: Letting the cookies cool completely on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack allows them to set properly.
• Store cookies properly: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.

Making Christmas Cookie Baking a Tradition

Baking Christmas cookies is more than just creating delicious treats; it’s about creating memories and traditions that can be passed down through generations. Gather your family and friends, put on some festive music, and get ready to bake up some holiday cheer!

Here are some ideas for making Christmas cookie baking a tradition:

• Create a cookie exchange: Invite friends and family to bake their favorite cookies and then exchange them with each other. This is a great way to try new cookies and share your own creations.
• Decorate cookies together: Gather everyone around the table with frosting, sprinkles, and other decorations and let them get creative. This is a fun and engaging activity for people of all ages.
• Make cookies for your neighbors: Spread some holiday cheer by delivering a plate of homemade cookies to your neighbors.
• Bake cookies for a good cause: Donate your cookies to a local charity or shelter.
• Pass down your recipes: Write down your favorite cookie recipes and share them with your family and friends. This is a great way to keep the tradition alive for generations to come.

Final Thoughts

Baking easy Christmas cookies is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season and create lasting memories. With these simple recipes and helpful tips, you’ll be able to bake up a batch of delicious cookies that everyone will love. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to spread some holiday cheer with homemade cookies!

Remember to have fun and enjoy the process! The most important ingredient in any recipe is love. Happy baking!

Even More Cookie Ideas

Looking for even *more* inspiration? Here are a few additional ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Snowball Cookies (Mexican Wedding Cookies): These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are coated in powdered sugar, resembling tiny snowballs. They’re simple, elegant, and perfect for the holidays.
• Thumbprint Cookies: These cookies feature a small indentation in the center filled with jam, chocolate, or other fillings. They’re easy to customize and look beautiful on a cookie platter.
• Pinwheel Cookies: These cookies have a striking spiral design created by layering different colors of dough. They’re a bit more advanced but definitely worth the effort.
• Rugelach: These crescent-shaped cookies are filled with a sweet or savory filling, such as jam, chocolate, or nuts. They’re a popular Hanukkah treat but are also perfect for Christmas.
• Anise Cookies: If you enjoy the flavor of licorice, anise cookies are a delightful choice. Their distinct flavor profile makes them a unique addition to any holiday cookie spread.

Troubleshooting Common Cookie Baking Problems

Even with the easiest recipes, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are a few common cookie baking problems and how to fix them:

• Cookies are spreading too thin: This can be caused by using too much butter, not chilling the dough enough, or baking at too low of a temperature. Try using less butter, chilling the dough for a longer period of time, and increasing the oven temperature slightly.
• Cookies are too dry: This can be caused by overbaking the cookies or using too much flour. Try reducing the baking time and measuring the flour accurately.
• Cookies are too tough: This can be caused by overmixing the dough or using too much gluten flour. Mix the ingredients until just combined and use all-purpose flour.
• Cookies are burning on the bottom: This can be caused by using a dark-colored baking sheet or baking at too high of a temperature. Use a light-colored baking sheet and reduce the oven temperature slightly.
• Cookies are sticking to the baking sheet: This can be prevented by using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Storing Your Holiday Creations

Proper storage is key to keeping your Christmas cookies fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s a breakdown of best practices:

• Airtight Containers: This is your best bet for most cookies. An airtight container prevents air from drying them out.
• Layering: If you’re stacking cookies in a container, place a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together.
• Freezing: Many cookies freeze well. Unfrosted cookies are generally better candidates for freezing than frosted ones. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them completely before serving.
• Soft vs. Crisp Cookies: Store soft cookies separately from crisp cookies. Placing them together will cause the crisp cookies to soften.
• Room Temperature: Most cookies can be stored at room temperature for several days. However, cookies with perishable fillings or frostings should be refrigerated.

Beyond the Recipe: The Spirit of Giving

While the deliciousness of Christmas cookies is undeniable, the true spirit of baking during the holidays lies in the act of giving. Consider these ideas to extend the joy beyond your own kitchen:

• Cookie Care Packages: Send a care package filled with homemade cookies to friends and family who live far away. It’s a thoughtful gesture that will brighten their day.
• Volunteer Baking: Offer to bake cookies for a local soup kitchen, homeless shelter, or senior center. It’s a wonderful way to give back to your community.
• Teacher Appreciation: Show your children’s teachers some love by baking them a batch of their favorite cookies.
• Holiday Parties: Bring a plate of homemade cookies to holiday parties and gatherings. They’re always a welcome treat.
• Random Acts of Kindness: Surprise a stranger with a cookie. Leave one on a coworker’s desk or give one to someone who looks like they could use a little cheering up.

The act of baking and sharing cookies can spread joy and kindness during the holiday season. Remember, it’s not just about the cookies themselves, but the thoughtfulness and love that goes into making them.

The Science Behind Baking: A Quick Look

While these recipes are designed to be easy, understanding some basic baking science can help you become a more confident baker. Here are a few key concepts:

• Gluten Development: Gluten is a protein found in wheat flour that gives baked goods their structure. Overmixing dough develops gluten, resulting in tough cookies.
• Leavening Agents: Baking powder and baking soda are leavening agents that produce gas, causing the dough to rise. Baking powder contains both an acid and a base, while baking soda requires an acidic ingredient to activate.
• Fat Content: Fat, such as butter or shortening, adds richness and tenderness to cookies.
• Sugar’s Role: Sugar not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the texture and browning of cookies.
• Maillard Reaction: This chemical reaction occurs when sugars and amino acids are heated, resulting in browning and the development of complex flavors.

By understanding these basic principles, you can better troubleshoot baking problems and experiment with your own cookie recipes.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Christmas Cookie Options

If you have dietary restrictions, don’t worry! There are plenty of delicious vegan and gluten-free Christmas cookie recipes available. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Vegan Sugar Cookies: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water).
• Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Blossoms: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
• Vegan and Gluten-Free Chocolate Crinkle Cookies: Use a combination of almond flour and tapioca starch for the flour, vegan butter, and flax eggs.

With a few simple substitutions, you can adapt many traditional Christmas cookie recipes to suit your dietary needs.

Elevating Your Cookie Decorating Skills

Decorating cookies is a fun and creative way to express your holiday spirit. Here are a few tips to help you elevate your cookie decorating skills:

• Royal Icing: Royal icing is a classic choice for decorating sugar cookies. It dries hard and smooth, making it ideal for creating intricate designs.
• Piping Bags and Tips: Invest in a good set of piping bags and tips. Different tips will allow you to create different effects, such as fine lines, rosettes, and starbursts.
• Food Coloring: Use gel food coloring for the most vibrant and consistent results.
• Sprinkles and Edible Glitter: Sprinkles and edible glitter add a festive touch to your cookies.
• Practice: Practice makes perfect! Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new techniques.

With a little practice and creativity, you can create stunningly decorated cookies that will impress your friends and family.

Final, Final Thoughts on Easy Christmas Cookies

The world of Christmas cookies is vast and wonderful, but it doesn’t have to be intimidating. These easy recipes are a fantastic starting point for creating your own holiday baking traditions. Remember the joy comes not just from the eating, but from the process: the mixing, the decorating, the sharing. So, gather your loved ones, put on some festive tunes, and bake up some memories that will last a lifetime. And if a cookie breaks, or the frosting isn’t perfect? That just adds to the charm. Happy baking, and happy holidays!