Easy Christmas Cookie Recipes
Spread holiday cheer with these easy Christmas cookie recipes that are simple, festive, and absolutely delicious. Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or as gifts for loved ones, these recipes require minimal effort and deliver maximum joy.
Ingredients for Easy Christmas Cookies
Basic Cookie Ingredients:
- Butter: Softened unsalted butter for rich, tender cookies
- Sugar: Granulated and powdered sugar for sweetness and texture
- Flour: All-purpose flour for the base of most cookie recipes
- Flavoring: Vanilla or almond extract for festive flair
- Toppings: Sprinkles, icing, or chocolate chips for decoration
Easy Christmas Cookie Recipes to Try
1. Classic Sugar Cookies
These versatile cookies are perfect for cutting into holiday shapes and decorating with colorful icing.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla.
- Gradually mix in flour until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out dough, cut into shapes, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.
2. Peanut Butter Blossoms
A holiday favorite with a soft peanut butter cookie and a chocolate kiss in the center.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Chocolate kisses
Instructions:
- Cream butter, peanut butter, and sugars. Mix in egg, flour, and baking soda.
- Roll dough into balls and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.
- Press a chocolate kiss into each cookie while warm.
3. No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
Perfect for a quick holiday treat, these cookies require no oven!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 3 cups quick oats
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, melt butter with milk, sugar, and cocoa. Boil for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in oats and vanilla.
- Drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper and let cool.
Why These Recipes Work
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time for busy holiday schedules.
- Customizable: Add festive sprinkles, icing, or candies to personalize.
- Perfect for Sharing: Great for gifting, parties, or cookie exchanges.
Pro Tips for Christmas Cookie Success
- Chill Dough: Helps cookies hold their shape during baking.
- Decorate with Care: Allow cookies to cool completely before adding icing or sprinkles.
- Double the Batch: These cookies disappear fast, so make extras!
Storage Guidelines
- Refrigerate Dough: Store cookie dough in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking.
- Store Baked Cookies: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.