Best Christmas Cookies to Bake This Holiday Season

Best Christmas Cookies Everyone Will Love

The aroma of freshly baked Christmas cookies wafting through your home perfectly captures the spirit of the holiday season. Whether you’re indulging in the nostalgia of timeless classics, experimenting with modern creations, or preparing to share sweet treats with loved ones, baking Christmas cookies is a cherished tradition that brings people together. 

This guide is designed to inspire your festive baking with history, recipes, tips, and packaging ideas to make your cookies unforgettable. 

The History of Christmas Cookies 

The tradition of baking Christmas cookies dates back to medieval Europe, when families marked the holiday season by preparing spiced biscuits made with imported ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. 

By the 16th century, the tradition evolved with the introduction of molded cookies, such as Springerle in Germany. This practice eventually traveled to America, where it blossomed into the colorful, sugar-sprinkled holiday pastime we know today. Christmas cookies have long symbolized joy and generosity—perfect for sharing with loved ones or leaving a plate for Santa!

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Top Christmas Cookie Recipes 

Bring your kitchen to life with these best-loved Christmas cookie recipes. Whether you’re a fan of classics or looking to try something new, this list has something for every palate. 

1. Classic Christmas Cookie Platter  

This collection of timeless cookies, such as gingerbread men, thumbprint cookies, and shortbread, is perfect for creating a festive plate. These are the crowd-pleasers that never fail to delight. 

Ingredients: 

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 
• 1 teaspoon baking soda 
• ½ teaspoon baking powder 
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar 
• 1 egg 
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional) 
• Assorted colored sprinkles, icing, or decorations 

Use the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro to bake delicious Christmas cookies.

Instructions: 

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. 
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside. 
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. 
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined. 
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, mixing just until the dough forms. 
6. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. 
7. Decorate Before Baking (Optional): Add sprinkles or sugar to the tops of the dough balls before baking if desired. 
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake—cookies will continue to set as they cool. 
9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. 
10. Decorate (Optional): Once cooled, decorate with icing, sprinkles, or other festive toppings of your choice. 
11. Arrange your cookies on a platter and share the holiday cheer!

2. 3-Ingredient Snowball Cookies Recipe

These melt-in-your-mouth cookies, made with just butter, powdered sugar, and finely chopped nuts, are easy to prepare and perfect for anyone short on time during the busy season.

Ingredients:

1. 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) 
2. 2 cups all-purpose flour 
3. 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating) 

Use the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro to bake delicious Christmas cookies.

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
2. In a bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth. 
3. Gradually add the flour and mix until the dough comes together. 
4. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the baking sheet. 
5. Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are firm but not browned. 
6. Let the cookies cool slightly, then roll them in extra powdered sugar while still warm. 
7. Allow to cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

3. DIY Decorated Sugar Cookies Recipe 

Start with a basic sugar cookie recipe, then channel your inner artist by decorating with royal icing, sprinkles, and edible glitter. These cookies are as enjoyable to make as they are to eat.

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 granulated sugar 
• 1 egg 
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional) 
• Icing (store-bought or homemade) 
• Food coloring (optional) 
• Sprinkles or decorations (optional) 

Use the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro to bake delicious Christmas cookies.

Instructions: 

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. 
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth. 
4. Add wet ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined. 
5. Combine ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms. 
6. Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. 
7. Cut shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet. 
8. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. 
9. Decorate: Divide icing into bowls and mix in food coloring (if using). Use a piping bag or knife to decorate the cookies with icing, sprinkles, or other decorations. 
10. Let set: Allow the icing to fully set before serving. 

Enjoy your homemade, beautifully decorated sugar cookies!

4. Gluten-Free Christmas Cookie Box Recipe

Featuring almond flour cookies, macarons, and flourless chocolate chip cookies, this assortment is ideal for those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing holiday cheer. 

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp almond extract (optional)
• Holiday sprinkles or decorations (optional)

Use the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro to bake delicious Christmas cookies.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until combined.
5. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and place them on the baking sheet. Flatten slightly with your hand or a fork.
7. Decorate (Optional): Add holiday sprinkles or decorations to the cookies before baking.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake.
9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Assemble the Cookie Box: Once cooled, arrange the cookies in a festive box or container, layering parchment paper in between to prevent sticking.

Enjoy your homemade Gluten-Free Christmas Cookie Box! This box is ideal for gifting or indulging during the holidays.

5. The Ultimate Christmas Cookie Exchange

Ingredients:

For the cookies: 

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar 
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar 
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• 2 large eggs 
• 2 cups chocolate chips (or any mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit) 

For decoration (optional): 

• Sprinkles, icing, or powdered sugar 

Use the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro to bake delicious Christmas cookies.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. 
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. 
3. Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until creamy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. 
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing. 
5. Add mix-ins: Gently fold in chocolate chips or other mix-ins of your choice. 
6. Scoop dough: Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. 
7. Bake: Place the sheets in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly soft but will firm up as they cool. 
8. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. 
9. Decorate (optional): Once cooled, add icing, sprinkles, or dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch. 

Enjoy your ultimate Christmas cookies! Perfect for exchanges or gifting. 🎄

6. Reindeer Cookies Recipe

Turn plain gingerbread man cookies into adorable reindeer by flipping them upside down and decorating with candy eyes, a red-candy nose, and pretzel antlers. Kids will love getting involved! 

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 
• 1 cup granulated sugar 
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed 
• 2 large eggs 
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 
• 1 tsp baking soda 
• ½ tsp salt 
• Pretzels (for antlers) 
• Chocolate chips (for eyes) 
• Red or brown candy (like M&M’s, for noses) 

Use the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro to bake delicious Christmas cookies.

Instructions: 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. 
3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until well combined. 
4. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined. 
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them apart. Flatten slightly to form a cookie shape. 
6. Decorate each cookie: press two pretzels at the top for antlers, add chocolate chips for eyes, and place a red or brown candy for the nose. 
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. 
8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving. 

Enjoy your adorable and delicious reindeer cookies!

7. No-Bake Christmas Cookie Bars

If baking isn’t your thing, these bars combine crushed graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows for a quick and easy holiday treat. They’re indulgent and require absolutely no oven time. 

Ingredients:

• 2 cups crushed graham crackers
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup red and green sprinkles (for decoration)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Use the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro to bake delicious Christmas cookies.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a large bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, peanut butter, melted butter, powdered sugar, and mini chocolate chips until well combined.
2. Press into Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture evenly into the pan to form the base.
3. Make the Topping: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the heavy cream in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
4. Spread the Topping: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cookie bar base and spread evenly.
5. Decorate: Sprinkle the red and green sprinkles on top for a festive touch.
6. Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm.
7. Serve: Cut into bars and serve. Enjoy your no-bake Christmas treat!

8. Hot Cocoa Cookies

Think chocolate cookies infused with hot cocoa mix, marshmallow bits, and a drizzle of chocolate for a double dose of warm holiday magic. These cookies are ideal for enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa! 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 
• 1 cup granulated sugar 
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed 
• 2 large eggs 
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder 
• 1 tsp baking soda 
• 1/2 tsp salt 
• 1 cup chocolate chips 
• 1 cup mini marshmallows 

Use the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro to bake delicious Christmas cookies.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
2. Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. 
3. Add wet ingredients: Mix in the eggs, one at a time, and then stir in the vanilla extract. 
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, blending just until combined. 
5. Fold in mix-ins: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows. 
6. Scoop dough: Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. 
7. Bake: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges set and the tops appear slightly underdone (they will firm up as they cool). 
8. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. 

Enjoy: Serve with a warm cup of cocoa for the ultimate treat!

Tips for Perfect Christmas Cookies 

Great cookies require a bit of know-how. Here are some expert tips to ensure your cookies look and taste amazing every time. 

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, and precision matters. Use a kitchen scale for the most accurate results. 
• Allow Ingredients to Reach Room Temperature: This ensures proper mixing and a smoother texture, particularly when working with butter and eggs. 
• Chill Your Dough: Cold dough spreads less during baking, ensuring your cookies hold their intended shape. 
• Use Parchment Paper: Prevent your cookies from sticking and ensure even browning by lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. 
• Test Bake One Cookie: Before baking an entire batch, test one cookie to ensure everything—from sweetness to texture—is perfect. 
• Decorate Once Cooled: Patience is key—wait until the cookies have cooled completely before decorating to avoid melting icing or toppings. 

Creative Packaging Ideas 

Christmas cookies aren’t just delicious; they’re also delightful gifts. How you package them can elevate the experience even further. 

• Festive Tins: Line metal cookie tins with decorative tissue paper and stuff them full of various cookies. 
• Mason Jars: Stack cookies neatly inside mason jars and tie them off with a ribbon for a rustic-chic presentation. 
• DIY Cookie Boxes: Purchase plain cardboard boxes and decorate them with markers, stamps, and stickers for a personal touch. 
• Cellophane Bags: Arrange cookies in clear bags and seal with a festive twist tie or vibrant ribbon. 
• Reusable Containers: Place cookies in ceramic or glass containers that double as a keepsake for your recipient. 

Healthier Alternatives 

Indulging in Christmas cookies doesn’t have to derail your health goals. Here are some ways to make festive treats a bit better for you without compromising taste. 

• Swap Refined Sugar: Substitute with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. 
• Use Whole Grains: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat or oat flour for added fiber. 
• Reduce Butter: Substitute part of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana for fewer calories. 
• Add Protein: Incorporate almond flour, peanut butter, or protein powder for a more filling treat. 
• Dark Chocolate Over Milk: Use dark chocolate chips for their rich flavor and antioxidant benefits. 

Read more: How to Make Festive Strawberry Reindeer

Share the Joy of Holiday Baking 

From timeless classics to modern delights, Christmas cookies are more than just treats—they’re a way to connect with loved ones and celebrate the joy of the season. This year, why not take a moment to bake a batch (or two), experiment with new recipes, and share the love with beautifully packaged cookies? 

We’d love to hear about your favorite Christmas cookies and baking experiences! Share your recipes and stories in the comments below—because nothing captures the holiday spirit better than coming together over delicious treats.