Holiday Cookie Recipes to Try

Name: Holiday Cookie Recipes to Try
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 cups chocolate chips; Colored sprinkles; Icing (optional); Chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

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

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2025-12-18T14:21:30.739Z

These holiday cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Each recipe is crafted to evoke the warmth and joy of the season.

        Why You Will Love These Cookies
        A variety of flavors to suit everyone's taste
Perfect for gifting or sharing at holiday gatherings
Simple recipes that bring joy to the baking experience

      

The Joy of Baking Together

Baking cookies during the holiday season is not just about creating delicious treats; it's also an opportunity to bond with family and friends. Gather your loved ones in the kitchen and make it a fun activity. Children can help with mixing ingredients or decorating, creating lasting memories while learning valuable cooking skills.

Sharing the experience of baking fosters a sense of teamwork and accomplishment. As you work together, laughter fills the air, and stories are shared, making the kitchen a warm and inviting space. The sweet aroma of cookies baking is sure to bring everyone together, filling your home with holiday cheer.

Customizing Your Cookies

One of the best things about these holiday cookie recipes is their versatility. You can easily customize them to suit different tastes and preferences. Experiment with various mix-ins like dried fruits, spices, or flavored extracts to create unique flavor combinations that reflect your family’s favorites.

For those who love a little crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or toffee bits. If you prefer a more festive touch, try incorporating seasonal spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to showcase your creativity while baking.

Gifting and Sharing

Homemade cookies make for thoughtful gifts during the holiday season. Package them in decorative tins or boxes and share them with neighbors, friends, or coworkers. A batch of freshly baked cookies is a heartfelt gesture that shows you care. Consider including a handwritten note or a festive tag to add a personal touch.

Incorporating cookies into your holiday gatherings is another way to spread joy. Arrange a cookie platter at your next party, encouraging guests to sample different varieties. This not only enhances the festive atmosphere but also allows everyone to indulge in sweet treats, creating a memorable experience.

Ingredients

Basic Cookie Dough

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

For Decorating

Colored sprinkles
Icing (optional)
Chopped nuts (optional)

Mix and match your favorite add-ins for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then gradually blend in the dry ingredients.

Add Chocolate Chips

Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets.

Bake

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Decorate

Once cooled, decorate with icing, sprinkles, or chopped nuts as desired.

Enjoy your delicious holiday cookies!

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To achieve perfectly baked cookies, ensure that your butter is softened but not melted. This creates the right texture and helps the cookies hold their shape during baking. Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes, ensuring even baking and a visually appealing presentation.

It's also important to monitor the baking time closely. Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Pull them out when the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear slightly underbaked; they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Storing Your Cookies

Once your cookies are baked and cooled, proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and chewy. For longer storage, consider freezing them; they can last up to three months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture.

When freezing, layer the cookies with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving, and they'll taste just as delightful as when they were freshly baked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I substitute for chocolate chips?

You can use white chocolate chips, dried fruits, or nuts as alternatives.

→ How do I store the cookies?

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

→ Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.