18 Christmas Cookie Recipes for 2024: Sweet Memories Baked with Love
As a mom, there’s something truly magical about the holidays. It’s the twinkling lights, the laughter of little ones, and of course, the smell of cookies baking in the oven. For me, baking Christmas cookies is about more than just making delicious treats—it’s about creating moments. It’s flour-dusted hands, sticky fingers sneaking dough, and the joy of sharing something homemade with the people we love.
This year, I’ve rounded up 18 Christmas cookie recipes that are perfect for your holiday season. Whether you’re baking with your kids, preparing treats for a cookie exchange, or simply indulging in some festive sweetness, these recipes will fill your kitchen—and your heart—with joy.
1. Classic Sugar Cookies
These are the cookies that started it all! They’re buttery, simple, and perfect for cutting into fun holiday shapes. My kids love decorating these with colorful icing and sprinkles.
2. Gingerbread Men
These spiced cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat. We always give our gingerbread people little candy eyes and silly frosting smiles—it’s like creating a cookie family!
3. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These fudgy cookies with their powdered sugar “snow” coating are a holiday must-have. They look so fancy, but they’re super easy to make.
4. Peanut Butter Blossoms
Peanut butter cookies topped with a chocolate kiss? Yes, please! My little ones always argue over who gets to press the chocolates into the warm cookies.
5. Linzer Cookies
These delicate cookies with a jam-filled center always make me feel a little fancy. They’re a perfect addition to a holiday dessert platter.
6. Thumbprint Cookies
These buttery cookies are a hit with everyone. Fill them with jam, chocolate, or even caramel for a fun twist.
7. Snickerdoodles
These cinnamon-sugar cookies are a warm hug in dessert form. They’re simple, but they always disappear first at any holiday gathering.
8. Shortbread Cookies
There’s something so satisfying about the buttery simplicity of shortbread. Add a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of sugar to make them extra special.
9. Red Velvet Cookies
These vibrant red cookies with cream cheese frosting are as festive as it gets. Plus, they look gorgeous on a cookie tray.
10. Italian Pizzelle Cookies
Thin, crispy, and lightly flavored with anise or vanilla, these cookies remind me of family gatherings and holiday traditions.
11. Coconut Macaroons
Chewy, sweet, and dipped in chocolate—these are a favorite for my family. They’re also naturally gluten-free, which is a win for anyone with dietary restrictions.
12. Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies
Oatmeal cookies get a festive makeover with tart cranberries and sweet white chocolate chips. They’re hearty and delicious.
13. Spritz Cookies
These are so fun to make with a cookie press! You can create little trees, wreaths, or stars and decorate them with colorful sugar.
14. Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
These chocolate cookies are infused with peppermint and topped with crushed candy canes. They’re a holiday favorite in our house.
15. Snowball Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes)
These delicate, nutty cookies rolled in powdered sugar remind me of tiny snowballs. They melt in your mouth and are perfect with a cup of coffee.
16. Molasses Cookies
Rich and spiced, these cookies are perfect for a cozy evening by the fire. My kids love dunking them in hot cocoa.
17. Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies
We take the classic chocolate chip cookie and make it festive with red and green sprinkles. It’s a simple way to add some holiday cheer.
18. Stained Glass Cookies
These sugar cookies with candy centers look just like stained glass windows. We sometimes hang them on our tree as edible ornaments!
Baking with Love: Tips for the Busy Mom
- Make Ahead: Many cookie doughs can be prepared in advance and frozen. It’s a lifesaver during the busy holiday season!
- Let the Kids Help: Baking together is such a joy. Even little ones can help roll dough or sprinkle decorations.
- Use What You Have: Don’t stress about fancy ingredients. Substitutions like margarine for butter or fruit preserves for jam work just fine.
- Keep It Fun: The cookies don’t have to be perfect—what matters is the love you put into them.
How to Store Christmas Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store in airtight containers. Layer cookies with parchment paper to keep them fresh.
- Freezing Tips: Freeze dough balls or baked cookies in freezer bags for up to three months.
- Keep Flavors Separate: Strong flavors like peppermint should be stored separately to avoid mingling.
Wrapping Up
Baking these cookies isn’t just about filling a plate—it’s about filling hearts. It’s about the laughter in the kitchen, the joy of giving, and the delicious smell that says “home.”
So, whether you’re making a batch for Santa or sharing them with friends, I hope these recipes bring you and your family as much joy as they bring mine. Let me know which one you bake first—I’d love to hear your stories! And if you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to share it with your fellow moms and subscribe to my blog for more recipes and holiday tips.
Here’s to a season filled with love, laughter, and lots of cookies!
FAQ Section
1. Can I make any of these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for most recipes, and try coconut macaroons for a naturally gluten-free option.
2. What’s the best way to ship cookies?
Pack sturdy cookies like shortbread or snowballs tightly in a container with parchment paper between layers.
3. Can I freeze cookies with icing?
You can, but the icing may smudge. Freeze them flat on a tray first, then transfer to a container.
4. How do I make cookies softer?
Use more brown sugar in the dough and avoid overbaking for extra soft cookies.
5. Can I double the recipes?
Absolutely! Just make sure you have plenty of storage containers—and helpers to eat them.
Happy holidays, mama! May your home be filled with love, laughter, and the sweet smell of Christmas cookies. ❤️