When the air gets crisp and the holiday season rolls around, nothing spreads joy like the warm aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home. Whether you’re planning to host a festive gathering, prepping gifts for loved ones, or simply indulging in a holiday baking tradition, this holiday cookies recipe is here to help you create magic. Packed with easy-to-follow steps, healthy ingredient swaps, and customizable flavors, these cookies are your gateway to holiday happiness.
Dive into the ultimate seasonal baking recipe that’s not just delicious but also simple enough for bakers of all skill levels. If you’re looking for a fun and tasty way to celebrate the holidays, read on to discover why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen this festive season.
Cooking Time
Time management is one of the most crucial aspects of stress-free holiday baking. Luckily, this holiday cookies recipe has a short prep time and a quick bake time, making it perfect for busy days!
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended for richer flavors)
- Baking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Quick Tip for Busy Bakers
To save time, measure your ingredients and set up your kitchen tools before you begin baking. You can even prepare the cookie dough beforehand and freeze it for up to three months to enjoy freshly baked cookies on-demand during the holidays!
Essential Kitchen Equipment
Having the right kitchen tools can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable baking experience. Here are the must-have kitchen gadgets for this holiday cookies recipe:
- Mixing Bowls in Various Sizes (for combining wet and dry ingredients)
- Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer (for effortless mixing of the cookie dough)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons (to achieve perfect ratios)
- Non-Stick Baking Sheets (prevents the cookies from sticking)
- Silicone Baking Mat or Parchment Paper (helps with even baking and easy cleanup)
- Wire Cooling Rack (to cool the cookies evenly)
- Cookie Cutter Shapes (holiday-themed cutters for fun and creative shapes)
- Rolling Pin (if you’re rolling out dough for cut-out cookies)
Investing in high-quality equipment not only simplifies the process but also elevates the final result. Make sure your tools are ready to go before you start baking!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious, holiday-inspired cookies that cater to everyone’s taste buds. This list incorporates both traditional and healthy ingredient options for a guilt-free indulgence.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
Add-Ins and Variations
- 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- ½ cup crushed candy canes for a festive touch
- ¾ cup chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Colored sprinkles for decorating
This flexible list allows you to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs. No matter which variations you choose, the holiday cheer will be baked right in!
How to Make Holiday Cookies Recipe?
Making these cookies is easier than you think. Follow these simple, step-by-step cooking instructions for a foolproof baking session.
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Properly preheated ovens help cookies bake evenly, giving them a golden-brown finish without overcooking.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This step ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which helps the cookies rise properly. Set the mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, beat 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of brown sugar. Mix on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Creaming the butter and sugar properly helps create a soft, tender cookie with a slightly crisp edge.
Add the Wet Ingredients
Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of almond extract for extra depth of flavor. The eggs add moisture and structure, while the extracts enhance the overall taste.
Combine the Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing at a low speed to avoid overworking the dough. Stir in 1 ½ cups of your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or crushed candy canes. Mixing at a slow pace prevents the dough from becoming too dense and tough.
Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors develop and keeps the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. If you’re short on time, you can place the dough in the freezer for about 15 minutes instead.
Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each) or use cookie cutters for fun shapes. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the centers soft.
Cool and Decorate
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, decorate with frosting, sprinkles, or a drizzle of melted chocolate. Crushed candy canes or colored sugar can add a festive touch.
Now, your scrumptious homemade cookies are ready to enjoy! Pair them with a glass of milk or a warm cup of cocoa and share them with family and friends.
Serving Suggestions
These holiday cookies are versatile and pair well with various drinks and accompaniments. Here are some festive serving ideas to level up your cookie presentation.
- Serve alongside a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa.
- Arrange on a holiday-themed platter with other baked treats like brownies and gingerbread men.
- Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel for a decadent touch.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a hint of color and freshness.
Get creative! These cookies can steal the show at any holiday gathering.
Tips for a Better Recipe
Want to take your holiday cookies to the next level? Here are some expert tips to help you bake like a pro.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh butter, good-quality vanilla extract, and premium chocolate contribute to a better taste.
- Don’t Skip the Chill Time: This step is crucial for achieving plump, chewy cookies with consistent shapes.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Make it Healthier: Use whole wheat flour and reduce sugar to make the cookies nutritious without sacrificing taste.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional value per cookie (made with the traditional ingredients):
- Calories: ~150
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
For a healthier version, use natural sweeteners and whole-grain flour to reduce sugar and increase fiber content.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Here’s how you can store your holiday cookies and keep them fresh for days (or even weeks!):
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Refrigerate: Keep in a sealed container for up to 10 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
If you have leftover cookie dough, roll it into balls and freeze directly. Simply bake whenever you’re ready to enjoy!
Holiday Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour swap with almond flour for a gluten-free version
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened; use coconut oil for a dairy-free option
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar substitute with coconut sugar or half-and-half with a natural sweetener like stevia for a healthier twist
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract optional, for added depth of flavor
- 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- ½ cup crushed candy canes for a festive touch
- ¾ cup chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts optional
- Colored sprinkles for decorating
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Properly preheated ovens help cookies bake evenly, giving them a golden-brown finish without overcooking.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This step ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which helps the cookies rise properly. Set the mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
- Using an electric mixer, beat 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of brown sugar. Mix on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Creaming the butter and sugar properly helps create a soft, tender cookie with a slightly crisp edge.
- Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of almond extract for extra depth of flavor. The eggs add moisture and structure, while the extracts enhance the overall taste.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing at a low speed to avoid overworking the dough. Stir in 1 ½ cups of your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or crushed candy canes. Mixing at a slow pace prevents the dough from becoming too dense and tough.
- Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors develop and keeps the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. If you’re short on time, you can place the dough in the freezer for about 15 minutes instead.
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each) or use cookie cutters for fun shapes. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the centers soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, decorate with frosting, sprinkles, or a drizzle of melted chocolate. Crushed candy canes or colored sugar can add a festive touch.
Notes
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Refrigerate: Keep in a sealed container for up to 10 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
