As the holiday season approaches, many of us turn to our favorite traditions and activities to get into the spirit. Baking cookies is a beloved tradition for many families, and there’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh-baked treats wafting from the kitchen to signal that Christmas is just around the corner. In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane by sharing 20 classic old-fashioned Christmas cookie recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household.
From traditional gingerbread cookies to frosted cut-outs and peanut butter blossoms, these timeless treats are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. So why not start planning your holiday baking today? In the following pages, we’ll share our favorite old-fashioned Christmas cookie recipes that are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying on their own.
Grandma’s Gingerbread Cookies
Warm up your holiday season with these classic gingerbread cookies, just like Grandma used to make! These soft and spicy treats are perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Water (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Traditional Spritz Cookies
Traditional Spritz Cookies Recipe
These classic cookies are a staple of holiday celebrations, with their buttery flavor and delicate texture. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Colored sprinkles or nonpareils for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Use a cookie press or piping bag fitted with a star tip to shape the dough into desired shapes.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies
These old-fashioned sugar cookies are a staple of childhood memories and holiday gatherings. With their crispy edges, chewy centers, and sweet simplicity, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Frosted Christmas Cut-Out Cookies
Get into the holiday spirit with these festive cut-out cookies, perfect for decorating and sharing with friends and family. With a simple recipe and minimal ingredients, you can create a batch of sweet treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– Colored sprinkles or decorations (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting with your favorite holiday colors and decorations.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms
These soft, chewy cookies are a classic favorite, filled with the creamy goodness of peanut butter and topped with a sweet Hershey’s Kiss.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, whichever you prefer)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 Hershey’s Kiss per cookie
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix until combined.
4. Beat in the egg until well mixed.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges.
8. Remove from oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss onto each cookie.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Molasses Crinkles
These soft and chewy molasses cookies are a staple of any holiday season. With their distinctive crinkled surface and rich, sweet flavor, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup blackstrap molasses
• 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Snickerdoodle Christmas Cookies
A classic holiday treat with a sweet and spicy twist! These chewy cookies are perfect for snacking or gifting to friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (see note)
– Colored sprinkles or decorations for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Stir in cinnamon sugar.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Russian Tea Cakes
These buttery, nutty cookies are a staple of Russian cuisine and perfect for dunking in your favorite hot beverage.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in nuts and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Thumbprint Cookies with Jam
Classic Thumbprint Cookies with Jam Recipe
These chewy cookies filled with a sweet surprise of jam are perfect for satisfying your snack cravings or as a treat to share with friends and family. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of delicious thumbprint cookies in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
– Your favorite jam (raspberry, strawberry, or apricot work well)
– Optional: sprinkles or chopped nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Make an indentation in each ball using your thumb or a spoon.
5. Place a small spoonful of jam in each indentation.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Shortbread Christmas Cookies
A classic shortbread recipe with a festive twist, these buttery cookies are perfect for decorating and sharing during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Date-Filled Cookies
These chewy cookies filled with sweet dates are a delightful twist on traditional cookie recipes. Perfect for snacking or as a gift, these date-filled treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 6 pitted dates, chopped
– Optional: confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped dates.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Oatmeal Raisin Christmas Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are a classic holiday treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. With the warmth of rolled oats, sweetness of raisins, and hint of spice, they’re sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in raisins.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Pecan Sandies
These classic cookies are a staple of American baking, with a buttery shortbread crust and a nutty pecan filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter; mix until a dough forms.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
5. Drizzle chopped pecans and corn syrup mixture evenly over cookies.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly browned around edges.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These classic treats are a staple of any cookie lover’s repertoire. With their crinkled surface and soft, gooey centers, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Anise Christmas Cookies
Add a touch of nostalgia to your holiday baking with these classic Anise Christmas Cookies. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the warm aroma of anise, is sure to become a new family tradition.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground anise
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and anise.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black and White Cookies
A classic cookie recipe with a twist, featuring dark chocolate chips and white chocolate chunks.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1 cup white chocolate chunks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in dark chocolate chips and white chocolate chunks.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fruitcake Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the warmth of spices with the sweetness of dried fruits, making them a perfect treat for any time of year. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a batch of these tasty treats ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried fruit (cranberries, cherries, raisins)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, then stir in dried fruit and walnuts (if using).
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Walnut Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the richness of maple syrup and the crunch of walnuts, making them a perfect treat for any time of year. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious cookies in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in maple syrup.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chopped walnuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Peppermint Meringue Cookies
Fresh from the oven, these Peppermint Meringue Cookies are a perfect treat for the holiday season. With their crispy exterior and chewy interior, infused with peppermint goodness, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar mixture; beat until stiff peaks form.
4. Stir in peppermint extract.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of meringue onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry. Turn off oven; let cookies cool completely with door ajar.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Rum Balls
Rum Balls Recipe
Treat your friends and family to these bite-sized treats that pack a punch with their rum-infused flavor. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, Rum Balls are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup dark rum
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine powdered sugar, oats, and crushed vanilla wafers.
2. In a small saucepan, combine corn syrup, rum, and butter. Heat over low heat, stirring until the butter has melted.
3. Pour the warm mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Yield: Approximately 2 dozen Rum Balls
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetest season with these 20 classic old-fashioned Christmas cookie recipes! From Grandma’s Gingerbread Cookies to Traditional Spritz Cookies, and from Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies to Pecan Sandies, this collection has it all. These timeless treats are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. With a mix of soft-baked sugar cookies, crunchy peanut butter blossoms, and chewy molasses crinkles, there’s something for every taste bud. So why not spend some quality time in the kitchen whipping up these holiday classics and making memories with loved ones?
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