As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to prepare for all the festive moments, gatherings, and, of course, the sweet treats that make the season even more special. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, exchanging cookies with friends, or simply indulging in the magic of baking, there’s something about the warmth of freshly baked cookies that brings comfort and joy to any occasion.
In this ultimate guide to holiday cookies, we’ll take a deep dive into a collection of four scrumptious and easy-to-make recipes that will elevate your holiday baking game: Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies, Christmas Whipped Shortbread Cookies, Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens, and Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies. Each of these recipes offers a unique twist on traditional favorites, bringing rich flavors and a festive touch to your cookie trays.
1. Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies
Imagine combining the soft, chewy texture of a chocolate chip cookie with the creamy, rich flavor of cheesecake—this is what you get with these Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies. A perfect hybrid of two beloved desserts, these cookies offer the best of both worlds, making them a guaranteed hit during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Beat Together the softened cream cheese, butter, and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, blending everything until smooth.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Fold in the Chocolate Chips: Gently incorporate the chocolate chips into the dough.
- Shape the Dough: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Let them cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Calories per Cookie: 180 kcal
Yield: 24 cookies
Tips:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smoother batter.
- If you’d like a more decadent version, you can even add some white chocolate chips or crushed nuts to the dough for extra texture.
2. Christmas Whipped Shortbread Cookies
Whipped shortbread cookies are a holiday classic that are beloved for their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. These cookies have a subtle, buttery flavor and can be decorated with festive sprinkles or a bright red cherry to create a beautiful and tasty addition to your cookie tray. They’re simple to make, but they look like they came straight from a professional bakery.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups cornstarch
- Nonpareils or halved candied cherries (for decoration)
Directions:
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: Beat the butter and sugar together in a large bowl for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour and cornstarch until smooth.
- Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet. Gently press them down with a fork, then top each cookie with a cherry or nonpareils.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20-22 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown. Let them cool on a rack.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Total Time: 35-37 minutes
Calories per Cookie: Approximately 90 kcal
Yield: 24 cookies
Tips:
- Make sure the butter is softened to ensure easy mixing.
- If you’d like to create a more refined look, you can use a piping bag to pipe the dough onto the baking sheet.
3. Sugar Cookie Icing That Hardens
A perfectly iced sugar cookie can turn a simple treat into a beautiful work of art. This Sugar Cookie Icing recipe is easy to prepare, smooth, glossy, and hardens beautifully, making it ideal for decorating cookies with intricate designs or fun patterns. It’s also versatile, allowing you to choose your preferred flavoring and food coloring to match any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup (for shine and smooth texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract (optional, for flavor)
- Food coloring (optional)
Directions:
- Make the Icing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and corn syrup until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time.
- Flavor the Icing: Stir in the vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor.
- Add Color: If you wish, divide the icing into bowls and add food coloring, stirring well to combine.
- Decorate: Use a piping bag with a small tip or a spoon to drizzle or pipe the icing onto your sugar cookies. Let the icing dry at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. It will fully set in 1-2 hours.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: Enough icing for 24 cookies
Tips:
- For intricate designs, use a fine-tipped piping bag to create precise details.
- To achieve different textures or thickness, adjust the amount of milk in the icing.
4. Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies
These Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies are a unique take on a classic favorite. The caramelized pineapple topping paired with a soft, buttery sugar cookie base makes for an irresistible treat. They’re perfect for those looking to add a tropical flair to their holiday cookie collection.
Ingredients:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pineapple Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 12-16 maraschino cherries (or fresh cherries)
- 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple, cut into small chunks or rings, drained well
Directions:
- Prepare the Pineapple Topping: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix the melted butter and brown sugar in a small bowl, then spoon a tablespoon of the mixture into each cookie spot on the baking sheet. Add a few pineapple pieces and a cherry in the center.
- Make the Cookie Dough: Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, and then fold it into the wet ingredients.
- Assemble the Cookies: Roll the cookie dough into balls and place them over the pineapple topping on the baking sheet. Gently press down on each cookie to flatten it slightly.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before flipping them over to reveal the pineapple topping.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Cookie: Approximately 150 kcal
Yield: 24 cookies
Tips:
- Ensure that the pineapple is well-drained to avoid soggy cookies.
- To avoid sticking, use parchment paper or silicone mats.
Conclusion: The Sweetest Way to Celebrate the Holidays
These four recipes are more than just holiday treats; they are experiences to share with family, friends, and loved ones. Whether you’re baking the creamy and decadent Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies, the melt-in-your-mouth Christmas Whipped Shortbread Cookies, the perfectly decorated Sugar Cookie Icing, or the tropical Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies, you’re sure to create lasting memories around the kitchen and the table.
With a variety of flavors and textures, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to quiet moments at home. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let the holiday baking begin! Happy holidays, and happy baking! 🎄🍪
5. Whipped Shortbread Cookies
Whipped Shortbread Cookies are one of the easiest and most satisfying cookies to make. These cookies are delightfully light, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, making them a favorite for holiday cookie platters. With just a few ingredients, you can create a batch of cookies that not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful with minimal effort. Add sprinkles, chopped nuts, or even a dollop of jam to make them your own.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or jam for decoration
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This is key to achieving the melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Continue to mix just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into small balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 1 inch apart. Gently press down each dough ball with the back of a fork or your fingers to flatten it slightly.
- Decorate (Optional): If desired, top each cookie with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a small dollop of jam for added flair and flavor.
- Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Keep an eye on them as they bake because they can brown quickly. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: 25-28 minutes
Calories per Cookie: Approximately 90 kcal
Yield: 24 cookies
Tips:
- If you like a softer texture, bake for a few minutes less. If you want them a bit crispier, extend the baking time by a minute or two.
- These cookies freeze very well. After they cool, store them in an airtight container or freeze them for later enjoyment.
6. Peanut Butter Blossoms
Peanut Butter Blossoms are another holiday classic that you simply cannot go wrong with. These cookies combine the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the sweet, melty goodness of a chocolate kiss in the center. They’re perfect for gifting or sharing at parties. Plus, they’re easy to make and will bring a burst of flavor to your cookie tray.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 24 chocolate kisses (or any other chocolate of your choice)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Peanut Butter Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine until the mixture is smooth.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden.
- Add the Chocolate Kisses: As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 20-25 minutes
Calories per Cookie: Approximately 130 kcal
Yield: 24 cookies
Tips:
- Use smooth peanut butter for a more uniform dough.
- If you’re not a fan of Hershey’s Kisses, you can substitute with other chocolate candies or even a small square of chocolate.
7. Gingerbread Cookies
Gingerbread cookies are another holiday favorite that are full of warm, spicy flavors. Perfect for decorating with royal icing, sprinkles, or even turning into gingerbread houses, these cookies offer the right balance of sweetness and spice that makes them a timeless treat. Whether you prefer to decorate them or just enjoy them plain, these gingerbread cookies will add a festive touch to your table.
Ingredients:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract and mix until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two discs and wrap them in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- Roll and Cut the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes such as gingerbread men, stars, or other festive shapes.
- Bake: Place the cut-out cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Decorate: Once the cookies have cooled completely, decorate with royal icing, colored sugars, or sprinkles as desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 1.5-2 hours (includes chilling)
Calories per Cookie: Approximately 120 kcal
Yield: 24 cookies
Tips:
- For a softer texture, you can slightly reduce the baking time.
- If you plan on decorating with royal icing, be sure the cookies are completely cooled to prevent the icing from melting.
8. Snickerdoodle Cookies
Snickerdoodle cookies are another crowd-pleaser with their perfectly balanced combination of sweetness, cinnamon, and a soft, chewy texture. These cookies are easy to make, and the cinnamon-sugar coating gives them a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the inside tender. A perfect option for holiday baking.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for rolling)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: Beat together the butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies: In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of sugar and cinnamon. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 20-25 minutes
Calories per Cookie: Approximately 100 kcal
Yield: 24 cookies
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can also add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar coating for a more complex spice flavor.
- Be sure not to overbake them, as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Conclusion: Your Perfect Holiday Cookie Collection
With these recipes, you now have a comprehensive collection of holiday cookie classics that are sure to bring joy to every celebration. Whether you’re making Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies, Whipped Shortbread, or the festive Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies, each of these treats will make your holidays a little sweeter.
Now, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start baking—there’s no better way to embrace the holiday spirit than with a warm, fresh batch of homemade cookies. Happy baking!