The holiday season is approaching and that means it’s time to start thinking about all of the delicious treats that come with it. One of the most beloved holiday traditions is baking and exchanging cookies with friends and family. There’s something about the aroma of fresh-baked cookies that just screams “holiday spirit.” From classic sugar cookies to decadent gingerbread, holiday cookie recipes are a staple in every household during this time of year.
No matter if you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started in the kitchen, there’s a holiday cookie recipe out there for everyone. Whether you prefer a simple buttery shortbread or a more complex spiced cookie, there’s no shortage of options to choose from.
The Cleaning Ladies want to spread the Christmas spirit by sharing the best holiday cookie recipes to try this season, perfect for gifting to loved ones or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire. Get ready to dust off your mixing bowls and preheat your ovens, because it’s time to get baking!
Classic Sugar Cookies
Classic sugar cookies are a beloved treat that is perfect for any occasion. These delicious cookies are known for their soft, buttery texture and sweet, simple flavour. When it comes to decorating and customizing sugar cookies, the options are endless.
One tip for decorating is to use royal icing, which can be easily piped onto the cookies in various designs and colours. Another idea is to use sprinkles, edible glitter, or coloured sugar to add a fun and festive touch. Christmas sugar cookies are a great way to add a personal touch to any holiday. No matter how you decorate them, classic sugar cookies will surely be a hit with everyone who tries them.
Classic Sugar Cookie Recipe:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg, (large)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, (measured correctly)
- 1 Tbsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
source: Natasha’s Kitchen
For more details including baking tips and sugar cookie ideas visit Natasha’s Kitchen.
Christmas Gingerbread Cookies
Christmas Gingerbread Cookies have a rich history and significant role in holiday traditions. Dating back to medieval times, gingerbread was often used in religious ceremonies and celebrations. Over time, it became associated with Christmas and is now a staple in holiday baking.
Not only are these cookies a delicious treat, but they can also be used creatively during the holiday season. One popular tradition is building gingerbread houses, using the cookies as the walls and roof, then decorating them with icing and assorted candies. Another creative way to use gingerbread cookies is as ornaments for the Christmas tree. By poking a small hole in the cookie before baking, then adding a ribbon or string, these cookies can be hung as festive decorations.
Some people even incorporate gingerbread cookies into their holiday gift-giving by packaging them in decorative bags or boxes. Christmas Gingerbread Cookies are a versatile and beloved tradition that brings joy and creativity to the holiday season.
Gingerbread Cookie Recipe:
- 3 and 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 Tablespoon ground ginger (yes, 1 full Tablespoon!)
- 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 10 Tablespoons (2/3 cup; 145g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar
- 2/3 cup (160ml; about 200g) unsulphured or dark molasses (do not use blackstrap; I prefer Grandma’s brand)
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
source: Sally’s Baking Addiction
The recipe may seem daunting, but it is a snap to know the details of every step with Sally’s Baking Addiction.
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Snickerdoodles
There’s something about the warm, cinnamon-sugar flavour of snickerdoodles that makes them a perfect treat for the holidays. What sets these cookies apart from others is the tangy, slightly sour taste that comes from the cream of tartar mixed with the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar coating. It’s a perfect combination that brings a unique twist to traditional holiday baking.
Incorporating snickerdoodles into your holiday baking traditions is easy and delicious. You can include them in your cookie exchange parties, gift them to friends and family, or simply enjoy them with a nice cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace. You can also get creative with snickerdoodle-inspired treats such as snickerdoodle bars, snickerdoodle cheesecake, or snickerdoodle ice cream sandwiches. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, Christmas snickerdoodles are sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday season.
Snickerdoodle Recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup butter-flavoured shortening
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
COATING
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
source: Divas Can Cook
Snickerdoodles are sure to bring joy and memories to any holiday with this wonderful recipe from Divas Can Cook.
Holiday Shortbread Cookies
Holiday shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that can be flavoured and decorated in endless ways. From classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous flavours like lavender or citrus, the possibilities for flavouring shortbread cookies are endless.
When it comes to decorating, a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing can add elegance to these buttery treats. For a more festive touch, consider adding sprinkles, edible glitter, or finely chopped nuts to the top of the cookies. Creating intricate shapes and designs with shortbread dough can be a fun and rewarding challenge.
It’s important to chill the dough thoroughly before rolling it out and using sharp cookie cutters to ensure clean edges. In addition, using a piping bag or squeeze bottle can help to create intricate patterns and designs with icing or melted chocolate. With a little creativity and patience, holiday shortbread cookies can be transformed into beautiful and delicious works of art.
Shortbread Cookie Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup Christmas sprinkles
Source: Tasting Table
Shortbread cookies can be made quick and easy with as little as 4 ingredients. Check out Tasting Table for tips and tricks.
Gingersnap Cookies
Holiday gingersnap cookies are a nostalgic treat that brings warmth and comfort during the festive season. These spiced cookies are a beloved holiday tradition, with their signature flavour profile of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and molasses. The distinctive crackled surface and chewy texture make them a favourite among cookie lovers.
Biting into a gingersnap cookie evokes memories of cozy winter evenings by the fireplace, surrounded by loved ones. They are often enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled cider, adding to the festive atmosphere. Whether they are served at a holiday gathering or packaged as gifts, gingersnap cookies bring joy and sweetness to the season. The aroma of warm spices filling the kitchen as they bake is enough to put anyone in a festive mood. With their irresistible taste and nostalgic charm, holiday gingersnap cookies are a delightful addition to any seasonal celebration.
Gingersnap Cookie Recipe:
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons shortening
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 cup sugar
- ⅓ cup light molasses
- 1 egg
- 2⅓ cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup sugar to roll dough balls in
source: The Gracious Wife
Your family and guests will be grateful you decided to bring these delicious cookies with the help of the The Gracious Wife.
We hope these ideas can help you have a safe and happy holiday season. For any cleaning needs, feel free to contact us to see how we can best serve you.
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