Christmas Cookies Recipe You’ll Make on Repeat Every Year

There’s something magical about Christmas cookies that brings back warm memories and fills your home with irresistible aromas. This Christmas cookies recipe you’ll make on repeat is all about capturing that festive spirit with soft, buttery cookies that are easy to bake and perfect for sharing.

this Recipe

Whether you’re new to holiday baking or a seasoned pro, these Christmas cookies deliver classic flavors with a touch of holiday cheer. Get ready to create a batch that your family and friends will ask for year after year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
• Customizable with your favorite festive decorations.
• Perfect balance of buttery richness and sweet vanilla.
• Great for gifting or holiday parties.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make about 3 dozen delicious Christmas cookies:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for a warm holiday touch)
• Festive sprinkles or colored sugar for decorating
• Optional: royal icing or colored glaze for decorating

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes per batch
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: About 36 cookies
• Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie

How to Make Christmas Cookies – Recipe You’ll Make on Repeat

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if using.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined to keep the dough soft.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets.
7. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass, then add your festive sprinkles or colored sugar on top.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking for chewy cookies.
9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use room temperature butter and eggs for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough once flour is added to keep cookies tender.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it feels too sticky to handle.
• Bake one sheet at a time on the middle rack for even cooking.
• Decorate cookies after they’ve cooled completely to avoid melting sprinkles.

Storage and Reheating

Store your Christmas cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer-safe container; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

To enjoy warm cookies, reheat them in a preheated 300°F oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds, just enough to bring back that freshly baked softness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for best results.

How do I keep the cookies soft instead of crunchy?

Using a combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar helps keep these cookies soft. Also, avoid overbaking and store them in an airtight container once cooled.

Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?

Absolutely! Add mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries to the dough for festive variations that complement the Christmas cookies.

What’s the best way to decorate the cookies?

For a classic look, use colored sugar or sprinkles before baking. For more detailed designs, wait until the cookies cool completely and decorate with royal icing or colored glaze.