Christmas cookies are a beloved tradition for many families around the world. The aromas of sweet vanilla, melting chocolate, and spiced nuts fill the air, signaling the start of the holiday season. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, Christmas cookies are a great way to get into the holiday spirit. This year, why not try something new and exciting? Here are 10 Christmas cookie trends to try this year:
The art of baking Christmas cookies has been passed down through generations, with each family having their own secret recipes and techniques. However, with the rise of social media and food blogging, new and creative ideas are being shared every year. From unique flavor combinations to decorative designs, there's no shortage of inspiration for Christmas cookie enthusiasts.
1. Matcha Green Tea Cookies
Matcha green tea has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it's no surprise that it's making its way into Christmas cookies. These delicate, green-colored cookies are infused with the subtle flavor of matcha and are perfect for those looking for a unique twist on traditional Christmas cookies.
How to Make Matcha Green Tea Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons matcha powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped white chocolate
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and matcha powder.
- Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
- Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Allow cookies to cool before drizzling with melted white chocolate.
2. Cranberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies
Cranberries and white chocolate are a match made in heaven, and these cookies are perfect for the holiday season. The sweetness of the white chocolate pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cranberries, making for a delicious and festive cookie.
How to Make Cranberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
- Fold in white chocolate chips and dried cranberries.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
3. Salted Caramel Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These cookies are perfect for those who love the combination of sweet and salty. The crinkled surface and gooey caramel center make for a delicious and visually appealing cookie.
How to Make Salted Caramel Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
- Fold in chocolate chips and caramel sauce.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before baking.
4. Peanut Butter Blossoms
Peanut butter blossoms are a classic Christmas cookie that consists of a peanut butter cookie topped with a Hershey's Kiss. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is a match made in heaven, and these cookies are perfect for the holiday season.
How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Hershey's Kisses
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, peanut butter, sugar, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Press a Hershey's Kiss into the center of each cookie immediately after baking.
5. Snickerdoodle Cookies
Snickerdoodle cookies are a classic Christmas cookie that consists of a cinnamon-sugar cookie with a crinkled surface. These cookies are perfect for those who love the combination of sweet and spicy.
How to Make Snickerdoodle Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cream of tartar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Gingerbread Cookies
Gingerbread cookies are a classic Christmas cookie that consists of a spicy, sweet cookie made with molasses and ginger. These cookies are perfect for those who love the combination of sweet and spicy.
How to Make Gingerbread Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Shortbread Cookies
Shortbread cookies are a classic Christmas cookie that consists of a buttery, crumbly cookie made with just a few ingredients. These cookies are perfect for those who love the simplicity of butter and sugar.
How to Make Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add flour and salt, and mix until a dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Linzer Cookies
Linzer cookies are a classic Christmas cookie that consists of a jam-filled cookie with a lattice pattern on top. These cookies are perfect for those who love the combination of sweet and fruity.
How to Make Linzer Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
- 1/2 cup jam or preserves
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and confectioners' sugar.
- Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
- Use a pastry cutter or a knife to create a lattice pattern on top of each cookie.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
9. Russian Tea Cakes
Russian tea cakes are a classic Christmas cookie that consists of a buttery, nutty cookie rolled in powdered sugar. These cookies are perfect for those who love the combination of sweet and savory.
How to Make Russian Tea Cakes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
- Fold in chopped nuts and vanilla extract.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Roll in powdered sugar immediately after baking.
10. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Chocolate crinkle cookies are a classic Christmas cookie that consists of a rich, chocolatey cookie with a crinkled surface. These cookies are perfect for those who love the combination of sweet and chocolatey.
How to Make Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
- Fold in chocolate chips and vanilla extract.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
We hope this article has inspired you to try something new and delicious this holiday season. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, Christmas cookies are a great way to get into the holiday spirit. So go ahead, get baking, and make this holiday season one to remember!
What is the best type of flour to use for Christmas cookies?
+All-purpose flour is a great choice for Christmas cookies, as it provides a good balance of texture and flavor. However, you can also use bread flour or cake flour depending on the type of cookie you're making.
How do I store Christmas cookies to keep them fresh?
+Christmas cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. When freezing, make sure to wrap the cookies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Can I make Christmas cookies ahead of time and freeze them?
+Yes, you can make Christmas cookies ahead of time and freeze them. In fact, freezing is a great way to preserve the flavor and texture of the cookies. When freezing, make sure to wrap the cookies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.