The holidays are a time for warmth, joy, and cherished traditions. Every family has their own unique recipes that tell stories, bring people together, and create lasting memories. In my family, the heart of our Christmas celebration revolves around one particularly enchanting recipe: Traditional Christmas Cookies. These cookies not only grace our table but also symbolize shared love, laughter, and nostalgia. With a delightful blend of spices and sweetness, they could easily become the highlight of your holiday season.
Here, in The Christmas Kitchen, we’ll explore how to make these traditional Christmas cookies, why they’re so special, and how they can bring a modern twist to a timeless celebration. Why should you try this recipe? Because they are the perfect treat to share with friends and family, easy to prepare, and oh-so-delicious! They are a great way to bond with your loved ones, making your holiday celebrations even sweeter. Plus, these cookies can easily be adapted to accommodate various dietary preferences, making them a versatile choice for your gathering.
Traditional Christmas Cookies Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 57 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Ingredients:
For the Cookies
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the Icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Colored sprinkles
- Shredded coconut
- Chopped nuts
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Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
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In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture we all adore in traditional Christmas cookies.
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Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, blending well until fully combined with the butter mixture.
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Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; this keeps your cookies tender.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to work with.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls and place them on the baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Flatten them slightly.
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Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
Step 4: Cool and Decorate
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Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
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While the cookies cool, prepare the icing by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If desired, add food coloring for festive flair.
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Once cookies are cool, drizzle or pipe the icing on top and sprinkle with your chosen toppings.
Pro Tips
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Use Fresh Spices: For greater flavor, try using fresh ground spices instead of the pre-ground varieties.
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Chill Your Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It’s key to achieving the right texture and preventing spreading during baking.
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Taste Test: Always save a small batch of dough for yourself to taste before baking. It’s a baker’s privilege!
Variations
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends or family.
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Vegan Options: Substitute the egg with flaxseed meal and use coconut oil in place of butter for a vegan adaptation.
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Flavor Sensations: Add a zest of lemon or orange for a citrusy twist that will surprise your taste buds.
When to Make Traditional Christmas Cookies
These cookies are perfect for various occasions—holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or simply as an activity with your kids! My grandmother always said that making cookies together is not just about the treat itself; it’s about building traditions and creating precious memories.
Conclusion
Try this Traditional Christmas Cookies recipe this holiday season to fill your home with festive aromas and your heart with joy. These delightful cookies not only elevate your celebrations but also allow you to create unforgettable moments with friends and family. They represent everything we cherish about the season—love, sharing, and warmth. So grab your apron, gather your loved ones, and dive into this fun baking adventure!
What are you waiting for? It’s time to make some magical memories in The Christmas Kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions: Traditional Christmas Cookies FAQs
How should I store my Traditional Christmas Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the freezer—layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container for freshness.
Can I freeze the dough for Traditional Christmas Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze your cookie dough up to 3 months. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil or place it in an airtight container. When ready to bake, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling and baking.
What adjustments do I need to make for high altitude?
At high altitudes, you might need to increase the flour slightly and reduce the sugar to prevent spreading. Start with an extra tablespoon of flour and see how the cookies turn out!
Are there any good substitutions for the butter?
Yes! You can substitute butter with coconut oil or margarine. For a low-fat version, replace half of the butter with applesauce.
How do I achieve perfect icing for my Traditional Christmas Cookies?
Make sure your cookies are completely cool before icing them. The icing will set nicely if you let it dry for at least an hour. For shimmery icing, add a touch of corn syrup!
Can I use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar in the dough?
While it’s possible, using granulated sugar gives a better structure to these cookies. Powdered sugar can lead to a crumbly texture.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough feels too sticky, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
How can I make this recipe more festive?
Incorporate seasonal flavors like peppermint extract or add dried cranberries or chopped pecans for texture and festive flair.
With these FAQs and tips, I hope you’ll find your journey in The Christmas Kitchen fulfilling and fun. Enjoy your baking experience and create lasting traditions with each batch of delicious cookies!
