15 Easy Holiday Cookies Everyone Will Love

Did you know that baking cookies during the holiday season is one of the most cherished traditions, with over 70% of families participating each year? In our delightful blog post, ’15 Easy Holiday Cookies Everyone Will Love’, we’ll take you on a delicious journey through a variety of festive recipes that are sure to bring joy to your gatherings. From Merry Meringue Kisses to Vanilla Bean Shortbread Treats, you’ll discover simple yet scrumptious cookies that are perfect for sharing and enjoying with loved ones this holiday season!

Merry Meringue Kisses

Merry Meringue Kisses are delightful, airy treats that blend sweet vanilla with a hint of festive peppermint, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:

4 large egg whites
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional)

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 80 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites on medium speed until foamy.

3. Add cream of tartar and continue whisking until soft peaks form.

4. Gradually add granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while whisking on high speed until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.

5. Gently fold in vanilla and peppermint extracts, along with the crushed peppermint candies if using.

6. Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe small kisses onto the prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake for about 60 minutes or until the meringues are dry and lift off the parchment easily.

8. Turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside to avoid cracking.

Tips:

Ensure your mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean and free of grease for the egg whites to whip properly.
For colorful meringue kisses, you can add a few drops of food coloring before piping.
Store completed meringue kisses in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture.

Gingerbread Joys

This Gingerbread Joys recipe combines the warm spices of ginger and cinnamon with a sweet molasses base, creating delightful cookies that bring joy to any holiday gathering.

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
¾ cup unsulfured molasses
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.

2. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

5. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are firm.

7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For extra flavor, add a pinch of black pepper to the dry ingredients.
If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before rolling.
Decorate with icing or powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Festive Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

These Festive Chocolate Peppermint Cookies combine rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint for a delightful holiday treat that is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
¼ cup crushed peppermint candies

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

6. Stir in the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies.

7. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For a more intense peppermint flavor, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough.
Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.
Can substitute white chocolate chips for a lovely contrast in flavor and color.

Cinnamon Sugar Snowflakes

This recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Snowflakes combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and sugar in a delightful, crispy treat perfect for any winter occasion.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well.

5. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined.

6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.

7. Use a snowflake cookie cutter to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

8. In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and remaining granulated sugar, then sprinkle over the cookie shapes.

9. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

10. Allow to cool completely before drizzling with a mixture of powdered sugar and milk to create a glaze.

Tips:

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the dough.
Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week to maintain their crispness.
Feel free to decorate the snowflakes with colored sprinkles for a festive touch!

Cranberry Walnut Chewy Cookies

This recipe for Cranberry Walnut Chewy Cookies combines the delightful tartness of cranberries with the rich nuttiness of walnuts, resulting in a treat that is both chewy and satisfying.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup walnuts, chopped

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.

3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.

6. Fold in the dried cranberries and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.

7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.

8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the centers appear slightly underbaked.

9. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For extra chewiness, underbake the cookies slightly.
Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
You can substitute dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.

Nutty Holiday Biscotti

This Nutty Holiday Biscotti recipe is special for its delightful combination of almonds, hazelnuts, and warm spices that perfectly captures the essence of the season.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mixed nuts (almonds and hazelnuts), chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries or cherries

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. Fold in the chopped nuts and dried cranberries or cherries.

6. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long on the prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the logs are golden and firm to the touch.

8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes, then slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.

9. Place the biscotti back on the baking sheet, cut sides up, and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes to toast.

10. Allow to cool completely before serving.

Tips:

Store biscotti in an airtight container for up to two weeks to maintain freshness.
You can dip the biscotti in melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.
Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits based on your preferences.

Spritz Cookies with Sprinkles

These Spritz Cookies with Sprinkles are delightful, buttery treats that are perfect for any celebration, combining the rich flavor of vanilla with a burst of colorful sweetness.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sprinkles

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl, then gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. Use a cookie press or a piping bag to create desired shapes on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

6. Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with colorful sprinkles before baking.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

8. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For a festive touch, use holiday-themed sprinkles during special occasions.
Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture.
Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Chocolate Chip Christmas Delights

This delightful recipe combines rich chocolate flavors with the festive spirit of Christmas, making them a perfect treat to share with loved ones.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.

4. Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs until well combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just blended.

6. Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts (if using).

7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

9. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For extra chocolaty cookies, feel free to add more chocolate chips.
Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
For a festive touch, sprinkle some colorful holiday sprinkles on top before baking.

Pecan Pie Cookie Bites

These Pecan Pie Cookie Bites combine the rich, nutty flavors of pecan pie in a delightful bite-sized treat, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup corn syrup
1 large egg

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the flour, salt, and vanilla extract to the mixture, and continue mixing until well combined.

4. Spoon the dough into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about halfway.

5. In another bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, egg, and chopped pecans until fully blended.

6. Pour the pecan filling on top of the cookie dough in each muffin cup, filling them almost to the top.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

8. Allow the cookie bites to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking.
Store the cookie bites in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Feel free to add chocolate chips for a delightful twist!

Frosted Sugar Cookie Christmas Trees

These Frosted Sugar Cookie Christmas Trees are a delightful holiday treat, featuring buttery sweetness and vibrant colors that will brighten up your festive celebrations.

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk
Food coloring (optional)
Sprinkles (for decoration)

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.

3. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick and cut into tree shapes using a cookie cutter.

7. Place the cutout cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

8. Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

9. To make the frosting, mix the powdered sugar and milk until smooth; add food coloring if desired.

10. Frost the cooled cookies and decorate with sprinkles as desired.

Tips:

Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling out for easier handling.
Use a variety of food colorings to create a colorful assortment of trees.
Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.

Almond Joyful Cookies

These Almond Joyful Cookies bring together the irresistible flavors of coconut, almond, and rich chocolate for a delightful treat that will brighten your day.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups shredded coconut
1 cup chopped almonds
1 cup chocolate chips

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, combining until just incorporated.

6. Fold in the shredded coconut, chopped almonds, and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
For extra flavor, toast the almonds before adding them to the dough.
Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Caramel Pecan Thumbprints

These Caramel Pecan Thumbprints are a delightful combination of buttery cookies, rich caramel, and crunchy pecans, making them irresistible for any sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup caramel sauce

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Mix in the vanilla extract and salt, followed by gradually adding the flour until the dough forms.

4. Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Use your thumb to make an indent in the center of each ball.

7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before filling each thumbprint with caramel sauce.

9. Let the cookies cool completely before serving.

Tips:

To make the indents deeper, use a teaspoon instead of your thumb.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it’s too soft to handle.
For extra flavor, toast the pecans before mixing them into the dough.
Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Snowball Cookies with Coconut

These delightful Snowball Cookies with Coconut are a burst of flavor, featuring a rich buttery base and a sweet coconut finish that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup shredded coconut
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup additional powdered sugar for coating

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Mix in the vanilla extract, followed by the flour, shredded coconut, and salt. Stir until well combined.

4. Shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.

6. Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before rolling them in the additional powdered sugar.

7. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing.

Tips:

For extra flavor, try toasting the shredded coconut lightly before adding it to the dough.
Keep the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
These cookies can be frozen for up to three months; just re-roll in powdered sugar after thawing.

Holiday Spice Oatmeal Cookies

These Holiday Spice Oatmeal Cookies are special because they blend delightful warm spices with chewy oats, creating the perfect treat for festive gatherings.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 cups rolled oats
1 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.

3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

4. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

6. Fold in the oats and raisins or chocolate chips if using.

7. Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For a different flavor, add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans.
To enhance the spice, increase the amounts of cinnamon and nutmeg as desired.
Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Vanilla Bean Shortbread Treats

These Vanilla Bean Shortbread Treats are a delightful blend of buttery goodness and aromatic vanilla, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped
1/4 teaspoon salt

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add in the vanilla extract, vanilla bean seeds, and salt, mixing until well combined.

4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until the dough comes together.

5. Roll the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

6. Once chilled, slice the log into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips:

For an extra touch, sprinkle the shortbread with a little granulated sugar before baking.
These treats can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Feel free to experiment by adding lemon zest for a citrus twist!