Christmas Cookie Recipes

Nothing captures the warmth and joy of the holiday season quite like classic Christmas cookie recipes baked from scratch. These soft, tender cut-out cookies are perfect for festive gatherings, cookie exchanges, and decorating with family. The dough is easy to work with, holds its shape beautifully, and bakes into cookies that stay soft for days. Whether you sprinkle them with colored sugar or decorate with icing, these cookies are a timeless holiday favorite that brings both tradition and fun to your Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients

• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups white sugar
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions

• In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then set aside.
• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light, smooth, and fluffy.
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until a soft dough forms.
• Wrap the dough and refrigerate for about 2 hours so it firms up and is easy to roll.
• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease baking sheets.
• Roll the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness and cut into shapes using cookie cutters.
• Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one.
• Bake until the edges are just lightly golden, about 6 to 8 minutes.
• Let cookies cool briefly on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.

Preparation Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 48
Yield: 4 dozen cookies