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MUST-MAKE Christmas Cookie Recipes 🎄 | BEST Holiday Cookies You’ll Bake Every Year!

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Eating on a Dime
Eating on a Dime
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Recipes in this Video

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Gingerbread cookies have a long history in American holiday traditions, often associated with Christmas. They are typically decorated with icing and candies, making them a festive treat. The practice of baking gingerbread dates back to ancient times, but the modern cookie form became popular in the 19th century. Today, they are enjoyed not only as a dessert but also as a fun activity for families during the holiday season.

Ingredients

  • all-purpose flour
  • ginger
  • cinnamon
  • nutmeg
  • brown sugar
  • molasses
  • baking soda
  • butter
  • eggs
  • vanilla extract
  • salt

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a bowl, mix flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
  3. 3In another bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
  4. 4Beat in the eggs and molasses, then add vanilla extract.
  5. 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
  6. 6Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
  7. 7Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  8. 8Cut out shapes using cookie cutters and place them on a baking sheet.
  9. 9Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are firm.
  10. 10Let cool on a wire rack before decorating.

Ingredient Alternatives

all-purpose flour

Healthier: whole wheat flour

More nutritious option.

brown sugar

Healthier: coconut sugar

Lower glycemic index.

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Healthier fat option or budget-friendly alternative.

Techniques

mixingrollingcuttingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlsbaking sheetrolling pincookie cutterswire rack
🌶️🌶️🌶️Mediumglutendairyeggs

Also Known As

Gingerbread MenSpiced Cookies

Sugar cookies are a classic American treat, often associated with holidays and celebrations. They are known for their sweet flavor and soft texture, making them a favorite among both children and adults. Traditionally, they are decorated with icing or sprinkles, especially during festive seasons like Christmas and Halloween. The simplicity of the recipe allows for variations, including different flavors and shapes, making them versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • all-purpose flour
  • granulated sugar
  • butter
  • eggs
  • vanilla extract
  • baking powder
  • salt

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
  3. 3Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. 4In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  6. 6Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets.
  7. 7Flatten each cookie slightly with the bottom of a glass.
  8. 8Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  9. 9Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
  10. 10Store in an airtight container.

Ingredient Alternatives

all-purpose flour

Healthier: whole wheat flour

Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients.

granulated sugar

Healthier: coconut sugar

Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index.

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is a healthier fat option.

Techniques

mixingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking sheetovenwhiskspatula
glutendairyegg

Also Known As

Sugar BiscuitsSweet Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies are a quintessential American treat, invented in the 1930s by Ruth Wakefield. They have become a beloved dessert worldwide, often associated with home baking and comfort food. Their popularity has led to numerous variations, including different types of chocolate and add-ins like nuts or dried fruit.

Ingredients

  • all-purpose flour
  • baking soda
  • salt
  • butter
  • brown sugar
  • granulated sugar
  • vanilla extract
  • eggs
  • chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  3. 3In another bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
  4. 4Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time.
  5. 5Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just combined.
  6. 6Fold in the chocolate chips.
  7. 7Drop spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets.
  8. 8Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.
  9. 9Remove from oven and let cool on sheets for a few minutes.
  10. 10Transfer cookies to wire racks to cool completely.

Ingredient Alternatives

all-purpose flour

Healthier: whole wheat flour

Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients.

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is a healthier fat option, while margarine can be more budget-friendly.

chocolate chips

Healthier: dark chocolate chips

Cheaper: chocolate chunks

Dark chocolate has less sugar and more antioxidants, while chocolate chunks can be less expensive.

Techniques

mixingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlswhiskbaking sheetsovenspatulawire racks
glutendairyeggs

Also Known As

Choco Chip CookiesCC Cookies

Peanut Butter Cookies originated in the United States in the early 20th century, gaining popularity as a classic American treat. They embody the spirit of home baking, often made for family gatherings and school events. Today, variations abound, including gluten-free and vegan options, making them a beloved snack worldwide.

Ingredients

  • peanut butter
  • granulated sugar
  • brown sugar
  • eggs
  • vanilla extract
  • baking soda
  • flour
  • salt

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
  3. 3Add eggs and vanilla extract; mix until fully incorporated.
  4. 4In a separate bowl, whisk together baking soda, flour, and salt.
  5. 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until combined.
  6. 6Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls.
  7. 7Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart.
  8. 8Flatten each ball with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.
  9. 9Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden.
  10. 10Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Ingredient Alternatives

peanut butter

Healthier: almond butter

Cheaper: sunflower seed butter

Almond butter offers similar flavor with less saturated fat.

granulated sugar

Healthier: coconut sugar

Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index.

brown sugar

Healthier: maple syrup

Cheaper: honey

Maple syrup adds moisture and a unique flavor.

flour

Healthier: whole wheat flour

Cheaper: all-purpose flour

Whole wheat flour increases fiber content.

Techniques

mixingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking sheetparchment paperforkwire rack
peanutsgluten

Also Known As

Peanut Butter BiscuitsPeanut Butter Treats

Snickerdoodles are a classic American cookie, believed to have originated in the 19th century. Their unique flavor comes from the combination of cinnamon and sugar, making them a favorite at family gatherings and holidays. Today, they are enjoyed in various forms, with some variations incorporating different spices or fillings, reflecting the evolving nature of this beloved treat.

Ingredients

  • all-purpose flour
  • baking soda
  • cream of tartar
  • salt
  • unsalted butter
  • granulated sugar
  • brown sugar
  • eggs
  • vanilla extract
  • cinnamon

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
  3. 3In a separate bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. 4Add eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until combined.
  5. 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. 6In a small bowl, combine cinnamon and sugar for rolling.
  7. 7Scoop dough into balls and roll each in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  8. 8Place dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart.
  9. 9Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set and tops are slightly cracked.
  10. 10Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Ingredient Alternatives

unsalted butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option while margarine is often less expensive.

granulated sugar

Healthier: coconut sugar

Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index, while white sugar is more readily available.

brown sugar

Healthier: maple sugar

Cheaper: white sugar

Maple sugar offers a unique flavor, while white sugar is cheaper and more common.

eggs

Healthier: flaxseed meal + water

Cheaper: applesauce

Flaxseed meal is a vegan alternative, while applesauce can reduce costs and add moisture.

Techniques

mixingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlswhiskbaking sheetparchment paperwire rack
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowglutendairyeggs

Also Known As

Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Thumbprint cookies have their roots in European baking traditions, particularly in Jewish communities where they are known as 'Hamentashen.' These delightful cookies are often filled with fruit preserves, embodying the joy of sharing sweet treats during celebrations. Today, they are popular in various forms around the world, with fillings ranging from chocolate to nut butters, making them a beloved choice for holidays and family gatherings.

Ingredients

  • butter
  • sugar
  • brown sugar
  • eggs
  • vanilla extract
  • flour
  • baking powder
  • salt
  • jam or jelly
  • chopped nuts
  • powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2Cream together butter, sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
  3. 3Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  4. 4In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. 5Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
  6. 6Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
  7. 7Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls.
  8. 8Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart.
  9. 9Use your thumb or a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie.
  10. 10Fill each indentation with jam or jelly of your choice.
  11. 11Sprinkle chopped nuts around the edges if desired.
  12. 12Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
  13. 13Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Ingredient Alternatives

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil offers a dairy-free option with a similar texture.

jam or jelly

Healthier: fruit preserves

Cheaper: store-brand jam

Fruit preserves have less sugar and more fruit content.

chopped nuts

Healthier: seeds

Cheaper: oats

Seeds provide a nut-free option while maintaining crunch.

powdered sugar

Healthier: coconut sugar

Cheaper: granulated sugar

Coconut sugar is less processed and adds a caramel flavor.

Techniques

creamingmixingbakingchilling

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking sheetparchment paperwire rack
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairyglutennuts

Also Known As

Jam-Filled CookiesJelly Cookies

Oatmeal raisin cookies are a classic American treat, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. They are known for their chewy texture and wholesome ingredients, making them a popular choice for both children and adults. The combination of oats and raisins provides a comforting flavor that evokes nostalgia for many. These cookies are often associated with home baking and are a staple in many households across the United States.

Ingredients

  • oats
  • all-purpose flour
  • brown sugar
  • granulated sugar
  • butter
  • eggs
  • vanilla extract
  • baking soda
  • cinnamon
  • salt
  • raisins

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
  3. 3Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. 4In another bowl, combine oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  5. 5Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined.
  6. 6Fold in the raisins.
  7. 7Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. 8Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
  9. 9Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
  10. 10Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Ingredient Alternatives

all-purpose flour

Healthier: whole wheat flour

Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients.

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Coconut oil is a healthier fat alternative.

brown sugar

Healthier: honey

Honey is a natural sweetener with additional health benefits.

Techniques

mixingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking sheetparchment paperwire rack
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowglutendairyegg

Also Known As

Oatmeal CookiesRaisin Cookies

Shortbread cookies, originating from Scotland, are a traditional treat often enjoyed during celebrations and holidays. Their rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture make them a beloved classic. Today, shortbread is enjoyed worldwide, with variations incorporating different flavors and ingredients, yet the original recipe remains a favorite for its simplicity and taste.

Ingredients

  • butter
  • sugar
  • all-purpose flour
  • cornstarch
  • vanilla extract
  • salt
  • powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2Cream butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
  3. 3Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
  4. 4Gradually add all-purpose flour and cornstarch, mixing until a dough forms.
  5. 5Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth.
  6. 6Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
  7. 7Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
  8. 8Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  9. 9Bake in the preheated oven until edges are lightly golden, about 12-15 minutes.
  10. 10Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
  11. 11Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
  12. 12Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil reduces saturated fat while providing a similar texture.

all-purpose flour

Healthier: almond flour

Cheaper: cake flour

Almond flour adds protein and healthy fats, while cake flour is often less expensive.

sugar

Healthier: stevia

Cheaper: brown sugar

Stevia offers a low-calorie alternative, while brown sugar is often cheaper.

vanilla extract

Healthier: vanilla bean

Cheaper: vanilla essence

Vanilla bean enhances flavor naturally, while essence is a budget-friendly option.

Techniques

creamingrollingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking sheetparchment paperrolling pincookie cutterswire rack
glutendairy

Also Known As

Scottish ShortbreadTraditional Shortbread

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