Holiday Cookie Collection: 18 Festive Recipes

Holiday Cookie Collection Festive has always been my favorite part of the season. The moment the air gets crisp and the first Christmas carols play, I start dreaming of sugar, spice, and everything nice. I remember one year, my kitchen was filled with the warm, comforting scent of gingerbread and cinnamon. My little sister and I spent hours decorating, our fingers sticky with frosting, creating a truly festive holiday cookie assortment that brought smiles to everyone who saw it. Now, I’ve gathered some of the best festive holiday cookie ideas to share with you, so you can create your own delicious memories. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Holiday Cookie Collection Festive

This collection is a baker’s dream, packed with incredible flavors and designed for ease. You’ll adore the:

• Incredible Taste: From rich chocolate to zesty lemon, every bite is a celebration.
• Speedy Prep: Most recipes take under 25 minutes of active prep time, perfect for busy schedules.
• Budget-Friendly Joy: These homemade festive holiday cookie recipes use common pantry staples, making them affordable.
• Family Fun: Little hands love helping with scooping, decorating, and, of course, tasting!
• Versatile Assortment: This holiday cookie assortment festive fits any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal parties.
• Aromatic Kitchen: Fill your home with the irresistible scents of cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla – pure holiday magic.
• Crowd-Pleasing Variety: With 18 unique recipes, there’s truly something for everyone.

Ingredients for Your Festive Holiday Cookie Assortment

Gather these goodies to create your ultimate holiday cookie assortment festive!

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – essential for creamy dough
• 1 cup brown sugar – adds moisture and caramel notes
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness and crisp edges
• 2 large eggs – bind everything together
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – a classic flavor enhancer
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – the base for our cookies
• 1 tsp baking soda – helps cookies rise
• 1/2 tsp salt – balances sweetness
• 1 cup chopped pecans – for a nutty crunch
• 1/2 cup toffee bits – adds delightful chewiness and caramel flavor
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar – for a delicate coating
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice – brightens flavor
• Zest of 1 lemon – intense citrus aroma
• 1 cup peanut butter – a creamy, classic cookie staple
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips – melts beautifully
• 1 large egg – for binding
• Zest of 1 orange – adds a festive citrus twist
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries – for a chewy, tart bite
• 3 cups rolled oats – provides texture in oatmeal cookies
• 1 cup raisins – a sweet, chewy addition
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips – deep chocolate flavor
• 1 tsp almond extract – a warm, nutty aroma
• 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds – for texture and flavor
• Additional powdered sugar for rolling – for a snowy finish
• 1/2 cup raspberry jam – a sweet, fruity filling
• 1 cup white chocolate chips – creamy sweetness
• 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts – rich and buttery
• 3/4 cup brown sugar – for that classic molasses cookie chew
• 1/2 cup molasses – the key to chewy gingerbread
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – structure for spiced cookies
• 1 tsp ground ginger – warming spice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon – classic holiday flavor
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves – adds depth
• 1/2 cup baking soda – crucial for gingerbread spread
• 1/4 tsp salt – flavor enhancer
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar for rolling – creates a sparkly crust
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract – a refreshing minty kick
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes – festive and fun
• 1/2 cup crushed pretzels – a salty crunch contrast
• 1/2 cup red and green M&Ms – colorful holiday cheer
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter – for rich chocolate cookies
• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips – double the chocolate!
• 1 cup granulated sugar – sweetens our chocolate cookies
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – the backbone of the dough
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – for deep chocolate flavor
• 1/2 tsp baking soda – for lift
• 1/4 tsp salt – balances the sweetness
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips optional – extra chocolatey goodness
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – the base for sugar cookies
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – for a crisp sugar cookie
• 1 tsp cream of tartar – helps tenderize
• 1/2 tsp baking soda – for a slight puff
• 1/4 tsp salt – enhances flavor
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar for rolling – for that signature sparkle
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon for rolling – adds warmth to sugar cookies

How to Make This Holiday Cookie Collection Festive

Creating this amazing festive cookie assortment for the holidays is easier than you think! Follow these steps to fill your home with delicious aromas and beautiful treats.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for most recipes, or 375°F (190°C) for Snickerdoodles. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and develop that perfect golden edge.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender cookie texture.
3. Step 3: Beat in the large eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. The aroma starting to fill your kitchen is the first sign of festive holiday baking!
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients like all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and any spices specific to the cookie type. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and flavors.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
6. Step 6: Gently fold in any additional ingredients like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, dried fruit, or toffee bits. These additions create the wonderful variety in our holiday cookie assortment festive.
7. Step 7: For shaped cookies like gingerbread or sugar cookies, it’s important to chill the dough as instructed in their individual recipes. Chilled dough is easier to roll and cut cleanly.
8. Step 8: Scoop or roll the dough into uniform balls and place them on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Flatten slightly if the recipe calls for it, especially for cookies that don’t spread much.
9. Step 9: For thumbprint cookies, press your thumb gently into the center of each dough ball to create a well for jam or other fillings.
10. Step 10: Bake for 8-14 minutes, depending on the cookie type and size, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary.
11. Step 11: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes after removing them from the oven. This allows them to set slightly before you transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Step 12: Once fully cooled, it’s time for decorating! Prepare your glazes, frostings, or melted chocolate and apply them carefully. This is where your creative festive cookie decorating ideas holidays really shine!
13. Step 13: For specific recipes, like Spiced Molasses Cookies, roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before baking for a sparkly, slightly crisp crust.
14. Step 14: For Almond Snowball Cookies, the magic happens after baking – roll the cooled cookies generously in powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
15. Step 15: Remember to follow individual recipe instructions for any specific resting or chilling times before or after baking to achieve the best results for your holiday baking festive cookie recipes.

Pro Tips for the Best Festive Holiday Cookies

Achieving cookie perfection is all about a few key details. Here are my top tips to ensure your holiday baking festive cookie recipes are a smashing success:

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh butter, good vanilla, and quality chocolate make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Chill your dough: For cutout cookies, chilling prevents spreading and makes them easier to handle.
• Don’t overbake: Cookies continue to bake on the hot sheet after you pull them from the oven, so aim for just-golden edges.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off; don’t scoop directly from the bag, as this compacts the flour. For more on baking science, check out King Arthur Baking’s ingredient guides.

What’s the secret to perfect festive holiday cookies?

The secret lies in understanding your dough and your oven. Using the right ingredients, chilling dough when needed, and not overmixing are crucial. Paying attention to baking times ensures that perfect texture every time for your holiday cookie assortment festive.

Can I make this holiday cookie collection ahead of time?

Absolutely! Most cookie doughs can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can even freeze dough balls for up to 3 months, ready to bake whenever the craving strikes for your festive cookie assortment for holidays. For more on freezing dough, see Food Network’s guide.

How do I avoid common mistakes with festive holiday cookies?

A common pitfall is overmixing the dough once flour is added, leading to tough cookies. Another is overbaking; watch for those golden edges. Finally, ensure your baking sheets aren’t overcrowded, allowing heat to circulate properly for even baking in your holiday cookie collection festive. If you’re looking for more troubleshooting tips, the Allrecipes troubleshooting guide is very helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Your Festive Cookie Assortment for Holidays

Presenting your beautiful holiday cookie assortment festive is almost as fun as making them! For a classic cookie exchange, arrange a variety on a tiered stand, letting guests pick their favorites. For parties, create stunning holiday cookie platters festive by mixing textures and colors. Imagine a platter with chewy gingerbread, crisp sugar cookies, and rich chocolate crinkles – it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate!

Consider pairing your cookies with warm apple cider or a creamy eggnog for the ultimate winter treat. They also make delightful additions to a dessert buffet, offering a sweet bite alongside cakes and pies. For a truly special touch, package a selection in decorative holiday cookie tins festive as thoughtful gifts for friends, family, or colleagues. You can find more gift ideas on our latest recipes page.

Nutrition Facts for Holiday Cookie Collection Festive

Crafting this wonderful holiday cookie collection festive is a joy, and knowing the nutritional breakdown can help you enjoy them mindfully. Here’s an approximate look at what you can expect per cookie, though values will vary significantly based on the specific recipes you choose from this delightful assortment.

• Calories: Varies by recipe (approx. 100-250 kcal)
• Fat: Varies by recipe (approx. 5-15g)
• Saturated Fat: Varies by recipe (approx. 3-8g)
• Protein: Varies by recipe (approx. 1-3g)
• Carbohydrates: Varies by recipe (approx. 10-25g)
• Fiber: Varies by recipe (approx. 0-2g)
• Sugar: Varies by recipe (approx. 8-20g)
• Sodium: Varies by recipe (approx. 30-100mg)

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in each of your festive holiday cookie recipes. For more information on dietary needs, please see our about page.

How to Store and Reheat Your Festive Holiday Cookie Collection

To keep your delicious festive holiday cookie collection tasting its best, proper storage is key. Make sure all cookies are completely cooled before storing. This is vital to prevent condensation, which can make your cookies soggy. Store them in airtight containers. For short-term storage, your refrigerator is perfect for keeping them fresh for about 3-4 days. This is especially good for cookies with creamy fillings or glazes. You can find suitable containers on our homepage.

If you’ve made a big batch of your holiday cookie assortment festive and fun, don’t worry! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Layer cookies between parchment paper in freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent sticking and freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. For a quick warm-up, gently reheat cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3-5 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked warmth and aroma, making them taste like they just came out of the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions About Festive Holiday Cookie Recipes

What makes holiday cookies so festive?

Holiday cookies are festive because they often incorporate seasonal ingredients, colors, and shapes. Think spices like cinnamon and ginger for warmth, red and green decorations, or classic shapes like stars and trees. They evoke feelings of celebration and togetherness, making them a beloved part of any holiday cookie collection festive.

Can I substitute ingredients in these festive holiday cookie recipes?

While many recipes are forgiving, it’s best to stick close to the original measurements for the best results in your holiday cookie assortment festive. For example, changing the type of flour or the amount of fat can significantly alter texture. If you need to make dietary substitutions, look for recipes specifically designed for those needs. For more on substitutions, consult our terms of use page for general guidelines.

How do I get that perfect holiday cookie platter festive look?

To create a stunning holiday cookie platter festive display, aim for variety in shape, color, and texture. Arrange cookies artfully, perhaps using a tiered stand. Consider adding decorative elements like fresh rosemary sprigs or cinnamon sticks. It’s all about creating a visually appealing and delicious centerpiece for your holiday gathering.

What are some easy festive holiday cookie collection ideas for beginners?

For beginners, simple drop cookies like chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin are fantastic starting points for your easy festive holiday cookie collection. Sugar cookies that can be cut into shapes and decorated are also great, as are no-bake cookies. The key is to start with recipes that have fewer steps and require less precise technique. You can find more beginner-friendly recipes on our GDPR page.

Variations of Festive Holiday Cookies You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basics of this holiday cookie collection festive, don’t be afraid to get creative! You can easily adapt these recipes to suit different tastes and dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delightful treat during the holiday season. Here are a few ideas to inspire your baking adventures.

• Gluten-Free Delight: For a wonderful gluten-free holiday cookie assortment festive, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. Many recipes work beautifully with this substitution, allowing those with gluten sensitivities to join in the festive fun.
• Vegan Sweetness: To create vegan festive holiday cookie recipes, replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water) or commercial egg replacers. Ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free for a fully vegan treat.
• Spiced Variations: Amp up the warmth in your winter holiday cookie collection ideas by adding extra spices. Consider a pinch of cardamom to your gingerbread cookies, or a touch of nutmeg to your shortbread for a more complex flavor profile that enhances the festive cookie assortment for holidays.
• Nut-Free Options: If allergies are a concern, simply omit nuts from recipes like the pecan or almond cookies. You can substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch, or add extra chocolate chips or dried fruit to maintain that delightful texture in your holiday cookie recipes festive and fun.

Holiday Cookie Collection: 18 Festive Recipes

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 30-45 minutes (plus chilling/cooling time)
• Yield: Approximately 24-36 cookies per recipe 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

A curated collection of 18 festive holiday cookie recipes, perfect for cookie exchanges, parties, or gifts. This assortment features a variety of flavors and textures, from classic shortbread to rich chocolate, spiced gingerbread, and chewy oatmeal. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the sweet aroma of holiday baking.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup toffee bits
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 large egg
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
• Additional powdered sugar for rolling
• 1/2 cup raspberry jam
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar for rolling
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup crushed pretzels
• 1/2 cup red and green M&Ms
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips optional
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cream of tartar
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar for rolling
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon for rolling

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) for most recipes, or 375°F (190°C) for Snickerdoodles.
2. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Fold in any additional ingredients like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
7. For shaped cookies like gingerbread or sugar cookies, chill the dough as instructed.
8. Scoop or roll dough into balls and place on baking sheets. Flatten slightly if needed.
9. Press a thumbprint into the center for thumbprint cookies.
10. Bake for 8-14 minutes, depending on the cookie type, or until edges are lightly golden.
11. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. For decorated cookies, prepare glazes or frostings and apply once cookies are fully cooled.
13. Dip cookies in melted chocolate or roll in toppings as specified.
14. For specific recipes like Gingerbread, chill dough for 1 hour before rolling and cutting.
15. For Spiced Molasses Cookies, roll balls in granulated sugar before baking.
16. For Almond Snowball Cookies, roll in powdered sugar after cooling.
17. Follow individual recipe instructions for specific resting or chilling times.

Notes

• Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
• Use softened butter for best creaming results.
• Do not overmix the dough once flour is added.
• Cool cookies completely before decorating or storing.
• Adjust baking time based on your oven and cookie size.
• Many recipes can be made ahead and stored in airtight containers.
• Consider using parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• For a festive presentation, arrange cookies on platters or in tins.
• Get the full recipe and printable versions via the provided links for each cookie.

• Prep Time: 15-25 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-14 minutes per batch
• Category: Dessert/Baking
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: Varies by recipe (approx. 100-250 kcal)
• Sugar: Varies by recipe (approx. 8-20g)
• Sodium: Varies by recipe (approx. 30-100mg)
• Fat: Varies by recipe (approx. 5-15g)
• Saturated Fat: Varies by recipe (approx. 3-8g)
• Unsaturated Fat: Varies by recipe
• Trans Fat: Varies by recipe (typically 0g)
• Carbohydrates: Varies by recipe (approx. 10-25g)
• Fiber: Varies by recipe (approx. 0-2g)
• Protein: Varies by recipe (approx. 1-3g)
• Cholesterol: Varies by recipe (approx. 10-40mg)

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