It’s that time of year again – holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a plethora of baking traditions. One of our favorite ways to get into the spirit (pun intended) is by participating in a festive cookie exchange. Whether you’re hosting your own gathering or attending one as a guest, having a selection of delicious and varied cookies to share is key.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest palates. From classic favorites like chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin, to more unique offerings like red velvet and matcha green tea, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your apron and get baking – it’s time to spread some holiday cheer!
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
These chewy cookies are a staple for any occasion, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a treat to share with friends and family. With just the right balance of crispy edges and gooey centers, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Blossoms
These classic cookies are a holiday staple, featuring peanut butter dough rolled into balls and topped with a Hershey’s Kiss. The result is a sweet and salty combination that’s perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and sugars until smooth. Beat in eggs and milk.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until a dough forms.
5. Roll into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Remove from oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Snickerdoodle Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are a classic favorite, with their signature cinnamon-sugar flavor and crinkly surface. Perfect for a sweet treat or gift-giving, this recipe yields a batch of delicious snickerdoodles.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons cinnamon-sugar mixture (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, then roll each ball in cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat.
6. Place cookies 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Note: To make cinnamon-sugar mixture, combine 3 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
These classic cookies are a perfect blend of texture and flavor, with the warmth of oatmeal and the sweetness of raisins. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a batch of fresh-baked goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Stir in raisins.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Double Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Rich, chewy cookies filled with dark chocolate chips and topped with a crinkly surface – perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chunks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips and dark chocolate chunks.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) each. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies
Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies: A sweet and tangy treat that combines the classic buttery shortbread with a refreshing lemon glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Lemon glaze ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
5. Brush with egg wash and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing. Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and salt for the glaze. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
These soft-baked cookies get a pop of color from their signature red velvet hue and are paired perfectly with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a sweet treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup cream cheese frosting (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add red food coloring and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, to taste
Beat until smooth and creamy. Adjust powdered sugar to desired consistency.
Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing
Classic Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing Recipe
These soft and spicy gingerbread cookies are a perfect treat for the holiday season. Top them with a sweet and tangy royal icing for an extra-special touch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Royal icing (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs, then gradually add dry ingredients.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Royal Icing Recipe:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
Mix powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed.
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
A sweet and crunchy cookie that combines the richness of white chocolate with the nutty goodness of macadamias, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Peppermint Mocha Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the flavors of peppermint, chocolate, and mocha to create a unique and delicious treat perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup instant coffee powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and coffee powder.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies
A classic cookie recipe gets a boost of flavor with the addition of salted caramel filling and crunchy sea salt. These chewy cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– Salted caramel filling (homemade or store-bought)
– Flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill with salted caramel filling.
7. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Almond Joy Stuffed Cookies
Treat your taste buds to the perfect combination of chewy cookie and creamy Almond Joy filling. These bite-sized treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 12 Almond Joy bars, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped almonds and chopped Almond Joy bars.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Maple Glaze
Warm up to the flavors of fall with these soft and chewy pumpkin spice cookies, topped with a rich maple glaze. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– Maple glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree and eggs.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Maple Glaze:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tbsp pure maple syrup until smooth.
2. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Funfetti Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your day with these colorful and delicious sugar cookies, perfect for any celebration or special occasion. With a hint of vanilla and a burst of funfetti color, these chewy treats are sure to bring joy to anyone who tries them.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup funfetti sprinkles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in funfetti sprinkles.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Espresso Chocolate Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these rich and decadent espresso chocolate shortbread cookies. Perfect for a special occasion or just a pick-me-up, these chewy treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in granulated sugar, espresso powder, and vanilla extract.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Toffee Pecan Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with the flavors of toffee and pecans, making them a perfect snack or dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a batch of these delicious cookies ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup toffee bits
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in the flour mixture, then fold in pecans and toffee bits.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Raspberry Linzer Cookies
Raspberry Linzer Cookies: A Classic Shortbread-Style Cookie with a Sweet Raspberry Twist
These buttery cookies are filled with a sweet and tangy raspberry jam, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add flour, salt, and baking powder; mix until just combined.
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely before filling with raspberry jam.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are a game-changer – the nutty flavor of browned butter pairs perfectly with the sweetness of chocolate chips. With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious treats fresh out of the oven in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Brown the butter: Place the butter in a medium saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Whisk together sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Mix wet and dry ingredients, then stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Cookies
Elevate your baking game with these tender and flavorful Matcha Green Tea Cookies, infused with the subtle nuances of Japanese matcha powder. Perfect for tea enthusiasts and anyone looking to add a touch of green to their cookie jar.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup matcha powder
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add matcha powder, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the best of both worlds: the softness of a cinnamon roll and the convenience of a cookie. With just the right amount of sweetness and spice, they’re perfect for snacking or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, cream together butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a holiday cookie exchange like no other! This year, impress your friends and family with 20 festive cookie recipes that are sure to be a hit. From classic chocolate chip cookies to peanut butter blossoms and snickerdoodles, there’s something for everyone. Try double chocolate crinkle cookies, lemon glazed shortbread cookies, or red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting. Or go bold with gingerbread cookies with royal icing, white chocolate macadamia nut cookies, or peppermint mocha cookies. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday gathering.
