As the snowflakes start to fall and the fireplace crackles, there’s nothing like a warm, cozy plate of freshly baked cookies to get you in the holiday spirit. And what better way to spread cheer than with a batch (or three) of deliciously festive winter cookies? In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to become new holiday traditions.
From classic gingerbread and peppermint flavors to more unique options like spiced molasses and chai-spiced sugar, there’s something for every cookie lover on this list. And with a mix of sweet and savory flavors, you’re sure to find the perfect treat to share with friends and family (or not – we won’t judge!).
So grab your mixing bowls and baking sheets, because it’s time to get cozy with these 18 winter cookie recipes that are guaranteed to make your holiday season merry and bright.
Gingerbread Snowflake Cookies
These delicate cookies are a perfect blend of spices and sweetness, shaped into intricate snowflakes that will add a touch of magic to your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
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, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into snowflake shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate with a delightful crinkled surface, making them perfect for a holiday gathering or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in chocolate chips.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between cookies.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft. Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and topped with a sweet glaze, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for glazing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and cinnamon in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before drizzling with confectioners’ sugar glaze.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Eggnog Snickerdoodles
These soft and chewy snickerdoodles are infused with the creamy flavor of eggnog, making them a perfect holiday treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons eggnog extract
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Sugar for rolling (optional)
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.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by eggnog extract and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll balls of dough in sugar (if desired) and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of white chocolate with the tartness of cranberries, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 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 together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in cranberries and white chocolate chips.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Spiced Molasses Cookies
Warm Up with Spiced Molasses Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the deep flavors of molasses, spices, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a holiday gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 large eggs
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
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 per batch
Hot Cocoa Cookies with Marshmallows
These soft-baked cookies are infused with the rich flavors of hot cocoa and topped with toasted marshmallows, making them a perfect treat for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup hot cocoa powder
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Marshmallows for topping (about 20-25)
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 butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add hot cocoa powder and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and top with marshmallows. Return to oven for an additional 1-2 minutes to toast the marshmallows.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Orange Cardamom Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the warmth of cardamom and the brightness of orange zest, making them a unique and delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 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.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Stir in ground cardamom, orange zest, and salt.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Maple Pecan Butter Cookies
Maple Pecan Butter Cookies Recipe
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with these scrumptious cookies, featuring the richness of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add maple syrup and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.
6. Stir in chopped pecans.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chai Spiced Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the warm, comforting flavors of chai spices, making them perfect for a cozy treat or gift. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Chai spice blend (or a mix of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg)
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, cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in chai spice blend (or individual spices).
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
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of dark chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint, perfect for the holiday season. With a crunchy sugar topping and a hint of mint, they’re sure to be a hit at any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. 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 sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Almond Joy Snowball Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the flavors of Almond Joy bars, making them a unique and tasty treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy these sweet and nutty cookies in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (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, oats, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Fold in chopped almonds.
6. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Brown Butter Toffee Cookies
These cookies combine the deep flavor of brown butter with the sweetness of toffee and the crunch of chopped pecans. Perfect for a special treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup toffee bits (such as Heath or Skor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Brown the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it has a nutty aroma and dark golden color (about 5-7 minutes).
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk in flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Stir in brown butter mixture, pecans, and toffee bits.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies
These soft-baked oatmeal cookies are infused with the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice and perfect for a chilly fall morning or afternoon pick-me-up. With a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, these treats will transport you to a crisp autumn day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– Optional: chopped nuts or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor
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, sugars, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in egg, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
A classic cookie recipe with a sweet and tangy twist, these Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
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 powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Use a thumb or cookie cutter to create thumbprint shapes.
7. Place a few fresh raspberries in each indentation.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramel Apple Spice Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweetness of caramel and crisp apple chunks, perfect for a cozy treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized)
– 1/4 cup caramel bits (or chopped caramel candies)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then fold in diced apples and caramel bits.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Dark Chocolate Cherry Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the deep flavors of dark chocolate and tart cherries to create a truly indulgent treat. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
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 sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and cherries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Rosemary Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your snack time with these citrusy and fragrant shortbread cookies, infused with the piney flavor of rosemary and a hint of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons dried rosemary leaves
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add lemon juice and rosemary; mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour; mix until a dough forms. Season with salt.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these 18 deliciously festive cookie recipes! From classic gingerbread snowflakes to spiced molasses and hot cocoa treats, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try your hand at making Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies or Eggnog Snickerdoodles, or go bold with Spiced Molasses Cookies or Brown Butter Toffee Cookies. Whatever you choose, these winter cookies are sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday season.
