Christmas Cookies And Treats To Make This Holiday Season

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than by baking some delicious Christmas cookies and treats? The aroma of sweet spices and melting chocolate is sure to fill your home with warmth and joy. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, we've got you covered with a list of mouth-watering Christmas cookie and treat recipes to try this holiday season.

The art of baking Christmas cookies is a time-honored tradition that brings families and friends together. It's a time to share stories, laughter, and of course, delicious treats. From classic sugar cookies to gingerbread men, and from snickerdoodles to shortbread, the options are endless. So, grab your mixing bowls, preheat your oven, and let's get baking!

Classic Christmas Cookie Recipes

When it comes to Christmas cookies, some recipes stand the test of time. Here are a few classic recipes that are sure to become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire.

Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are a classic Christmas treat that can be decorated with frosting and sprinkles to make them even more festive. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
8. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
9. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Decorate with frosting and sprinkles, if desired.

Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that's perfect for dunking in hot chocolate or tea. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

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, softened
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in the eggs until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
8. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
9. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Easy Christmas Treats to Make with Kids

Baking with kids is a great way to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. Here are a few easy Christmas treat recipes that are perfect for kids to help with.

Rice Krispie Treats

Rice Krispie treats are a classic childhood favorite that's easy to make and always a hit with kids. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup marshmallows
• 1/4 cup melted butter or margarine
• Food coloring (optional)
• Sprinkles or other decorations (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter or margarine over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the food coloring, if desired.
4. Add the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well coated.
5. Press into a greased 9x13 inch pan.
6. Allow to cool and harden before cutting into bars.
7. Decorate with sprinkles or other decorations, if desired.

Peppermint Bark

Peppermint bark is a simple and delicious Christmas treat that's perfect for kids to help with. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chocolate chips (white or milk chocolate)
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (peppermint candies)
• 1 tsp shortening (optional)

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
3. Stir in the shortening, if using.
4. Pour onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into a thin layer.
5. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
6. Refrigerate until set, about 30 minutes.
7. Break into pieces and serve.

Christmas Cookie Decorating Ideas

Decorating Christmas cookies is a fun and creative way to add an extra special touch to your holiday baking. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Royal Icing

Royal icing is a classic decorating icing made from powdered sugar and egg whites. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp egg whites
• Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and egg whites until smooth.
2. Add food coloring, if desired, and mix until well combined.
3. Use to decorate cookies, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Piping Borders

Piping borders is a great way to add a decorative touch to your Christmas cookies. Here's a simple technique to get you started:

1. Fit a piping bag with a round tip.
2. Fill with royal icing and pipe a border around the edge of the cookie.
3. Use a variety of tips and techniques to create different border designs.

Sprinkles and Nonpareils

Sprinkles and nonpareils are a fun and easy way to add color and texture to your Christmas cookies. Here's a simple technique to get you started:

1. Sprinkle with sprinkles or nonpareils immediately after baking, while the cookies are still warm.
2. Use a variety of colors and shapes to create different designs.

Conclusion

Baking Christmas cookies and treats is a fun and delicious way to get into the holiday spirit. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, we hope these recipes and decorating ideas have inspired you to create some sweet treats this holiday season. So, grab your mixing bowls, preheat your oven, and let's get baking!