6 Christmas Cookie Names Youll Love

Christmas is just around the corner, and what's a festive celebration without a plate of delicious Christmas cookies? The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting from the oven is a surefire way to get you in the holiday spirit. In this article, we'll dive into six Christmas cookie names that you'll love, along with their recipes, histories, and fun facts.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, these Christmas cookie names will inspire you to create a sweet and memorable holiday treat for your loved ones.

1. Sugar Cookies: A Classic Christmas Treat

Sugar cookies are a staple of Christmas cookie exchanges and holiday parties. These classic cookies are made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, but their beauty lies in their versatility. You can decorate them with frosting, sprinkles, or even turn them into intricate designs with royal icing.

The Origins of Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies have been a part of Christmas traditions for centuries. The first recorded recipe dates back to the 1600s in England, where they were made with sugar, spices, and dried fruits. The cookies were often decorated with intricate designs and patterns, making them a popular treat among the wealthy.

2. Gingerbread Cookies: Spicy and Sweet

Gingerbread cookies are a favorite among Christmas cookie enthusiasts. These spicy and sweet treats are made with molasses, ginger, and cinnamon, which give them a distinct flavor and aroma. You can make them into various shapes, from simple rectangles to intricate houses and trees.

The History of Gingerbread

Gingerbread has a long history that dates back to ancient China and India, where ginger was used as a medicinal spice. The first recorded gingerbread recipe was found in a medieval cookbook from the 11th century. Gingerbread became popular in Europe during the Middle Ages, where it was used to make elaborate decorations and sculptures.

3. Snickerdoodles: Cinnamon-Sugar Delights

Snickerdoodles are a type of Christmas cookie that's soft, chewy, and utterly delicious. These cinnamon-sugar cookies are made with butter, sugar, eggs, and cream of tartar, which gives them a unique flavor and texture.

The Origins of Snickerdoodles

Snickerdoodles are believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The name "snickerdoodle" is thought to have come from the German word "schneckennudel," which means "cinnamon-sugar noodle."

4. Shortbread Cookies: Buttery and Crumbly

Shortbread cookies are a classic Scottish treat that's perfect for Christmas. These buttery and crumbly cookies are made with just three ingredients: butter, sugar, and flour. They're simple to make and are a great accompaniment to a cup of hot tea or coffee.

The History of Shortbread

Shortbread has been a staple of Scottish cuisine for centuries. The first recorded recipe dates back to the 12th century, where it was made with butter, sugar, and flour. Shortbread was originally a luxury item, as butter was expensive and difficult to come by.

5. Linzer Cookies: Jam-Filled Delights

Linzer cookies are a type of Christmas cookie that's filled with jam and topped with a lattice pattern of dough. These cookies are made with a shortbread-like dough and are a great way to use up leftover jam or preserves.

The Origins of Linzer Cookies

Linzer cookies are believed to have originated in Austria, where they're known as "Linzer Augen." The cookies are named after the city of Linz, where they were first made in the 17th century.

6. Russian Tea Cakes: Nutty and Buttery

Russian tea cakes are a type of Christmas cookie that's nutty, buttery, and utterly delicious. These cookies are made with ground nuts, butter, sugar, and flour, and are rolled in powdered sugar after baking.

The History of Russian Tea Cakes

Russian tea cakes are believed to have originated in Russia, where they were served at tea parties and social gatherings. The cookies were brought to the United States by Russian immigrants, where they became a popular Christmas treat.

Now that you've learned about these six Christmas cookie names, it's time to get baking! Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, these cookies are sure to be a hit at your holiday party.