‘Tis the season for sweet treats and festive flavors! Christmas butter cookies are a classic holiday favorite that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a traditionalist who likes to stick with tried-and-true recipes or an adventurous cook looking to try something new, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 deliciously decadent Christmas butter cookie recipes that are sure to satisfy your holiday cravings.
From classic vanilla and chocolate-dipped flavors to more unique options like peppermint crunch and lemon glaze, there’s something for everyone in our collection of festive cookies. And the best part? Each recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making them perfect for busy home cooks who want to whip up a batch without breaking a sweat.
So go ahead, get cozy by the fireplace, and let the cookie-baking magic begin!
Classic Vanilla Christmas Butter Cookies
A sweet and buttery treat that’s perfect for your holiday gathering or as a gift for friends and family. These classic vanilla cookies are a timeless favorite that combines the simplicity of a sugar cookie with the richness of melted butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 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 powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Butter Cookies with Sprinkles
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these indulgent cookies, dipped in rich chocolate and topped with colorful sprinkles!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
– Colored sprinkles for topping
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture and mix until combined.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate and immediately sprinkle with colored sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes per batch
Peppermint Crunch Butter Cookies
Brighten up your holiday baking with these refreshing Peppermint Crunch Butter Cookies. With a crinkly surface and a soft, chewy center, these treats are sure to become a new 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 granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (such as Peppermint M&M’s)
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
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 egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in crushed peppermint candies.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Glazed Christmas Butter Cookies
Brighten up your holiday season with these refreshing and flavorful lemon glazed butter cookies. Perfect for gift-giving or a festive dessert, these treats are sure to spread cheer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Colored sprinkles or holly berries for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolk and lemon zest.
3. Gradually add flour; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing with lemon mixture (see below).
7. Glaze cooled cookies by whisking together lemon juice and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Drizzle over cookies.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gingerbread Spiced Butter Cookies
Gingerbread Spiced Butter Cookies Recipe
These warm-spiced cookies are a perfect treat for the holiday season. With the combination of crystallized ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
– 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, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and crystallized ginger until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: 24-30 cookies
Almond Shortbread Christmas Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies infused with the warmth of almonds are a perfect treat for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of 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 to the bowl and mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in sliced almonds and vanilla extract.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Butter Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies combine the warmth of cinnamon with the richness of butter, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a batch of these delicious cookies in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 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
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
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. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Add cinnamon and vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture; mix until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggnog-Flavored Butter Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are infused with the warm, comforting flavors of eggnog, perfect for a holiday treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup eggnog-flavored extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped nutmeg or ground cinnamon for garnish
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 eggnog-flavored extract and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., circles or stars).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cranberry Orange Butter Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the flavors of fresh cranberries and orange zest with a hint of butter, perfect for a holiday cookie exchange or a special treat.
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
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tbsp orange zest
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
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 eggs one at a time.
4. Add the flour mixture, cranberries, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
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 edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Pecan Butter Cookies
Maple Pecan Butter Cookies Recipe
These soft-baked cookies combine the richness of butter and maple syrup with the crunch of toasted pecans, perfect for a sweet treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add flour and mix until just combined. Stir in pecans and salt.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Red Velvet Butter Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Experience the perfect combination of sweet and tangy with these indulgent Red Velvet Butter Cookies paired with a rich Cream Cheese Frosting.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup red velvet cake mix
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Cream Cheese Frosting (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually add the red velvet cake mix to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Spread or pipe onto cooled cookies.
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Butter Cookies
Brighten up your snack time with these chewy cookies infused with the richness of white chocolate and the crunch of macadamia nuts. These sweet treats are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in chopped macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pistachio and Rosewater Butter Cookies
These crumbly cookies combine the nutty goodness of pistachios with the subtle sweetness of rosewater, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup ground pistachios
– 1 tsp rosewater
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– Salt to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add pistachios, rosewater, baking powder, and salt; mix until well combined.
3. Beat in the egg until smooth.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before transferring to a plate to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Brown Sugar Butter Cookies with Caramel Drizzle
These chewy cookies are infused with the warmth of brown sugar and the richness of butter, topped off with a sweet and sticky caramel drizzle. Perfect for a special treat or as a gift to friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 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 brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Caramel drizzle (recipe 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.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Caramel Drizzle:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Combine ingredients in a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until caramel turns golden. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Cherry Almond Butter Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the sweetness of cherries and the nutty flavor of almonds, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup cherry jam or preserves
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Chopped cherries and sliced almonds for garnish (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. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and cherry jam until smooth. Add almond butter and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add flour mixture to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Spiced Chai Butter Cookies
Warm up with the aroma of spices and sweetness in these Spiced Chai Butter Cookies. Perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a thoughtful gift, these tender treats are infused with the comforting flavors of chai.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Chai spice blend (or a combination of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves)
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, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add honey, egg, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Coconut Snowball Butter Cookies
Coconut Snowball Butter Cookies Recipe
A sweet treat that combines the richness of butter and coconut with a hint of vanilla, these cookies are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
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 granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Stir in shredded coconut.
5. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Double Chocolate Peppermint Butter Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the richness of chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint, perfect for a holiday treat or gift. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these deliciously festive treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
– 2 tablespoons peppermint extract
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 sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until combined.
4. Stir in chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, and peppermint extract.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetest holiday season ever with these 18 deliciously decadent Christmas butter cookies recipes! From classic vanilla and chocolate-dipped treats to unique flavors like peppermint crunch, lemon glazed, and gingerbread spiced, there’s something for every taste bud. Plus, creative combinations like cinnamon roll, eggnog-flavored, and cranberry orange will keep things interesting. Whether you’re a fan of nuts, spices, or bright colors, these festive butter cookies are sure to spread holiday cheer. So go ahead, get baking, and make this Christmas one to remember!
