Get ready to spread some holiday cheer with the 10 best Christmas cookie exchange recipes! You've got options like Holly Wreaths, chock-full of cream cheese goodness, and Peppermint Stick Cookies that'll have everyone shouting, "Yum!" Don't forget the Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies with yummy fillings, or the nostalgic Cherry Snowballs, dusted in powdered sugar. Buttery Spritz Cookies and Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are both simple and delicious, while Cranberry Slices add a colorful twist. Finally, Mexican Wedding Cookies are the perfect melt-in-your-mouth treat. Trust me, your cookie platter wants these! There's plenty more tasty details waiting for you, so stick around!
Main Points
- Select a variety of cookie types, such as chocolate, fruity, and nutty, to appeal to different tastes at the exchange.
- Consider recipes like Chocolate Crinkle Cookies and Mexican Wedding Cookies for their visual appeal and melt-in-your-mouth textures.
- Incorporate festive flavors like peppermint or cherry to enhance the holiday spirit in your cookie selections.
- Ensure cookies can be made in advance and stored well, allowing for easy preparation before the event.
- Choose recipes that encourage creativity and fun, like Holly Wreaths or Buttery Spritz Cookies, to engage participants in the baking process.
Basic Cookie Dough
Making basic cookie dough is a simple and rewarding process that can serve as the foundation for a wide variety of delicious cookies. With just a few common pantry ingredients, you can whip up a batch of cookie dough that isn't only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences.
This dough can be transformed into classic chocolate chip cookies, nutty oatmeal cookies, or even festive spiced cookies for the holiday season. Once you've mastered this basic recipe, you'll find that the possibilities are endless. You can mix in your favorite add-ins such as chocolate chips, dried fruits, or nuts to create unique flavors.
Plus, any extra dough can be frozen for future baking, ensuring that you always have fresh cookies at your fingertips. Chilling the dough before baking helps to improve the flavors and textures, resulting in cookies that are perfectly chewy and delightful.
Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- Optional add-ins (e.g. chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruits)
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
If desired, fold in any optional add-ins such as chocolate chips or nuts. Once the dough is ready, cover it with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, as this will help achieve that light and fluffy texture when creaming with the sugars.
Chilling the dough is essential, as it not only improves the flavor but also prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
If you're not planning to bake all the dough at once, consider portioning it into balls and freezing them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the cookie dough balls to a zip-top bag for easy access to freshly baked cookies whenever you crave them!
Holly Wreaths
Holly Wreaths
Holly wreaths are a delightful addition to any holiday cookie exchange, combining a rich and creamy dough with vibrant decorations that capture the spirit of the season. With their unique spritz cookie texture, thanks to the inclusion of cream cheese, these cookies remain moist and flavorful, making them a favorite among both bakers and cookie lovers alike.
Shaping these cookies into festive wreaths not only improves their appeal but also allows for a touch of creativity with toppings and embellishments. Making holly wreaths is a fun and easy process that can involve the whole family.
Once baked, these cookies can be decorated with colorful icing, sprinkles, or even candy pieces, transforming them into cheerful holiday treats. They also store well, so you can prepare them in advance and have them ready for your festive gatherings, ensuring that you have a beautiful and tasty offering for your guests during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Green and red sugar sprinkles or edible decorations
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, butter, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using a cookie press or pastry bag fitted with a star tip, pipe the dough into wreath shapes on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool before decorating.
Extra Tips:
For a truly festive touch, consider adding small red candies or chocolate chips in the center of each wreath to represent holly berries. You can also experiment with different piping techniques to create varying shapes and sizes for your wreaths.
If you're short on time, these cookies can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to a week, retaining their moistness and flavor.
Peppermint Stick Cookies
Peppermint Stick Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season with their invigorating mint flavor and vibrant appearance. These cookies aren't only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them an ideal addition to any festive gathering or cookie exchange. Their cool mint essence perfectly captures the spirit of the holidays, and they can easily be packaged beautifully for gifting, making them a wonderful homemade present for friends and family.
Chilling the dough before baking is an essential step in this recipe, as it helps the cookies retain their shape and results in a perfectly textured cookie. Once baked, the peppermint stick cookies offer a lovely, crisp exterior with a chewy center, creating a delightful contrast that's sure to please everyone who tries them. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a holiday party or simply want to enjoy a festive treat at home, these cookies are a must-try.
Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)
- Additional crushed peppermint for garnish
Instructions:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and egg, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the crushed peppermint candies and white chocolate chips if using. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
Once chilled, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Sprinkle additional crushed peppermint on top before baking for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Extra Tips:
To elevate the flavor of your Peppermint Stick Cookies, consider adding a bit of crushed peppermint to the dough itself for an extra burst of minty invigorating flavor.
Make sure to keep an eye on the baking time, as cookies can quickly go from perfectly baked to overdone. If you prefer a softer cookie, remove them from the oven while they still look slightly underbaked, as they'll continue to firm up on the baking sheet.
Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday cookie exchange. With their rich chocolate base and nutty walnut coating, these cookies provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love. The surprise filling, whether chocolate ganache or jam, adds an exquisite touch that makes each bite a memorable experience.
These cookies aren't only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a fantastic choice for busy bakers during the holiday season. They can be made in advance and stored in the freezer, allowing you to have fresh cookies ready to impress your guests whenever you need them. Pair them with a scoop of ice cream for an extra special dessert that's sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup chocolate ganache or jam (for filling)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and egg yolk, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in chopped walnuts to coat. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove from the oven and fill each indentation with chocolate ganache or jam before letting them cool.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, allow the cookies to cool completely before filling them with ganache or jam, as this prevents the filling from melting into the cookies.
If you prefer a different nut, feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds. These cookies also make a fantastic base for holiday gift-giving; simply package them in a decorative tin for a thoughtful homemade present.
Cherry Snowballs
Cherry Snowballs Recipe
Cherry Snowballs are a delightful holiday treat that will add a splash of fun and flavor to any cookie exchange. With their soft, sweet texture and a surprise maraschino cherry center, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Inspired by a vintage newspaper recipe, they not only boast a nostalgic charm but also offer a festive look when generously coated in powdered sugar.
These treats are perfect for gifting, making them a thoughtful addition to your holiday festivities.
Preparing Cherry Snowballs is a breeze, whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out in the kitchen. The combination of simple ingredients and an easy cooking process guarantees that these cookies will become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire. Plus, you can easily modify the recipe with different fruit centers, allowing for a fun twist on this classic treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for coating
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 jar maraschino cherries, drained
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour, salt, and chopped nuts (if using), mixing until the dough comes together.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take small portions of dough and flatten them in your palm, placing a maraschino cherry in the center before forming the dough back around it. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar.
Extra Tips:
When preparing Cherry Snowballs, verify that the maraschino cherries are well-drained; excess moisture can affect the texture of the cookies.
For an added touch, consider chilling the formed dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking, which helps the cookies maintain their shape. If you want to experiment with different flavors, try substituting the maraschino cherries with other types of fruit centers, like diced dried apricots or chocolate chips, for a unique twist on this beloved holiday cookie.
Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Chocolate Cherry Cookies are a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and tart cherries that make them an irresistible treat for the holiday season. The combination of flavors offers a unique twist on traditional chocolate chip cookies, making them a perfect choice for cookie exchanges or festive gatherings.
The thick, chewy texture of these cookies guarantees that they're both satisfying and indulgent, appealing to a wide range of dessert lovers.
Making Chocolate Cherry Cookies is a simple process that anyone can master, regardless of baking experience. With ingredients that are typically found in most kitchens, you can whip up a batch in no time.
The versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment with different types of chocolate, whether you prefer dark, milk, or white chocolate, improving the cookie's flavor profile to suit your taste. Plus, their visual appeal makes them a standout addition to any cookie platter.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips (dark, milk, or white)
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped dried cherries. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Extra Tips:
For an added touch of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of almond extract along with the vanilla. This will improve the cherry flavor and add a nice depth to the cookies.
If you prefer a chewier cookie, slightly underbake them by a minute or two. Additionally, feel free to substitute the dried cherries with other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a different flavor experience.
To make the cookies even more festive, sprinkle a little sea salt on top before baking for a delightful sweet and salty contrast.
Buttery Spritz Cookies
Buttery spritz cookies are a classic holiday treat that brings joy to any cookie exchange. With their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies aren't only delicious but also visually appealing when shaped into festive designs. The use of a cookie press allows for creativity, making it easy to craft stunning cookies that will impress friends and family.
Whether you prefer a hint of vanilla or the nutty essence of almond, spritz cookies can be tailored to suit your taste, making them a versatile addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
Making buttery spritz cookies is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort with maximum flavor payoff. With just a handful of common pantry ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delightful cookies in no time. Plus, they store beautifully in airtight containers, so you can prepare them ahead of time for your holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges.
Let's plunge into the recipe and get ready to spread some holiday cheer with these delightful treats!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond/lemon extract)
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just incorporated.
Transfer the dough to a cookie press and shape the cookies onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Extra Tips:
For best results, make sure that your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough. Be sure not to overmix once you add the flour, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
Experiment with different extracts or add a sprinkle of colored sugar or sprinkles before baking for a festive touch. Remember to store your spritz cookies in airtight containers at room temperature to keep them fresh for weeks, making them perfect for holiday sharing!
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of holiday baking with their rich chocolate flavor and eye-catching appearance. These cookies are soft and fudgy on the inside, with a beautiful, cracked surface dusted in powdered sugar, making them a staple for any cookie exchange or festive gathering.
The simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make these cookies an accessible choice for bakers of all skill levels, allowing you to whip up a batch quickly to share with family and friends. The secret to achieving the perfect crinkle effect lies in chilling the dough before baking. This step guarantees that the cookies maintain their shape while allowing the tops to crack beautifully as they bake.
When served, Chocolate Crinkle Cookies not only taste incredible but also offer a visually stunning presentation that's sure to impress. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or stored in an airtight container for a week, they're assured to be a hit during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil, mixing until well blended. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add to the cocoa mixture, stirring until a thick dough forms. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoons of dough, roll them into balls, and then roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies have spread and cracked on top. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, make sure to chill the dough thoroughly; this will help prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating chocolate chips or nuts into the dough. Experiment with different types of sugars, like brown sugar, for a deeper flavor profile.
Cranberry Slices
Cranberry slices are a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter, striking a perfect balance between sweet and tart that will leave your guests wanting more. The vibrant red of the dried cranberries makes these cookies not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them an ideal choice for festive occasions.
Their chewy texture and easy-to-slice nature guarantee that they're perfect for sharing during cookie exchanges, where each guest can enjoy a variety of treats. To improve the flavor of your cranberry slices, consider adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans, or incorporate warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
This versatility allows you to tailor the cookies to your personal taste or to offer a unique twist on the traditional recipe. Once baked, a glossy glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar can raise their presentation, making them a true centerpiece at your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
Fold in the dried cranberries and nuts if using. Divide the dough in half, shape each portion into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.
When preparing cranberry slices, it's crucial to guarantee that the dough is adequately chilled before slicing, as this will help maintain their shape during baking. You can also experiment with different types of dried fruits or nuts to create new flavor profiles.
For a festive touch, consider glazing the cookies with a mixture of powdered sugar and milk for a shiny finish, or drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for added indulgence. Enjoy your cookie-making experience and the joyful atmosphere it brings!
Mexican Wedding Cookies
Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as Polvorones, are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. These traditional buttery cookies aren't only rich in flavor but also have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them irresistible.
The combination of finely chopped nuts, typically pecans or almonds, adds a wonderful crunch and improves the complete taste of the cookies. Coated in powdered sugar, they've an elegant appearance that makes them perfect for cookie exchanges and festive occasions.
Making Mexican Wedding Cookies is a simple process that results in a treat that everyone will love. The dough is flavored with vanilla or almond extract, giving it a warm and inviting aroma as they bake.
Whether you're enjoying these cookies yourself or sharing them with friends and family, their soft, crumbly texture and sweet, nutty flavor will make them a memorable part of your holiday traditions.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans or almonds)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cooking Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract, followed by the flour, salt, and chopped nuts until just combined.
Divide the dough into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar while they're still warm, then place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider toasting the nuts before chopping and adding them to the dough. This will improve their nuttiness and add depth to the cookies.
Additionally, if you prefer a slightly denser texture, you can chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. Remember to store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness, and feel free to experiment with different nut varieties or extracts to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe!