easy christmas cookies that spread holiday joy in 25 minutes

Name: easy christmas cookies that spread holiday joy in 25 minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups white sugar; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 2 eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 2 cups chocolate chips; 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

November 30, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oh, the joy of baking during the holidays! There’s something magical about filling your kitchen with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies, especially when they’re easy Christmas cookies. I remember the first time I made these delightful treats for a family gathering. The kids were practically bouncing off the walls with excitement as we decorated them with sprinkles and icing. It wasn’t just about the cookies; it was about the laughter, the memories, and the warmth of being together. Trust me, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser and a perfect way to spread holiday cheer. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure!

Ingredients List

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups chocolate chips
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

How to Prepare Easy Christmas Cookies

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it helps your cookies bake evenly and gives that perfect golden edge we all love. So, set the temperature and let it warm up while you prepare the dough!

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This step is key! Make sure the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour to prevent any surprises in flavor. You want a nice, uniform mix so every bite is delightful!

Cream Butter and Sugars

Now, grab a large mixing bowl and cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 1/2 cups of white sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. I usually use an electric mixer for this part because it makes the job easier. You’re looking for a light and fluffy texture—about 2 to 3 minutes should do it. This step is crucial because it adds air to the mixture, making your cookies soft and chewy!

Incorporate Eggs and Extracts

Next, add in 2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the butter mixture. Beat the eggs in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps ensure everything blends smoothly. The extracts will give your cookies that lovely holiday scent!

Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir in the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. I like to do this in three parts, mixing gently until just combined. You want to avoid over-mixing here—just until there are no visible flour streaks. This keeps your cookies tender and not tough!

Add Chocolate Chips and Nuts

Now for the fun part! Gently fold in 2 cups of chocolate chips and, if you like, 1 cup of chopped nuts. I usually use a spatula for this to keep the chips from breaking. Just be careful not to over-mix—it’s okay if a few flour pockets remain, they’ll disappear in the oven!

Shape and Bake Cookies

Using a rounded spoon or cookie scoop, drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until they’re golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Trust me, they’ll continue to cook a bit after you take them out, giving you that perfect chewy texture!

Cooling the Cookies

Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This is so important! Cooling them completely helps them firm up and get that nice texture we crave. Plus, they’ll be easier to handle when it’s time to devour them!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so the numbers below are just a general guideline. Each cookie typically has:

Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 10g

It’s always a good idea to check the labels of your ingredients for the most accurate nutritional information!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation time: You can whip these up in just about 25 minutes, perfect for those busy holiday schedules!
Simple ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you won’t have to make a special trip to the store.
Perfect for holiday gatherings: These easy Christmas cookies are always a hit at parties, bringing smiles to faces young and old.
Customizable with favorite add-ins: Feel free to get creative! Swap in your favorite chocolates, nuts, or even dried fruits to make them your own.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your batch of easy Christmas cookies turns out perfectly every time! Here are some of my best tips that I’ve learned over the years:

Measure Accurately: Baking is a science! Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar, and make sure to level them off with a knife for precision. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, and nobody wants that!
Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. If it’s too warm, your cookies might spread too much. I usually take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before I start baking.
Chill the Dough: If you have the time, chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances the flavors. Plus, it can prevent them from spreading too much in the oven!
Keep an Eye on Them: Every oven is different! Start checking your cookies around the 9-minute mark. They should look slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out; they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. It also helps the cookies bake evenly.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the flour mixture with the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies—yuck!
Let Them Cool: Resist the urge to eat them straight from the oven! Letting them cool properly on wire racks is key for that perfect texture.
Experiment: Don’t hesitate to try different flavor combinations. Add a pinch of cinnamon or swap in white chocolate chips for a fun twist. The sky’s the limit!

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking the most delightful cookies that’ll have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Happy baking!

Variations on Easy Christmas Cookies

Now, let’s get a little creative with these easy Christmas cookies! The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is, so don’t be afraid to mix things up. Here are some fun variations that I absolutely love:

Chocolate Lovers: Swap out half of the chocolate chips for white chocolate or milk chocolate chips for a delicious twist. You can even add a handful of crushed peppermint candies for that festive flair!
Nutty Delight: If you’re a fan of nuts, try using different types like walnuts, pecans, or even macadamia nuts. Each nut will give a unique flavor and crunch!
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture for a warm, cozy flavor that screams holiday spirit. A little ginger can also add some zing!
Dried Fruits: Toss in some chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture and a hint of tartness. They not only taste great but also add a pop of color!
Caramel Swirls: Drizzle some caramel sauce into the cookie dough just before baking for a gooey surprise in every bite. Just be careful not to overdo it; a little goes a long way!
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. I’ve tried this and it works wonderfully, making these cookies accessible for everyone!
Holiday Sprinkles: For added festive cheer, sprinkle colored sugar or festive sprinkles on top of the cookies before baking. It’ll make them look as good as they taste!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on what you have in your pantry or what flavors you adore. Each variation will make these easy Christmas cookies uniquely yours and a hit at your holiday gatherings!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve baked up a delightful batch of easy Christmas cookies, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh and tasty! Here’s how to store them properly:

Store in an Airtight Container: Let the cookies cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps prevent them from getting stale and keeps them soft. I usually layer them with parchment paper between the layers to keep them from sticking together.
Room Temperature: You can keep your cookies at room temperature for about a week. Just make sure they’re in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Refrigeration: If you want to keep them a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Just know that chilling can sometimes change the texture a little, making them slightly firmer.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for about 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature!

If you want to reheat your cookies, just pop them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help revive that fresh-baked taste and melt the chocolate chips all over again—yum!

What to Serve with Easy Christmas Cookies

Now that you’ve baked up these delightful easy Christmas cookies, let’s talk about how to elevate your cookie experience! Pairing them with the right drinks and treats can really bring out the flavors and make your holiday gatherings even more special. Here are some of my favorite suggestions:

Hot Cocoa: There’s nothing quite like a warm cup of rich hot chocolate to complement the sweetness of your cookies. Top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for that extra touch of coziness!
Eggnog: If you’re in the mood for something festive, serve your cookies with a glass of creamy eggnog. The spiced flavors harmonize beautifully with the chocolate chips in the cookies!
Spiced Tea: A warm cup of chai or spiced herbal tea can balance out the sweetness and offer a comforting warmth that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Milk: You can’t go wrong with a classic glass of cold milk! It’s the ultimate pairing that brings out the cookie’s flavors and makes for a nostalgic treat.
Fruit Platter: For a refreshing contrast, serve your cookies alongside a platter of seasonal fruits. Think slices of crisp apples, juicy pears, or tangy pomegranate seeds to cleanse the palate.
Cheese Board: For something a bit different, consider a cheese board with a variety of cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits. The savory and sweet combination is a hit and adds a gourmet touch to your cookie spread!
Ice Cream: You could even make an ice cream sandwich! Just take two cookies and fill them with your favorite ice cream flavor for a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress.

Mix and match these pairings based on your mood and the vibe of your gathering. You’ll create a cozy, festive atmosphere that’ll have everyone coming back for more cookies! Enjoy the celebrations!

"As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases."

You might also like it

Christmas Cake Decoration Ideas to Spark Joy This Season

Light Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake: 7 Secrets to Perfect Bliss

Chewy Special K Bars Recipe: 15 Minutes to Happiness

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.