The holidays are magical, but let’s face it—they can also be hectic. Between wrapping gifts, decorating the tree, and managing a packed calendar, baking Christmas cookies might seem like a distant dream. But don’t worry! You don’t have to sacrifice festive treats because you’re short on time. These 10 quick and easy Christmas cookie recipes are perfect for last-minute bakers. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up delightful cookies that will impress everyone.
Table of Contents
Why Last-Minute Christmas Cookies Are a Holiday Lifesaver
The holiday season can be unpredictable. Maybe you forgot about the office cookie swap or need a quick dessert for unexpected guests. That’s where last-minute Christmas cookies come to the rescue. They’re fast, fuss-free, and guaranteed to bring a little extra joy to your celebrations.
The Time-Saving Benefits
- Most of these recipes can be completed in 30 minutes or less.
- They use pantry staples you likely already have.
Impress Without Stress
Homemade cookies always have that special touch, even if they’re quick to make. Your friends and family will never guess you whipped them up at the eleventh hour.
Essential Tips for Quick and Easy Christmas Cookies
Before diving into the recipes, here are some tips to ensure smooth baking:
1. Stock Your Pantry
Keep essentials like flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and baking soda on hand. Festive extras like sprinkles, chocolate chips, and cinnamon can elevate even the simplest cookies.
2. Embrace Shortcuts
- Use pre-made dough for a head start.
- Decorate with store-bought icing to save time.
3. Keep Tools Handy
A baking sheet, parchment paper, and a cookie scoop are must-haves for efficient baking.
10 Quick and Easy Christmas Cookie Recipes for Busy Bakers
1. Classic Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies are a holiday staple, and they’re incredibly easy to make.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Butter | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/2 cups |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Baking powder | 1/2 tsp |
Quick Tip: Roll out the dough, use festive cutters, and decorate with sprinkles or store-bought icing.
2. No-Bake Chocolate Oat Cookies
Skip the oven with these quick treats. They combine rich chocolate and hearty oats for a crowd-pleasing dessert.
- Ingredients: Oats, cocoa powder, sugar, butter, and milk.
- Steps:
- Heat cocoa, sugar, butter, and milk in a saucepan.
- Stir in oats and drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper.
- Let them set at room temperature.
3. Peanut Butter Blossoms
These cookies combine soft peanut butter dough with a chocolate Hershey’s Kiss for a festive touch.
Quick Tip: Pre-made peanut butter cookie dough works like a charm.
4. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels
Technically not cookies, but they’re perfect for last-minute baking.
- Steps:
- Dip pretzel rods or twists in melted chocolate.
- Decorate with holiday sprinkles and let them harden.
5. Snickerdoodle Bites
Snickerdoodles, but make them bite-sized!
Quick Tip: Use pre-made dough and roll it into small balls. Coat them in cinnamon sugar before baking for a festive finish.
6. Shortbread Cookies
These buttery cookies are made with just three ingredients: butter, sugar, and flour.
- Steps:
- Mix ingredients until crumbly.
- Roll into a log, slice, and bake.
Quick Tip: Dip them in chocolate for a festive twist.
7. Gingerbread Stars
Simplify traditional gingerbread cookies by using pre-made dough.
Quick Tip: Use star-shaped cutters for a festive look and decorate with icing.
8. Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies
You can never go wrong with a classic!
Quick Tip: Add red and green M&M’s to give them a holiday vibe.
9. Coconut Macaroons
These chewy cookies are naturally gluten-free and require only a handful of ingredients.
Ingredients: Shredded coconut, egg whites, sugar, and vanilla.
- Steps:
- Mix the ingredients.
- Scoop onto a baking sheet and bake until golden.
10. Holiday Thumbprint Cookies
Thumbprint cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Steps:
- Roll dough into balls and press your thumb into the center.
- Fill with jam, chocolate, or caramel.
- Bake until lightly golden.
Pairing Ideas for Your Christmas Cookies
Cookies are even better when paired with the right accompaniments.
- Beverages:
- Hot cocoa with whipped cream.
- Spiced cider or mulled wine.
- Classic eggnog for a festive touch.
- Presentation:
- Arrange cookies on a decorative platter.
- Gift them in festive tins with ribbons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make Christmas cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! Most of these recipes can be made a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container.
Q2: Are these cookies freezer-friendly?
Yes! Cookies like shortbread and sugar cookies freeze exceptionally well. Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Q3: What’s the easiest recipe for beginners?
Chocolate-dipped pretzels and no-bake chocolate oat cookies are perfect for novice bakers.
Q4: Can I make these recipes gluten-free?
Yes! Recipes like coconut macaroons are naturally gluten-free, and many other recipes can be adapted with gluten-free flour.
Conclusion
Baking doesn’t have to be stressful, even during the busy holiday season. With these 10 quick and easy Christmas cookie recipes, you can whip up festive treats that look and taste amazing—without spending hours in the kitchen. So, whether you’re baking for a party, a gift exchange, or just because, these recipes will make your holidays a little sweeter.
Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies
Equipment
- 2 large mixing bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Whisk
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Wire rack for cooling
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar divided
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract optional
- 1 teaspoon milk
- Sprinkles or colored sugar optional for decorating
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture and mix until fully incorporated. Add the flour mixture in batches, mixing just until combined. Add the milk and mix again until the dough comes together.
- Roll the dough into balls, about 1 inch in size. Roll each ball in the remaining ½ cup sugar. Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges just start to turn golden brown. Be careful not to overbake; the cookies should look soft in the center.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, decorate the cookies with icing or sprinkles as desired.
