“15 Delicious Recipes for Festive Christmas Cookies”

**15 Delicious Recipes for Festive Christmas Cookies**

The holiday season is a time for joy, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious treats! Christmas cookies are a quintessential part of the festivities, bringing warmth and sweetness to the season. Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, gifting loved ones, or simply indulging in the holiday spirit, these 15 festive Christmas cookie recipes are sure to delight. From classic favorites to creative twists, there’s something for everyone on this list.

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### 1. **Classic Sugar Cookies**
No Christmas cookie platter is complete without classic sugar cookies. These buttery, tender cookies are perfect for cutting into festive shapes like stars, trees, and snowflakes. Decorate with royal icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter for a personalized touch.

**Pro Tip:** Chill the dough before rolling it out to prevent spreading during baking.

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### 2. **Gingerbread Men**
Gingerbread men are a holiday staple! Made with warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, these cookies are as fragrant as they are delicious. Use a piping bag to add adorable faces, buttons, and festive designs.

**Variation:** Try a gingerbread house kit for a fun family activity.

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### 3. **Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies**
These fudgy chocolate cookies are rolled in powdered sugar before baking, creating a crackled, snowy appearance. Add crushed candy canes or peppermint extract for a festive twist.

**Serving Idea:** Pair with a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate holiday treat.

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### 4. **Linzer Cookies**
Linzer cookies are delicate sandwich cookies filled with jam, traditionally raspberry or apricot. The top cookie features a small cutout, revealing the colorful jam inside. Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.

**Pro Tip:** Use almond flour for a nutty, authentic flavor.

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### 5. **Snickerdoodles**
Snickerdoodles are soft, chewy cookies coated in cinnamon sugar. Their slightly tangy flavor, thanks to cream of tartar, makes them a unique addition to your holiday spread.

**Variation:** Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.

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### 6. **Thumbprint Cookies**
These buttery cookies feature a small indentation filled with jam, caramel, or chocolate. They’re easy to customize and look beautiful on a cookie tray.

**Fun Twist:** Use green and red sprinkles for a festive touch.

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### 7. **Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread**
Shortbread cookies are rich, crumbly, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Dip them in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts, coconut, or holiday sprinkles for an elegant treat.

**Pro Tip:** Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.

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### 8. **Spritz Cookies**
Spritz cookies are made with a cookie press, which creates intricate shapes like wreaths, trees, and stars. These buttery cookies are often tinted with food coloring and decorated with sprinkles.

**Serving Idea:** Package them in a festive tin for a thoughtful gift.

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### 9. **Italian Pizzelle**
Pizzelle are thin, crisp cookies made with a special pizzelle iron. Flavored with anise or vanilla, these delicate cookies are a traditional Italian holiday treat.

**Pro Tip:** Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.

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### 10. **Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies**
Give the classic chocolate chip cookie a holiday makeover by adding red and green M&M’s or festive sprinkles. They’re a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

**Variation:** Add white chocolate chips and dried cranberries for a seasonal twist.

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### 11. **Snowball Cookies**
Also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, these nutty, buttery cookies are rolled in powdered sugar to resemble snowballs. Pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch.

**Pro Tip:** Roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice for extra coverage.

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### 12. **Candy Cane Cookies**
These whimsical cookies are shaped like candy canes by twisting red and white dough together. They’re as fun to make as they are to eat!

**Serving Idea:** Hang them on your Christmas tree for edible ornaments.

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### 13. **Molasses Cookies**
Soft and chewy molasses cookies are packed with holiday spices and have a deep, rich flavor. They’re perfect for those who love the taste of gingerbread but prefer a softer texture.

**Pro Tip:** Sprinkle with coarse sugar for a sparkly finish.

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### 14. **Peanut Butter Blossoms**
These classic cookies feature a soft peanut butter base topped with a Hershey’s Kiss. They’re a timeless favorite at holiday parties.

**Variation:** Use dark chocolate or caramel-filled Kisses for a twist.

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### 15. **Stained Glass Cookies**
These stunning cookies are made by cutting shapes out of sugar cookie dough and filling the centers with crushed hard candies. When baked, the candies melt into a