The holiday season is just around the corner, and with it comes a flurry of festive gatherings, parties, and traditions. One beloved custom that brings joy to many is the cookie exchange – a delightful way to share sweet treats with friends and family while spreading cheer. In this article, we’ll take you on a delicious journey through 20 scrumptious cookie recipes perfect for your holiday festivities. From classic chocolate chip cookies to innovative flavor combinations like maple bacon and espresso chocolate, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, these festive cookie exchange recipes are sure to impress your loved ones and leave them wanting more.
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
Rich, chewy cookies filled with semi-sweet chocolate chips – a classic 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 white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Blossoms
These soft and chewy cookies are filled with a delicious peanut butter surprise, making them perfect for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 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, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg, milk, and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients 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 using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Snickerdoodle Cookies
Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe
Get ready to indulge in a classic treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon and sugar with the softness of buttery cookies.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 3 Tbsp ground cinnamon
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 cream of tartar. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in cinnamon.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Yield: About 20-25 cookies
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Sweet Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Moist oatmeal cookies filled with sweet raisins and a hint of spice, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in raisins.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Double Chocolate Mint Cookies
Treat yourself to a sweet escape with these rich, gooey cookies that combine the flavors of dark chocolate and peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure peppermint extract
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or chocolate mint chips (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 and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and extracts.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and peppermint candies (if using).
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe
These tender cookies are bursting with bright citrus flavor, topped with a sweet and tangy crinkled surface. Perfect for a sunny day or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
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 confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
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, beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in lemon juice and zest.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Roll dough into balls, then roll each ball in confectioners’ sugar to coat.
7. Place balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Yield: About 24 cookies
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of white chocolate with the crunch of macadamia nuts, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Stir in white chocolate chips and macadamia nuts.
7. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Gingerbread Cookies
Classic gingerbread cookies are a holiday tradition that’s hard to resist. With their spicy-sweet flavor and soft, chewy texture, they’re the perfect treat to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
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, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. If necessary, add water to achieve the right consistency.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
Classic sugar cookies paired with a smooth and creamy royal icing make for a match made in heaven. This recipe is perfect for decorating enthusiasts and those looking to add a touch of elegance to their baked goods.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Royal icing ingredients (see below)
Royal Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 Tbsp meringue powder
– 2 Tbsp water
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 baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before decorating with royal icing.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Experience the classic combination of red velvet cake and crunchy cookies with these scrumptious Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies. With a hint of cocoa powder and a burst of flavor, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon red velvet cake mix
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and red velvet cake mix. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shortbread Cookies
A classic Scottish biscuit, shortbread cookies are buttery, crumbly, and utterly delicious. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these iconic treats that are perfect for dunking in tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pecan Sandies
A classic cookie recipe that combines the richness of pecans with the simplicity of a buttery shortbread, Pecan Sandies are a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
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. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Stir in chopped pecans and salt.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Almond Joy Cookies
Treat your loved ones to a sweet surprise with these chewy cookies filled with the rich flavors of coconut and almonds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 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.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add coconut, almonds, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
10. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Bacon Cookies
Maple Bacon Cookies: A Sweet and Savory Treat
These chewy cookies combine the richness of maple syrup with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon, creating a unique dessert experience.
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 pure maple syrup
– 2 large eggs
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Optional: chopped fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add maple syrup and eggs; beat until well combined.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in crumbled bacon.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Espresso Chocolate Cookies
Espresso Chocolate Cookies Recipe
Rich, chewy cookies infused with the deep flavor of espresso and dark chocolate – a perfect treat for coffee lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chunks for added texture and flavor
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, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in chocolate chips and espresso powder.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Pumpkin Spice Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are infused with the warm spices of fall and the comforting flavor of pumpkin puree, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for topping (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 soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree and eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls 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.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cranberry Orange Cookies
Cranberry Orange Cookies Recipe
These sweet and tangy cookies combine the flavors of fresh cranberries and orange zest, perfect for a holiday treat or any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 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.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in cranberries, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Yield: 24-30 cookies
Funfetti Cookies
Funfetti Cookies Recipe
Get ready to make a batch of colorful and delicious Funfetti Cookies!
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Funfetti sprinkles (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
- Stir in the Funfetti sprinkles.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time:
10-12 minutes per batch
Caramel Stuffed Chocolate Cookies
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these decadent treats! Caramel and chocolate come together in perfect harmony to create a cookie that’s both rich and indulgent.
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 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sea salt for topping
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, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Place a small dollop of caramel sauce in the center of each cookie.
8. Fold dough over caramel to form a ball, and flatten slightly.
9. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set.
10. Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Toffee Pecan Cookies
These chewy cookies are filled with the perfect combination of gooey toffee and crunchy pecans, making them a sweet treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup toffee bits (such as Heath bars)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. Cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Stir in pecans and toffee bits.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a cookie exchange to remember with these 20 festive and delicious recipes that everyone will love! From classic chocolate chip cookies to creative twists like maple bacon and caramel stuffed chocolate, there’s something for every taste bud. Plus, many of these recipes can be easily customized with festive sprinkles or decorations to make them perfect for holiday parties and gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for some inspiration, this collection has got you covered.
