There are certain things that seem to perfectly signify the onset of the holiday season, but one of the best holiday hallmarks is the sweeping aroma of freshly baked cookies warming in the oven. Whether you’re a fan of the classic holiday staples or you enjoy trying exciting new recipes, there is something about holiday cookies that makes the season a little extra special. So as you prepare for your holiday baking endeavors, here a few of our favorite holiday cookie recipes this year.
Peanut Butter Cup Blossoms
Let’s be honest, peanut butter blossoms are a crowd-pleaser any time of year, but the holiday season would definitely not be the same without at least one batch of these cookies. However, for this recipe, substitute the usual Hershey’s Kiss with a mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup for an extra dose of soft-baked peanut butter-y goodness. To learn how to make these cookies from scratch, check out this recipe.
Claire Saffitz’s Oat and Pecan Brittle Cookies
The perfect combination of flavor and texture variety, this holiday cookie is an absolute game-winner! The caramelized brown butter gives this cookie an almost elegant flavor – the kind that would make you think it came from a five-star bakery. However, it’s the variety of textures from the mix of dough, pecan brittle, and oatmeal that take this cookie to the next level, leaving it wonderfully crispy around the edges and soft and chewy in the middle. Get the complete recipe, here.
Soft and Chewy Gingerbread Cookies
There’s no doubt that gingerbread cookies are synonymous with the holidays. However, many people simply use them to build houses and never actually give these cookies the respect they truly deserve. All things considered, the stiff cardboard-like cookies that come with most store-bought gingerbread house kits these days are much better to build sturdy walls with than they are to eat, so it makes sense. However, this recipe for chewy, soft-baked gingerbread cookies is totally reclaiming this holiday classic! Not to mention, they are still just as fun to decorate as they are to eat. Get the recipe, here.
Boulder Locavore’s Cream Cheese Sugar Cookie
This recipe from Boulder Locavore is as delicious as it is simple. If you enjoy fun, decorative holiday cookies, these cookies make an excellent base for just about any decoration and can be easily cut or formed into whatever shape you like. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, or jazz them up with this easy homemade frosting recipe.
There is perhaps no better way to celebrate the end of the longest year in history than with the sweet comfort and familiarity of a perfectly made cookie. Whether you are baking them to share or to enjoy yourself (no judgment here), these delicious cookie recipes are sure to bring a little extra cheer to this holiday season.