Christmas time is a real feast for the palate - not only in the form of rich, traditional dishes, but also delicious homemade pastries.Christmas cookies are an inseparable element of the wonderful atmosphere of Christmas, which fills our homes with the aromas of spices and sweet vanilla. Have you ever wondered how easy it is to prepare them in your own kitchen?
Basic types of Christmas cookies
Although it may seem that Christmas cookies are quite complex baked goods, in reality there are many simple, classic recipes that anyone can successfully prepare at home. Here are the most common types:
Butter cookies
Crunchy, melt-in-your-mouth butter cookies are a true classic. They are made with flour, butter, sugar and egg. They can be decorated with icing, powdered sugar or chocolate icing.
Gingerbread cookies
Aromatic, spicy-ginger gingerbread cookies are an essential element of the holiday table. They are distinguished by their characteristic taste and softness.
Oatmeal cookies
Whole grain oatmeal cookies are light, crispy and healthy. They go perfectly with notes of cinnamon, nuts or dried fruit.
Peanut butter cookies
Rich in hazelnuts, walnuts or almonds, nut cookies have a unique, sweet taste and a delicate, crumbly structure.
Cookies with icing
Cookies decorated with colorful, shiny icing are a real feast for the eyes. They can take on various shapes and holiday motifs.
How to decorate Christmas cookies ?
One of the most fun parts of making cookies is decorating them. It’s a great way to show off your creativity and artistic skills. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
Frosting
Frosting is a classic and versatile cookie decoration. You can prepare frosting in a variety of colors and patterns, creating a spectacular, shiny finish.
Sprinkles
Powdered sugar, colored sprinkles, finely chopped nuts or coconut flakes will add a festive glow to the cookies.
Molds and cutters
Cutting out cookies in the shape of Christmas trees, stars, snowmen or bells is a great way to give them a magical look.
Painting
Edible markers or food coloring will allow you to paint cute holiday motifs on your cookies.
3D decorations
Pendants, glitter decorations, colorful ribbons or figurines are ideas for three-dimensional embellishment of your baked goods.
Recipes for simple Christmas cookies
Ready to get baking yourself? Here are some tried-and-true, easy-to-prepare recipes for homemade holiday cookies:
Butter cookies with vanilla sugar
- 250 g wheat flour,
- 200 g butter,
- 90 g fine sugar,
- 1 egg,
- 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar.
Gingerbread shortbread cookies
- 300 g wheat flour,
- 100 g powdered sugar,
- 200 g butter,
- 2 teaspoons gingerbread spice,
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder,
- 1 egg.
Oatmeal Christmas Cookies
- 250 g oat flakes,
- 150 g wheat flour,
- 120 g butter,
- 100 g sugar,
- 1 egg,
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon,
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda.
Peanut butter cookies with chocolate icing
- 200 g ground hazelnuts,
- 150 g wheat flour,
- 120 g butter,
- 100 g powdered sugar,
- 1 egg,
- 200 g dark chocolate.
How to store homemade Christmas cookies ?
Freshly baked Christmas cookies can be stored in various ways to enjoy their taste for as long as possible:
- Cookies without icing or decorations can be stored in a tightly closed container at room temperature for 5-7 days,
- Cookies with icing or chocolate topping are best stored in the refrigerator, also in a closed container, for up to 10 days,
- To extend freshness, cookies can be frozen. Baked goods should be cooled, then placed in airtight bags or containers and frozen for up to 3 months.
Summary
Homemade Christmas cookies are a great way to create a unique, family atmosphere during Christmas. Preparing these sweet treats is not only delicious fun, but also a chance to spend time together with loved ones.
Thanks to simple, proven recipes, anyone can bake delicious, original cookies that will delight your guests. Remember to experiment with different decorations and add your favorite flavors. This way, you will create unique, homemade baked goods that will please the eyes and palates of your loved ones.
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