16+ Christmas Cookie Exchange Recipe Ideas Deliciousness Awaits You!

Classic Sugar Cookies

Christmas cookie exchange parties are all about sharing sweet treats, and what better way to kick off the festivities than with classic sugar cookies? These simple and versatile cookies are a crowd-pleaser and can be decorated in a variety of festive ways. Plus, they're easy to make in large batches, making them perfect for a cookie exchange.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough in half and wrap each half in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
8. Cut out desired shapes with cookie cutters and place on prepared baking sheets.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
10. Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

These Christmas cookies are not only delicious, but they also look festive with their cracked white tops and red and green sprinkles. The addition of peppermint extract gives a refreshing twist to the traditional chocolate crinkle cookie.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• Crushed peppermint candies and red and green sprinkles for decorating

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the egg and peppermint extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and roll in powdered sugar.
8. Place on prepared baking sheets and flatten slightly with the palm of your hand.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are set but centers are still slightly soft.
10. Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Decorate with crushed peppermint candies and sprinkles before serving.

Gingerbread Men

No Christmas cookie exchange is complete without the classic gingerbread cookie. These adorable gingerbread men are not only fun to decorate, but they also make a delicious snack or gift for friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• Icing and decorations for decorating

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
2. In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the molasses and egg until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough in half and wrap each half in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
8. Cut out desired shapes with gingerbread man cookie cutters and place on prepared baking sheets.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
10. Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Decorate with icing and decorations before serving or gifting.

In Conclusion

With these tasty and festive Christmas cookie exchange recipe ideas, you'll be the star of your holiday gathering. Remember to have fun, get creative with your decorations, and most importantly, enjoy the delicious treats with your loved ones. Happy baking and happy holidays!