When the holiday season approaches, one thing is certain: cookies take center stage in celebrations. These sweet treats bring people together, fill homes with irresistible aromas, and often carry cherished memories of family traditions. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering, a cookie swap, or simply to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa, here’s a roundup of the best holiday cookies from around the world to inspire your holiday baking.
1. Classic Gingerbread Cookies (USA)
No holiday season is complete without the warm, spiced flavor of gingerbread cookies. Originating in Europe but perfected in America, these cookies are flavored with ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Their sturdy texture makes them perfect for cookie cutters and decorating with icing. Whether you make gingerbread men, stars, or houses, these cookies are timeless holiday staples.
Pro Tip:
For softer cookies, add a bit of molasses or honey to the dough.
2. Vanillekipferl (Austria/Germany)
Vanillekipferl, or vanilla crescent cookies, are delicate almond-based treats coated in powdered sugar. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a hallmark of European Christmas markets. Their crescent shape is said to have historical significance, symbolizing victory in battles against the Ottoman Empire.
Pro Tip:
Use high-quality vanilla bean or extract for the best flavor.
3. Polvorones (Spain/Mexico)
Known as “Mexican wedding cookies” or “Spanish shortbread,” polvorones are crumbly cookies made with ground nuts, butter, and powdered sugar. Their name comes from the Spanish word polvo, meaning dust, due to their powdered sugar coating. They’re festive, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.
Pro Tip:
Toast the nuts before grinding to bring out their natural oils and enhance the flavor.
4. Pfeffernüsse (Germany/Netherlands)
Pfeffernüsse, or “pepper nuts,” are small spiced cookies traditionally made with black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Their bold flavor and slightly chewy texture make them a favorite during the holiday season in Northern Europe. They’re often coated in powdered sugar for a sweet contrast to their spiciness.
Pro Tip:
Allow these cookies to age for a few days after baking; their flavors deepen over time.
5. Amaretti (Italy)
Amaretti cookies are a delightful Italian treat made from almond flour, egg whites, and sugar. Their crispy exterior and chewy center pair beautifully with holiday beverages like mulled wine or espresso. They’re gluten-free and ideal for guests with dietary restrictions.
Pro Tip:
Experiment with adding citrus zest or liqueur like Amaretto for a festive twist.
6. Melomakarona (Greece)
A staple of Greek holiday tables, melomakarona are semolina-based cookies soaked in a honey syrup and topped with chopped walnuts. Their combination of cinnamon, orange zest, and honey makes them a fragrant and indulgent addition to any holiday spread.
Pro Tip:
Dip the cookies in syrup while they’re still warm to ensure maximum absorption.
7. Speculaas (Belgium/Netherlands)
Speculaas, also known as speculoos, are thin, crunchy cookies spiced with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and cardamom. Traditionally baked for St. Nicholas Day in early December, they’re perfect for dunking in coffee or tea. Their intricately stamped designs make them as beautiful as they are delicious.
Pro Tip:
Use a speculaas mold or press to create traditional patterns on the cookies.
8. Alfajores (South America)
Alfajores are a Latin American favorite, featuring two buttery cookies sandwiched with dulce de leche and often rolled in coconut or dusted with powdered sugar. These luxurious treats are ideal for impressing guests at holiday gatherings.
Pro Tip:
Chill the dough before baking to ensure the cookies keep their shape.
9. Kourabiedes (Greece)
These Greek shortbread cookies are rich, buttery, and covered in a snowy layer of powdered sugar, making them look like edible snowballs. They’re traditionally flavored with almonds and a hint of rosewater or brandy, giving them a festive, aromatic profile.
Pro Tip:
Sift powdered sugar over the cookies twice—once when warm and again when cool—for a flawless finish.
10. Thumbprint Cookies (Scandinavia)
Thumbprint cookies, or “hallongrotta” in Sweden, are a holiday classic across many countries. Made from a buttery shortbread base, these cookies feature a dollop of jam (typically raspberry or lingonberry) in the center. Their simplicity and vibrant colors make them a holiday favorite.
Pro Tip:
Chill the dough before creating the indentations to prevent cracking.
Make Your Holidays Sweeter
From spiced Pfeffernüsse to honey-soaked Melomakarona, these cookies represent the global diversity of holiday traditions. Whether you stick to classics or try something new, baking these cookies will bring joy, warmth, and delicious aromas to your home.
So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and start creating holiday memories one batch at a time. Happy baking!
WEIN 