These Christmas cookies and bars are a delightful addition to your holiday celebrations. With a variety of flavors and textures, they are perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festive season.
This recipe includes classic favorites like sugar cookies, gingerbread bars, and chocolate chip variations. Each recipe is easy to follow, making it simple to create a delicious assortment of treats.
Creating a Festive Display
Setting the scene for your holiday treats can enhance the festive spirit.
Using a red and green tablecloth as a base adds a classic touch that embodies the essence of Christmas.
Layering your cookies and bars on this vibrant backdrop not only showcases the colorful assortment but also invites guests to indulge.
Consider incorporating decorative elements like twinkling fairy lights that create a warm glow, making the display even more inviting.
A small Christmas tree in the background can serve as a charming focal point, enhancing the overall holiday atmosphere.
Classic Sugar Cookies
Among the favorites, classic sugar cookies stand out for their versatility and appeal.
These cookies can be decorated with icing in various designs, allowing for creativity in presentation.
Whether you opt for simple sprinkles or intricate designs, they are sure to delight both young and old alike.
The soft texture and sweet flavor make them a perfect companion to the other treats on your platter.
Their festive appearance adds a pop of color, making them a must-have for any holiday gathering.
Gingerbread Bars
Gingerbread bars bring a warm, spiced flavor that perfectly complements the holiday season.
Their chewy texture and aromatic spices create a cozy feeling, reminiscent of traditional gingerbread houses.
These bars can be cut into festive shapes or simply served in squares, making them easy to share.
Pairing them with a drizzle of icing or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can elevate their appearance, making them a delightful addition to your festive platter.
Their rich flavor profile adds variety, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
No holiday cookie platter is complete without the beloved chocolate chip cookie.
These cookies offer a delightful contrast with their gooey chocolate chips and slightly crispy edges.
Their familiar taste is a crowd-pleaser, making them a staple during the festive season.
Consider using a mix of dark and milk chocolate chips for a more dynamic flavor experience.
Arranging these cookies alongside the other treats creates a balanced assortment that caters to diverse tastes.
Presentation Tips
The way you arrange your cookies and bars can significantly impact their appeal.
Layering different types of cookies in varying heights creates visual interest.
Using decorative platters or tiered stands can also enhance the presentation, making it more festive.
Don’t forget to leave space for guests to easily serve themselves.
Adding small labels or tags can help identify each type of cookie, adding a personal touch to your display.
Enjoying the Festivities
Sharing these delightful treats with family and friends is what makes the holiday season special.
Encourage everyone to take a moment to appreciate the flavors and textures of each cookie and bar.
This festive platter not only satisfies sweet cravings but also fosters a sense of togetherness during the celebrations.
Whether enjoyed at a holiday party or as a cozy treat at home, these cookies and bars are sure to create lasting memories.
So gather your loved ones, savor the treats, and celebrate the joy of the season!
Easy Christmas Cookies and Bars Recipe
This collection features a range of Christmas cookies and bars, from soft and chewy to crispy and crunchy. The recipes take about 1 hour from start to finish and yield multiple batches, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 cup chocolate chips or sprinkles for decoration
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips or sprinkles.
- Scoop and Bake: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 20g