11 California Golden State Christmas Cookie Recipes With Hollywood Glamour

Sparkling Citrus Sugar Cookies

Sparkling Citrus Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies, infused with zesty citrus flavors that bring a rejuvenating brightness to any winter gathering. These cookies are soft and chewy, topped with a sparkling sugar finish that adds a festive touch. They’re perfect for holiday cookie platters or as a sweet treat to share with loved ones.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the cookies to bake evenly when placed in the oven.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this bowl aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and lemon zest until well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want a soft dough.
6. Scoop the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
7. Add Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a small amount of granulated sugar on top of each cookie dough ball. This will create a lovely sparkling finish.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy: Once the cookies have cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed! These Sparkling Citrus Sugar Cookies are delightful with a cup of tea or coffee, and they make for a festive treat during the holidays.

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Hollywood Glam Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Hollywood Glam Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a festive and visually stunning treat that captures the spirit of the holiday season. These cookies feature a rich chocolate base that is rolled in powdered sugar before baking, giving them their signature crinkly appearance. With their fudgy texture and decadent flavor, they make for a glamorous addition to any holiday dessert table.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees your cookies bake evenly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until combined. Set this mixture aside for later.
3. Combine Sugars and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix with an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs into the sugar mixture, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and continue to mix until fully combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, carefully mixing on low speed until a thick batter forms. Ascertain there are no streaks of flour, but avoid over-mixing.
6. Chill the Dough: Place the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This chilling step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
7. Prepare for Baking: While the dough chills, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheat your oven if necessary.
8. Shape the Cookies: Once chilled, use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each portion into a ball about 1 inch in diameter, then roll them thoroughly in the powdered sugar to coat.
9. Bake the Cookies: Place the coated cookie balls on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops have cracked.
10. Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the rich, chocolatey goodness of your Hollywood Glam Chocolate Crinkle Cookies!

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Golden State Almond Joy Cookies

Golden State Almond Joy Cookies are an indulgent treat inspired by the beloved chocolate bar. These cookies incorporate all the delicious flavors of coconut, chocolate, and almonds, offering a delightful bite with every munch. A chewy base is enriched with shredded coconut, topped with chocolate chips and whole almonds, creating a perfect festive dessert that embodies the spirit of California.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Confirm your baking sheet is lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until evenly incorporated, then set aside.
3. Create the Wet Mixture: In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well blended.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix to keep your cookies tender.
6. Incorporate Coconut and Chocolate: Fold in the shredded coconut and semi-sweet chocolate chips, confirming they are evenly distributed within the dough.
7. Shape the Cookies: Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each portion into a ball and slightly flatten it on the baking sheet. Place whole almonds on the top of each cookie, pressing them down gently.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden around the edges. The centers may appear slightly soft but will set as they cool.
9. Cooling: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Golden State Almond Joy Cookies with a glass of milk or a warm holiday drink!

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Star-Studded Peppermint Bark Cookies

Star-Studded Peppermint Bark Cookies are a festive delight that combines the flavors of classic peppermint bark with the comforting texture of a cookie. These sweet treats feature a base of buttery cookies topped with a rich layer of melted chocolate and crushed peppermint candies. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they are sure to impress your guests and make your taste buds sing with joy.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: To the butter mixture, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until fully combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated. Be cautious not to overmix the dough.
6. Form Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball slightly with your hand.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until they are lightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare Topping: While the cookies cool, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
9. Decorate: Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle or spread the melted chocolate over the tops of each cookie. Immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the chocolate while it is still warm.
10. Chill and Serve: Place the decorated cookies in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to allow the chocolate to set. Once set, store them in an airtight container and enjoy throughout the holiday season!

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Red Carpet Raspberry Linzer Cookies

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until the ingredients are well blended and set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm.
7. Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, take one disk of dough and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll out to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. For half of the cookies, use a smaller cutter to cut out a shape from the center.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Make sure to remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Assemble the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a teaspoon of raspberry jam onto the solid cookie shapes. Top each with a cookie that has the center cut out (to create a window effect) to form a sandwich.
10. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Finally, lightly dust the tops of the assembled cookies with powdered sugar for added sweetness and a festive touch.

Enjoy your Red Carpet Raspberry Linzer Cookies with family and friends during the holiday season!

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Tinseltown Gingerbread Cookies

Tinseltown Gingerbread Cookies are a festive delight that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. These soft and spiced cookies are perfect for decorating with icing and creating winter-themed treats. The aroma of warm spices fills your kitchen, adding to the joyful atmosphere of Christmas festivities.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In another large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using a mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Egg, Molasses, and Vanilla: Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until the mixture is fully blended.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a dough forms. Make sure everything is well incorporated, but don’t overmix.
6. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two halves, flatten each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps the cookies maintain their shape when baking.
7. Roll Out the Dough: After chilling, unwrap a disk of dough and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
8. Cut Out Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the rolled dough. Collect the scraps, re-roll them, and cut out more shapes.
9. Bake the Cookies: Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers are soft. Allow to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Decorate: Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them with royal icing and any other decorations of your choice, creating festive designs and patterns.

Enjoy your Tinseltown Gingerbread Cookies with family and friends, and share the holiday cheer!

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Shimmering Coconut Macaroons

Shimmering Coconut Macaroons are a delightful and chewy treat that captures the essence of the holiday season with their sweet, coconut flavor and a shimmering finish. These cookies are easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients, and are perfect for sharing or gifting during festive celebrations. Their golden-brown exterior and moist interior create a delightful contrast that will have everyone reaching for more.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Coconut and Condensed Milk: In a large bowl, combine the sweetened shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt. Mix the ingredients together until everything is well combined.
3. Whip Egg Whites: In a separate mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture becomes glossy and stiff peaks form.
4. Fold Egg Whites into Coconut Mixture: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the coconut mixture. Use a rubber spatula to make sure that you maintain the volume of the egg whites while thoroughly combining them with the coconut mix.
5. Scoop Mixture onto Baking Sheet: Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You can shape them into mounds for a more classic macaroon look.
6. Bake the Macaroons: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroons are golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
7. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the macaroons from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Drizzle with Chocolate (optional): If you’d like to add a bit of extra flair, melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler. Once melted and smooth, drizzle the chocolate over the cooled macaroons using a fork or a piping bag.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chocolate has set, your Shimmering Coconut Macaroons are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for freshness.

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Sunset-Style Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Sunset-Style Pumpkin Spice Cookies are a delightful celebration of fall flavors, perfectly combining the warmth of pumpkin with a medley of spices. These soft, chewy cookies are adorned with a hint of sweetness and will envelop your kitchen in inviting aromas as they bake. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Pumpkin: Beat in the large egg, pure pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugars until it is well blended.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gradually incorporate the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the cookies tough.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: If you are using them, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Scoop Cookie Dough: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy: Serve the Sunset-Style Pumpkin Spice Cookies warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the rich flavors with family and friends!

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Classic Californian Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Classic Californian Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a nostalgic treat that balances the chewiness of oats and the sweetness of plump raisins. These cookies burst with flavor and are perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or as part of your holiday cookie selection. Easy to make and loved by many, they evoke the spirit of California’s baking tradition.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, mix together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined and set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the oat-flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined; do not over-stir.
6. Fold in Raisins and Nuts: Gently fold in the raisins and chopped walnuts (if using) until they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
7. Scoop Cookie Dough: Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should be golden around the edges but slightly soft in the center.
9. Cool the Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these classic oatmeal raisin cookies that are sure to become a favorite in your household!

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Glitzy Pistachio and Cranberry Biscotti

Glitzy Pistachio and Cranberry Biscotti are an elegant and festive treat that make a delightful addition to your holiday cookie platter. With a delightful crunch from the pistachios and a burst of tartness from the cranberries, these biscottis are perfect for dipping in your favorite hot beverage. They are easy to make and will impress family and friends alike with their beautiful green and red colors.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the biscotti from sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This will be your dry mixture.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and melted unsalted butter. Stir until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough may be a bit sticky.
5. Add Pistachios and Cranberries: Fold in the chopped pistachios and dried cranberries until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Shape the Dough: Dust your hands with flour and divide the dough in half. Shape each half into a log, about 12 inches long and 3 inches wide, on the prepared baking sheet.
7. First Bake: Bake the logs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch. Remove them from the oven and let them cool for 10-15 minutes.
8. Slice the Biscotti: Using a sharp knife, slice the logs diagonally into 1-inch thick slices.
9. Second Bake: Place the slices back on the baking sheet, cut side down. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
10. Cool and Optional Chocolate Dip: Allow the biscotti to cool completely on a wire rack. If desired, melt the white chocolate in a microwave or double boiler, then dip one end of each biscotti for an extra festive touch. Let the chocolate set before serving.

These Glitzy Pistachio and Cranberry Biscotti are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings, enjoyed by all ages!

Festive Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Cookies

Festive Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Cookies are a classic holiday treat that combines the buttery richness of traditional shortbread with a delightful layer of chocolate. These cookies are perfect for gift-giving, sharing at holiday parties, or simply indulging in during the festive season. Their simplicity allows the buttery flavor to shine, while the chocolate dip adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough begins to form. It should come together but still be slightly crumbly.
6. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Chill the Dough: Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
8. Slice Cookies: Once chilled, remove the logs from the refrigerator and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as you want them to stay tender.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Melt Chocolate: While the cookies are cooling, melt the semisweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
12. Dip Cookies: Once the cookies are cool, dip one half of each cookie into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off.
13. Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle with festive toppings such as sprinkles or crushed nuts while the chocolate is still wet.
14. Set Cookies: Place the chocolate-dipped cookies on a parchment-lined tray to let the chocolate set completely. You can speed up the setting process by placing them in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
15. Enjoy or Store: Once the chocolate has hardened, your Festive Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Cookies are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.