11 Nebraska Cornhusker Christmas Cookie Recipes From Pioneer Settlements

nebraska holiday cookie traditions

Gingerbread Men

holiday baking tradition delight

Gingerbread Men are a classic holiday treat that bring warmth and cheer to any festive gathering. With their spiced flavor and delightful decorations, these cookie-shaped figures are perfect for baking with family and friends. The creative process of rolling out the dough and cutting out various shapes allows for fun and creativity, while the final product is sure to dazzle your guests or make a memorable gift.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 3 ¼ cups
Ground ginger 1 tablespoon
Ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter ¾ cup (room temperature)
Brown sugar ¾ cup packed
Granulated sugar ½ cup
Large egg 1
Molasses ½ cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Royal icing or candy decorations To decorate

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside.
  2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  4. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough starts to come together and forms a ball. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape each part into a disc, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
  6. Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ¼ inch thick. Keep the other disc in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
  8. Cut Out Shapes: Use a gingerbread man cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the rolled-out dough. Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between them.
  9. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers are still slightly soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Decorate: Once cooled, use royal icing or other candy decorations to bring your gingerbread men to life. Get creative with faces, buttons, and festive designs.
  11. Enjoy or Share: Once decorated, enjoy your delicious gingerbread men or package them for holiday gifts. They are sure to spread Christmas cheer wherever they go!
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Swedish Pepperkakor

crisp spiced holiday cookies

Swedish Pepperkakor, or ginger snaps, are traditional Swedish cookies that are known for their crisp texture and rich, spiced flavor. Infused with a delightful blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, these cookies are often enjoyed during the holiday season and are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Their distinct taste and appealing crunch make them a festive treat that pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 3 ½ cups
Ground ginger 2 teaspoons
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground cloves ½ teaspoon
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter ½ cup (softened)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Light corn syrup ½ cup
Large egg 1
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon

Instructions

  1. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the light corn syrup, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a dough forms. Be sure not to overmix; just combine until there are no dry spots left.
  5. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This chilling time helps the flavors to develop and makes the dough easier to roll out.
  6. Preheat the Oven: When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Keep the remaining dough in the refrigerator until you are ready to cut more cookies.
  8. Cut Out Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out different shapes, such as hearts, stars, or traditional gingerbread men. Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
  9. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are firm and the cookies are lightly browned.
  10. Cool and Store: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, store the Pepperkakor in an airtight container to keep them crisp. Enjoy your festive Swedish treats!
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Nebraska Sugar Cookies

soft chewy holiday treats

Nebraska Sugar Cookies are a beloved holiday treat known for their soft, chewy texture and sweet, buttery flavor. Often topped with colorful icing or sprinkles, these cookies are perfect for decorating and sharing during the festive season. They are not only a staple at Christmas gatherings but also a favorite for other celebrations throughout the year.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 4 cups
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter 1 cup (softened)
Granulated sugar 1 ½ cups
Large egg 1
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Almond extract ½ teaspoon
Powdered sugar (for icing) 2 cups
Milk (for icing) 2 tablespoons
Food coloring (optional) As desired

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Egg and Extracts: Add the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
  5. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten each into a disk, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
  6. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line several baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disk to about ¼ inch thickness. Use the remaining dough for additional cookies.
  8. Cut Out Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the rolled dough. Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them.
  9. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Prepare Icing (optional): In a medium bowl, mix powdered sugar with milk until you reach a smooth consistency. If desired, add food coloring to create colorful icing to decorate your cookies.
  11. Decorate: Once the cookies are completely cool, use the icing to drizzle, pipe, or spread onto the cookies, and add sprinkles if desired.

Enjoy these delightful Nebraska Sugar Cookies at your next gathering or as a sweet treat during the holiday season!

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Molasses Cookies

holiday molasses cookie delight

Molasses Cookies are a classic holiday treat that offer a delightful blend of warm spices and rich, sweet molasses flavor. These soft and chewy cookies are not only perfect for sharing during the Christmas season but also evoke nostalgic memories of holiday baking. Their aromatic scent fills the kitchen, making them a favorite among family and friends.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 3 cups
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground ginger 1 teaspoon
Ground cloves ½ teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter ¾ cup (softened)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Molasses ¾ cup
Large egg 1
Powdered sugar (for rolling) ½ cup

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, and salt. Set this mixture aside, as you will add it to the wet ingredients later.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Molasses and Egg: Add the molasses and the large egg to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until well incorporated.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until all the flour is just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
  5. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
  6. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line several baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Form the Cookies: Once the dough is chilled, use a tablespoon to scoop out balls of dough. Roll each ball into a smooth shape and then roll it in powdered sugar until fully coated.
  8. Place on Baking Sheets: Arrange the powdered sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  9. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. Be careful not to overbake, as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
  10. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious molasses cookies!
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Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

chewy wholesome holiday cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a timeless favorite that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the natural sweetness of raisins. These cookies are chewy and hearty, making them a perfect snack for the holiday season, whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or as a delightful treat to share with family and friends. The addition of spices adds warmth and character to each bite, making these cookies a beloved staple on many holiday dessert tables.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Old-fashioned oats 2 cups
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter (softened) ¾ cup
Brown sugar (packed) 1 cup
Granulated sugar ½ cup
Large eggs 2
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Raisins 1 cup
Chopped nuts (optional) ½ cup

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well mixed and set this mixture aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the large eggs one at a time to the mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the vanilla extract into the batter.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. Add Oats and Mix-ins: Stir in the old-fashioned oats and raisins (and chopped nuts if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  7. Form the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers appear slightly underbaked.
  9. Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
  10. Enjoy: Once cooled, enjoy your homemade oatmeal raisin cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite holiday beverage!
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Snickerdoodles

classic cinnamon sugar cookies

Snickerdoodles are a classic holiday cookie known for their soft, chewy texture and distinctive cinnamon-sugar coating. With a slightly tangy flavor from cream of tartar, these delightful cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones or adding to your festive dessert spread. Their warm and inviting aroma is sure to fill your home with the spirit of the season.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 ¾ cups
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Cream of tartar 2 teaspoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter (softened) ½ cup
Granulated sugar 1 ½ cups
Large eggs 2
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 3 tablespoons
Granulated sugar (for rolling) ¼ cup

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Include the large eggs one at a time into the creamed mixture, ensuring to mix well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and blend until fully incorporated.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft but not sticky.
  6. Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon with the additional ¼ cup of granulated sugar, mixing it well to create the coating for the cookies.
  7. Form the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll each portion into a ball. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly.
  8. Place on Baking Sheets: Arrange the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
  9. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked, but not overbaked.
  10. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Snickerdoodles!
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Chocolate Chip Cookies

irresistible classic cookie delight

Chocolate chip cookies are a beloved classic, known for their irresistible combination of gooey chocolate and chewy, buttery dough. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying them during the holidays, treating yourself to a sweet snack, or sharing with friends. Their warm, comforting scent and rich flavor evoke a sense of nostalgia that makes them a staple in many homes.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 ½ cups
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter (softened) 1 cup
Granulated sugar ¾ cup
Brown sugar (packed) ¾ cup
Large eggs 2
Vanilla extract 2 teaspoons
Semi-sweet chocolate chips 2 cups

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Make sure these ingredients are well blended and set them aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is creamy and light in color, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the large eggs, one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain a soft cookie dough.
  6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  7. Form the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
  8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set but still soft.
  9. Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!
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Old-Fashioned Butter Cookies

rich buttery melt in your mouth cookies

Old-fashioned butter cookies are a delightful treat, celebrated for their rich, buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. These cookies are simple to make yet pack a nostalgic charm that makes them a favorite during the holiday season and throughout the year. Their versatility allows for various toppings, such as sprinkles or drizzles of chocolate, but they shine just as brightly on their own.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Unsalted butter (softened) 1 cup
Granulated sugar ¾ cup
Large egg 1
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Salt ½ teaspoon

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed. Continue beating until the mixture is creamy and light in color, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Crack the large egg into the mixing bowl and add the vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until fully combined with the butter and sugar mixture.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Make sure not to overmix; the dough should come together without any dry patches.
  5. Chill the Dough (Optional): For a firmer dough that’s easier to shape, you may choose to cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step is optional but recommended if you want cleaner edges on your cookies.
  6. Form the Cookies: Scoop out rounded tablespoons of the cookie dough and roll them into balls with your hands. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  7. Flatten the Cookies: Gently press down on each cookie ball with the bottom of a glass or your fingers, flattening them slightly for even baking. If desired, you can sprinkle some sugar on top for added sweetness and texture.
  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 and the centers are set.
  9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on it for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your old-fashioned butter cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
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Pecan Sandies

buttery nutty holiday cookies

Pecan Sandies are a classic holiday cookie known for their rich, nutty flavor and crumbly texture. These buttery cookies are studded with chopped pecans and rolled in powdered sugar to create a delightful treat that melts in your mouth. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift for loved ones, these cookies embody the comfort and warmth of the season.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Unsalted butter 1 cup
Granulated sugar ¾ cup
Brown sugar ¼ cup
Large egg 1
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Chopped pecans 1 cup
Salt ½ teaspoon
Powdered sugar For rolling

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed until it is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Crack the large egg into the butter and sugar mixture. Add the vanilla extract, and mix on low speed until fully incorporated.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, chopped pecans, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough; it should be thick and slightly crumbly.
  5. Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of the dough and roll them into balls between your hands. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  6. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers might still look slightly soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
  7. Cool and Roll in Powdered Sugar: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. After cooling, roll each cookie in powdered sugar until lightly coated.
  8. Finishing Touch: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, you can roll them in powdered sugar again before serving for an extra sweet touch.

Enjoy your homemade Pecan Sandies, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season!

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Spritz Cookies

festive buttery crisp cookies

Spritz Cookies are a delightful and festive treat that are popular during the holiday season. These buttery, crisp cookies have a beautiful shape, often formed using a cookie press or piping bag. With their rich flavor and delightful texture, they are perfect for gifting, sharing at holiday parties, or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Unsalted butter 1 cup
Granulated sugar ¾ cup
Large egg 1
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Baking powder ½ teaspoon
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Colored sugar (for decoration) Optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue to mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until all the ingredients are well combined, taking care not to overmix.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together and is smooth.
  5. Prepare the Cookie Press: If you are using a cookie press, fill it with the dough according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If using a piping bag, fit it with a large star tip.
  6. Shape the Cookies: Press or pipe the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, creating desired shapes (like flowers or swirls) and spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  7. Decorate: If desired, sprinkle colored sugar on top of the cookies for a festive touch before baking.
  8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as they can brown quickly.
  9. Cool: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your freshly baked Spritz Cookies as a holiday treat or share them with friends and family!

Rainbow Cookies

colorful layered almond cookies

Rainbow Cookies are a vibrant and eye-catching treat that celebrate the colors of the season. These sweet, almond-flavored cookies are layered with colorful jams and topped with a sweet chocolate coating, making them a festive delight for holiday gatherings. Not only are they delicious, but their striking appearance adds a cheerful touch to any cookie platter.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Almond paste 8 oz
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Large eggs 3
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Baking powder ½ teaspoon
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Food coloring (red, green, yellow) As needed
Raspberry jam ½ cup
Apricot jam ½ cup
Semisweet chocolate chips 1 cup
Unsalted butter 2 tablespoons

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
  2. Mix Almond Paste and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, crumble the almond paste into small pieces. Add the granulated sugar and mix well using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Add Eggs and Flavor: Mix in the eggs, one at a time, blending well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and combine until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until well incorporated.
  5. Divide Batter and Color: Divide the cookie batter into three equal portions. Use food coloring to tint one portion red, another green, and leave the third portion uncolored (or you can tint it yellow).
  6. Spread Layers in Pan: Spoon each colored batter into the prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer using a spatula. Bake the layers in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool and Layer with Jam: Once baked, remove the layers from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. After cooling, carefully remove the layers from the pan using the parchment overhang. Spread raspberry jam over the red layer and apricot jam over the green layer. Stack the layers carefully, with the red on the bottom, followed by the raspberry jam, then the yellow layer, and finally the green layer with apricot jam.
  8. Chill: Wrap the layered cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to set.
  9. Prepare Chocolate Coating: After chilling, melt the semisweet chocolate chips with the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until completely melted and smooth.
  10. Coat the Cookies: Remove the layered cookie from the refrigerator and cut it into squares. Dip the tops of each cookie square into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place the coated cookies on a wire rack to let the chocolate set.
  11. Serve: Once the chocolate has hardened, your Rainbow Cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them on a platter for sharing or package them up as festive gifts.

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.