11 UK Christmas Cookies British Traditions

Gingerbread Men

Gingerbread Men are classic holiday cookies that embody the warmth and spice of the festive season. These charming, spiced cookies are typically shaped like little men and decorated with icing, making them a popular treat during Christmas time. Not only are they delicious, but they also add a fun and festive touch to holiday gatherings.

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, ground cloves, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter and brown sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Molasses, Egg, and Vanilla: Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. You may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl to guarantee everything is mixed properly.
5. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts, flatten each into a disc shape, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps the dough firm up for easier rolling.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, take one disc of dough out of the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick.
8. Cut the Gingerbread Men: Use a gingerbread man cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the rolled dough. Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
9. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn slightly golden.
10. Cool the Cookies: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
11. Decorate: Once fully cooled, decorate with royal icing as desired to create faces, clothes, and other fun designs.
12. Enjoy: After decorating, let the icing set for a bit, then they are ready to enjoy! Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Happy baking and enjoy your festive Gingerbread Men!

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Mince Pies

Mince Pies are a traditional British festive pastry, typically enjoyed during the Christmas season. These delightful little tarts are filled with a rich mixture of dried fruits, spices, and sometimes a splash of brandy or rum, creating a sweet and aromatic filling that complements the buttery pastry nicely. Mince Pies are often served warm, making them a popular treat during holiday gatherings and celebrations.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the chilled, cubed unsalted butter. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add Cold Water: Gradually add cold water 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough begins to come together. It should be moist but not sticky. Avoid overworking the dough.
3. Chill the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps to firm up the butter for a flakier crust.
4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
5. Roll Out the Pastry: After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
6. Cut Out Circles: Use a round cookie cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the rolled dough. You’ll need enough circles to line the muffin tin and also to create lids for the pies.
7. Fill the Base: Gently press the circles into the muffin tin, ensuring they cover the bottom and sides. Spoon a generous amount of the mince meat filling into each pastry base, filling them about three-quarters full.
8. Top with Lids: Use the remaining dough to cut out smaller circles for lids (about 2 inches in diameter) or create an appealing design like stars. Place the lids on top of the filled pies, pressing the edges lightly to seal.
9. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over the lids of the pies to give them a nice golden color when baked.
10. Bake: Bake the mince pies in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
11. Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the pies from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with icing sugar once they are cool and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your festive treat!

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Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread Cookies are a classic British treat known for their rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture. Traditionally enjoyed during the festive season, these cookies are simple to make and require just a handful of ingredients. Their delightful taste makes them perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the 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 becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Vanilla Extract: If you’re using vanilla extract, add it to the butter and sugar mixture and mix until combined.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough starts to come together. It should be crumbly but hold its shape when pressed.
5. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Using your hands, gently knead the dough just until it forms a cohesive ball. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the cookies tender.
6. Roll Out the Dough: Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to a thickness of about ½ inch. If the dough is soft, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before rolling.
7. Cut Out Cookie Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the rolled dough. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
8. Chill the Cookies: For better texture, you can pop the baking sheet with the cut-out cookies into the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape.
9. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may still appear a bit pale.
10. Cool: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Serve or Store: Enjoy your homemade shortbread cookies as is, or if you wish, you can dust them with powdered sugar once cooled for a decorative touch. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

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Biscotti

Biscotti are traditional Italian almond biscuits known for their crunchy texture and delicious flavor. Perfect for dipping in coffee or tea, these twice-baked cookies are also versatile and can be flavored with various nuts, chocolate, or dried fruits. Making biscotti at home is simple, and they can be stored for weeks, making them an ideal treat for the festive season or any time of the year.

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. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter, eggs, and almond extract. Whisk until fully blended.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently using a spatula until the dough begins to form. It will be slightly sticky.
5. Add Almonds: Fold in the sliced almonds and any optional add-ins such as chocolate chips or dried fruit. Mix until evenly distributed.
6. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.
7. Bake the Logs: Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Cool and Slice: Remove the logs from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Once cool enough to handle, use a serrated knife to slice the logs diagonally into ½ to 1-inch thick pieces.
9. Second Bake: Arrange the biscotti slices cut side down on the baking sheet. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are crisp and dry.
10. Cool Completely: After baking, remove the biscotti from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Enjoy your homemade biscotti with coffee or tea!

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Jammie Dodgers

Jammie Dodgers are classic British biscuits that consist of two buttery, crumbly cookies sandwiched together with a layer of fruity jam, typically raspberry or strawberry. These delightful treats are perfect for tea time or as a sweet snack, and their playful heart-cut shapes make them a fun addition to any festive gathering.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or a wooden spoon until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat the beaten egg and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until a dough forms.
5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to roll out.
6. Roll Out the Dough: After chilling, take the dough out of the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to approximately ¼-inch thick.
7. Cut Out Cookies: Use a round biscuit cutter to cut out cookies. Create a heart shape in the center of half of the cookies using a smaller cutter, leaving the other half intact. Transfer all cookies to the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
9. Cool: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Assemble: Once cooled, spread a layer of jam on the solid cookie halves and top with the heart-shaped cookies to create a sandwich. Press gently to secure.
11. Serve: Your Jammie Dodgers are now ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

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Snowball Cookies

Snowball cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, are delightful, buttery, and crumbly treats that are rolled in powdered sugar before and after baking. These tiny, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are traditionally made with finely chopped nuts and are a holiday favorite in many households. Their snow-like appearance and rich flavor make them a perfect addition to any festive gathering.

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 cookies from sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, using an electric mixer or a wooden spoon.
3. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until well combined with the butter and sugar mixture.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, chopped nuts, and salt to the creamed mixture. Mix until it forms a soft dough. Confirm the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Shape Dough Balls: Using your hands, scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until they are just set and the bottoms are lightly golden.
7. Cool and Roll in Sugar: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, while they are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar to coat.
8. Final Coating: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. After they are cool, roll them in powdered sugar one final time for an extra snowy finish.
9. Serve: Transfer the cookies to a serving platter and enjoy! These snowball cookies can be stored in an airtight container for several days.

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Eccles Cakes

Eccles cakes are a delightful British pastry, originating from the town of Eccles in Greater Manchester. These small, round cakes consist of a flaky pastry filled with currants or raisins, along with a hint of spice from nutmeg and cinnamon. Often enjoyed with tea or as a sweet treat, Eccles cakes are characterized by their rich flavor and satisfying texture, making them a beloved classic during the festive season and beyond.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the Eccles cakes from sticking.
2. Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the currants or raisins, brown sugar, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. Mix well to guarantee that the fruit is evenly coated with the sugar and spices.
3. Roll Out Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to about 1/8 inch thick. Make sure it’s evenly rolled to achieve a uniform thickness.
4. Cut Circles: Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the rolled pastry. Each circle should be about 4 inches in diameter. Gather any scraps and re-roll to cut additional circles.
5. Fill the Pastry: Place a generous tablespoon of the currant filling in the center of each pastry circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this makes sealing difficult.
6. Seal the Cakes: Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling, sealing it carefully by pressing the edges together. You can crimp the edges with a fork for an added decorative touch.
7. Egg Wash: Place the sealed cakes on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the Eccles cakes to give them a beautiful golden color while baking. For extra shine, you can mix a little milk with the egg wash.
8. Sprinkle Sugar: Lightly sprinkle some extra sugar on top of the egg-washed cakes to give them a sweet crust once baked.
9. Bake: Bake the Eccles cakes in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
10. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature and are perfect alongside a cup of tea.
11. Storage: If you have leftovers, store the Eccles cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days.

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Pecan Pie Cookies

Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering all the rich flavors of the beloved dessert in a charming, bite-sized cookie form. These cookies are soft and chewy, with a buttery base, caramelized pecans, and a hint of sweetness that makes them perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This typically takes about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in Pecans and Corn Syrup: Gently fold in the chopped pecans and corn syrup. The corn syrup will add a nice chewy texture to the cookies and enhance the pecan flavor.
6. Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets: Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
8. Cool the Cookies: 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.
9. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a festive touch before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Pecan Pie Cookies!

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Chocolate Orange Cookies

Chocolate Orange Cookies are a delicious combination of rich chocolate and bright citrus flavors, making them a festive treat perfect for any holiday celebration. With a soft, chewy texture and a touch of zest from fresh orange, these cookies are certain to impress friends and family alike.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to guarantee the cookies don’t stick.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process takes about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Flavoring: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and grated orange zest until fully integrated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to guarantee everything is mixed properly.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips with a spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets: Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, keeping 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, or until the edges appear set while the centers are still soft.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, lightly dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving for an added festive touch. Enjoy your Chocolate Orange Cookies!

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Figgy Puddings

Figgy Puddings are a traditional British dessert often served during the Christmas season. This dense, moist cake is packed with dried fruits, spices, and often served with a warm sauce, creating a comforting and festive treat that brings a taste of holiday nostalgia. The rich flavors and aromas will fill your home with the spirit of the season.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pudding Basin: Begin by greasing a 1.5-liter pudding basin or a heatproof bowl with butter. Line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. Combine with Milk and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the milk and then add the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Fold in Fruits: Carefully fold in the chopped dried figs, dried apricots, raisins, and mixed candied peel until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour into Basin: Pour the mixture into the prepared pudding basin, using a spatula to smooth the top. Cover the top tightly with parchment paper and then with aluminum foil, securing it tightly around the rim.
8. Prepare for Steaming: Place a steaming rack or a heatproof plate in a large pot and pour in enough water to come halfway up the sides of the pudding basin. Bring the water to a boil.
9. Steam the Pudding: Carefully place the pudding basin on the steaming rack, cover the pot with a lid, and reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Steam for about 1.5-2 hours, checking the water level occasionally to ascertain it doesn’t evaporate completely.
10. Cool and Store: After steaming, carefully remove the pudding basin from the pot and let it cool. Once cool, cover it with plastic wrap and store in a cool place until ready to serve.
11. Reheat and Serve: To serve, re-steam the pudding for about 30 minutes before serving. Invert onto a serving plate, and pour over a warm sauce such as brandy butter, cream, or a custard sauce for an extra festive touch. Enjoy your delicious Figgy Pudding!

Spiced Sugar Cookies

Spiced Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, perfect for the festive season. Infused with warm spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, these cookies provide a cozy aroma and are ideal for sharing with family and friends. Whether enjoyed on their own or decorated with icing, Spiced Sugar Cookies are a holiday favorite that will certainly bring joy to your celebrations.

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. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and salt. Make certain the ingredients are well combined and set the bowl aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary to guarantee all ingredients are well blended.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
6. Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, lightly flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your hands.
7. Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly soft but will firm up as they cool.
8. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Decorate (Optional): If you wish to decorate, once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them with powdered sugar or use royal icing for more elaborate designs.

Enjoy your homemade Spiced Sugar Cookies, perfect for festive gatherings or enjoying with a warm cup of tea!