Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies are a cherished holiday tradition in my family. Growing up, we spent countless December afternoons dusting the kitchen in powdered sugar, dolloping festive frosting, and sprinkling colorful sugar crystals onto perfectly pillowy cookies. As we get closer to the Christmas season each year, I can’t help but reminisce about that sweet aroma of freshly baked sugar cookies, the sparkling lights dancing across the living room, and the shared laughter echoing in every corner of the house.

For as long as I can remember, whipping up a batch of soft frosted Christmas cookies was the highlight of our holiday preparations. While we all love the excitement of gift shopping and tree trimming, it was the holiday baking that truly kicked off the spirit of the season. The irresistible scent of vanilla, the softness of the cookies fresh out of the oven, and the creamy frosting that melts on your tongue—these classic treats add a dash of nostalgia to every bite.

Today, I still look forward to baking these best Christmas cookies every December, sharing them with friends, neighbors, and, of course, leaving a few out for Santa. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, looking for a showstopping addition to your Christmas cookie platter, or simply want to surprise someone with a homemade gift, these easy holiday dessert bites never fail to spread joy. With a soft, cakey crumb and a swirl of creamy frosting, it’s safe to say you’ll make new memories—and maybe even start a family tradition of your own—every time you bake them.

Time to put on your favorite Christmas tunes, gather your ingredients, and get ready to transform your kitchen into a holiday wonderland!

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS SOFT FROSTED CHRISTMAS COOKIES

These soft-frosted Christmas cookies are a holiday dream! They practically melt in your mouth thanks to their tender crumb and sweet, pillowy frosting. Plus, the festive sprinkles add instant holiday cheer—perfect for gifting or sharing. They’re super simple to bake, and they’ll fill your kitchen with that warm, cozy Christmas aroma everyone loves.

INGREDIENTS FOR SOFT FROSTED CHRISTMAS COOKIES

INGREDIENTS FOR THE COOKIES

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract

INGREDIENTS FOR THE FROSTING

• Confectioners’ sugar (sifted)
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Milk
• McCormick Food Extract (any flavor you like)
• Assorted McCormick Food Colors
• Sprinkles (optional)

HOW TO MAKE THIS SOFT FROSTED CHRISTMAS COOKIES

First Step

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Second Step

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed until soft and fluffy.

Third Step

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Blend in the vanilla extract.

Fourth Step

With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated and evenly combined. Cover and chill the dough for about an hour.

Fifth Step

Preheat your oven. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Sixth Step

Scoop heaping tablespoons of chilled dough into balls and place on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers, leaving space between cookies.

Seventh Step

Bake the cookies just until set, keeping an eye on the edges to avoid over-browning. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Eighth Step

Prepare the frosting by sifting confectioners’ sugar into a large bowl. Whisk in the melted butter, milk, and your chosen extract until smooth. Adjust consistency with small amounts of milk if needed.

Ninth Step

Divide the frosting into batches if you want multiple colors, and tint each with desired McCormick Food Colors.

Tenth Step

Dip the cooled cookies into the frosting and place on a rack or baking sheet to set. Decorate with sprinkles if you like. Store in an airtight container for up to several days.

STORAGE OPTIONS

There’s something magical about biting into a soft, pillowy Christmas cookie with a swirl of sweet frosting, isn’t there? These dreamy treats are perfect for holiday cookie swaps, cozy evenings by the fire, or sneaking into Santa’s cookie plate at midnight. But if you want to make a big batch ahead of time—or simply save a few extras for later—here’s exactly how to keep them fresh and fabulous.

Refrigerator
If your home is on the warm side or you’re looking to savor these cookies slowly (it’s okay, we’ve all been there), you can tuck them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container to lock in that soft, bakery-style texture. The frosting might firm up ever so slightly, but a quick rest at room temperature brings them right back to pillowy perfection.

Freezer
Planning ahead for all those holiday festivities? Frosted Christmas cookies are delightfully freezer-friendly! Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, pop them into the freezer for about an hour (this helps the frosting set), then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2–3 months. Simply thaw on the counter for 15–20 minutes whenever you’re ready for some sweet holiday cheer!

VARIATIONS AND SUBSTITUTIONS

• Peppermint Punch: Swap out vanilla extract for peppermint for a minty Christmas flavor.
• Almond Twist: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nuttier taste.
• Festive Toppings: If sprinkles aren’t handy, top with crushed candy canes or mini chocolate chips.
• Whole Wheat Option: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier cookie.
• Spice It Up: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy holiday warmth.
• Lactose-Free: Substitute butter with your favorite plant-based butter without losing that soft, fluffy crumb.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying out your first easy Christmas cookie recipe, these soft frosted Christmas cookies will bring extra cheer to your holiday table. Soft, delicately sweet, and fun to decorate, they’re the perfect way to celebrate the season. Gather your loved ones in the kitchen, crank up the Christmas music, and bake a memory you’ll treasure all year long.

Happy Holidays and Merry Baking!

SAVE THIS RECIPE TO YOUR FAVORITE PINTEREST BOARD!

Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies

Print Pin Rate

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

1 hour hour

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• For the Cookies:
• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 4 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups 3 sticks unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 5 teaspoons pure vanilla extract such as McCormick
• For the Frosting:
• 5 cups confectioners’ sugar sifted
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter melted
• ½ cup milk plus extra if needed
• 1 tablespoon of your choice of flavor extract e.g., peppermint or vanilla
• Food coloring in desired shades McCormick red and green suggested
• Optional toppings: sprinkles nonpareils, or sanding sugar

Instructions

• For the Cookies
• Combine Dry Ingredients
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Cream Butter and Sugar
• In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes, until light and fluffy.
• Add Eggs and Vanilla
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Incorporate Dry Ingredients
• Reduce the mixer speed to low, then slowly add the flour mixture. Mix just until everything is combined and evenly distributed. Cover the dough and refrigerate for about 1 hour.
• Preheat and Prepare Pans
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
• Shape the Cookies
• Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving 2–3 inches between cookies. Press down gently on each dough ball to flatten slightly.
• Bake
• Bake for 10–12 minutes, just until the cookies are set. Avoid overbaking; the edges should only be lightly golden, if at all. Cool the cookies on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• For the Frosting
• Combine Frosting Ingredients
• Sift the confectioners’ sugar into a large bowl. Add the melted butter, milk, and your chosen flavor extract. Whisk until smooth.
• Adjust Consistency
• If the frosting is too thick, whisk in additional milk one teaspoon at a time until it reaches your preferred consistency.
• Color the Frosting
• If desired, divide the frosting into separate bowls and stir in your preferred food coloring.
• Decorate Cookies
• Flip each cooled cookie upside down and dip the top into the frosting. Place cookies on a wire rack or baking sheet so the frosting can set. If you’d like, add sprinkles or other decorations right away.
• Store and Enjoy
• Let the frosting set completely, then store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.