Christmas cookies

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Christmas cookies are traditional sugar cookies or biscuits that are baked specifically for Christmas celebrations. They are often cut into festive shapes and decorated with icing and sprinkles.

History[edit | edit source]

The tradition of baking Christmas cookies dates back to the Middle Ages, when spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg were introduced to European baking. These spices, along with dried fruits and nuts, were used to create festive biscuits that were often used as decorations or gifts during the Christmas season.

In the 16th century, Christmas cookies became more popular due to the availability of ingredients and the tradition of Christmas baking. In many countries, including Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands, specific types of Christmas cookies are baked, such as Lebkuchen, Pepparkakor, and Speculaas respectively.

Types of Christmas Cookies[edit | edit source]

There are many different types of Christmas cookies, each with their own unique recipes and traditions. Some of the most popular include:

  • Gingerbread Cookies: These are perhaps the most iconic Christmas cookies. They are often cut into the shape of people or houses and decorated with icing and candy.
  • Sugar Cookies: These are simple cookies that are often cut into festive shapes and decorated with colored icing and sprinkles.
  • Shortbread Cookies: These are buttery cookies that originated in Scotland. They are often cut into the shape of Christmas symbols, such as stars or trees.
  • Snickerdoodles: These are soft, buttery cookies coated in cinnamon sugar. They are a popular choice for Christmas baking in the United States.

Baking and Decorating[edit | edit source]

Baking Christmas cookies is a popular holiday activity in many cultures. The process often involves cutting the dough into festive shapes using cookie cutters, and then decorating the baked cookies with icing, sprinkles, and other edible decorations.

In addition to being enjoyed at home, Christmas cookies are often given as gifts or brought to cookie exchange parties. They are also commonly left out for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve.

See Also[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD