60 Classic Christmas Cookie Recipes

Updated on November 9, 2017 by Jenny Potter

From tasty gingerbread to shortbread to decorated sugar cookie recipes, these treats are sure to sweeten up your Christmas — and impress friends at your cookie swap.

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Ginger Spice Cookies

Just the right amount of sugar and spice, a platter of these adorable decorated ginger cookies will impress any guest this holiday season. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ginger-spice-cookies/19290/" target="_blank">Ginger Spice Cookies</a>
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Rosemary-Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Seasonal citrus and Christmasy rosemary find a the perfect home in sweet shortbread. Each buttery bite releases the beautiful and bright medley of fresh flavours. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/rosemary-lemon-shortbread-cookies/19731/" target="_blank">Valerie Bertinelli’s Rosemary Lemon Shortbread Cookies</a>
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Vegan Gingerbread Snowflakes

These crumbly gingerbread snowflake cookies are almost too pretty to eat! Whip up some icing and frost them for a wintery finishing touch. Did we mention these treats are vegan? Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegan-gingerbread-snowflakes/15079/" target="_blank">Vegan Gingerbread Snowflakes</a>
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Old Fashioned Sugar Cookies

There's nothing like a batch of old fashioned sugar cookies decorated in royal icing with red and green spinkles to get you in the holiday mood. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/old-fashioned-sugar-cookies/19292/" target="_blank">Old Fashioned Sugar Cookies</a>
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Crushed Candy Cane Chocolate Chip Cookies

These aren’t your average chocolate chip cookies. Put a holiday-inspired spin on this classic dessert with crushed candy canes mixed into the dough. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/crushed-candy-cane-chocolate-chip-cookies/17247/" target="_blank">Crushed Candy Cane Chocolate Chip Cookies</a>
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Light as Air Whipped Shortbread Cookies

The secret to these super light and fluffy shortbread cookies is whipping the butter, sugar, cornstarch and vanilla until fluffy, then carefully mixing in flour until just combined. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/light-as-air-whipped-shortbread-cookies/14040/" target="_blank">Light-As-Air Whipped Shortbread Cookies</a>
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Stained Glass Cookies

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! These pretty stained glass cookies are filled with various jams and dusted with icing sugar for the perfect finishing touch. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/stained-glass-cookies/4828/" target="_blank">Stained Glass Cookies</a>
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Snickerdoodle Cookies

This twist on the classic sugar cookie has a crunchy exterior but with a chewy and tender middle, with a hint of spice. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/snickerdoodle-cookies/16559/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Snickerdoodle Cookies</a>
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Anna Olson's Shortbread Cookies

This recipe makes a shortbread that's soft and tender, unlike the typically firm and crumbly version. For an extra treat, press a piece of chocolate nougat candy into the centre of each cookie. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/shortbread-cookies/5498/" target="_blank">Anna Olson’s Shortbread Cookies</a>
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Scotland

Whether you enjoy a classic shortbread with tea or a single malt, this recipe will surely satisfy. Using brown rice flour in addition to all-purpose adds a bit of colour and lightness to the finished product, which improves over the course of a few days (if you can let it sit that long). Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/scottish-pan-shortbread/12771/" target="_blank"> Anna Olson’s Scottish Pan Shortbread</a>
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Almond Snowballs

These coconut-filled cookies can be made in just 22 minutes and contain less than 10 ingredients, making them a go-to recipe for any holiday party. Top them with slivered almonds and a maraschino cherry to complete the holiday look. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/almond-snowballs/19289/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Almond Snowballs</a>
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Peppermint Patty Sandwich Cookies

Perfect for any holiday dessert table, a sweet peppermint-flavoured filling is sandwiched between two soft and chewy chocolate cookies in Giada’s indulgent recipe. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/peppermint-patty-sandwich-cookies/17603/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis’ Peppermint Patty Sandwich Cookies</a>
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4 Delicious Alternatives to Gingerbread Men

 While gingerbread men are the classic cookie shape, there are lots of ways to customize your cookies without cutters. We’ve got four new varieties to try: sugar-coated crackle cookies, jam-filled thumbprints, gift tags, and candy cane icebox cookies. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/blog/delicious-alternatives-to-gingerbread-men/" target="_blank">4 Delicious Alternatives to Gingerbread Men</a>
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Christmas Sugar Cookies

These gorgeous Christmas-hued pinwheels are made with a classic sugar cookie dough, and can be given out to friends as ornaments, or gorgeously displayed in a holiday dessert spread. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/christmas-sugar-cookies/19269/" target="_blank">Ricardo's Christmas Sugar Cookies</a>
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Super Gooey Chocolate Drops

The name doesn't lie — if you like gooey, melt-in-your-mouth chocolaltey treats, these cherry-studded cookies are for you. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/super-gooey-chocolate-drops/19293/" target="_blank">Super Gooey Chocolate Drops</a>
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Neapolitan Holiday Cookies

These delightful cookie bars feature Christmas-hued layers, finished off with a topping of melted chocolate for the perfect holiday treat. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/neapolitan-holiday-cookies/17597/" target="_blank">Valerie Bertinelli’s Neapolitan Holiday Cookies</a>
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Butter Cookies

This dessert doesn't skimp on the good stuff! Loaded with butter and sugar, these crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are something to be savoured. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butter-cookies/19268/" target="_blank">Ricardo's Butter Cookies</a>
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Santa's Christmas Cookies

Easy enough to make and decorate with the kiddies, these colourful cookies make great gifts — but make sure you save enough for Santa! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/santas-christmas-cookies/19288/" target="_blank">Nancy Fuller's Santa's Christmas Cookies</a>
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Pfeffernusse Cookies

Add a little spice to your dessert table with these dainty icing sugar-covered cookies. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pfeffernusse-cookies/16927/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Pfeffernusse Cookies</a>
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Ginger Shortbread

Cut into star shapes for a festive feel, a hint of spice is the perfect addition to these party-worthy cookies. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ginger-shortbread/17636/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Ginger Shortbread</a>
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Chocolate Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies

Crushed candy canes add a zesty, minty burst of holiday flavour to these chocolate pinwheel cookies. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chocolate-peppermint-pinwheel-cookies/17526/">Alton Brown's Chocolate Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies</a>
Ricardo Cuisine

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Double Hazelnut Cookies

Roasted hazelnuts and smooth, velvety hazelnut spread come together in this delightfully chewy cookie. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/double-hazelnut-cookies/17875/">Ricardo's Double Hazelnut Cookies</a>
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Mince Pie Cookies

Mince pie is a traditional Christmastime treat right out of a Dickens novel, and these delightful mince pie cookies put a fun new spin on a tried-and-true dessert. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mince-pie-cookies/15125/" target="_blank">Jamie Oliver's Mince Pie Cookies</a>
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Snowball Cookies

Super sweet and packed with coconut, these cookies are wonderfully easy to make and require minimal ingredients. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/snowball-cookies/15002/">Ricardo Larrivée's Snowball Cookies</a>
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Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies

With bold chocolate flavour and studded with chewy bits of dried cherries, these tender and addictive shortbread cookies will become your go-to treat when entertaining. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chocolate-cherry-shortbread-cookies/18962/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies</a>
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Basic Gingerbread Cut-Out Cookies

Nothing gets the holiday magic started more than the distinct smell of gingerbread. This recipe has the perfect balance of cinnamon, ginger and allspice, combined with the deep, rich taste of molasses. Keep this one handy, because the soft cookies will be your go-to year after year. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/basic-gingerbread-cut-out-cookies/12839/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Basic Gingerbread Cut-Out Cookies</a>
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Cake Mix Holiday Cookies

Thanks to a base of yellow cake mix (and a generous spread of white chocolate cream cheese frosting), these cookies have a super soft and tender texture, making them look and taste more like little cupcake tops. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cake-mix-holiday-cookies/19294/" target="_blank">Cake Mix Holiday Cookies</a>
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Sugar Cookies

Holiday baking has never been easier thanks to Alton Brown’s quick and easy recipe for delightful sugar cookies. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/altons-sugar-cookies/17528/">Alton Brown's Sugar Cookies</a>
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Lemon Ricotta Cookies with Lemon Glaze

Zesty lemon and creamy ricotta combine for these light and airy cookies that will be the hit of any holiday party. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lemon-ricotta-cookies-with-lemon-glaze/15497/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Lemon Ricotta Cookies with Lemon Glaze</a>
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Pecan and Chocolate Shortbreads

Shortbread cookies are spiked with a hint of rum, and jazzed up with roasted pecans and a drizzle of melted dark chocolate. Be sure to make extra because it's impossible to eat just one! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pecan-and-chocolate-shortbreads/17568/" target="_blank"> Ricardo's Pecan and Chocolate Shortbreads</a>
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Festive Meringue Cookies

This recipe is by far the easiest holiday recipe to execute, and the meringues hold really well. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/festive-meringue-cookies-from-duhlicious/3077/" target="_blank">Festive Meringue Cookies</a>
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Ricardo's Shortbread

Thin, crisp and full of buttery goodness, this tasty shortbread recipe makes an irresistible and tasty dessert that your guests are sure to love. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ricardos-shortbread-cookies/17578/" target="_blank">Ricardo's Shortbread</a>
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Ina Garten’s Shortbread Cookies

Buttery shortbread cookies are dipped in silky melted chocolate and left to harden for the perfect bite. Dip them into the chocolate at an angle or drizzle the melted chocolate over top for a pretty dessert. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-shortbread-cookies/17446/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Shortbread Cookies</a>
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Chewy Ginger Cookies

The perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cookies boast all the sweetness and spicy elements of the traditional gingerbread, but with a super-soft, chewy bite. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chewy-ginger-cookies/15140/" target="_blank">Chewy Ginger Cookies </a>
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Pie Thumbprint Cookies

Always a hit at cookie exchanges, thumbprint cookies, with their homey, handmade feel, get an elegant twist with pie fillings. Surprise your pals with lemon curd, pecan pie or peanut butter-chocolate thumbprints. Anything goes with this versatile recipe. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/easy-as-pie-thumbprint-cookies/" target="_blank">Pie Thumbprint Cookies</a>
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Vanilla Bean Spritz Shortbread

These lovely cookies are sure to impress your guests. The star shape can be achieved with a star-shaped tip on a piping bag or with a cookie press. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vanilla-bean-spritz-shortbread/12770/" target="_blank">Anna Olson’s Vanilla Bean Spritz Shortbread</a>
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White Chocolate Gingerbread Cookies

Warm, spiced gingerbread cookies are dipped in creamy white chocolate for a decadent holiday treat. Dust with snow-like sprinkles to complete the festive look. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/frugal-fare-white-chocolate-gingerbread-cookies/" target="_blank">White Chocolate Gingerbread Cookies</a>
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Ugly Christmas Sweater Cookies

Once the curse of the holidays, you’ll have just as much fun decorating these ugly Christmas sweater cookies as you do wearing them! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ugly-christmas-sweater-cookies/18822/" target="_blank">Ugly Christmas Sweater Cookies</a>
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Ultimate Ginger Cookie

Warm flavours of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves make for the ultimate chewy and buttery spiced cookies. Crystallized ginger bits added to the batter give these treats added crunch and a punch of flavour. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ultimate-ginger-cookie/17442/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Ultimate Ginger Cookie</a>
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Bezele (Meringue Cookies)

Vanilla meringue kisses with a chocolate buttercream filling and crumbled walnuts. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/bezele-meringue-cookies-from-duhlicious/5837/" target="_blank">Bezele (Meringue Cookies)</a>
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Almond Swirl Cookies

Melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate almond flavour make these piped cookies a holiday treat. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/almond-swirl-cookies/11475/" target="_blank">Almond Swirl Cookies</a>
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Almond Linzer Cookies

These teardrop-shaped cookies are eye-catching, beautiful, and delicious! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/almond-linzer-cookies/12655/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Almond Linzer Cookies</a>
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Chocolate Candy Cane Sandwich Cookies

Peppermint-flavoured frosting studded with pieces of crushed candy canes, sandwiched between moist, chocolate cookies.Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chocolate-candy-cane-sandwich-cookies/15080/">Chocolate Candy Cane Sandwich Cookies</a>
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Alfajores (Dulce De Leche Sandwich Cookies)

Melt-in-your-mouth biscuits layered with dulce de leche and coated in coconut, these Argentinean style cookies are to die for. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/alfajores-dulce-de-leche-sandwich-cookies/19239/" target="_blank">Ricardo's Alfajores (Dulce De Leche Sandwich Cookies)</a>
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Almond Butter Thumbprint Cookies

These beautiful cookies are made with ground almonds and features a little dollop of jam in the centre. Serve them after a satisfying holiday meal fireplace or at your next cookie exchange. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/bake-with-anna-olson/recipe/almond-butter-thumbprint-cookies/19231/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Almond Butter Thumbprint Cookies</a>
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Molasses Cookies with Boiled Marshmallow Frosting

An outer layer of cinnamon, ginger and molasses-flavoured cookies filled with marshmallow frosting, these sweet treats may sound complicated, but they only take about 25 minutes to make. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grammy-carls-rule-for-molasses-cookies-with-boiled-marshmallow-frosting/17954/" target="_blank">Nancy Fuller's Molasses Cookies with Boiled Marshmallow Frosting</a>
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Holiday Biscotti

Put a festive spin on your favourite crunchy cookies with white chocolate and colourful sprinkles. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/holiday-biscotti/17444/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Holiday Biscotti</a>
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Classic Cranberry Almond Biscotti

Crunchy almond biscotti are flavoured with a dash of nutmeg and lemon zest. Perfect for dipping into coffee or as a homemade gift for friends and family. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/classic-cranberry-almond-biscotti/16543/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Classic Cranberry Almond Biscotti</a>
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Apple Linzer Cookies

Linzer cookies are always a favourite. These ones are just a bit different than the norm, using apple butter in the middle rather than the traditional raspberry jam.Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/apple-linzers-cookies/11478/">Apple Linzer Cookies</a>
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Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Perfect for the holidays, these chocolatey cookies are rolled in icing sugar, creating a snow-dusted crinkled cookiescape. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/bake-with-anna-olson/recipe/chocolate-crinkle-cookies/19232/" target="_blank">Anna Olson’s Chocolate Crinkle Cookies </a>
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Globs

Light chocolate peanut butter cookies with dense chocolate flavour, this chewy dessert is loaded with peanut butter chips, chopped walnuts and pecans for some crunch. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chocolate-peanut-butter-globs/15071/">Ina Garten's Chocolate Peanut Butter Globs</a>
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Greek Shortbread Cookies (Kourabiedes)

These bright white crescent cookies are the Greek version of shortbread, featuring the same buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture but adding almonds to the mix for a hint of nutty flavour. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/greek-shortbread-cookies-kouriabiedes/6157/" target="_blank">Greek Shortbread Cookies (Kouriabiedes)</a>
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Fruitcake Cookies

Chock-full of dried fruit, pecans and warming spices, these mini versions of fruitcake are both pretty and practical — the perfect treat for any holiday celebration. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/fruitcake-cookies/17441/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Fruitcake Cookies</a>
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Peppermint Sugar Cookies

This is a great, simple dough to make up a batch of holiday cookies peppered with crushed candy canes and have your kids decorate them. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/peppermint-sugar-cookies/11482/" target="_blank">Peppermint Sugar Cookies</a>
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Swedish Christmas Cookies

This holiday, bring a tasty and traditional Swedish cookie to your dessert platter with this super simple recipe. Use holiday hues for the sugar coating to make them more festive. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/swedish-christmas-cookies/19291/" target="_blank">Swedish Christmas Cookies</a>
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Royal Icing Sugar Cookies

The icing on these tender butter cookies isn’t just for decoration — although it does make a beautiful sight. It also adds stability to the tender crumb and some sweetness to offset the slight salt undertones to the cookie. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/royal-icing-sugar-cookies/19340/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Royal Icing Sugar Cookies</a>
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Vanilla Icebox Cookies

Consider these cookies your saving grace for last-minute guests. Make the dough in advance and stash it in the freezer. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vanilla-icebox-cookies/16608/" target="_blank">Anna Olson’s Vanilla Icebox Cookies</a>
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Thumbprint Cookies

Give your favourite jam-filled cookies a nutritional boost with whole wheat flour. This versatile recipe can even be made nut-free by substituting unsweetened coconut for pecans. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/festive-thumbprint-cookies/16234/" target="_blank">Thumbprint Cookies</a>
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Checkerboard Cookies

You’ll need a (clean) ruler for this by-the-numbers checkerboard cookie recipe. Interspersing strips of chocolate and vanilla dough results in a neat pattern of alternating squares and an impressive result. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/checkerboard-icebox-cookies/16609/" target="_blank"> Anna Olson’s Checkerboard Icebox Cookies</a>
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Chocolate Vanilla Sandwich Cookies

This classic sandwich cookie recipe is highly adaptable. Add holiday flare by adding peppermint to the vanilla filling, then drizzle the assembled cookies with white chocolate and scatter over crushed candy canes. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chocolate-vanilla-sandwich-cookies/12654/" target="_blank">Anna Olson’s Chocolate Vanilla Sandwich Cookies</a>
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