Christmas Cookies with Royal Icing

By Sophia / November 30, 2025

Why Make This Christmas Cookies with Royal Icing

There’s something magical about the holiday season, especially when it comes to baking. These Christmas cookies with royal icing are not only a delightful treat but also a fantastic way to add a sprinkle of joy to your festivities. Soft, buttery cookies take center stage, covered in vibrant, artistic royal icing. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a cookie exchange, or just want to fill your home with the sweet aroma of baking, these cookies are a wonderful choice. Plus, decorating cookies can be a fun activity for the whole family, creating memories that last a lifetime!

How to Make Christmas Cookies with Royal Icing

Making these Christmas cookies with royal icing involves two main stages: the cookie dough itself and the royal icing decoration. The process is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. You mix and bake the cookies first, allowing them to cool before bringing them to life with colorful icing. The royal icing adds a beautiful finish, making these cookies perfect for gifting or displaying on your holiday table.

Ingredients:

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
3 cups powdered sugar
2 egg whites
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Food coloring (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and baking powder together.
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
Gradually blend the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them onto ungreased baking pans.
Flatten each ball lightly with a glass, and if you like, sprinkle colored sugar on top for added decoration.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven until the edges are lightly golden.
For the royal icing, beat the egg whites together with lemon juice in a bowl. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the icing holds stiff peaks.
Let the baked cookies cool completely, then decorate them with the royal icing as desired.

Nutritional Information

Per cookie (based on a batch of 24 cookies):

Calories: 150
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 1g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 25mg

These cookies pack a sweet punch, making them a treat to savor! Enjoy mindfully, especially during the holiday season.

How to Serve Christmas Cookies with Royal Icing

These festive cookies are perfect for serving at holiday parties, family gatherings, or as a sweet addition to your dessert table. Consider arranging them on a decorative platter or in gift boxes to share with friends and neighbors. Pair them with warm cups of cocoa or spiced tea for a cozy treat, and feel free to set them out for Santa – he’ll surely appreciate the delicious offering!

How to Store Christmas Cookies with Royal Icing

To keep your Christmas cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week this way. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the undecorated cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a zip-top bag, where they can stay fresh for up to three months. Remember to thaw them completely before adding royal icing to ensure it adheres well!

Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Cookies with Royal Icing

Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted to achieve a light, fluffy dough.
Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too sticky, try chilling it for about 30 minutes before rolling into balls.
Stiff Peaks: For the royal icing, beating until stiff peaks form is essential for achieving the right consistency for decoration.
Use a Piping Bag: For more intricate designs, use a piping bag fitted with a fine tip for expertly decorating your cookies.

Delicious Variations

Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to your dough for a warm, festive flavor.
Chocolate Variation: Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder to make chocolate cookies. These pair beautifully with white royal icing!
Vegan Option: Replace butter with vegan butter and use a flax egg as a substitute for the egg to create a vegan version of these cookies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought icing instead of royal icing?
Yes, if you’re short on time, pre-made icing can work. Just be aware that the texture and appearance will vary.
How do I achieve different colors for my royal icing?
Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors; add it a little at a time until you reach your desired shade.
What if my royal icing is too runny?
If your icing is too runny, gradually add more powdered sugar until it thickens. It should be spreadable but hold its shape for decorating.

Conclusion

These Christmas cookies with royal icing are a delightful addition to your holiday celebrations, offering a perfect blend of flavor and creativity. Their buttery softness combined with beautiful icing makes them irresistible. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with family and friends, or even make a batch together – it’s a lovely way to connect during the joyful season. Give it a try this holiday, and let the sweet aroma fill your home! Happy baking!