Best Christmas 2024 and New Year 2025 Recipes: Cookies and More

The holiday season is upon us, bringing joy, warmth, and delicious aromas to our homes. This Christmas and New Year let's celebrate with a delightful array of cookies and festive recipes that will make your gatherings unforgettable. From classic treats to creative twists, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

1. Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies

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 (optional)

• Assorted holiday sprinkles and icing for decoration

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a small bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.

5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

6. Flatten slightly with a fork and bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are golden.

7. Cool completely before decorating with icing and sprinkles.

2. Festive Peppermint Chocolate Crinkles

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 cups sugar

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 4 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• Crushed peppermint candies for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix cocoa powder, sugar, and oil. Beat in eggs and vanilla until smooth.

2. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients.

3. Cover dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, coat in powdered sugar, and place on baking sheets.

6. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Let cool before sprinkling with crushed peppermint candies.

3. Gingerbread Cookie Ornaments

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 teaspoons ground ginger

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 cup molasses

• Decorative ribbons for hanging

Instructions:

1. Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy.

2. Add egg and molasses to the butter mixture and mix well. Gradually add dry ingredients.

3. Divide dough, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 2 hours.

4. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into shapes using cookie cutters.

5. Make a small hole at the top of each cookie for ribbons.

6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Cool completely before decorating and threading ribbons.

4. New Year’s Eve Champagne Cupcakes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup champagne

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with liners.

2. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.

3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.

4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternately with champagne.

5. Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full and bake for 18-20 minutes. Cool before frosting.

6. Decorate with champagne-infused buttercream frosting and edible glitter.

5. Holiday Mulled Wine

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle red wine (750 ml)

• 1/4 cup brandy

• 1/4 cup honey or sugar

• 2 oranges (1 sliced, 1 for juice)

• 4 cinnamon sticks

• 4-star anise

• 8 cloves

• Optional garnish: cranberries and rosemary sprigs

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine all ingredients except garnishes.

2. Simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil.

3. Strain and serve warm in mugs with garnishes.

Share the Joy!

These recipes are perfect for spreading holiday cheer. Whether you're hosting a Christmas party or ringing in the New Year, these treats and drinks will bring smiles and warm memories. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on social media!

Happy Holidays!