These Christmas butter cookies are buttery, festive, and incredibly easy to make! Rolled in holiday sprinkles, they’re the perfect sweet treat for your cookie tray or a homemade gift.

The magic of the holidays begins in the kitchen, and nothing says “it’s Christmas!” quite like a batch of Christmas butter cookies fresh from the oven. These soft, buttery cookies are sprinkled with festive color and rich with nostalgic flavor. They’re the kind of cookie that disappears in seconds, especially with a hot cup of cocoa or a glass of milk.

Whether you’re preparing a cookie tray, hosting a holiday movie night, or baking edible gifts, these Christmas butter cookies check all the boxes: easy to make, fun to decorate, and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love These Christmas Butter Cookies

Here’s why these cookies are about to become your go-to holiday recipe:

7 simple ingredients: No fancy ingredients or complicated techniques, just classic pantry staples and festive sprinkles.
Kid-approved fun: Kids love helping roll the dough and cover them in sprinkles.
Holiday-ready in under 30 minutes: No chill time required!
Melt-in-your-mouth texture: Thanks to the perfect butter-to-flour ratio and a touch of egg yolk.
Customizable: Change the sprinkles, extracts, or even dip them in chocolate for a twist on tradition.
Perfect for gift-giving: These cookies look just as good as they taste and are ideal for cookie boxes, party platters, and holiday gifting.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these Christmas butter cookies will become a cherished part of your seasonal traditions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the best Christmas butter cookies, here’s everything you’ll need:

1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – for structure and a light crumb
½ cup unsalted butter, softened – the star ingredient that gives these cookies their rich flavor
½ cup granulated sugar – just the right amount of sweetness
1 egg yolk, room temperature – adds richness and tenderness
½ teaspoon vanilla extract – classic warm holiday flavor
½ teaspoon almond extract – gives these cookies a nostalgic bakery-style twist
1–2 tablespoons festive sprinkles (plus more for rolling) – bring the holiday sparkle!

Tip: For extra buttery goodness, use European-style butter if you have it, it makes these Christmas butter cookies even more decadent.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Christmas Butter Cookies

1. Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

2. Cream the Butter & Sugar

In a stand mixer or large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light, smooth, and fluffy. This should take about 2–3 minutes. This step gives the cookies their soft and tender texture.

3. Add Egg Yolk and Extracts

Mix in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Beat until well combined and silky. The almond extract adds that unmistakable Christmas cookie aroma we all know and love.

4. Mix in the Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour. Mix on low speed or by hand until a soft, smooth dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

5. Fold in the Sprinkles

Gently fold in 1–2 tablespoons of festive sprinkles. This adds a pop of holiday color right into the dough and makes each bite extra joyful.

6. Shape the Cookies

Scoop out dough using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop. Roll each portion into a smooth ball using your hands.

7. Coat in Sprinkles

Pour extra sprinkles into a small bowl and roll each dough ball until fully coated in sprinkles. This step makes your Christmas butter cookies stand out on any cookie tray!

8. Flatten and Space

Place each cookie dough ball on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Gently press each one with your palm to flatten slightly, this ensures even baking and that signature round cookie shape.

9. Bake and Cool

Bake for 12 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Best Christmas Butter Cookies

Use room temp ingredients: This ensures everything mixes evenly and creates a smooth dough.
Don’t overmix: Once the flour is added, mix only until combined to avoid tough cookies.
Switch up the sprinkles: Try peppermint crunch, edible glitter, red & green sugars, or tiny holiday shapes!
Add a chocolate drizzle: Want to take them up a notch? Drizzle cooled cookies with white or dark chocolate for an elegant finish.
Freeze the dough: Make the dough ahead and freeze in balls, just thaw slightly, roll in sprinkles, and bake fresh whenever the craving hits.

How to Store and Gift These Cookies

Store your Christmas butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully! Place baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container and enjoy within 2 months. You can also freeze unbaked dough balls and bake straight from the freezer, just add 1–2 minutes to the bake time.

For gifts, pack them in decorative tins or clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. Add a handwritten label or tag for a sweet, personal touch!

Why These Christmas Butter Cookies Belong on Your Baking List

Still deciding if you should bake these? Here’s why they’re a holiday essential:

They’re a nostalgic favorite: The buttery texture, almond-vanilla flavor, and sprinkle topping are just like the ones grandma used to make, but even easier.
Zero stress baking: These cookies are beginner-friendly and practically foolproof.
They spread joy: Bright, colorful, and festive, Christmas butter cookies make everyone smile, kids, neighbors, coworkers, and Santa himself.
Perfect for last-minute plans: With no chill time and minimal cleanup, these cookies are great for those spontaneous holiday baking sessions.
They taste like Christmas: One bite and you’ll be instantly transported to cozy December days filled with carols and cocoa.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to holiday baking, there are few treats as timeless and joyful as Christmas butter cookies. These little bites of buttery bliss are festive, flavorful, and ready to make your season brighter. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and colorful charm, they’re destined to become a new family favorite.

So whether you’re whipping up a batch for your cookie exchange, packing them as homemade gifts, or just treating yourself to something sweet and simple, these Christmas butter cookies are here to bring the holiday spirit straight to your kitchen.

Happy baking and happy holidays from my oven to yours! 🎅

📌 Don’t forget to tag me @karinawithlovee on Instagram or TikTok if you try this recipe—I LOVE seeing your holiday cookie creations!