Easy Christmas Sprinkle Cookies Recipe

Nothing beats the sight of colorful, festive treats during the holiday season, and this Easy Christmas Sprinkle Cookies Recipe truly captures that magic. With each bite, these cookies offer a delightful crunch and a burst of festive cheer, making them an irresistible addition to your holiday baking lineup.
Every year, my family gathers in the kitchen to bake these sprinkle cookies. It’s a tradition that started with my grandmother, who believed that the simple act of baking together could bring warmth and joy to the holidays. The kitchen is filled with laughter and music as my children take turns mixing the dough and choosing the most vibrant sprinkles. Watching them enjoy this tradition that I grew up with fills my heart with joy and assures me that these sweet memories will be cherished for generations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cookie recipe is a keeper for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings or baking with kids. The bright, colorful sprinkles make these cookies not only delicious but also visually stunning, perfect for gifting or serving at parties. Moreover, the recipe is versatile and allows for customization—think different sprinkles for various occasions, or even adding a hint of spice for a warm touch.
Ingredients Notes
To make the perfect batch of these cookies, start with high-quality unsalted butter, which gives them a rich flavor. If you’re out of all-purpose flour, you can substitute with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions. Be sure to use fresh baking soda and vanilla extract for the best flavor. As for sprinkles, choose a mix of colors to add a fun, festive touch.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2
Cream together the butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
Step 3
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Ensure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Step 4
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
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Step 5
Fold in the sprinkles gently with a spatula. Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Storage Options
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, and they’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to refresh their texture.
Variations & Substitutions
Consider using chocolate sprinkles for a different look or adding a teaspoon of cinnamon for a spiced version perfect for the cozy winter months. For dairy-free cookies, substitute the butter with vegan margarine. You can also replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan-friendly twist.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies make a delightful addition to a holiday dessert platter or a cheerful afternoon treat paired with a cup of hot cocoa. They also make wonderful gifts when wrapped in decorative bags and tied with ribbons. Serve them warm for an extra touch of comfort during cold winter evenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the dough in advance? Absolutely! You can make the dough a day ahead and chill it in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors as the ingredients get a chance to meld together.
What if I don’t have parchment paper? If you run out of parchment paper, you could use a silicone baking mat as an alternative, which is reusable and environmentally friendly. Just be sure to lightly grease your baking sheet if neither is available to prevent sticking.
How can I prevent cookies from spreading too much? Be sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps solidify the butter, which prevents the cookies from spreading excessively when placed in the hot oven.
Embracing the festive spirit with these sprinkle cookies is a joyful celebration of flavor and family. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday party or for your own sweet cravings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, just as it is in mine.

Easy Christmas Sprinkle Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 0.5 cup rainbow sprinkles plus extra for topping
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and egg until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the rainbow sprinkles.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly.
- Add extra sprinkles on top of each cookie, pressing them lightly into the dough.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.