Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies: A Festive Treat for Every Holiday Table

Few desserts capture the spirit of the season quite like it Favorite Christmas Cookies. With their soft, buttery texture, light citrus aroma, and nostalgic charm, these cookies bring joy to every kitchen. Whether you’re baking with your kids or hosting a cozy cookie exchange, this recipe blends simplicity with holiday magic — just like all of they best creations.

The Charm Behind Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies

These cookies are a perfect mix of classic sugar cookie comfort and festive creativity. Ree’s recipe stands out because it’s easy to follow, uses everyday ingredients, and invites endless decorating possibilities. The subtle hint of orange or lemon zest gives a refreshing twist to the traditional flavor, while the vibrant egg yolk glaze makes every cookie look like a tiny ornament.

Perfect for gifting, baking with family, or brightening up a holiday platter, Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies prove that simplicity and tradition never go out of style.

What Makes This Christmas Cookie Recipe So Special

Ree’s take on holiday cookies focuses on warmth, togetherness, and fun. It’s approachable — ideal for both beginner bakers and seasoned holiday hosts. The dough rolls out beautifully, the cookies hold their shape, and the mild citrus flavor balances the sweetness. You can decorate them with colored glaze for a rustic look or go all-out with icing and sprinkles for a festive touch.

Beyond the taste, these cookies symbolize what Ree’s cooking is all about — making memories in the kitchen, one batch at a time.

Ingredients for Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies

• Vegetable Shortening: Creates a soft, tender crumb that stays moist for days.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the cookies achieve their light golden hue.
• Orange or Lemon Zest: Infuses a fresh, aromatic note that lifts the flavor.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and depth to the dough.
• Egg: Adds structure and helps bind the dough.
• Milk: Softens the dough and enhances richness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure while keeping the texture tender.
• Baking Powder: Ensures a gentle rise and soft puff.
• Fine Salt: Balances sweetness and sharpens flavor.

For the Egg Yolk Glaze:
• Egg Yolk: Creates a shiny, colorful finish.
• Food Coloring: Adds festive flair to your cookies.

For the Decorative Icing:
• Powdered Sugar: Base for the icing, giving it that classic sweetness.
• Milk: Adds smoothness and shine.
• Pasteurized Egg Whites: Helps the icing set firmly for decorating.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

If you’re missing an ingredient or catering to dietary needs, these alternatives work wonderfully:

• Butter instead of Shortening: Adds a richer flavor and softer crumb.
• Gluten-Free Flour Mix: Replace all-purpose flour for a celiac-friendly version.
• Almond Extract in Place of Vanilla: For a nutty, aromatic twist.
• Plant-Based Milk: Ideal for lactose-free baking.
• Natural Beet or Spinach Powder: Great for coloring without artificial dyes.

These variations ensure Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies fit any preference — without losing their holiday charm.

How to Make Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies

1. Cream the Base: In a stand mixer, beat vegetable shortening, sugar, zest, and vanilla for about 2 minutes until fluffy. Add the egg and continue mixing until light and creamy.
2. Add Wet and Dry Ingredients: Mix in milk, then gradually incorporate sifted flour, baking powder, and salt until the dough forms.
3. Chill the Dough: Divide into two portions, flatten slightly, and refrigerate for 1 hour (or freeze for 20 minutes).
4. Shape the Cookies: Roll out to ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into holiday shapes — stars, trees, or snowflakes — and transfer to greased baking sheets. Chill again for 30 minutes.
5. Prepare the Glaze: Combine egg yolk, water, and food coloring. Gently brush over the chilled cookies with a soft pastry brush.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake cookies for 6–7 minutes, just until puffed and set. Avoid browning — they should stay pale and glossy.
7. Cool and Decorate: Let cookies cool completely before piping with white icing made from powdered sugar, milk, and egg whites. Create patterns, drizzle, or outline for festive detail.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t Overbake: The cookies should remain light-colored — that’s how they stay soft.
• Chill the Dough Twice: This prevents spreading and helps keep clean shapes.
• Test Your Glaze Color: It darkens slightly after baking, so go a shade lighter when mixing.
• Use a Kitchen Scale: Accurate flour measurement ensures consistent texture.
• For a Deeper Citrus Note: Add extra zest or a touch of orange extract.

Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies shine when made with care — the small details make a big difference.

Decorating and Pairing Ideas

These cookies are a blank canvas for creativity. Pair the baked cookies with:

• Hot Cocoa or Eggnog: The sweetness pairs perfectly with creamy holiday drinks.
• Buttercream Frosting: For those who prefer a rich, bakery-style finish.
• Colored Sugars and Sprinkles: Ideal for kids and festive cookie exchanges.
• Cranberry or Raspberry Glaze: Adds color contrast and tart flavor.

For gifting, stack cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons — they stay fresh for up to a week in airtight containers.

Bringing Holiday Joy with Every Bite

Baking Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies isn’t just about making dessert — it’s about creating moments. The aroma of citrus, the joy of decorating, and the shared smiles around the table make these cookies a true holiday tradition.

From the first roll of dough to the final frosted detail, every step captures the cozy, family-centered spirit of The Pioneer Woman herself.

The Joyful Tradition Behind Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies

As the holiday lights twinkle and the aroma of baking fills the air, Trisha’s Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies remind us of what truly matters — warmth, sharing, and togetherness. Every batch brings back memories of family kitchens and festive laughter. With their soft texture, light citrus hint, and decorative beauty, these cookies are more than just a recipe — they’re a celebration of holiday spirit and culinary love.

Whether you gift them to friends, bake them with kids, or enjoy them fresh from the oven with a cup of cocoa, these cookies have the power to turn any moment into a sweet, cozy memory. So, tie on your apron and make Trisha’s Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies part of your family’s Christmas tradition — one delicious bite at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough for Trisha’s Ree Drummond’s Favorite Christmas Cookies up to three days in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Before rolling, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften slightly.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free baking mix. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure. The cookies will maintain their soft, tender texture while being safe for gluten-sensitive guests.

3. What’s the best way to decorate these cookies?
You can use Ree’s original egg yolk glaze for a classic, crackled finish, or go with royal icing for detailed designs. Colored sugar, edible glitter, or sprinkles can add festive flair. For a natural look, try plant-based dyes like beet or matcha powder.

4. How do I store and preserve the cookies?
Store the baked cookies in an airtight tin at room temperature for up to a week. To freeze, layer cookies with parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to two months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving — they’ll taste freshly baked again.

More Relevant Recipes

• Trisha’s White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
• Chinese Almond Cookies
• Bobby’s Triple-Chocolate Cookies

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