Cookies of Christmas Past 

Cookies of Christmas past — what an interesting topic! We often think back to the “past” and our own past comes into thought. What are our Christmas traditions? What cookies did great great great grandma bake for our grandmothers at Christmas, but where did Christmas cookies actually begin? 

Exploring the Traditions of Cookies of Christmas Past

Christmas cookies have a rich history dating back to medieval Europe. Initially, cooks would create sweet, spiced treats to celebrate the festive season. German settlers brought the tradition to America, introducing iconic shapes like stars and bells. In the 19th century, decorating cookies with intricate designs became popular, thanks to Queen Victoria’s German-born husband, Prince Albert. Over time, diverse cultures added their unique twists, contributing to the delightful array of Christmas cookies enjoyed worldwide today.

So, what’s your favorite Christmas cookie? A cookie you can’t go without during Christmas and where did that cookie come from? My husband loves some shortbread cookies stemming back from medieval Scotland. The first known recipe dates back to the 16th century, and the treat gained popularity in Scotland due to its simplicity and the country’s abundant dairy resources. Initially, shortbread was reserved for special occasions like Christmas and Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve). During the 19th century, Mary, Queen of Scots, is credited with refining the recipe by adding more butter, creating the rich, crumbly texture we associate with shortbread today.

Santa’s Trash Cookies

Another cookie we love to indulge in is a little less medieval and a little more current, Santa’s Trash cookies! YUM! These soft cookies have everything but the kitchen sink including potato chips and pretzels. They are sure to make someone stop and wonder what else is in them. 

Many people enjoy classic gingerbread cookies during the Christmas season. The warm blend of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses creates a delightful flavor, and the cookies can be shaped into festive designs. Whether in the form of gingerbread men, houses, or simple rounds, these cookies often bring a sense of nostalgia and holiday cheer. 

Thumbprint Cookies with a Twist!

This year we tried a new cookie! The classic thumbprint cookie but with a twist! Thumbprint cookies are a delightful holiday treat known for their tender, buttery texture and unique indented centers. The dough, often a blend of butter, sugar, and flour, is rolled into small balls. What sets thumbprint cookies apart is the thumb or fingertip indentation made in the center before baking. Once baked, these charming wells are filled with various sweet delights, such as jam, chocolate, or even caramel. this year however, we decided to make the classic thumbprints but chocolate because who doesn’t love a little chocolate! 

Christmas Cookies and Tradition

Gathering with family during the holiday season is made even sweeter by the tradition of enjoying Christmas cookies together. The aroma of freshly baked treats fills the air as generations come together to share not just delightful confections, but also cherished moments. From rolling out the dough to decorating festive shapes, the process becomes a collaborative and heartwarming experience. As these homemade creations emerge from the oven, there’s a shared joy in savoring the results of collective effort. The simple act of sitting around, sipping hot cocoa, and nibbling on these festive delights fosters a sense of togetherness, creating lasting memories that become woven into the tapestry of holiday traditions.

This cherished practice of baking and sharing Christmas cookies serves as a bridge between past and present, allowing family stories and traditions to be passed down through generations. As each cookie is baked and decorated, so too are stories of ancestors and past celebrations shared, enriching the holiday experience. It’s not just about the flavors and the shapes, but about the laughter, the tales, and the love that are mixed in with every batch. In these moments, family bonds are strengthened, and the spirit of the season is truly felt, making each bite of these holiday treats a reminder of the warmth and joy of being together.

And on that note, Merry Christmas from mine to yours! 

P.S. — For classic recipes inspired by tradition, check out my cookbook The Homestead Table.