Pillsbury Christmas Cookies: Quick and Festive Treats for the Holidays

Pillsbury Christmas cookies are a simple and delightful way to bring holiday cheer to your table. Using Pillsbury™ refrigerated sugar cookie dough as a base, these cookies come together quickly and are endlessly customizable with sprinkles, frosting, or candies. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or an impromptu celebration, these cookies are a stress-free way to spread holiday joy.

What Are Pillsbury Christmas Cookies?

Pillsbury Christmas cookies start with a convenient package of Pillsbury™ refrigerated sugar cookie dough. Perfectly prepped for baking, the dough saves time and effort, allowing you to focus on the fun of decorating. These cookies can be baked as simple rounds or cut into festive shapes, making them a versatile choice for any holiday occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, these cookies are perfect for busy holiday schedules.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun activity for children to help decorate with sprinkles and candies.
• Customizable: Add your creative flair with decorations that suit your holiday theme.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Soft, buttery, and festive, these cookies are sure to delight everyone.

Ingredients

• 1 package of Pillsbury™ refrigerated sugar cookie dough
• Holiday sprinkles, frosting, or candies (optional, for decorating)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. If using pre-scored Pillsbury™ cookie dough, separate the pieces. Otherwise, slice the dough into rounds or use cookie cutters for shapes.

Baking the Cookies

3. Place the cookie dough pieces on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between them to allow for spreading.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cooling and Decorating

5. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes.
6. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Once cooled, decorate with holiday sprinkles, frosting, or candies to create your festive designs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or a festive glass of eggnog. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie platters or as gifts wrapped in decorative tins or cellophane bags.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep them in the fridge for up to 10 days if decorated with frosting or perishable toppings.

Freezing Instructions

• Unbaked Dough: Store the sliced or shaped dough in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• Baked Cookies: Freeze undecorated cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and decorate before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking.
• Gluten-Free: Use Pillsbury™ gluten-free cookie dough for a celiac-friendly option.
• Spiced Delight: Sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg onto the dough before baking.
• Vegan Alternative: Substitute with a vegan sugar cookie dough for a plant-based treat.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies in advance?

Yes! Prepare the dough or bake the cookies in advance and freeze them. Decorate just before serving for the freshest presentation.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the sliced or shaped dough in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.

Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough?

Absolutely! Homemade dough works well and adds a personal touch, but Pillsbury™ dough offers unmatched convenience.

Pillsbury Christmas cookies are a festive, foolproof way to add cheer to your holiday season. Perfectly soft, buttery, and endlessly customizable, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as they are to eat. Try this recipe today and let the decorating bring out your holiday spirit! Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—because nothing says the holidays like a plate of freshly baked cookies.

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