The Story & Intro
There’s something magical about the holidays in Crete, where I grew up watching my grandmother bake cookies while the whole house filled with warm, sweet aromas. Even though we didn’t celebrate Christmas the same way as in the US, we always baked treats for winter gatherings. That’s why these Almond-Glazed Christmas Sugar Cookies feel so special to me. They remind me of cozy evenings, messy aprons, and the joy of sharing something sweet with people you love.
When I first created this recipe, I wanted a cookie that felt festive but also carried a whisper of Greek simplicity. The almond glaze was inspired by my grandmother’s almond pastries light, fragrant, and impossible not to nibble while they cooled. These Almond-Glazed Christmas Sugar Cookies quickly became a favorite in my kitchen because they’re soft, buttery, and topped with a shiny almond glaze that adds a delicate sweetness.
If you love cookies that melt in your mouth and look beautiful on a Christmas table, these Almond-Glazed Christmas Sugar Cookies will steal your heart. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and perfect for gifting. And the best part? They’re forgiving even if your kitchen gets a little messy (mine always does!).
Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping holiday tins for neighbors, or simply craving a festive treat, these cookies bring comfort, connection, and holiday joy. That’s what cooking is about for me bringing people together one delicious bite at a time.
Short 100-Word Story Version
Hi, I’m Marilyn from the beautiful island of Crete, where I learned to cook beside my grandmother. These Almond-Glazed Christmas Sugar Cookies remind me of the sweet almond pastries she’d make during winter. I’ve added a festive twist by shaping them into soft sugar cookies topped with a glossy almond glaze. They’re simple, cozy, and perfect for sharing during the holidays. Whether your kitchen stays spotless or looks like mine flour everywhere these cookies make celebrating feel warm, joyful, and delicious. I hope they bring you the same comfort and togetherness they bring to my home.
Ingredients for Almond-Glazed Christmas Sugar Cookies
For the Cookies
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Almond Glaze
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- Optional: Christmas sprinkles or edible glitter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Cookie Dough
Start by beating the butter and sugar together until creamy. This gives the cookies their soft, tender texture. Mix in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract. The almond flavor adds a warm, slightly sweet aroma that feels perfect for Christmas baking.
In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in one extra tablespoon of flour.
Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls or gently flatten them into round discs for a classic sugar cookie look. You can also use Christmas-shaped cookie cutters for a festive touch. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. They should look set but not browned. Overbaking will make them dry, so remove them when the edges are just slightly firm. Let them cool completely before glazing.
Prepare the Almond Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. Adjust with a bit more milk if needed.
Glaze the Cookies
Dip, drizzle, or brush the glaze over the cooled cookies. Add sprinkles quickly because the glaze hardens fast, creating a beautiful shiny finish.
Serving Ideas
These Almond-Glazed Christmas Sugar Cookies pair perfectly with hot cocoa, coffee, or a warm holiday tea. Serve them at Christmas parties, include them in cookie exchanges, or stack them in cute tins tied with ribbon for thoughtful gifts. Their delicate almond aroma and glossy glaze make them stand out beautifully on any holiday dessert table.
Recipe Card
⏱️ Time
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Chill (optional): 20 minutes
- Bake: 10 minutes
- Total: 45 minutes
📝 Ingredients
All cookie and glaze ingredients listed above.
👩🍳 Instructions
- Beat butter + sugar.
- Add egg + vanilla + almond extract.
- Mix dry ingredients separately.
- Combine wet + dry.
- Roll and shape cookies.
- Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes.
- Mix almond glaze.
- Glaze cooled cookies and decorate.
💡 Notes
- Chill dough for cleaner shapes.
- Add food coloring to glaze for festive colors.
- Replace milk with cream for extra richness.
🍽️ Nutrition (per cookie)
Approx. 125 calories | 5g fat | 18g carbs | 1g protein
Conclusion
These Almond-Glazed Christmas Sugar Cookies bring together buttery sweetness, soft texture, and a festive almond glaze that shines beautifully. They’re easy enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress at any holiday gathering. Whether you’re baking for your family, friends, or just treating yourself to something sweet and nostalgic, this recipe delivers that warm, joyful holiday feeling in every bite. I hope they bring as much happiness to your kitchen as they do to mine messy counters, sweet aromas, and all!