Kris Kringle cookies are delicate, buttery pastries with a hint of lemon and vanilla, shaped into festive knots and lightly dusted with sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. These cookies have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a slightly crisp exterior. The dough is made with simple ingredients, chilled for easy handling, then twisted into traditional shapes before baking.
These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea. Their light, airy texture and touch of spice make them a timeless favorite.
Kris Kringle Cookies
Kris Kringle Cookies FAQ
Why are they called Kris Kringle cookies?
“Kris Kringle” is another name for Santa Claus, and these cookies are often associated with holiday baking.
Can I use a different citrus zest instead of lemon?
Yes, orange zest is a great alternative for a slightly sweeter citrus flavor.
Do I have to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll and shape the cookies without sticking.
How do I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
The History of Kris Kringle Cookies
Kris Kringle cookies are inspired by European holiday treats that have been enjoyed for centuries. Many traditional Christmas cookies include citrus zest, spices, and nuts, which were considered special ingredients for festive occasions.
Twisted or knotted cookies have origins in Scandinavian, German, and Dutch baking, where they were often made for celebrations. Over time, variations of these cookies spread across the U.S., especially in holiday baking traditions.
Timeline
- 1700s – European bakers create spiced and citrus-flavored holiday cookies.
- 1800s – Twisted and knotted cookies become popular in Scandinavian and German traditions.
- Early 1900s – Kris Kringle cookies appear in American cookbooks.
- Today – These cookies remain a holiday favorite for their light texture and festive appearance.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Kris Kringle cookies are lightly sweet, buttery, and have just the right amount of citrus and spice. Their soft, tender texture makes them perfect for pairing with warm drinks, and their festive knotted shape adds charm to any holiday cookie tray. The cinnamon-sugar topping and chopped nuts add a subtle crunch, making them even more delightful.
Pro Tips for the Best Kris Kringle Cookies
- Use softened butter for easy creaming with the sugar.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent sticking.
- Roll the dough into even strips for uniform baking.
- Lightly brush with egg white for a golden, slightly crisp finish.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra texture.
Must-Have Kitchen Tools
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- Mixing bowls – Great for preparing the dough.
- Hand mixer – Helps cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Baking sheet – Ensures even baking.
- Pastry brush – Perfect for brushing egg white onto the cookies.
- Cooling rack – Allows cookies to cool evenly before serving.
How to Serve Kris Kringle Cookies
- With a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or spiced tea.
- Plated with other holiday cookies for a festive dessert spread.
- Lightly dusted with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Packed in decorative tins for homemade gifts.
- Enjoyed warm right out of the oven for a fresh-baked treat.
A Festive and Sweet Holiday Classic
Kris Kringle cookies are a charming, lightly spiced holiday treat that brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. Their buttery, citrus-infused dough and a delicate cinnamon-sugar topping make them a perfect addition to Christmas cookie traditions. Whether enjoyed with family or gifted to friends, these cookies are a holiday must-bake.
Kris Kringle Cookies Recipe
Kris Kringle Cookies
A festive Kris Kringle cookie made with buttery dough, citrus zest, and a cinnamon-sugar topping. These delicate, knotted cookies are perfect for holiday baking and pair beautifully with warm drinks.
Ingredients
- ½ cup shortening
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon rind
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg white
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
- Chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Cream shortening until soft, then mix in sugar, vanilla, lemon rind, and salt.
- Add egg yolks and beat well.
- Stir in flour and baking powder until combined.
- Chill dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Break off small pieces of dough and roll into 4-inch strips.
- Twist into knots and place on a baking sheet.
- Brush with egg white mixed with sugar and cinnamon.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired.
- Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes until lightly golden.