Putting together a Christmas cookie box has always been a festive tradition but I've been seeing tonnes of them all over my social media lately. I think they're so adorable and wanted to share some of my recipe ideas too!
If you've ever tried to make one before, you'll know there's more to it than just throwing a few random cookies in a box and hoping for the best. So in this post, I'm sharing everything you need to know about creating the perfect festive cookie box, including packaging, balancing flavours and textures, and of course, my favourite Christmas cookie recipes.
I've also included a handy FAQ section at the end to answer common questions, from baking ahead and freezing to storage and supplies. I hope you find it helpful. Have fun!
Things to consider when making a cookie box
- Making ahead: When planning a Christmas cookie box, timing matters! While all of my cookie recipes can be frozen, some of the softer ones, like gingerbread caramel cookies and Lebkuchen, taste better freshly baked. For the best results, try to bake the softer ones close to the day you want to make your box.
- Packaging: A sturdy cookie tin or cupcake box with a fitted lid works best, especially if you're going to be stacking or transporting your cookies. To separate different flavours and prevent colours from bleeding, you can use cupcake cases, pieces of Christmas-themed baking paper, or small cardboard dividers. If you're sending the box in the post, add plenty of bubble wrap to prevent damage.
- Size: Think about how many cookies you want to include, then choose your box size accordingly, not the other way around. A smaller, neatly-packed box looks more cosy and 'high-end' than a larger box with too much empty space around the cookies. Aim for a mix of small and medium cookies so you can fill all the space without it looking overcrowded.
- Colour and texture: When filling your cookie box, variety is key (both for the look and the taste). Aim for a mix of colourful (Grinch, peppermint bark bars), neutral (Biscoff millionaires, orange shortbread), and chocolate/dark cookies (Lebkuchen, chocolate Viennese whirls & Terry's Chocolate Orange). Texture matters too! Try to include a mixture of soft cookies, some crunchy ones, and a few decorated ones.
Christmas cookie box recipe ideas
Here are 15 of my favourite ideas for your festive cookie boxes.
Polar Bear Cookies
Lebkuchen Hearts
Cranberry Shortbread
M&M Cookie Bars
Chocolate Viennese Whirls
Orange Shortbread
Gingerbread Caramel Cookies
Grinch Cookies
Ginger & Cinnamon Cookies
Biscoff Houses
Mint Chocolate Shortbread
Melted Snowman Cookies
Penguin Shortbread
Terry's Chocolate Orange Cookies
Peppermint Bark Cookie Bars
FAQs
All of the cookie recipes listed in the post will last for at least 5 days. You can store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Yes! You can either make them a couple of days ahead and store them at room temperature as above, or you can freeze them. All of the cookies in this post can be frozen for at least 2 months and can be defrosted on a wire rack at room temperature.
You can either use a Christmas cookie/biscuit tin or a large cupcake box, then separate each cookie type with paper cases or cardboard strips. You can also decorate the box with different types of baking paper, bows and ribbons.
It's totally up to you and depends on how many you can fit in your box! Typically, 10-12 different types of cookies will be plenty to create a gorgeous box!
What cookies will you be putting in your Christmas cookie box this year? Make sure to leave a comment below to let me know! Enjoy!
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