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What’s better than regular sugar cookies? Christmas cookies made with sweet, golden honey!
These holiday treats put a simple twist on classic Christmas cookies by using honey instead of plain sugar. They’re perfect for leaving out for Santa, sharing at cookie exchanges, or enjoying with a warm cup of milk on a cold December evening. If you think a batch of these will last until Christmas morning, think again – they tend to disappear pretty quickly in my house!
Ingredient Substitutions
Unsalted butter can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option, offering a similar texture and richness. Use a 1:1 ratio, but ensure the coconut oil is solid at room temperature for best results.
Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar for those avoiding honey. Use the same amount, but note that the flavor profile may change slightly. These alternatives maintain the moisture and sweetness honey provides.
Plain flour can be swapped with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for those with gluten sensitivities. Use a 1:1 ratio, but be aware that the texture may be slightly different. Adding 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum per cup of gluten-free flour can help improve the texture. When using gluten-free flour, the dough may require a bit more liquid, so adjust as needed.
| Preparation Time | 30-60 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 8-10 minutes |
| Total Time | 98-130 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 2200-2400
- Protein: 25-30 g
- Fat: 90-100 g
- Carbohydrates: 350-370 g
Ingredients
- 1 cup softened unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 2 3/4 cups plain flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup flaxseed meal
- 3/4 cup icing sugar
- 3 teaspoons honey
- 3 teaspoons milk
Step 1: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
Using a mixer, cream together the butter and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the honey, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients and Form the Dough
In a larger bowl, whisk together the remaining dough ingredients.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the honey mixture while mixing.
Stir in ¼ cup ground flaxseed until fully integrated.
Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Roll the Dough
Preheat your oven to 375˚ F (190˚ C).
Once the dough is chilled, roll it out to 1/4 inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, re-rolling the scraps if necessary.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Place the cut-out dough shapes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Bake the cookies at 375˚ F for about 8 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 5: Prepare and Apply the Icing
In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, honey, and a bit of milk.
Use a fork to mix until smooth.
Adjust the consistency as needed, adding more milk for a thinner icing or more powdered sugar for a thicker one.
Spread the icing over each cooled cookie and allow it to set before serving or storing.
