Get Ready For Christmas: Bake Cookies Early This Year

Christmas is a time for cheer and celebration, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by baking delicious cookies? The holidays are a perfect excuse to whip out your rolling pin and get creative in the kitchen. But how early is too early to start baking?

How to store Christmas cookies

Storing Christmas cookies properly is essential to ensure they stay fresh and delicious. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store your Christmas cookies:

Choosing the Right Container

Select airtight containers to store your cookies. Plastic containers or glass jars with tight-fitting lids are ideal. Avoid using tins or containers without seals, as they may not keep your cookies fresh for an extended period. If using older containers, consider wrapping them in plastic wrap before placing them in the freezer for added protection.

Preparing the Container

Line the bottom of your container with aluminium foil, plastic wrap, or wax paper. This creates a protective barrier and makes it easier to remove the cookies without breaking them.

Arranging the Cookies

Place your cooled cookies in a single layer on the prepared container. If you have multiple layers of cookies, separate them with aluminium foil or wax paper to prevent sticking and breakage. Ensure the cookies are not overcrowded in the container, as proper airflow is essential for maintaining freshness.

Sealing and Labelling

Seal the container tightly to prevent air from entering and causing the cookies to stale. Label the container with the type of cookie and the date they were baked. This is especially important if you plan to store different types of cookies, as it will help you identify them easily.

Storing Soft and Crisp Cookies

It is essential to store soft and crisp cookies separately. Soft cookies should be kept in an airtight container to retain their moisture. On the other hand, crisp cookies can be stored in a container with a loose lid, allowing some air to circulate and maintain their texture.

Storing Cookies with Different Ingredients

Cookies with cream cheese or other perishable ingredients should be stored in the fridge, as indicated by the recipe. Cookies with nuts should not be stored at room temperature for more than a few days, as nuts can turn rancid. Cookies decorated with icing or sprinkles may not freeze well, so it is advisable to decorate them after thawing.

Freezing Cookies

You can freeze cookies for up to three months. Before freezing, ensure the cookies have cooled completely to room temperature. Then, layer them in a freezer-safe container, separating each layer with waxed paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Label the container with the contents and date before placing it in the freezer.

Thawing Frozen Cookies

When ready to serve, do not thaw the cookies in the container they were stored in, as condensation can make them soggy. Instead, lay them on a cooling rack and let them come to room temperature. You can also refresh them in a low oven (300°F to 350°F) for a few minutes, depending on their size and type.

When to bake Christmas cookies

The best time to bake Christmas cookies is now! The sooner you start baking, the sooner you can start sampling. You could have started as early as late September if you have the freezer space.

If you're a stickler for fresh-baked flavour, you can always make the dough and freeze it. It's best to use it within three months, so you can get started in October and have plenty of dough on hand for December.

If you want to bake and freeze the cookies, you can do this for up to six months. Make sure they are thoroughly cooled before you freeze them, and always store them in airtight containers.

Some cookies are better suited to freezing than others. Slice-and-bake, cut-outs, drop, bar, and some shaped cookies (like thumbprints) freeze well. Avoid freezing delicate cookies like tuiles, Florentines, meringues, and any sort of wafer cookie. Cookies with sprinkles, icing, and other fancy finishes might not look as perfect once they've been defrosted, so it's best to decorate them after they've been thawed.

• Make a list of the cookies you want to bake and divide them into those you will give away, those for parties, and those for your own family.
• Stock up on the ingredients you will need.
• Mix as many batches of dough as you can and freeze them in small batches. Basic chocolate chip or sugar cookie dough is great for this, as you can add almost anything to them: chips, dried fruit, or candy.
• If you will be using coloured sugar or coconut, mix it up now.
• Shortbread cookies are one of those cookies that are better if they are aged for at least a couple of weeks, so make and store them in an airtight container now.
• If nothing else, at least measure out your dry ingredients and place them in plastic bags so they're ready to use.
• When baking, be sure to use what the recipe calls for, whether it is butter, shortening, or margarine. Never use margarine that is whipped, a soft spread, or reduced fat, as your cookies will spread everywhere.
• Always cool cookies completely before storing, and never store crisp and soft cookies together. Store soft cookies in an airtight container and crisp cookies in a container with a loose lid.

Christmas cookies that freeze well

Christmas is the season of joy, and what better way to spread cheer than with an abundance of cookies? The festive season can be hectic, so it's a great idea to prepare some treats in advance and store them in your freezer. Here are some tips and cookie varieties that freeze well, ensuring you have delicious treats ready for the holidays.

Tips for Freezing Christmas Cookies:

• Choose the right types of cookies: Some cookies freeze better than others. Go for slice-and-bake, cut-outs, drop, bar, or shaped cookies like thumbprints. Avoid delicate varieties such as tuiles, Florentines, and meringues.
• Cool the cookies completely: Before freezing, ensure your baked cookies are entirely cool. Trapped steam can affect their shape and texture when thawed and may cause freezer burn.
• Package them carefully: Use airtight containers and line them with aluminium foil, plastic wrap, or wax paper. Separate each layer of cookies with foil or wax paper to prevent sticking. Label the containers with the contents and date.
• Decorate after thawing: Cookies with fancy finishes like sprinkles, icing, or other decorations may not look perfect after thawing. It's best to bake and freeze the cookies first, then decorate them once they're thawed.
• Thawing: Don't thaw the cookies in the container to avoid condensation. Place them on a cooling rack to reach room temperature, then refresh them in a low oven (300°F to 325°F) for a few minutes.
• Shortbread Cookies: Rich, buttery, and delicious, shortbread cookies can be made ahead and frozen for up to three months.
• Peanut Butter Blossoms: This classic Christmas cookie can also be frozen for up to three months.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies: A classic that can be frozen for up to two months.
• Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies: The high oil content in these cookies makes them ideal for freezing.
• Sugar Cookies: The crispy, crunchy variety can be frozen for at least one month.
• Gingerbread Cookies: These festive favourites can be frozen for several months.
• Meringues: Dry and crisp meringues (not the soft and marshmallowy kind) will last for months in airtight containers, unless your environment is very humid.
• Biscotti: Biscotti have long shelf lives and don't always need to be frozen. They can keep for weeks without freezing.
• Peanut Butter Cookies: These cookies can be frozen for at least two weeks.
• Butter Cookies: While better a couple of days after baking, butter cookies can still be frozen for at least one month.

So, get your aprons ready and start baking! You can make these cookies well in advance and have a stress-free holiday season, knowing you have an assortment of delicious treats ready for your friends and family.

Christmas cookies that don't freeze well

Christmas is the perfect time to indulge in some baking. If you're looking to get ahead, you can certainly freeze Christmas cookies, but there are some types that don't freeze well and are best enjoyed fresh. Here are some Christmas cookies that don't freeze well:

Delicate Cookies

Delicate cookies such as tuiles, Florentines, meringues, and wafer cookies are not ideal for freezing. These cookies tend to be crisp and airy, and freezing can affect their texture and make them soggy. It's best to enjoy these cookies fresh to preserve their delicate characteristics.

Decorated Cookies

Cookies with intricate decorations, fancy finishes, or intricate icing may not be the best candidates for freezing. The decorations may not hold up well during the freezing and thawing process, causing them to melt or become messy. If you want to freeze decorated cookies, consider freezing the cookies first and then adding the decorations after they have been thawed.

Fruitcake Cookies

Fruitcake cookies, while delicious, may not be the best for freezing due to the presence of dried fruit. The fruit can become dry and lose its flavour over time. Additionally, the texture of the cookie may change, becoming tougher or chewier than intended. If you do decide to freeze fruitcake cookies, ensure they are consumed within a few weeks to maintain the best quality.

Peanut Butter Cookies

While peanut butter cookies are a delicious treat, they may not be the best candidate for freezing. The peanut butter in the cookies can cause them to become dry and crumbly over time. If you do choose to freeze them, consume them within a couple of weeks to ensure the best texture and taste.

Meringue Cookies

Meringue cookies, especially those that are soft and marshmallowy on the inside, are not ideal for freezing. The moisture in the meringue can cause them to become sticky and soggy when frozen and then thawed. It's best to enjoy these cookies fresh to maintain their light and airy texture.

Tips for Freezing Cookies

If you do decide to freeze your Christmas cookies, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Firstly, always ensure that the cookies are completely cooled before freezing. Packaging is also key; use airtight containers and separate each layer of cookies with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Finally, don't forget to label your containers with the type of cookie and the date they were baked.

How to decorate Christmas cookies

Once you've baked your Christmas cookies, it's time for the fun part: decorating them! Here are some tips to help you create festive and beautiful cookies:

Planning and Preparation:

Before you begin, it's essential to have a plan and gather all the necessary supplies. Decide on the colours, themes, and designs you want to use. You'll need cookie sheets or trays, icing in various colours, sprinkles, candies, and any other decorations you wish to use. You might also want to use a cookie press or pastry bags to pipe icing onto the cookies neatly.

Icing Techniques:

There are a few different ways to ice cookies:

• Flood Icing: This method involves outlining the cookie with a thicker icing and then filling it in with a thinner icing. It creates a smooth, glossy surface.
• Royal Icing: Made from egg whites and powdered sugar, royal icing dries hard and is ideal for creating intricate designs. You can use it to pipe borders, add details, or cover the entire cookie.
• Glaze Icing: This icing has a shiny, translucent appearance and is perfect for a simple yet elegant look. It's made with powdered sugar and a liquid such as water, milk, or juice.

Decorating Ideas:

• Sprinkles: Use sprinkles, nonpareils, or sanding sugar to add texture and colour to your cookies. You can sprinkle them on top of wet icing or create patterns and designs.
• Candy: Small candies like M&Ms, candy canes, or chocolate chips can be pressed into the icing or used to create faces, patterns, or borders.
• Dried Fruits and Nuts: Chopped nuts or dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or shredded coconut can add texture and flavour to your cookies.
• Edible Glitter: For a festive sparkle, dust your cookies with edible glitter or sprinkles.

Final Touches:

Once your cookies are decorated, let the icing dry completely before handling them. You can also add additional details with an edible food marker or paint on details with food colouring diluted with a small amount of water. Remember to store your cookies properly, especially if you plan to give them as gifts. Most cookies can be stored in airtight containers at room temperature for several days. For long-term storage, freezing is an option, but some decorations may not hold up well to thawing.

Frequently asked questions