As the chill of winter settles in, there’s something magical about the season that calls for warm, cozy treats. Maybe it’s the way snow blankets the ground or how the aroma of spices fills the air. Whatever it is, I’ve found myself craving delicious cookies that not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also wrap me in warmth. That’s why I put together this collection of 12 winter cookie recipes that promise to deliver all the cozy vibes you need during these colder months.
If you’re someone who loves indulging in cozy winter desserts, especially those that are easy to whip up, this post is for you. You might be a busy parent looking for fun baking activities with your kids or a friend who wants to impress at holiday gatherings. No matter your reason, these spiced cookie ideas are perfect for baking sessions by the fireplace or for sharing with loved ones.
In this list, you’ll find a variety of recipes that are not just tasty but also simple to make. From gingerbread chai cookies to sweet potato spice cookies, each recipe is designed to bring joy and warmth to your winter days. You’ll enjoy exploring flavors that speak to the season while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s dive in and discover some delightful holiday baking recipes that will make your winter extra special!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 12 unique winter cookie recipes that highlight seasonal spices and flavors.
– Explore options like chocolate peppermint cookies and chai-spiced snickerdoodles for festive treats.
– Enjoy easy, vegan-friendly recipes that fit perfectly into your baking routine.
– Find inspiration to create warm treats that will impress friends and family this holiday season.
– Get tips for incorporating healthier ingredients without sacrificing flavor in your winter baking.
1. Spiced Maple Oatmeal Cookies
Winter calls for warm bites. These vegan maple oatmeal cookies bring comfort with every bite. Oats give a chewy texture and maple adds gentle sweetness, while cinnamon and nutmeg whisper spice. They bake quickly and travel well for gatherings. You can fold in raisins or nuts for extra texture.
Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup raisins or nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix oats, flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, whisk together maple syrup and melted coconut oil.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed. Add in raisins or nuts if desired.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them out well.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool on the tray for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
FAQs:
Can I use another sweetener? Yes, agave syrup works well too!
Spiced Maple Oatmeal Cookies
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2. Gingerbread Chai Cookies
The scent of ginger and spice fills the air as these cookies bake. Think gingerbread meets chai in a soft, tender bite. Warm notes of ginger, cinnamon, and clove make every mouthful cozy for cold nights. They bake fast and pair nicely with tea by the fire. Molasses can deepen the flavor if you want more depth.
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, blend the brown sugar and coconut oil until creamy.
3. Stir in the applesauce, followed by the spices, flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Form dough balls and place them on the baking sheet, pressing down slightly.
5. Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are firm.
6. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
FAQs:
Can I make these gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
Gingerbread Chai Cookies
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3. Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
These cookies blend rich chocolate with a bright peppermint note for a festive treat. They stay soft and fudgy, which makes them hard to stop eating. A little peppermint goes a long way, so start light and add more if you want a stronger bite. The almond flour keeps them moist and gives a gentle nutty flavor. They look fancy yet are simple to bake at home.
Ingredients:
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Vegan chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together syrup, coconut oil, and peppermint extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing well. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
5. Spoon dough onto the baking sheet, flatten slightly.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Cool on wire racks before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour? Yes, but texture will change.
Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
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Anthony’s Organic Cocoa Powder, 2 lb, Gluten Free, Non GMO, Unsweetened
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Bright citrus wakes up every bite, and tart cranberries keep it lively. These cookies blend tangy zest with warm spice for a balanced winter treat. They bake quickly and still stay soft inside. A quick orange or lemon zest boost gives a sunny finish that pairs with coffee or cocoa. If you like extra zing, a splash of vanilla can help round the flavors.
Ingredients:
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup dried cranberries
Zest of 1 orange
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the flours, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, blend coconut sugar and oil until creamy.
4. Stir in the zests, cranberries, and dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them out.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
7. Cool on a wire rack before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use fresh cranberries? Yes, just chop them finely.
Citrus Spiced Cranberry Cookies
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5. Chai-Spiced Snickerdoodles
These cookies mix the classic snickerdoodle glow with warm chai spices. The soft centers glow with flavor while the cinnamon sugar crown adds a sweet crunch. They smell like a cozy kitchen in winter. The dough comes together quickly and they bake evenly for perfect rounds every time. A small note of cardamom can lift the blend nicely.
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1/4 cup almond milk
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon cardamom
Sugar for rolling
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, mix coconut oil and coconut sugar until creamy.
3. Add almond milk, then combine dry ingredients.
4. Roll dough into balls, then roll in sugar.
5. Place on baking sheet and flatten slightly.
6. Bake for 10 minutes until edges are set.
7. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving to wire racks.
FAQs:
What can I use instead of coconut oil? You can use any neutral oil like vegetable or canola.
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Rich almond butter meets warming ginger in a cookie that feels special but is easy to bake. The cookies stay soft inside with a gentle crunch on the outside. They pair nicely with a mug of tea or coffee on a chilly afternoon. If you want more bite, toast the nuts lightly before chopping them in. A drizzle of lemon glaze can brighten the finish.
Ingredients:
1 cup almond butter
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon ginger powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. In a bowl, combine almond butter, coconut sugar, maple syrup, ginger, baking soda, and salt until smooth.
3. Drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheet, flattening slightly.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
5. Cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
FAQs:
Can I use peanut butter instead? Yes, but the flavor will change.
Almond Butter and Ginger Cookies
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These cookies bring a soft, chewy bite with a touch of autumn. Sweet potato adds moisture and a mellow sweetness that shines alongside warming spices. They feel hearty yet light enough for everyday snacking. A sprinkle of sea salt just before baking pulls all the flavors together. They store well and freeze nicely for future treats.
Ingredients:
1 cup mashed sweet potato
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, mix the mashed sweet potato, coconut sugar, and oil until combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine both mixtures until a dough forms.
5. Drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheet, flattening slightly.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are firm.
7. Cool on wire racks before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use pumpkin instead? Yes, pumpkin works perfectly.
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8. Coconut Snowball Cookies
These vegan snowball cookies look like bite sized snowballs. The coconut aroma fills the room as they bake. They melt softly on the tongue and dusting with powdered sugar makes them feel festive. They come together quickly and ship well for party trays. For a richer bite, add a splash of vanilla extract to the dough.
Ingredients:
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup almond flour
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, combine shredded coconut, almond flour, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract until mixed.
3. Form into small balls and place on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden.
5. Cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar.
FAQs:
Can I use fresh coconut? Yes, just dry it a bit first.
Coconut Snowball Cookies
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Fall flavors meet winter comfort in a cookie you can curl up with. Pumpkin puree adds moisture while cinnamon and nutty pecans give warmth. They stay soft inside with a delicate crunch on the edges. These cookies pair nicely with coffee or a warm cider. Add a pinch more cinnamon if you love bold spice.
Ingredients:
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 cup almond flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, and coconut oil until smooth.
3. Add in almond flour, baking powder, spices, and salt, mixing well.
4. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheet, flattening slightly.
6. Bake for 12 minutes or until set.
7. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
FAQs:
Can I use sweet potato instead? Yes, it’s a delicious substitute!
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You get the cozy flavor of a cinnamon roll inside a cookie. Soft centers meet a light cinnamon crust for a simple yet satisfying bite. A simple icing drizzle makes them look extra special. They bake in minutes and taste like a quick morning treat or a wholesome dessert. Warm with a cup of tea for best results.
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup almond milk
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1-2 tablespoons almond milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, mix coconut oil and sugar until creamy.
3. Stir in almond milk, then blend in flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheet and shape into round cookies.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
6. For icing, mix powdered sugar with almond milk until smooth and drizzle over cooled cookies.
FAQs:
Are these hard to make? Not at all! They’re super simple and delicious!
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A playful twist on a classic. The crunch of nuts pairs with melty chips for a cookie that feels fancy but is easy to pull off. The mix stays soft inside and has a satisfying bite outside. They work great in lunch boxes or as a quick after school treat. You can swap in your favorite nut if you like a different flavor profile.
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup coconut sugar
1/4 cup almond milk
1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, combine almond butter and coconut sugar until smooth.
3. Stir in almond milk, followed by flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts until evenly distributed.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12 minutes until edges are golden.
7. Let cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
FAQs:
Can I use peanut butter instead? Yes, it will change the flavor but still be delicious!
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12. Apple Cinnamon Cookies
Warm apples and cozy cinnamon fill the house with a sweet scent. These cookies stay soft and moist, with real apple pieces adding a fresh bite. They make a comforting treat for chilly afternoons or sharing at a holiday gathering. A light drizzle of maple syrup adds extra warmth and gloss. They keep well in an airtight tin for a few days.
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup applesauce
1/4 cup coconut sugar
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped apples
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, mix applesauce, coconut sugar, and coconut oil until combined.
3. Stir in flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until mixed.
4. Fold in chopped apples.
5. Drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheet, press down slightly.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
7. Cool on the wire rack before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use other fruits? Yes, pears work nicely!
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Conclusion
These twelve cozy vegan winter cookie recipes show just how delightful cold-weather treats can be! Each recipe brings a unique flavor and warmth that suits the season perfectly. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just for yourself, these cookies will surely spread joy and comfort.
Grab those aprons and get baking! These easy cookie recipes are just waiting for you to try them out this winter!
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