Cookies You NEED to Bake This Holiday Season

By Sara Haas, RDN, LDN

Plus Tips for Better Baking!

There’s no better gift this holiday season than the gift of homemade cookies. Luckily, we have a collection of great recipes to inspire you, but also tips for actually enjoying the baking process! So grab your apron and your favorite nut butters and get baking!

Tips for Better Baking

If the idea of baking a bunch of cookies doesn’t sound like fun, then these tips are for you! Your hesitance has nothing to do with your talents or abilities, but more your approach. Here are some ideas to bring some joy to your holiday baking.

Tip 1: Make time

If you know anything about baking, it’s that it can’t be rushed. Don’t wait until you only have 20 minutes of free time to make a batch. Instead, carve out some time in your schedule where you know you can relax and turn on your favorite music as you move and groove in your kitchen. Keep things chill and anxiety-free for the most fun.

Tip 2: Prep

Of course you should gather your ingredients, but also, and probably most importantly, read the recipe several times before you even think of turning on the oven. Get to know the ingredients and the recipe so that there aren’t any surprises that could potentially change the atmosphere from relaxing to stressful.

Tip 3: Follow the Instructions

You can get away with creative interpretations when it comes to cooking, but not when it comes to baking. If the method instructs to let your dough chill, let the dough chill. If the chocolate needs to be chopped finely, chop it finely. The recipe is designed to guide you for the best results, so just go with the flow!

Tip 4: Present Your Work

Once you’ve baked your cookies you could put them in a ziptop bag and be done with the whole thing, or package them like a true gift. Grab some little boxes or mason jars and pack your cookies inside. Add a personalized note and a ribbon or bow and your holiday present will be sure to impress!