There’s just something magical about a plate of Christmas cookies. Growing up in the 1970s, I remember walking into church socials or holiday parties and seeing tables lined with tins of cookies that every grandma swore were “the best.” From spiced gingerbread to jam thumbprints and powdered sugar snowballs, these cookies weren’t just sweet treats - they were traditions passed down through generations.
If you’re looking for old fashioned Christmas cookie recipes that bring back the charm of grandma’s kitchen, I’ve rounded up 25 nostalgic favorites. These are the cookies that graced holiday tins, bake sales, and potluck trays from the 1950s through the 70s - many of which still hold a special spot in our hearts (and bellies!) today.
Wrap-Up: Old Fashioned Cookies Never Go Out of Style
Christmas just wouldn’t feel the same without these classic cookies. From the snowy powdered sugar of snowballs to the spiced warmth of gingerbread men, these recipes remind us of cozy kitchens, family gatherings, and plates of cookies set out for Santa. They may be vintage, but they’ll never go out of style.
FAQs About Old Fashioned Christmas Cookies
What is the most traditional Christmas cookie?
Gingerbread men and sugar cookies with icing are two of the most classic cookies found on Christmas trays for decades.
Why were cookies such a big part of Christmas in the 1950s-70s?
Holiday baking was tied to family traditions, church socials, and gift-giving. Cookies were easy to share, pack into tins, and bake with kids.
What’s the best cookie for gifting?
Snowball cookies, almond crescents, and biscotti hold up well in tins and ship easily, making them great for sharing.
Did grandmas really bake all these from scratch?
Yes! While boxed mixes were available, many grandmas stuck to scratch recipes handed down through family cookbooks.
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