My mom is 100% German American, so most of my family’s Christmas cookies come from that country. As a result, I’ve always been interested in which Christmas cookies are popular throughout Europe. I thought you just might be, too! Below you will find seven popular European Christmas cookies. I hope this list provides you with some holiday baking inspiration!
1. Lebkuchen (Germany)
Many Americans think that Lebkuchen is just German for gingerbread. Although the two cookies share similar flavor profiles, that’s not actually true. Lebkuchen is soft and chewy while gingerbread is hard and crunchy. There are various types of Lebkuchen; the most “elite” version is called Nürnberger Lebkuchen. According to the article linked above, the latter must consist of no more than 10% wheat flour and no less than 25% nut content (often a mixture of almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, and cashews).
2. Polvorónes (Spain)
You might also know these as Mexican wedding cookies. Polvorónes originated in the Andalusia region and remain the most popular Christmas cookie in Spain. There are many variations throughout different Spanish speaking countries, but the traditional recipe is quite simple with cinnamon and almond as the primary flavors.
3. Kourabiedes (Greece)
At first glance, you might mistake Kourabiedes for polvorónes. They are both covered in powdered sugar and use almonds as a key ingredient. Kourabiedes also include rosewater and sometimes pistachios—probably because they are adapted from a Turkish cookie called kurabiye. For an extra festive touch, try shaping them into crescent moons rather than circles. The crescents represent the Magi’s nighttime journey toward Bethlehem and elevate this Grecian favorite to a true Christmas cookie.
4. Vanillekipferl (Austria)
I’m sensing a theme here: Vanillekipferl are also covered with a healthy dusting of powdered sugar! These snowy shortbread cookies are shaped like crescents, which is apparently an ode to when the Austrians defeated the Ottoman Turks several hundred years ago. Whatever the origin, Vanillekipferl cookies are popular year-round, but especially at Christmas time. True Vanillekipferl, according to my research, does not include any eggs. You’ll get better results if you use high quality butter (I personally recommend Kerrygold).
5. Pepparkakor (Sweden)
Originally, pepparkakor was heavily seasoned with pepper. Talk about a unique Christmas cookie! Now, it’s more commonly made with cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and cardamom. You are supposed to thinly roll out the dough, so that the cookie will be crispy after baking. Traditionally, these are shaped into goats, pigs, and hearts. Many bakers highly recommend using fresh spices due to the minimal ingredients.
6. Linzer Cookies (Austria)
You might also recognize this Christmas cookie. It’s a perennial favorite in many families—and it’s easy to adapt for a gluten-free diet. Linzer cookies originate from Linz, Austria, and are based on the Linzer Torte. Linzer cookies are traditionally filled with raspberry jam, but you could use any number of fillings: lemon curd, Nutella, just plain chocolate, etc. Of all the options listed here, this Christmas cookie is potentially the most adaptable to your family’s individual preferences.
7. Sandbakkels (Norway)
Also called Sandkaker or Sandbakelse, these are the Norwegian version of a Christmas sugar cookie. The name comes from their crumbly texture, which is reminiscent of sand. You will need some fluted molds to make this one (like what you use for a tart), but otherwise they are fairly low maintenance and don’t require much decorating time. (As someone who loves baking cookies, but hates icing them, that’s always a big plus for me!) The most traditional method is to turn them out of the molds, dust them with sugar, and that’s it! But they also make a great “cup” base for any number of fillings (like whipped cream).
Happy baking! A very Merry Christmas to you and yours. And may God bless us, every one!
Looking for more Christmas content? Check out my post about 12 Christmas family activities or Lillie’s article on Advent traditions.
