Filled Christmas Cookies
Filled Christmas cookies are tender, buttery treats with a tangy cream cheese filling, perfect for holiday celebrations and sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Work all ingredients together as for pie crust to form a smooth dough.
- Make the dough into small balls the size of a walnut or smaller.
- Place the dough balls in a bowl with waxed paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Refrigerate overnight before baking or serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the butter with cream cheese, or use unsalted butter to control the saltiness. If you're short on time, chill the dough for at least 1 hour instead of overnight. To avoid sticking, ensure your work surface is lightly floured. You can also experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive twist.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful cookies pair beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea. For a festive touch, dust them with powdered sugar before serving. They also make a wonderful addition to holiday dessert trays alongside Aunt Martha Riethmiller'S Lebkuchens. Consider serving them with a side of Lemon Thyme Sauce for a zesty contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the filled Christmas cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to 3 months. To enjoy them later, thaw at room temperature or reheat gently in a preheated oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Filled Christmas Cookies contains roughly 892 calories, with 18g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1095mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly, making the cookies less rich. Ensure that it’s well-blended with the butter for a smooth dough. The taste remains similar, so it's a viable option if you're looking to cut calories.
What if I don't have lemon rind?
If you don't have lemon rind, you can substitute it with orange rind for a different citrus flavor. Alternatively, you can use a teaspoon of lemon extract, but be cautious as it can be more potent. Just ensure to balance the acidity with a few drops of lemon juice as the recipe suggests.
Can I add fillings to these cookies?
Absolutely! You can fill these cookies with various options such as fruit preserves, chocolate ganache, or even cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat. Just ensure the fillings are not too runny to prevent the cookies from becoming soggy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).