Pretty Christmas Cookies
Elegant Christmas cookies featuring a buttery base, chopped walnuts, and a sweet jelly center, perfect for festive gatherings and cookie exchanges with a rich, nutty flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix margarine, egg yolks, brown sugar, vanilla, and baking powder until well combined.
- Add flour gradually and mix to form a dough.
- Roll the dough into balls and dip each in slightly beaten egg whites.
- Roll the coated balls in chopped very fine walnuts to coat evenly.
- Place the coated dough balls on a cookie sheet.
- Press a hole in the center of each cookie with your finger and fill with pineapple or grape jelly.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a nut-free option, try rolling the cookie balls in shredded coconut or crushed graham crackers instead of walnuts. Ensure the dough is well-chilled before rolling for easier handling. You can also experiment with different fillings like raspberry or apricot preserves for variety.
Serving Suggestions
These Pretty Christmas Cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and can be served alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea. They pair beautifully with Whipped Potatoes for a festive meal spread. For a delightful dessert table, consider including other treats like Torte Cake or Filled Nut Cups to complement their sweet and nutty flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pretty Christmas Cookies contains roughly 2007 calories, with 81g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 144g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (162% of the Daily Value), iron (134% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (129% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 872mg per serving (38% 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 substitute the margarine with butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer flavor. Just be mindful that the texture may vary slightly, resulting in a slightly softer cookie.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you're allergic to walnuts or prefer a different flavor, you can use pecans, almonds, or even a nut-free option like shredded coconut. Each will give a unique twist to the cookies while still providing a delightful crunch.
How do I make these cookies ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before rolling and baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the formed cookie balls and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
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).