Vanilla Bean Christmas Lights Cookies

Name: Vanilla Bean Christmas Lights Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 sticks (12 tablespoons) salted butter, at room temperature; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract); 1 tablespoon hazelnut liquor (optional); 1 egg, at room temperature; 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus an additional 2-4 tablespoons, if needed); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chocolate chips, melted; Mini holiday M&Ms and vanilla sugar for decorating

By:

Sarah

Published:

November 20, 2025

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Crafted with love, these Easy Vanilla Bean Christmas Lights Cookies are a festive joy to make! With the delightful taste of vanilla beans and a colorful twist, creating these cookies can become your new holiday tradition. Imagine gathering around the kitchen, surrounded by friends and family, all excitedly decorating cookies that look just like dazzling Christmas lights. The sweet aroma wafting through the house adds to the holiday spirit, making everyone feel right at home. Plus, they’re simple enough that even the little ones can join in on the fun.

Every bite of these cookies is a delightful mix of buttery goodness and a hint of hazelnut. As you roll the dough and cut out shapes, the laughter and chatter make it all worthwhile. By the end, you’ll have stunning cookies that not only taste fantastic but also look like they belong on a festive platter. You’ll be proud to share them with loved ones or keep them to enjoy while cozying up by the fireplace. So, let’s get started and bring the joy of holiday baking into your kitchen!

Why This Recipe Works

Crafted with the enchanting flavor of vanilla beans, these cookies not only capture the spirit of Christmas but also showcase an alluring aesthetic reminiscent of festive lights. The balance of butter and sugar combined with a hint of hazelnut adds depth, elevating this dessert from simple to spectacular. The technique of browning butter provides a rich, nutty undertone, and the uncomplicated preparation makes this recipe an approachable yet impressive cookie option for the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Vanilla Bean Christmas Lights Cookies

Delight in the whimsical design of these cookies, perfect for decorating with little ones or sharing as gifts. The aromatic vanilla and festive colors of the M&Ms create a joyous treat that brightens any holiday table. Simple to make yet stunning to present, these cookies are a heartwarming reminder of cherished holiday traditions. Get ready to indulge in a treat that marries flavor and fun, making every bite a celebration.

Ingredients

1 1/2 sticks (12 tablespoons) salted butter, at room temperature
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract)
1 tablespoon hazelnut liquor (optional)
1 egg, at room temperature
2 cups all-purpose flour (plus an additional 2-4 tablespoons, if needed)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate chips, melted
Mini holiday M&Ms and vanilla sugar for decorating

Preparing the Dough

Browning the Butter for Depth of Flavor

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of salted butter until it starts to brown, about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. Once browned, carefully transfer it into a heatproof bowl and chill in the freezer for 10 minutes.

Creaming the Butters and Sugar Mixture

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the remaining 6 tablespoons of room-temperature butter with the chilled browned butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla bean powder (or vanilla extract). Beat until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. It should look light and fluffy.

Adding Egg and Flour Mixture

Now, add the egg to the creamed mixture and beat until combined. Next, mix in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Continue to mix until a dough forms. If your dough appears too wet, gradually add in 2-4 tablespoons of additional flour until it reaches a workable consistency.

Shaping the Cookies

Rolling Out the Dough

Divide the dough into two halves. On a lightly floured piece of parchment paper, roll each half out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use enough flour to prevent sticking during this process. Keep it light but consistent.

Cutting Out Cookie Shapes

Using cookie cutters, cut the dough into circles and Christmas tree shapes. Carefully transfer the cut cookies to a parchment-lined baking sheet using a floured spatula. After arranging them nicely, cover the baking sheet and place it in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up. This helps maintain their cute shapes while baking.

Baking the Cookies

Baking for Perfection

Bake the cookies on the middle rack of the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until they are just slightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as you want them soft but set. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet afterward. The smell will be amazing!

Making the Icing

Whipping Up the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of water until smooth and drizzly. If needed, add more water, a tablespoon at a time, to reach the desired consistency. It should flow easily but still hold its shape.

Decorating the Cookies

Icing and Adding Holiday Cheer

Once cooled, spoon the icing onto each cookie, spreading it elegantly to the edges. This is where the fun begins! Allow the icing to set for a bit. Melt the chocolate chips and place them in a sandwich bag. Cut off a small corner to create a piping bag. Decoratively pipe lines onto each cookie, and for added flair, press mini M&Ms into the chocolate to mimic festive lights. Make them as colorful and bright as you like!

Serving Suggestions

Consider pairing these delightful cookies with a warm cup of spiced cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. They also make for a charming addition to holiday cookie platters or can be beautifully packaged as gifts for loved ones. Everyone loves cookies!

Tips for Success

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for an easier mixing process.
Use ample flour when rolling out the dough to prevent sticking problems.
Chill the cookies before baking to ensure they hold their shape.

Variations

Experiment with different flavored extracts, such as almond or peppermint, for a twist on the classic vanilla.
Substitute the hazelnut liquor with additional vanilla or any favorite liqueur to suit personal taste.
Try adding sprinkles or different candies for varied and colorful decorations.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Bake fresh cookies on the day you need them for ultimate freshness.

2. How do I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them separately in a freezer-friendly container.

3. Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

4. How can I make the icing more colorful?
You can add food coloring to the icing before applying it to the cookies to create vibrant Christmas designs.

5. What toppings besides M&Ms can I use?
Feel free to use mini chocolate chips, colored sprinkles, or even edible glitter to jazz up the cookies according to your festive theme.

These Easy Vanilla Bean Christmas Lights Cookies are not just a delight to the taste buds but are visually stunning, complementing any holiday gathering. With simple ingredients and an enjoyable decorating process, these cookies will surely become a cherished tradition in your kitchen. Whether you bake them for guests, family, or yourself, each bite promises to bring warmth and sweetness to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy the process and let creativity shine bright while crafting these festive treats!