Christmas Cookies From Around The World To Satisfy Your Crunch Cravings

Lebkuchen, often referred to as German gingerbread, is a traditional Christmas cookie that dates back to the 13th century. These spiced treats are made with honey, nuts, and a variety of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. Often decorated with icing or chocolate, Lebkuchen is a staple at German Christmas markets.

These thin, crunchy cookies are spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and are traditionally shaped using intricately carved wooden molds. Speculaas cookies are often associated with St. Nicholas’ Eve on December 5th but are enjoyed throughout the Christmas season.

Pfeffernüsse, meaning "pepper nuts," are small, spiced cookies popular in Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands. They are flavored with black pepper, cinnamon, and anise and are coated in powdered sugar, giving them a snowy appearance perfect for the season.

Polvorones are crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth cookies made with flour, sugar, and lard or butter. Often flavored with almonds or cinnamon, these cookies are a festive favorite in Spain and Mexico, symbolizing celebration and warmth.

Krumkake, meaning "curved cake," is a delicate Norwegian cookie made using a decorative iron press. These thin, crispy cookies are rolled into cone shapes while warm and sometimes filled with whipped cream or fruit. They are a holiday tradition in many Norwegian homes.

Amaretti are chewy almond cookies that come in both soft and crunchy varieties. Flavored with almond paste or extract, these cookies have a subtle bitterness balanced by sweetness. In Italy, they are often served with coffee or dessert wine during Christmas celebrations.

Scottish shortbread is a buttery and crumbly cookie that’s simple yet indulgent. Made with just three ingredients—flour, butter, and sugar—shortbread is a classic treat during the holidays, often shaped into festive stars or rounds.

These aromatic Greek cookies are made with olive oil, orange juice, and spices like cinnamon. After baking, they are soaked in honey syrup and sprinkled with crushed walnuts. Melomakarona is a beloved Christmas treat symbolizing sweetness and abundance.