Soft, buttery cookie dough bites perfect for holiday baking with kids!
These sweet holiday cookie dough bites are perfect for kids to make and eat. With just a few ingredients and a quick bake, they deliver a soft, buttery texture topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Ideal for after-school treats or holiday baking sessions, these bites combine simplicity and flavor. Kids will love rolling the dough and adding festive toppings.
The recipe uses basic pantry staples, making it accessible for last-minute baking. Plus, the soft, chewy texture ensures every bite is a holiday favorite.
Serve them with a glass of milk for a classic, comforting snack that completes any cozy evening.
Save this kid-approved recipe and start baking together. Let us know what flavor you’ll add for extra holiday cheer!
Why This Recipe Works
Kid-Friendly
Simple steps and minimal ingredients make this perfect for young bakers.
Budget-Friendly
Uses common pantry items to create a festive treat without breaking the bank.
Family-Bonding
Perfect for parents and kids to bake together, creating lasting memories.
Festive Appeal
Dusting with powdered sugar and cinnamon adds a holiday touch to every bite.
Sweet Holiday Cookie Dough Bites
Easy, kid-approved holiday treat
Ingredients
- - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- - 1 large egg
- - 1 tsp vanilla extract
- - 1/2 tsp baking powder
- - Pinch of salt
- - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- - 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
Prepare Dough: In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg, vanilla, and baking powder. Mix until smooth.
💡 Use an electric mixer for a smoother texture.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until a dough forms.
💡 Add a few drops of food coloring for festive hues.
Chill Dough: Wrap dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
💡 Chilling prevents spreading during baking.
Roll and Shape: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheets.
💡 Use a small cookie scoop for uniform size.
Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden. Let cool completely.
💡 Rotate trays halfway for even browning.
Finish with Sugar: Dust cooled cookies with powdered sugar.
💡 Add a pinch of cinnamon to the sugar for extra flavor.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Butter
Provides richness and tenderness. Use salted butter if unsalted isn’t available.
Substitutions: Vegan butter for dairy-free option.
Flour
Structural base for the dough. All-purpose flour is ideal for soft texture.
Substitutions: Gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version.
Powdered Sugar
Adds sweetness and festive dusting. Regular sugar can be used but will dissolve differently.
Substitutions: Sprinkle crushed candy canes for a holiday twist.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cookie Dough Bites
Chilling Tip
Chill dough for 30 minutes to prevent spreading during baking.
Frosting Hack
Use a sieve to dust powdered sugar evenly over cooled cookies.
Flavor Boost
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sugar for extra warmth.
Presentation Tip
Arrange cookies in a festive pattern on a holiday-themed platter.
Variations & Customizations
Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Spiced Version
Add 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice to the dough for a fall-inspired twist.
Chocolate Dipped
Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate before dusting with sugar.
Mini Sandwiches
Add a small dollop of jam or Nutella between two cookies for a handheld treat.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Hot cocoa or spiced cider for a cozy holiday drink.
- Fresh fruit salad to balance sweetness.
- Mini pretzels for a sweet-and-savory combo.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a glass of whole milk or a spiced chai latte.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Shape dough balls and freeze on baking sheets. Once frozen, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to baking time.
Freezer Storage
Store cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Dough is too sticky to shape.
A: Chill the dough for 30 minutes to firm up. Add a few more tablespoons of flour if needed.
Q: Cookies spread too much during baking.
A: Ensure the dough is chilled and the oven is preheated properly. Use parchment paper for even baking.
Q: How to store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
These sweet holiday cookie dough bites are a delightful way to bring families together during the festive season. With their soft, buttery texture and festive toppings, they’re sure to become a holiday tradition. Whether you’re baking with kids or hosting guests, this recipe offers convenience and charm in every bite.
Try adding a personal touch with festive sprinkles or themed cookie cutters. Share your creations and let us know what flavor you’ll add for extra holiday cheer!
