Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s festive, fun, and downright irresistible, then this Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies Recipe is going to become your new holiday go-to. I absolutely love how these cookies turn out—soft, chewy, bursting with vanilla pudding goodness, and covered in bright, colorful sprinkles that just scream Christmas cheer. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifts, or just to indulge yourself, these cookies bring that magical holiday feeling with every bite. Stick around, because I’ll share all my favorite tips so you can nail this recipe perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple pantry staples with the magic touch of instant vanilla pudding mix to keep these cookies perfectly soft and flavorful. The combination works beautifully, and adding Christmas sprinkles gives a delightful festive pop that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

• Unsalted butter: I always use room temperature butter for better creaming and structure.
• Shortening: This helps keep the cookies tender and prevents spreading.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetness and slight crispiness around the edges come from here.
• Eggs: Make sure they’re room temperature for smooth mixing and fluffy results.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic flavor that pairs well with the vanilla pudding.
• All-purpose flour: The base for structure; I sift it for a lighter dough.
• Instant vanilla pudding mix: The secret ingredient that keeps cookies soft and gives a rich vanilla taste.
• Baking powder: Provides gentle leavening for a nice lift.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Christmas sprinkles: Adds festive colors and a fun crunch—use your favorite holiday blend!

Variations

I love how this Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies Recipe is such a canvas for creativity. While the classic version is fantastic, feel free to make it your own—I’ve tried a few tweaks and they all turned out great. It’s all about trusting your tastes and having fun.

• Use chocolate pudding mix: I swapped vanilla for chocolate pudding once and the cookies had a rich, almost brownie-like vibe that my family adored.
• Add peppermint extract: For a festive twist, add a half teaspoon of peppermint extract instead of vanilla—it gives a refreshing peppermint flavor that screams holidays.
• Sprinkle mix variations: Try using crushed candy canes or holiday-themed colored sugar for different textures and looks.
• Gluten-free option: Replace all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend; just make sure to watch the dough consistency as it may vary slightly.

How to Make Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Then line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This is key because it prevents sticking without needing extra grease, and it helps the bottoms brown evenly. I like to prep everything ahead to keep myself organized.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Shortening, and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat together the softened butter, shortening, and sugar on medium-high speed for about 4 to 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is light and fluffy—that airiness is what gives the cookies a dreamy texture. Don’t rush this step; it makes a huge difference.

Step 3: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Pudding Mix

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Then add the instant vanilla pudding mix. It might look a little unusual adding pudding mix to cookie dough, but trust me, this is what leads to the ultimate softness and flavor depth. Make sure everything is fully combined but avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Add

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to your wet mix, about ½ cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. The dough will come together and feel soft but not sticky. Be gentle here to keep your cookies tender and avoid a tough texture.

Step 5: Coat Dough Balls in Sprinkles

Place your sprinkles in a small shallow bowl. Using a cookie scoop or heaping tablespoon, scoop dough and roll it into balls in your hands. Then roll each ball in the sprinkles to coat fully. This step makes the cookies look beautiful and festive, plus adds a little crunch and fun color to every bite.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Arrange the sprinkle-coated dough balls on the parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies feel set but still soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. I always resist cutting into them too soon—it’s worth that little wait to avoid crumbling.

How to Serve Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I typically keep it simple because the sprinkles already give these cookies so much charm—but if I’m feeling fancy, a light dusting of powdered sugar over the top adds a gentle snowy look. Sometimes I’ll even drizzle a bit of white chocolate to amp up the festive vibes. These little details get my guests oohing and ahhing every time!

Side Dishes

These cookies pair perfectly with classic holiday drinks like hot cocoa, eggnog, or mulled cider. I like setting up a cookie and cocoa bar with marshmallows and peppermint sticks for friends and family. You could also serve them alongside a platter of holiday fruit and nuts for a nice balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting, I like stacking these cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbon. Another fun idea is arranging them on a holiday-themed platter stacked pyramid-style, or placing them in glass jars with a cute label for cookie swaps. It’s such a joyful way to share holiday spirit through baking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies have cooled completely, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and chewy for up to five days, which means plenty of time to enjoy—or to sneak a few bites when no one’s looking.

Freezing

If you want to get ahead of the game, these cookies freeze beautifully. You can freeze the dough balls unbaked for up to 3 months—just thaw slightly before baking—or freeze fully baked cookies in an airtight container. I recommend separating them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover cookies back to life, pop them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or microwave briefly (start with 10 seconds and add more if needed). This refreshes their soft texture and makes them taste just like freshly baked.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies Recipe holds a special place in my holiday baking lineup. They’re approachable enough for any skill level but deliver that wow factor everyone loves. I still remember the first time I made them—the sprinkles melting into the edges, the soft crumb that felt like a warm holiday hug. I’m so excited for you to try these out, share them with loved ones, and maybe discover your own favorite variations. Trust me, once you bake this recipe, it’ll be on repeat every December!

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