9 European Christmas Cookies for National Cookie Day (with Recipes and Photos)

Celebrated all over the world, National Cookie Day (December 4) is a great time to bake your winter holiday favorites, like those tried and true recipes that have been passed down for many generations. Or maybe this year, you could step up your cookie game and celebrate National Cookie Day with a new recipe, inspired by a country or place you’ve visited.

At Christmas time, I’ve been known to try out at least one new cookie recipe (pizzelles anyone?) for a holiday party or family gathering, or just because I found a new recipe online. When I do finally find that new recipe, my selection is often inspired and influenced by the places I’ve traveled over the years. From Italy, to Spain, to Norway and England (and so many others), each country I’ve visited definitely has an assortment of favorite Christmas cookies. While many of these cookie recipes are certainly elaborate and require much time and effort, I have found that some of the best tasting cookies are the ones that are the most simple.

If you’re looking to celebrate National Cookie Day with a festive, cultural twist, try one of these 9 European-Inspired cookie recipes from places I’ve traveled – you may just find your new favorite!

9 European Christmas Cookie Recipes

Belgium – Speculoos – (Spiced gingerbread, like a biscoff cookie!)