Air fryer Christmas cookies quickly became my holiday shortcut after my first batch of oven cookies spread too much and baked unevenly. I wanted soft centers with lightly crisp edges without heating the whole kitchen. After testing this three ways, I discovered that chilling the dough slightly and using a lower temperature made all the difference. Then I cracked the code with smaller batches and parchment. Now they come out perfectly soft, festive, and evenly baked every time.
Air Fryer Christmas Cookies – Soft & Festive in 8 Minutes
Soft and buttery holiday cookies with festive sprinkles, baked quickly in the air fryer for easy seasonal treats.
Equipment
- Air fryer (5–6 quart recommended)
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or whisk
- parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup holiday sprinkles
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until dough forms.
- Fold in sprinkles and white chocolate chips.
- Chill dough for 10 minutes to prevent spreading.
- Preheat air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
- Line basket with parchment paper.
- Scoop small portions of dough and place with space between them.
- Air fry for 6–8 minutes until edges are set and lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool for 3 minutes before removing.
Notes
- Air fryer models vary, so check cookies at 6 minutes.
- Do not overcrowd; bake in batches for even cooking.
- Chilling dough helps cookies keep their shape.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat at 300°F (149°C) for 2 minutes to refresh texture.
- Swap sprinkles for crushed candy canes or chocolate chunks for variation.
Nutrition
Calories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 4gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 40mgIron: 1.5mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
CONCLUSION
These air fryer Christmas cookies are one of my favorite ways to keep holiday baking simple and fun. They come out soft, festive, and perfectly portioned, ideal when you want that homemade touch without spending all day in the kitchen.