When someone says Christmas, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?
The twinkle of lights, festive songs, or maybe the warm aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen?
For me, it’s biscuits.
Not just any biscuits—Christmas biscuits.
Here in New Zealand, Christmas isn’t about snowy days and roaring fireplaces; it’s about sunshine, barbecues, and time spent with family.
Yet somehow, the tradition of Christmas biscuits fits perfectly.
There’s something magical about these sweet treats.
They’re more than just desserts; they’re a celebration of tradition, creativity, and togetherness.
And they’re as diverse as the cultures that make them.
The Story Behind Christmas Biscuits
Christmas biscuits have a long history, spanning continents and centuries.
- Medieval Europe: This is where it all started. Bakers experimented with exotic spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, blending them into festive creations.
- By the 16th century, these spiced biscuits became a staple of Christmas celebrations across Europe.
When settlers arrived in New Zealand, they brought these traditions with them.
Over time, we’ve added our own twist—light, buttery shortbreads and vibrant decorations that reflect our sunny Christmas spirit.
Why Spices Are the Heart of Christmas Biscuits
Think about Christmas.
It’s not just a holiday—it’s a sensory experience.
The smell of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger instantly brings warmth and joy, even on a summery New Zealand afternoon.
These spices don’t just taste good—they carry centuries of tradition.
Fun fact: Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg were once so rare and valuable, they were considered luxury items. Now, they’re the essence of Christmas baking worldwide.
Popular Christmas Biscuits Around the World
Christmas biscuits are as unique as the countries that bake them. Here’s a taste of festive favourites from around the globe:
1. New Zealand: Shortbread
Light, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Shortbread is a Kiwi Christmas classic, often decorated with festive sprinkles.
2. Germany: Springerle
These anise-flavoured biscuits are stamped with intricate designs, making them as beautiful as they are tasty.
3. Mexico: Bizcochitos
Flavoured with cinnamon and anise, these are perfect for summer Christmas celebrations with a hint of spice.
4. Austria: Vanillekipferl
These crescent-shaped vanilla cookies are dusted with icing sugar and have a delicate, nutty flavour.
5. Norway: Krumkake
Thin, crispy rolls filled with whipped cream, traditionally cooked on decorative irons.
Decorating Christmas Biscuits
The best part of Christmas biscuit baking? Decorating!
Whether it’s vibrant icing, sparkling sugar, or edible glitter, the options are endless.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Cookie cutters: Christmas trees, stars, and reindeer are popular choices.
- Gel food colouring: Create bold, bright designs.
- Piping bags and tips: Essential for intricate details.
Pro tip:
For candy cane biscuits, use red and white icing to create a swirl effect.
It’s simple, festive, and guaranteed to impress.
FAQs About Christmas Biscuits
Q: What’s the easiest Christmas biscuit to bake in the Kiwi summer heat?
A: Shortbread! It’s light, buttery, and doesn’t require long baking times.
Q: Can I freeze Christmas biscuit dough?
A: Absolutely. Freeze your dough for up to three months and bake fresh whenever you need a batch.
Q: What makes spices so important in Christmas biscuits?
A: Spices like cinnamon and ginger bring warmth and a festive aroma, making them a hallmark of Christmas baking.
The Lowrey Twist: New Zealand’s Finest Butter Cookies
Don’t feel like baking? No problem.
At Lowrey Foods, we craft butter cookies that capture the essence of Christmas.
Made with simple, high-quality ingredients—42% New Zealand cultured butter—they’re the perfect festive treat.
Whether you’re gifting a tin or enjoying them with a cuppa under the summer sun, Lowrey Butter Cookies are a celebration of Kiwi Christmas spirit.
Check out our Christmas collection here.
Why Christmas Biscuits Are About More Than Just Baking
Here’s the thing.
Christmas biscuits aren’t just about the final product.
They’re about the process—rolling the dough, cutting shapes, and decorating with family.
They’re about the stories you share while baking.
The laughter, the mess, and the memories that stay long after the biscuits are gone.
So whether you’re baking from scratch or opening a tin of Lowrey Butter Cookies, take a moment to savour the experience.
Because at the heart of it all, Christmas biscuits are about connection.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas, embrace the joy of biscuits—whether you’re baking, decorating, or simply indulging.
They’re not just treats; they’re traditions.
Explore our Lowrey Butter Cookies for a taste of Kiwi Christmas magic.
Simple, buttery, and unforgettable.
Happy baking and happy holidays!
