Christmas Cookie Recipes Perfect for a Christmas Cookie Exchange

No cookie collection would be complete without the classic Dutch cookies that are often known as Windmill Cookies. About's Guide to Dutch Food, Karin Engelbrecht says that cookies are a crucial component of the Dutch holidays. After all, cookies are part and parcel of Dutch food culture. In fact, so much so that Dutch settlers in North America actually gave the American language the word 'cookie', from koekje ('little cake'). Her favorite festive cookies include spiced gingerbread-like treats called speculaas and their small sibling kruidnoten (you might also like to try chocolate-covered kruidnoten or truffle kruidnoten. Decorate the Christmas tree with kerstkransjes or serve a plate of Jan Hagel cookies for a truly Dutch treat.

The South American caramel sandwich cookies called alfajores are the perfect holiday homemade gift - they are fun to decorate and delicious. Marian Blazes, guide to South American food, also suggests gingerbread llamas and coconut rollout cookies.