Retro Christmas Gumdrop Cookies

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Buttery, tender, and studded with vibrant gumdrops, Retro Christmas Gumdrop Cookies are a nostalgic holiday classic that deserves a spot on every cookie tray. These cheerful cookies bring the magic of childhood memories flooding back with every sweet, chewy bite. The slightly crisp exterior gives way to a soft center, offering a delightful contrast that pairs beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a mug of hot cocoa.

Ideal for cookie exchanges, festive gatherings, or simply curling up by the fire, these cookies are as eye-catching as they are delicious. Gumdrops give them a jewel-like sparkle and fruity flavor that pops against the vanilla-scented sugar cookie base. They’re the perfect baking project to share with kids or pass down through generations.

What Kind of Gumdrops Should I Use?

For this recipe, classic gumdrops (not spice drops) work best. Look for the fruity variety in assorted colors—red, green, yellow, and orange—without the strong clove or licorice flavor. You’ll want to chop them into smaller pieces so they distribute well throughout the dough. Avoid over-chopping, or you’ll end up with sticky clusters.

Ingredients for the Retro Christmas Gumdrop Cookies

Butter: Unsalted butter adds a rich, creamy base to the cookie dough and ensures a tender texture.

Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the dough and helps achieve that lightly crisp exterior.

Eggs: They bind everything together and give the cookies structure.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweetness with a cozy, aromatic note.

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure.

Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly and creates a soft, chewy texture.

Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness.

Chopped Gumdrops: The star of the show! Bright, chewy bits of fruity gumdrops add color, texture, and a festive flavor.

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How To Make the Retro Christmas Gumdrop Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This creates the airy texture we want in the finished cookies.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mix into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 4: Fold in the Gumdrops

Gently fold in the chopped gumdrops using a spatula. Be sure they are evenly distributed for a colorful bite every time.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave space between each.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

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How to Store and Serve Retro Christmas Gumdrop Cookies

These cookies are best served once they’ve cooled and the gumdrops have slightly set into the cookie. For storage, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra soft, add a slice of white bread to the container—it works wonders!

They also freeze well. Simply place in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What to Serve With Retro Christmas Gumdrop Cookies?

Hot Cocoa with Whipped Cream

The rich cocoa enhances the sweet and fruity flavors of the gumdrops.

Eggnog or Spiced Holiday Punch

Perfectly festive and nostalgic alongside these classic cookies.

Cream Cheese Dip

A tangy, smooth dip pairs well with the sweetness and gives your cookie tray a fun twist.

A Scoop of Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Make a cookie sandwich or crumble over a bowl for extra decadence.

Cheddar Cheese Cubes

A surprising combo! The salty richness complements the sweet chewiness.

Mulled Wine

For adults, a spiced, warm glass of mulled wine enhances the seasonal cheer.

Holiday Snack Board

Combine these cookies with other favorites like Twix Cookie Cups and Praline Crunch for a variety of textures and flavors.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you adore these Retro Christmas Gumdrop Cookies, you’ll want to try these festive favorites:

• Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Santa Cookies for a quick, chocolaty holiday hit.
• Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies with a creamy, old-fashioned charm.
• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie if you’re craving something silky, fruity, and indulgent.
• The Irresistible Charm of Peanut Butter Candy Corn Cookies for a Halloween-to-Christmas crossover.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go for extra gumdrops or swap in spice drops? Any fun family traditions tied to these?

Explore beautifully curated nostalgic desserts and festive cookies on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest and find your next holiday favorite.

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