India, Dec. 20 -- Christmas cookies have been part of winter celebrations for hundreds of years, especially across Europe where home baking marked the holiday season. Early Christmas cookie recipes were shaped by practical needs, using flour, butter, nuts, spices, and dried fruits that stored well through cold months. These baked treats were made in batches and shared during gatherings, laying the foundation for today's holiday cookie exchanges.

The tradition of Christmas cookies spread widely during the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly in Germany, Scandinavia, and England. Gingerbread, shortbread, and spiced butter cookies became popular because they held their shape and flavour for days. Over time, these recipes travelled globally...