Elves Gone Wild: Christmas Cookie Pops That Stick the Landing

Who says holiday cheer has to be buttoned-up and boring? These Christmas Elves on a Stick are here to stir up some sweet mischief. With soft sugar cookie bases, red and green frosting, and candy chaos that would make Santa’s workshop jealous, these festive cookie pops are part edible craft, part dessert—and 100% holiday fun. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping for a cookie exchange, or just need a whimsical treat to deck your dessert table, these elf-faced goodies are guaranteed to sleigh.

Why These Christmas Cookie Pops Are the Real MVPs

Let’s be honest—these aren’t your grandma’s sugar cookies. They’re playful, portable, and practically begging for a photo op. Here’s why they deserve a spot in your holiday baking lineup:

• Kid-tested, elf-approved: Little hands love decorating their own cookie elves.
• No stress, all sparkle: Uses store-bought dough and frosting—zero need for a culinary degree.
• Party-perfect: Easy to grab, display, and devour.
• Totally customizable: Every elf gets its own personality—grumpy, goofy, glam, or glitter bomb.
• Pinterest gold: Those red and green frosting swirls pop in every photo.

Ingredients for Christmas Elves on a Stick

• 1 roll (16.5 ounces) refrigerated sugar cookie dough (recommended: Pillsbury)
• 14 craft sticks (flat wooden sticks with round ends)
• 1 (12-ounce) container vanilla ready-to-spread frosting
• Red and green gel food coloring
• 1 (4.25-ounce) tube white decorating icing
• Assorted candies for decorating (think gumdrops, mini marshmallows, licorice ropes, sprinkles, and chocolate chips)

How to Make Christmas Cookie Pops

Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Slice cookie dough into 14 pieces, about ½ inch thick, and roll each into a ball.
3. On an ungreased cookie sheet, arrange 7 dough balls in a circle, spacing them 3 inches apart and 2 inches from the edge.
4. Insert one craft stick into each ball, angled toward the center of the sheet.
5. Repeat on a second sheet with the remaining dough.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden around the edges.
7. Cool for 2 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Decorate the Elf Faces

1. Divide frosting into three bowls. Leave one white, tint one red, and the other green.
2. Frost each cookie and decorate with candies to create elf faces—pointy hats, rosy cheeks, and mischievous grins encouraged.
3. Use white icing for details like eyes, snowflakes, or elf ears.
4. Makes 14 Christmas Cookie Pops.

Expert Tips for Elf-Level Success

• Chill the dough for 15 minutes before baking to help cookies hold their shape.
• Use gel food coloring for bold, festive hues.
• If sticks feel loose, gently twist them into place while cookies are still warm.
• Set up a decorating station—kids love designing their own edible elves.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Creative Variations for Your Cookie Elves

• Elf Squad Goals: Use chocolate chip cookie dough for a twist on tradition.
• Double Trouble: Sandwich two cookies with frosting for a festive “whoopie pie.”
• Frosty Vibes: Add edible glitter or snowflake sprinkles for winter wonderland flair.
• Naughty or Nice: Let kids decorate one “nice” elf and one “naughty” elf—bonus points for candy coal.

How to Serve Your Christmas Cookie Pops

• Display in a styrofoam block wrapped in holiday paper for grab-and-go magic.
• Add to your Christmas dessert board for a pop of color and whimsy.
• Wrap individually in cellophane with ribbon for party favors or stocking stuffers.
• Pair with Hot Cocoa or Peppermint Punch for the ultimate holiday treat combo.

FAQs About Christmas Cookie Pops

Q: Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! Bake the cookies the night before and decorate the next day for peak freshness.

Q: Can I freeze Christmas Cookie Pops? You can freeze the baked cookies (undecorated) for up to a month. Thaw before frosting.

Q: What if I can’t find sugar cookie dough? Any refrigerated cookie dough works—try peanut butter or chocolate chip for fun flavor swaps.

Q: My sticks keep falling out—help! Insert sticks while the dough is soft and make sure they’re centered before baking.

More Holiday Recipes:

• Link to your Christmas Cookie Roundup for more festive baking inspiration.
• Include a related post like How to Make Reindeer Cupcakes for readers who want to go all-in on holiday whimsy.
• Suggest pairing with your Peppermint Punch Recipe for a cozy Christmas night.

Final Thoughts

These Christmas Elves on a Stick aren’t just cookies—they’re a full-blown holiday experience. Whether you’re hosting a cookie decorating party, baking with your kids, or just want to add some cheeky charm to your dessert spread, these pops deliver the fun (and flavor) in spades. So grab your frosting, channel your inner elf, and let the holiday mischief begin—one cookie pop at a time.