During the holiday season, my mother has a delightful tradition of baking and decorating an elaborate tray of Christmas cookies. Through years of trial and error, she has mastered the art to a science. If you're gearing up for a busy baking season and want to take your Christmas cookie decorating to the next level, having the right kitchen tools is essential. Here are some of the helpful products she swears by that are all available at Amazon and cost $25 and under.

Elevate Your Christmas Cookie Decorating with These Affordable Essentials

Zulay Kitchen Silicone Baking Mat

Instead of relying on traditional parchment paper and baking spray, these silicone baking mats are a game-changer. With a 41 percent discount, a pack of two mats is now just $5. Over 5,000 Amazon shoppers have purchased this in the past month. When rolling out and cutting dough, these mats limit countertop cleanup. After that, simply transfer the mat onto a cookie sheet for baking. The food-grade silicone can handle temperatures up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring even heat distribution and preventing baked goods from sticking. It's a must-have for any baking enthusiast.Another great aspect is that these mats are reusable year after year, saving you money in the long run. They are durable and easy to clean, making them a practical addition to your kitchen.

Julbear Reusable Christmas Cookie Stencils

For those who aren't particularly artistic or are new to cookie decorating, these stencils are a lifesaver. The pack comes with 36 Christmas-inspired designs like a gingerbread, Santa Claus, and a snowflake. You can easily transfer these designs onto your cookies using royal icing. Once the decorating is done, simply wash and reuse the stencils again and again.Shoppers have praised these stencils for their time-saving feature, offering a wide variety of design options. They hold up well and are very easy to use and clean, making the cookie decorating process more enjoyable.

Checkered Chef Wire Cooling Rack

Properly cooling cookies before icing is crucial for creating crisp borders. These wire cooling racks are the perfect solution. A pack of two is on sale for just $10 right now. They feature an elevated grid design that allows for excellent airflow, ensuring your cookies cool evenly. Crafted from stainless steel, they are oven and dishwasher-safe, making them convenient to use.Over 14,500 Amazon shoppers have given these baking must-haves a perfect rating. One shopper shared, "I use these little racks all the time. They are sturdy, easy to clean, and make life in the kitchen so much easier."

Hongbake Baking Sheet Set of 3, $25 with coupon

Having a good baking sheet is essential for baking delicious cookies. This set of three baking sheets is not only of great quality but also available at a discounted price of $25 with a coupon. The non-stick surface ensures that your cookies don't stick, and the sturdy construction makes them durable.Whether you're baking a large batch of cookies or multiple trays at once, these baking sheets are up to the task. They are a reliable addition to your baking arsenal.

Christmas Cookie Cutters 8-Piece

The right cookie cutters can make all the difference in the look of your Christmas cookies. This 8-piece set includes a variety of Christmas-themed cutters like stars, bells, and trees. The cutters are made from high-quality materials and are easy to use.With these cookie cutters, you can create beautiful and unique Christmas cookies that will impress your family and friends. They are a must-have for any Christmas cookie baker.

Rickle Piping Bags and Tips Set

For those who want to take their cookie decorating to the next level, a piping bag and tips set is essential. This set from Riccle includes a variety of tips that allow you to create different designs and textures on your cookies.The piping bags are made from high-quality materials and are easy to fill with your favorite icing. With this set, you can add a professional touch to your Christmas cookie decorating.