Christmas Sugar Cookies
Christmas Sugar Cookies are the quintessential festive treat that captures the essence of the holiday season in each delicious bite. With their delicate sweetness and soft, buttery texture, these cookies not only delight the taste buds but also bring joy to the heart. Picture the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home, brightening the atmosphere and fostering feelings of warmth and coziness. This recipe will guide you step-by-step to create your very own batch of these delightful treats that are perfect for celebrating with loved ones or gifting during the holidays.
Christmas Sugar Cookies are worth making because they embody the spirit of togetherness and cheer. Whether you’re decorating them with colored sugars and sprinkles or enjoying them straight from the oven, these cookies become a cherished part of family traditions. Their simple preparation and fun shapes make them an enjoyable project for all ages, providing both a creative outlet and a delicious reward.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Christmas Sugar Cookies recipe is crafted with your busy holiday schedule in mind. Its easy prep allows you to whip up a batch without spending hours in the kitchen, making it family-friendly and a fun activity for everyone. The use of minimal ingredients means you likely have everything on hand, making it more accessible than ever. Plus, there’s something uniquely delightful about rolling out dough and cutting it into festive shapes, making it a terrific tradition for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients for Christmas Sugar Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This creamy base adds richness and depth to each cookie.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: The blend of sweetness will make your cookies unforgettable.
- 1 large egg: A binding agent that gives structure and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This aromatic essence enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookie dough for a tender bite.
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the cookies rise slightly for a fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Assorted colored sugars or sprinkles for decoration: Brighten up your cookies with festive cheer.
Step-by-Step Directions for Christmas Sugar Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the stage for even baking.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step creates a rich, airy base for your cookies.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined, ensuring the mixture is fully integrated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender cookies.
Divide the dough in half, pat it into discs, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll out and shape.
Roll out one dough disc on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for even thickness for consistent baking.
Cut out shapes using festive cookie cutters and place them on ungreased baking sheets. The shapes will bring a visual charm to your holiday spread.
Decorate with colored sugars or sprinkles for a festive touch that appeals visually and adds delightful crunch.
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. This helps maintain the cookies’ structure.
Tips & Tricks
For perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies, remember to measure your flour correctly; too much can lead to dry cookies. If you find the dough is too soft after chilling, you can roll it between sheets of parchment paper for ease. To elevate the flavor, consider adding a hint of almond extract alongside the vanilla. For a fun twist, mix in some festive candies or chocolate chips into the dough before chilling. Be creative with your decorations – use icing, edible glitter, or chocolate drizzle to give your cookies an extra special touch.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These Christmas Sugar Cookies are charming when presented in a holiday tin, wrapped in colorful cellophane, or displayed on a festive platter. Serve them alongside a tall glass of milk, a cozy cup of hot chocolate, or even spiced tea for a comforting treat. They also make for delightful homemade gifts, allowing you to spread cheer to friends and family. Pair them with a few slices of festive seasonal fruit or a cheese platter for a fun dessert spread at your holiday gatherings.
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per cookie (based on standard serving sizes): 90 calories, 5g fat, 10g carbohydrates, 1g protein. While these cookies are a wonderful indulgence, remember that moderation is key when enjoying sweet treats. They can be part of a balanced holiday celebration when paired with healthier options like fruits and nuts.
Storing Tips & Variations for Christmas Sugar Cookies
Store your Christmas Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply layer cookies between parchment paper, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to two months. For a healthier twist, explore substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or using coconut oil in place of butter. You can also swap out traditional decorations for dried fruits or dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion for Christmas Sugar Cookies
Don’t wait any longer—this Christmas Sugar Cookies recipe is your ticket to festive cheer! The joy of baking these whimsical cookies and sharing them with loved ones will surely fill your home with warmth and laughter. So gather your ingredients, channel your creativity, and dive into the delightful world of holiday baking right away. You won’t regret it!
FAQs
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute; just ensure you’re using one that can be softened.
2. How can I make these cookies softer?
To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking them and consider adding a tablespoon of milk or reducing the baking time slightly.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before rolling and cutting.
4. What shapes can I use for cutting out cookies?
Feel free to use any festive cookie cutters you have on hand! Christmas trees, stars, and snowflakes are particularly festive.
5. How long can these cookies be stored?
These cookies can last up to a week at room temperature in an airtight container and can be stored in the freezer for up to two months.
Christmas Sugar Cookies
Delightful and soft Christmas Sugar Cookies perfect for the festive season, bringing joy and warmth to your holidays.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Assorted colored sugars or sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half, pat it into discs, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Roll out one dough disc on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut out shapes using festive cookie cutters and place them on ungreased baking sheets.
- Decorate with colored sugars or sprinkles.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
Ensure proper flour measurement to avoid dry cookies. For a twist, consider adding almond extract or mixing in candies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
