Christmas Sugar Cookies

Christmas always brings a special kind of magic, doesn’t it? One of my fondest memories is baking Christmas sugar cookies with my family. The sweet aroma wafting through the house, the bright colors of sprinkles dancing on the frosting, and the joy of sharing delicious treats with loved ones brings a smile to my face. This recipe for Christmas sugar cookies is a must-try during the holiday season, creating cherished moments you won’t want to miss.

Why Make This Recipe

What truly makes this Christmas sugar cookie recipe special is its perfect balance of sweetness and buttery goodness. These cookies are not only delightful but also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or simply satisfying those sweet cravings.

You’ll love how kid-approved this recipe is; it’s a fantastic opportunity to get the little hands busy decorating. These sugar cookies are versatile and can be jazzed up with colorful icing and sprinkles, allowing for creativity with each batch. As one satisfied baker said, “This recipe brought our family together and made our holiday celebrations even sweeter!”

Step-by-Step Overview

Making Christmas sugar cookies is simple and straightforward, requiring only a few steps that yield delicious results. You start by creaming butter and sugar, incorporating eggs and vanilla, and finally mixing in dry ingredients. With a little rolling and decorating, you will have festive cookies ready to bake in no time. Are you excited to delight your friends and family with these festive treats? Let’s dive into what you’ll need!

What You’ll Need

Gather these items to create your delightful Christmas sugar cookies:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 to 5 tablespoons of milk
• Decorating icing
• Colored sprinkles or edible decorations

If you’re running low on any ingredients, don’t fret! You can substitute the unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil and use a dairy-free milk alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get to the fun part. Here’s how to prepare your Christmas sugar cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until smooth and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, then gradually stir in the flour mixture until well combined.
5. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them onto ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
6. Flatten each ball slightly with your palm and decorate them with icing and sprinkles if desired.
7. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Let them cool on wire racks before serving.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Once your cookies have cooled, it’s time to serve them! Stack them on a festive plate for a beautiful presentation or place them in decorative tins for gifting. They pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or tea. If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, consider creating a cookie decorating station where guests can unleash their creativity.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Keeping your Christmas sugar cookies fresh is easy. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully. Just wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying!

Helpful Cooking Tips

Here are some pro tips to enhance your baking experience:

• For a softer cookie, avoid over-baking. Remove them when they start to turn golden on the edges.
• Make sure your butter is softened, as this helps in achieving the right texture.
• Experiment with different flavored extracts like almond or lemon for a unique twist.
• Chill the dough briefly (about 30 minutes) before baking to maintain shape and texture.

Creative Twists

Add some festive flair to your cookies! Here are a few exciting variations:

• Sprinkle different holiday-themed decorations like candy canes or chocolate chips.
• Try flavored frosting such as peppermint or orange zest for a seasonal kick.
• Make them gingerbread-inspired by adding spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Dye your icing in various colors to match your holiday theme.

FAQs

How long does it take to make Christmas sugar cookies?
Preparation and baking time typically total around 30 to 45 minutes.

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?
Yes, gluten-free flour blends can be used as a substitute, though results may vary.

How do I know when sugar cookies are done?
They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when removed from the oven.

Can I decorate the cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cookies in advance, store them, and decorate just before serving for the most vibrant look.

What’s the best way to store cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness, or freeze them for longer storage.

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I hope you enjoy baking these Christmas sugar cookies as much as I do. Feel free to explore more recipes and tips by following us on our social media. Join our cozy cooking community and share your baking adventures with us on Facebook, and don’t forget to check out our delicious ideas on Pinterest. Happy baking!