Christmas Sugar Cookies: A Festive Delight
Christmas is a time of joy, warmth, and delicious treats, and nothing embodies the holiday spirit quite like Christmas Sugar Cookies! These classic cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. With their sweet, buttery flavor, soft texture, and vibrant decorations, they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones, gifting, or simply savoring during a cozy afternoon by the fire. I’m so grateful to share this delightful recipe with you! Let’s bake some holiday magic together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Christmas Sugar Cookie recipe is a favorite for many reasons! First, it’s incredibly easy to make—perfect for bakers of all skill levels. The delightful combination of buttery sweetness, vanilla, and a hint of almond creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. Plus, decorating them is a fantastic way to get the family involved in the kitchen. You can unleash your creative spirits, making each cookie unique and special! The aroma of fresh-baked cookies wafting through your home is guaranteed to evoke the warm feelings of the holiday season.
Ingredients
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– Assorted colored sugars and sprinkles for decoration
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Rolling pin
– Holiday-themed cookie cutters
– Baking sheets
– Parchment paper
– Cooling rack
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to put your twist on these cookies! For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also experiment with different extracts, like peppermint for a refreshing touch. Consider adding festive mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, or even nuts for varied textures and flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside; this will create the perfect base for our cookies.
2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. The butter should be creamy and pale.
3. Crack in the egg and add the vanilla and almond extracts. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined. You’ll notice a lovely aroma that signals holiday cheer!
4. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture. Mix just until blended—overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want these to be soft and delicious.
5. Divide the dough into two portions, flatten each into a disk, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture!
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. On a floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite holiday-themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
8. Decorate with colored sugars and sprinkles to add a joyful touch.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. The smell will be divine!
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Repeat this process with the remaining dough—there are plenty of cookies to share!
Serving Suggestions
These cookies can be enjoyed on their own or served alongside a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of cocoa. They also make a wonderful gift, beautifully arranged in a festive tin or box.
Pro Tips for Success
– Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best blending and texture.
– Chill the dough for the full hour to ensure your cookies hold their shape when baking.
– Experiment with different shaped cutters for the holidays—stars, trees, and gingerbread men add to the festive spirit!
Storing and Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds—they’ll taste like they just came out of the oven!
FAQ Section
– Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes, you can wrap the unbaked dough in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw and roll out when you’re ready to bake!
– Can I use margarine instead of butter? While butter gives the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute, though the taste may vary.
Conclusion
These Christmas Sugar Cookies are not just a recipe; they’re a part of holiday traditions and cherished memories. With their delightful taste, festive colors, and simple preparation, they are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. I’d love to see your creations! Feel free to leave your reviews, share photos, or tag the recipe on Pinterest or Instagram!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per cookie (based on a yield of 36 cookies):
Calories: 130, Total Fat: 6g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Carbohydrates: 18g, Sugars: 8g, Protein: 1g. Enjoy these delicious cookies responsibly as part of a balanced diet!
