Spiced Sugar Cookies

Christmas Spiced Sugar Cookies: A Festive Delight

Introduction

The holiday season is all about sharing warmth, joy, and delicious treats with family and friends. What better way to embrace the festive spirit than with Christmas Spiced Sugar Cookies? These cookies bring a comforting twist to the classic sugar cookie by infusing them with warm spices evocative of holiday cheer. Enjoy the tantalizing aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves as you bake these wonderful treats. Want more delightful recipes straight to your inbox? Don’t forget to subscribe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Christmas Spiced Sugar Cookies are cherished for their enchanting flavor and simplicity. With just a hint of festive spices, they offer a delightful twist to the traditional cookie, making them the star of any holiday gathering. Easy to prepare and perfect for decorating with loved ones, they bring the family together and make baking a joyous activity for all ages.

Ingredients

– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 egg, room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
– Christmas-themed sprinkles (optional)

Necessary Tools

– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Electric mixer
– Baking sheets
– Parchment paper
– Cookie scoop or tablespoon
– Wire racks

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

Feel free to customize your cookies! Swap almond extract for a dash of orange zest for a citrusy touch. Add a sprinkle of ginger for even more spiciness or some finely chopped nuts for a delightful crunch. Versatile and forgiving, these cookies adapt to your personal preferences.

See also Raspberry Cream Cheese Cookies

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla, and almond extracts until well combined.
4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just blended.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough, roll into balls, and place on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Press each ball slightly, and optionally, sprinkle with festive sprinkles.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to continue firming as they cool.
8. After 5 minutes, transfer cookies to wire racks to cool completely before decorating or enjoying them plain.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cookies with a hot cup of cocoa or mulled wine for an indulgent treat. They also make perfect edible gifts packaged in festive tins or bags!

Pro Tips for Success

– Make sure the butter is softened to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
– Avoid overbaking to keep these cookies soft and chewy — they continue to firm up as they cool.

Storing and Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To refresh them, warm in a microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste.

FAQ Section

Can I freeze the dough? Absolutely! Roll the dough into balls and freeze. When ready, bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

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