Ugly Sweater Cookies: A Festive Treat for All Seasons
Introduction
As the crisp air of fall brings with it the celebratory spirit of Halloween, what better way to embrace the season than by baking Ugly Sweater Cookies? These quirky and delightful treats combine the fun of themed sweaters with the deliciousness of cookies, making them a perfect addition to any festive gathering. Before diving into this entertaining baking adventure, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delightful recipes delivered straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ugly Sweater Cookies are a surefire hit, and here’s why: they’re incredibly fun to make, bursting with festive colors, and loved by all ages! Not only are these cookies delicious, but they also provide a fantastic opportunity to get creative with decorations, turning your kitchen into a space for imaginative fun. Plus, they’re easy enough for even beginner bakers to enjoy making with family and friends.
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Assorted food coloring
– Assorted colored frosting
– Assorted sprinkles and candies
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer or hand whisk
– Whisk
– Rolling pin
– Sweater-shaped cookie cutters
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Cooling rack
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Get creative with your Ugly Sweater Cookies by swapping ingredients! Try almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty flavor, or use whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier twist. For a more festive touch, add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. Feeling adventurous? Incorporate nuts or dried fruit into the mix for added texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until the dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into several portions, adding a few drops of desired food coloring to each and kneading until evenly colored. Roll out the dough segments on a floured surface to a thickness of 1/4 inch.
5. Use your sweater-shaped cutter to cut out cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are slightly browned. Let the cookies cool on the sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack.
7. Once cooled, unleash your creativity! Use frosting, sprinkles, and candies to decorate each sweater in your own unique style.
Serving Suggestions
Ugly Sweater Cookies pair beautifully with a cozy hot beverage – try serving them with hot chocolate or spiced apple cider. Their whimsical designs also make them a beautiful centerpiece for holiday dessert tables.
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure your butter is softened to achieve the perfect dough consistency.
– Use gel-based food coloring for more vibrant hues without altering the dough’s texture.
– Place cookies in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
Storing and Reheating
Store these festive cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you have leftovers, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their freshness.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make the dough in advance?
A: Absolutely! The dough can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
Q: How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour to make them gluten-free.
Conclusion
Ugly Sweater Cookies are more than just a delight to the taste buds; they’re a creative outlet that the whole family can enjoy. Simple to prepare and entertaining to decorate, these cookies bring joy and warmth to any seasonal gathering. We invite you to share your creations, leave reviews, or tag us in your Ugly Sweater Cookie photos on Pinterest or Instagram!
Nutritional Information
Approximately 150 calories per cookie, depending on decoration choices.
