Christmas Sugar Cookies

Christmas Sugar Cookies

There’s something magical about Christmas Sugar Cookies that fills your home with warmth and joy during the festive season. This recipe not only brings a delightful sweet aroma wafting through the air but also fills your heart with fond memories of baking with loved ones. The gentle crunch of the edges gives way to a soft, tender center that melts in your mouth. With this step-by-step guide, you can create your own batch of these enchanting cookies that are perfect for sharing or savoring solo.

History / Fun Fact

The tradition of baking sugar cookies can be traced back to the 1700s in Europe, particularly in Germany, where they were originally made for special occasions. The Dutch settlers brought them to America and adopted the vibrant customs of cookie decorating. In fact, the iconic cookie cutouts we enjoy today became a holiday staple, especially during Christmas, where families would come together to create festive shapes and designs. Digging into these chewy, sweet treats evokes not only the aromas of the season but also the nostalgia of holiday gatherings shared with friends and family.

Ingredients

To create the perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies, gather the following ingredients, each adding its own unique character to the dough:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookies; this flour brings structure and a delicate crumb.
• 1 tsp baking powder: The secret behind the airy texture, allowing your cookies to rise just right.
• 1/2 tsp salt: A dash of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Rich and creamy, it’s the key to a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetness that brings a delightful crunch to the cookie’s surface.
• 1 egg: Binding everything together and adding a subtle richness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: The aromatic warmth that fills the air with festive cheer.
• 1 tsp almond extract (optional): A hint of nuttiness that elevates the flavor profile.
• Icing and sprinkles for decorating: A kaleidoscope of colors and sweetness that turns your cookies into little pieces of art.

Each ingredient promises to deliver not only a treat but also the joy of baking during the most wonderful time of the year.

Cooking Time & Tips For Christmas Sugar Cookies

Preparing Christmas Sugar Cookies can be quick and easy if you plan ahead. Quick preparation allows you to whip up a batch in just a few hours, while slow preparation gives you the opportunity to chill the dough and take your time decorating. For the best results, take note of these practical tips:

1. Chill the Dough: Allowing your dough to chill for at least an hour in the fridge helps the flavors to meld and prevents spreading during baking.
2. Use Quality Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for high-quality butter and pure extracts to enhance the flavor.
3. Don’t Rush the Cooling Process: Let your cookies cool completely before decorating to ensure the icing adheres properly.
4. Experiment with Shapes and Sprinkles: Use festive cookie cutters and colorful sprinkles to make your cookies standout for the holidays!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Setting your oven to the right temperature is crucial for even baking.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
This step ensures the dry ingredients are evenly mixed, which is essential for a consistent dough.

3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Let the creamy butter and sugar blend together for about 3-5 minutes until it resembles a pale, soft cloud. The fluffy texture is the foundation for your cookies.

4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix well!
As these ingredients come together, take a moment to enjoy the delightful scent that fills your kitchen, transporting you into the spirit of celebration.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
Be gentle here; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be soft yet manageable.

6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
This step is essential for the best results, enhancing flavors and preventing the cookies from spreading in the oven.

7. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
The tactile enjoyment of rolling out the dough can be soothing, and the excitement builds as you create holiday shapes.

8. Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until edges are slightly golden.
Keep an eye on them; you want that delicate golden color that signals perfect baking.

9. Let cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
This allows them to firm up slightly, ensuring they’re not too soft when you move them.

10. Once cooled, decorate with icing and sprinkles!
This is where creativity thrives! Transform your cookies into delightful holiday treats that will bring out the child in everyone.

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

Christmas Sugar Cookies are perfect for any festive gathering. Serve them alongside a hot cup of cocoa or coffee during a cozy holiday movie marathon. They make an excellent treat to share at holiday parties, school events, or simply enjoy at home with loved ones. Consider packaging them in decorative tins as thoughtful gifts for friends and family. These cookies bring joy and sweetness to every occasion, making memories just as delightful as their flavors.

Common Mistakes For Christmas Sugar Cookies

Baking is as much about science as it is about art, and common mistakes can lead to less-than-desirable outcomes. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

1. Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping this step can result in cookies that spread too much while baking.
2. Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to dense cookies instead of soft ones.
3. Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat and use an oven thermometer if you suspect yours may be off.
4. Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Too much flour can dry out your cookies, while too much sugar can make them overly sweet.

Healthier Alternatives & Variations

For those looking for healthier alternatives, consider the following substitutions without compromising on taste:

1. Whole Wheat Flour: Swap out a portion of all-purpose flour for whole wheat for added fiber.
2. Coconut Oil: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
3. Natural Sweeteners: Substitute some sugar with honey or maple syrup for added depth of flavor.
4. Add-ins: Toss in dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! Wrapped tightly, the dough can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.

2. How should I store the baked cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

3. Can I make the cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cookies hold up well when made ahead; just wait to decorate them until you’re ready to serve.

4. What can I use instead of almond extract?
If you’re looking for a substitution, simply use an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract for added flavor.

5. Are these cookies suitable for gifting?
Definitely! Decorate them beautifully and package them uniquely for a thoughtful homemade gift.

6. Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes! Just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to achieve similar results.

Conclusion

Christmas Sugar Cookies are not just a treat—they’re an experience filled with love, laughter, and celebration. Whether you’re crafting them with family, gifting them to friends, or indulging solo while watching your favorite holiday movies, these treats encapsulate the spirit of the season. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a batch right away—your kitchen is calling!

Christmas Sugar Cookies

Delightful sugar cookies with a tender center and a slight crunch, perfect for sharing during the festive season.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cookie Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour The foundation of your cookies; this flour brings structure and a delicate crumb.
• 1 tsp baking powder The secret behind the airy texture.
• 1/2 tsp salt Balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Key to a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar Adds a delightful crunch.
• 1 large egg Binds the mixture together.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds aromatic warmth.
• 1 tsp almond extract (optional) Elevates flavor profile.
• to taste Icing and sprinkles for decorating Make your cookies festive.

Method

 

Preparation

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. 3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. 4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).
5. 5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
6. 6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.

Baking

1. 7. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick and cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
2. 8. Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are slightly golden.
3. 9. Let cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
4. 10. Once cooled, decorate with icing and sprinkles.

Notes

Chill the dough for at least an hour for best results. Use quality ingredients for enhanced flavor, and let cookies cool completely before decorating for best adhesion of icing.