Christmas Cookies Recipe: Festive Treats for the Holiday Season
Nothing says holiday cheer quite like a batch of freshly baked Christmas cookies. From their delightful shapes to their sweet aroma, these cookies are a staple for festive gatherings, gift exchanges, and cozy evenings with loved ones. Follow this simple and versatile recipe to make the perfect Christmas cookies that can be customized to your heart’s content.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Christmas cookie recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. The dough is easy to work with, making it perfect for creating a variety of shapes and designs. Decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or leave them plain for a classic touch. These cookies are a hit with kids and adults alike and make a wonderful holiday activity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for the base dough:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps give the cookies a light, tender texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds additional lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional): For a nutty undertone.
For Decorating
- Royal icing: For detailed designs.
- Food coloring: To add festive colors.
- Sprinkles, edible glitter, or candy beads: Perfect for embellishments.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing until fully incorporated. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
2. Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two portions and wrap each in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step makes the dough easier to roll and helps the cookies hold their shape.
3. Roll and Cut
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters in festive shapes like stars, trees, or snowflakes to cut out cookies. Place the cutouts on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
4. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Decorate
Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them with royal icing, sprinkles, or any festive toppings of your choice. Let the icing set before stacking or packaging the cookies.
Tips for Perfect Christmas Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Uniform Thickness: Roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies when the edges are just turning golden for a soft texture.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a festive twist.
Creative Decorating Ideas
- Snowflake Cookies: Use white icing and edible glitter for a frosty effect.
- Christmas Tree Cookies: Green icing, colorful sprinkles, and a candy star on top.
- Gingerbread Men: Add tiny icing buttons and smiles for a classic touch.
- Edible Ornaments: Punch a hole before baking, then string with ribbon after decorating.
Storage Instructions
Store your Christmas cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months. Decorate after thawing for best results.
Nutrition Information
Per cookie (based on 24 cookies):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 1g
Why This Recipe is Perfect for the Holidays
With its easy preparation and endless decorating possibilities, this recipe is ideal for creating cherished holiday memories. Whether you’re hosting a cookie decorating party or looking for homemade gifts, these Christmas cookies are sure to impress.
Are you craving something sweet, don’t forget to try:Philadelphia Cheesecake Recipe
Christmas Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract optional
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix well.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Chill the dough for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
- Bake on a lined baking sheet for 8–10 minutes. Cool completely before decorating.
Photo by @jmeyer1220