Christmas Sugar Cookies Recipe: The Sweetest Holiday Treats

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the delightful tradition of baking cookies. Among the myriad of festive treats, nothing quite compares to the charm of a classic Christmas sugar cookies recipe. These sweet delights not only fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas but also evoke warm memories of holidays spent with family and friends. As you roll out the dough and cut out fun shapes, the anticipation builds, and you can’t help but smile at the thought of the joy these treats will bring.

Moreover, what makes this festive cookie recipe so special is its versatility. You can decorate these charming cookies in a rainbow of colors, making them perfect for any holiday gathering, party, or simply to enjoy at home. Whether you plan to host a cookie exchange or want to create a fun activity with the kids, the Christmas sugar cookies recipe is a wonderful way to spread cheer. So grab your rolling pin, gather your loved ones, and let’s dive into the delightful world of holiday baking!

Essential Ingredients Overview:

Making the perfect Christmas sugar cookies is a delightful way to celebrate the festive season. Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients you’ll need to create these delicious treats.

1. All-Purpose Flour: 2 and 1/4 cups (281g), spooned and leveled. This forms the base of your cookie dough and gives it structure.

2. Baking Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. This leavening agent helps your cookies rise and achieve a fluffy texture.

3. Salt: 1/4 teaspoon. A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.

4. Unsalted Butter: 3/4 cup (or 12 tablespoons; 170g), softened to room temperature. Butter adds richness and moisture, making your cookies delectable.

5. Granulated Sugar: 3/4 cup (150g). This sweetener is essential, ensuring your cookies have a delightful sweetness.

6. Large Egg: 1, at room temperature. The egg binds the ingredients together, contributing to a chewy texture.

7. Pure Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons. This classic flavoring elevates the taste of your cookies.

8. Almond Extract: 1/4 or 1/2 teaspoon (optional). While optional, almond extract adds a lovely depth of flavor that many consider essential.

For the Easy Icing, gather these ingredients:

1. Confectioners’ Sugar: 3 cups (360g) for a smooth, sweet icing.

2. Pure Vanilla Extract: 1/2 teaspoon (or omit for stark white icing).

3. Light Corn Syrup: 2 teaspoons to give your icing a glossy finish.

4. Room Temperature Water: 4.5–5 tablespoons (67–75ml) to achieve the right consistency.

5. Pinch of Salt: Just a touch to enhance the icing’s sweetness.

Optionally, you can include gel food coloring and sprinkles to make your sugar cookies more festive.

After preparing this Christmas sugar cookies recipe, allow the dough to chill properly to prevent spreading and enhance the flavor. The preparation may seem meticulous, but the payoff is a batch of cookies that are perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holidays.

In conclusion, gathering these ingredients is the first step towards making delectable Christmas sugar cookies that will delight everyone around the festive table. Don’t forget to enjoy the process!

Ingredients for Christmas Sugar Cookies Recipe:

Creating the perfect batch of Christmas sugar cookies is a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. Here’s a list of all the necessary ingredients with precise measurements for your baking adventure:

• 2 and 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled), plus more as needed for rolling and work surface
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 or 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but enhances flavor)

Easy Icing for Decorating Your Christmas Sugar Cookies

To make your cookies extra festive, you’ll need these components for icing:

• 3 cups (360g) confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (omit for stark white icing)
• 2 teaspoons light corn syrup
• 4.5–5 Tablespoons (67–75ml) room temperature water
• a pinch of salt (optional)
• Optional: gel food coloring and sprinkles for decorating

Making Your Christmas Sugar Cookies

Begin by whisking the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl, then set it aside. Using a mixer, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy. After mixing in the egg and extracts, gradually add your dry ingredients.

Once the dough is ready and sufficiently chilled, roll it out to a consistent 1/4 inch thickness. Cut shapes using cookie cutters and arrange them on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (177°C) until the edges are lightly browned, allowing them to cool thoroughly before icing.

Decorating Your Festive Treats

For the icing, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, corn syrup, and water until you reach a drizzle-like consistency. Decorate your cookies with this icing and get creative with colors and sprinkles. Allow them to set for around 24 hours for the perfect texture.

For another delightful culinary experience, be sure to check out my pumpkin pie recipe, which perfectly complements the festive spirit!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Making delightful Christmas sugar cookies can become a cherished holiday tradition in your home. Follow these instructions for soft and sweet treats that everyone will adore.

Gather Your Ingredients

First, you’ll need to gather your ingredients. For this Christmas sugar cookies recipe, you’ll need 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, 1 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Feel free to add colorful sprinkles or holiday-themed decorations later!

Prepare the Dough

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until fully incorporated. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. This process should last about 2 minutes; you want the mixture light and fluffy.

Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into this wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms. Be careful not to over-mix; overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies.

Shape and Bake Your Cookies

Once your dough is ready, take small portions and roll them into balls—about 1 inch in diameter. Place the dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You can lightly press them with the bottom of a glass for a flatter shape. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the edges are light golden brown.

After baking, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. For added flair, consider decorating your cookies with royal icing or colorful sprinkles.

To enhance your baking experience, check out other delicious recipes like Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel, which can also delight your guests this festive season.

Feeling creative? Explore more baking tips and ideas at CookingWithLena.com. Enjoy your baking!

How to Prepare Christmas Sugar Cookies Recipe:

Creating delightful Christmas sugar cookies is a festive tradition that brings joy to the holiday season. This recipe is simple yet yields deliciously sweet cookies that are perfect for decorating. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can spread holiday cheer with your homemade treats!

Ingredients Overview

To start, gather your ingredients: 2 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 3/4 cup unsalted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. For an extra touch, consider 1/4 or 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. To ice your cookies, you will need 3 cups confectioners’ sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons light corn syrup, and room temperature water. Optional gel food coloring and sprinkles will enhance your creations.

Making the Dough

Begin by whisking together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl and set it aside. In a larger bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—this should take about three minutes. Next, mix in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract if desired. Slowly add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. If the dough feels too soft, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Chilling and Rolling

Divide the dough into two parts, rolling each on parchment paper to about 1/4 inch thick. Then, stack and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours or even up to two days. This chilling step is crucial for perfect cookie shapes.

Baking and Cooling

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Cut your chilled dough with cookie cutters and arrange them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 11-12 minutes or until pale golden around the edges. Once baked, let them cool on a wire rack before decorating.

Creating the Icing

For the icing, combine the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, corn syrup, and water in a bowl. Whisk until you reach a thick yet pourable consistency. You can adjust with more water if necessary. Add food coloring for a festive look!

Decorate the cookies as you like—using various piping techniques or simply by dipping. Allow them to set for 24 hours, and soon you’ll have beautiful cookies ready to gift or share. These Christmas sugar cookies make a perfect treat for any gathering, just like the flavors in my caramelized onion and goat cheese tart; they both embody the essence of homemade love during the holidays!

Decorating Ideas for Christmas Sugar Cookies Recipe:

Are you ready to transform your Christmas sugar cookies recipe into stunning festive treats? Decorating isn’t just a fun activity; it can also elevate the appeal of your cookies. Consider these attractive decorating ideas that are sure to impress your family and friends during the holiday season.

Royal Icing and Sprinkles

One of the most popular ways to decorate sugar cookies is by using royal icing. This icing dries hard and provides a smooth finish, making it ideal for intricate designs. You can color the icing with gel food coloring to match your Christmas theme. After icing your cookies, sprinkle edible glitter or festive sprinkles on top. The sparkle and color will add a touch of magic to your creations.

Fondant Decorations

Another elegant decorating option is using fondant. Roll out colored fondant and cut it into festive shapes or letters. You can use these cutouts to enhance your Christmas sugar cookies recipe, creating a visually appealing finish. Fondant can also mimic other textures such as ribbon or bows when shaped correctly, adding a three-dimensional effect that’s perfect for holiday celebrations.

Simple Glazes and Candy

If royal icing seems elaborate, go for a simple glaze. Mix powdered sugar with milk and a splash of vanilla extract to create a quick and easy glaze. Dip the tops of your cookies into this mixture for a smooth finish. While the glaze is still wet, you can add small candies like M&M’s or chocolate chips for added sweetness.

Creative Christmas Themes

Don’t forget to consider a seasonal theme. For instance, you could focus on classic Christmas symbols such as stars, Christmas trees, and snowmen. You could give each cookie a personality with different faces, or outline them in contrasting colors. If you’re looking for inspiration in your culinary adventures, check out the Caramelized Onion Goat Cheese Tart Recipe for unique flavor combinations that could inspire your decorating creativity.

Finish with Personal Touches

Lastly, consider personalizing your Christmas sugar cookies recipe with names or special messages. Use edible markers or write letters with icing to make each cookie unique. For gatherings, this is a delightful way to show your guests you care.

By using these decorating ideas, your cookies will not only taste great but also become eye-catching centerpieces at your holiday gatherings. With a little creativity, you can make your Christmas sugar cookies impressively festive and delicious!

Storage tips for christmas sugar cookies recipe:

To ensure your festive Christmas sugar cookies remain delicious and fresh, proper storage is key. First, allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container; this helps maintain their softness. You can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you want to store them for an extended period, consider freezing them. Just wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature. For an additional treat, try pairing your Christmas sugar cookies with a warm bowl of pumpkin spice smoothie bowl for a delightful festive snack!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What ingredients do I need for a classic Christmas sugar cookies recipe?

To create delightful Christmas sugar cookies, you’ll need essential ingredients like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, and vanilla extract. A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness, while optional items such as festive sprinkles or icing can elevate the cookies’ appearance and flavor. These simple ingredients come together to create a soft and chewy texture that perfectly captures the holiday spirit.

Can I make Christmas sugar cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! Christmas sugar cookies can be made ahead and stored. To do this, prepare the dough, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to one week. You can also freeze the dough for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough and roll it out. This makes it much easier to manage your holiday baking schedule.

How can I decorate my sugar cookies for Christmas?

Decorating your Christmas sugar cookies can be a fun activity for the whole family. Royal icing works wonders for intricate designs, while simple icing can add a touch of sweetness. Consider using colored sprinkles, edible glitter, or even shredded coconut for a snowy effect. If you’re interested in more festive flavors, consider incorporating some of our delicious recipes like Pumpkin Pie for a unique twist.

Can I use different flours in my Christmas sugar cookies recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with various flours! While all-purpose flour is traditional, you might try almond flour or gluten-free flour blends if you have dietary restrictions. Just mix the flour with a binding agent to ensure the cookies hold together nicely.

How should I store my Christmas sugar cookies once baked?

Once baked, store your Christmas sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain freshness, consider placing parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking. If you have decorated cookies, ensure they are completely dry before stacking.

What are some tips for achieving the perfect sugar cookie texture?

Achieving that ideal texture in your sugar cookies involves a few key tips. First, be precise with your measurements and avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies. Cooling the dough before baking can also help your cookies keep their shape. Lastly, underbaking them slightly will yield a softer, melt-in-your-mouth treat that embodies the joyous spirit of the holiday season.

Print