Christmas cookies decorated, Christmas sugar cookies, Christmas

why make this recipe

These Christmas cookies are a favorite during the holiday season. They are not only tasty but also fun to decorate with family and friends. Making Christmas sugar cookies allows everyone to join in on the fun, creating colorful treats that look beautiful on any dessert table.

how to make Christmas Sugar Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 to 4 tablespoons milk
• Festive colored sprinkles or icing for decorating

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring to combine.
6. If the dough is too stiff, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it is workable.
7. Roll the dough into balls and flatten them slightly on a baking sheet.
8. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
9. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack.
10. Once cooled, decorate with sprinkles or icing as desired.

how to serve Christmas Sugar Cookies

Serve these cookies on a festive plate or in a decorated tin. They are perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or as gifts to friends and neighbors. Kids love to help with the decorating, making these cookies a hit with everyone.

how to store Christmas Sugar Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last up to three months.

tips to make Christmas Sugar Cookies

• Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it feels too sticky.
• Don’t overbake; keep an eye on the cookies as they bake to ensure they stay soft.
• Use cookie cutters for fun shapes, and remember to sprinkle some flour on your counter to prevent sticking.

variation

You can twist this recipe by adding different flavors to the dough. For example, try almond extract instead of vanilla for a different taste. You can also mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.

FAQs

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. The cookies may be slightly denser.

Q: How long can I decorate the cookies after baking?
A: You can decorate the cookies right after they are completely cooled and before storing them. If adding icing, allow it to dry completely before stacking them.

Q: What can I do if my dough is too dry?
A: If the dough feels too dry, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

Christmas Cookies

These festive Christmas sugar cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations. Easy to bake and fun to decorate, they'll bring joy to any gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs

Servings: 36 cookies

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cookie Dough

• 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
• 1.5 cups Granulated sugar
• 1 Large egg
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 3 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.5 tsp Baking powder
• 0.25 tsp Salt

Royal Icing

• 4 cups Powdered sugar
• 3 tbsp Meringue powder
• 6-8 tbsp Warm water approx.
• 0.5 tsp Vanilla extract
• Food coloring as desired

Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Baking sheets
• Wire cooling racks
• Piping bags and tips

Method

 

Cookies

1. Cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, then beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
3. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness, and cut into desired Christmas shapes.
5. Place cookies on baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Royal Icing

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and meringue powder.
2. Gradually add warm water and vanilla extract, beating on low speed until combined, then increase speed to high and beat for 5-7 minutes until stiff peaks form.
3. Adjust icing consistency by adding more water for a thinner flood consistency or more powdered sugar for a thicker outlining consistency.
4. Divide the prepared royal icing into separate bowls and tint with food coloring as desired.

Decorating

1. Using a piping bag with a small round tip, outline each cooled cookie with a thicker icing, then immediately flood the inside with a thinner icing.
2. Allow the flood icing to dry completely (several hours or overnight) before adding any intricate details or additional layers of decoration.

Notes

For best results, ensure your butter is truly softened for the dough, and chill the dough thoroughly to prevent spreading. When decorating, practice your piping on parchment paper first.