There’s something undeniably magical about baking Christmas cookies, especially when it comes to decorating them in festive designs. The joy of cutting out various shapes, icing them with vibrant colors, and incorporating fun sprinkles brings an element of creativity that resonates with both the young and the young at heart. These Christmas cookies are not just treats; they’re edible crafts that become highlights of holiday gatherings. I remember the first time I decorated cookies with family—it turned into a cherished tradition filled with laughter, creativity, and an impromptu contest for the best holiday design!
Reasons to Try This Recipe
Why should you consider making these delightful cookies? For starters, they’re incredibly versatile. The base recipe is simple yet allows for endless creativity with flavors and designs. It’s perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or just a cozy evening at home. Plus, involving the kids in the decorating adds a fun bonding experience and creates unforgettable memories. These cookies also make wonderful gifts—presenting a box of beautifully decorated treats can be a heartfelt way to spread joy during the holiday season.
“These cookies were a hit at our holiday party! Everyone loved decorating them together, and they tasted just as good as they looked!”
Cooking Process Explained
Making these Christmas cookies is as enjoyable as it is straightforward. First, you’ll gather your ingredients, then mix together your dry and wet components, followed by rolling and shaping the dough. You can expect to be whisked away on a merry adventure as you watch your artful confections come to life, bringing festive cheer that fills your kitchen.
What You’ll Need
To create these delightful treats, here’s what you should gather:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- Decorative icing and sprinkles (to bring your creations to life)
Feel free to substitute ingredients as needed; for instance, you can use coconut sugar for a richer flavor or gluten-free flour for a healthier option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter with white sugar, brown sugar, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them on ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten each ball gently with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they turn a golden color.
- Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack, then unleash your inner artist by decorating them with icing and sprinkles!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These festive cookies can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them on a beautiful platter alongside cups of hot cocoa or spiced cider for a perfect holiday treat. For additional flair, consider pairing them with ice cream or stuffing them between layers of cake for a cookie-and-cake hybrid delight.
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you wish to enjoy them later, they freeze wonderfully! Just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last for up to three months.
Additionally, remember to always follow safe food handling practices, especially if you’re gifting these treats or sharing with loved ones.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Soften your butter: Let your butter sit at room temperature before using it for a smoother dough.
- Don’t overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined to prevent tough cookies.
- Decorating Tips: Work with thicker icing for detailing and thinner icing for flooding the cookies.
Creative Twists
There are plenty of fun ways to customize these cookies! Experiment with adding different flavors, like almond extract or peppermint, to the batter. For a fun holiday twist, incorporate seasonal spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. You can also try swapping out standard sprinkles for edible glitter or candy canes for a festive flair!
Common Questions
How long do these cookies take to prepare?
From start to finish, you can whip these up in about 1 hour!
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Place them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Can I freeze decorated cookies?
I recommend freezing the cookies before decorating to prevent the icing from getting damaged. Once fully decorated, store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Baking and decorating Christmas cookies is more than just a culinary task; it’s a way to create joy, create memories, and encapsulate the festive spirit in sweet, delightful bites. Enjoy the process, indulge in the flavors, and let your creativity shine through each cookie you craft!
Print
Christmas Cookies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 36 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful Christmas cookies that are perfect for decorating with icing and sprinkles, creating festive designs for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- Decorative icing and sprinkles (to bring your creations to life)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter with white sugar, brown sugar, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them on ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten each ball gently with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they turn a golden color.
- Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack, then unleash your inner artist by decorating them with icing and sprinkles!
Notes
To keep cookies fresh, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Freeze well for up to three months if well-wrapped.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American