Christmas Sugar Cookies That Will Warm Your Heart
Ah, Christmas! The season of joy, family gatherings, and, of course, cookies. My journey with Christmas sugar cookies began as a child, dipping my fingers into the colorful sanding sugar while my mom rolled out the dough. This simple yet delightful recipe has since evolved into a cherished tradition in my household. Each bite of these buttery, sugary delights has a way of transforming any gathering into a celebration. With their festive appearance and sweet flavor, these sugar cookies are perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or simply enjoying with a warm glass of milk by the fireplace.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are countless reasons to adore these Christmas sugar cookies. For starters, they’re incredibly easy to make and perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also offer an interactive baking experience for families and friends. Kids will love rolling the dough and coating them with vibrant sanding sugar—it’s a fun way to get everyone involved in the holiday spirit!
As a delightful addition to your holiday spread, they make for great gifts when arranged in decorative boxes. Plus, the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home is unbeatable!
"These Christmas sugar cookies were a hit at our family gathering! They vanished in no time, and everyone loved their buttery flavor and festive look." — Sarah, a satisfied baker.
Preparing Christmas Sugar Cookie Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the steps to create these delicious cookies. This recipe features a simple yet effective approach that combines crisp edges and soft centers for the ultimate holiday treat. Expect a fun and easy baking process that results in a tray of cookies fit for Santa.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for your Christmas sugar cookies:
- 1 1/2 Cups Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter, softened
- 1 1/2 Cups Sugar
- 2 Large Eggs
- 1 Tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
- 4 1/4 Cups Flour
- 1 1/2 Teaspoons Baking Powder
- 1/2 Teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/4 Teaspoon Cream of Tartar
- 1 Container of Christmas Sanding Sugar
Feel free to substitute the unsalted butter with an equal amount of vegan butter for a dairy-free option, or use maple syrup in place of sugar for a slightly different taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
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In your standing mixer, combine the softened butter and sugar, creaming until smooth and fluffy.
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Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully combined, then incorporate the pure vanilla extract.
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In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cream of tartar until blended.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
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Using a small ice cream scooper, portion out the dough and roll each piece into a ball. Place the balls onto the prepared cookie sheets, spaced 2-3 inches apart.
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Pour the Christmas sanding sugar into a bowl and roll each dough ball in the sugar, ensuring they’re fully coated.
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Lightly press down on each dough ball to form a thick disk.
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Bake in your preheated oven for 11-13 minutes or until they are lightly browned. Keep in mind that the cookies will appear slightly undercooked.
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Allow the cookies to cool completely before enjoying them with a tall glass of milk!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These festive cookies can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. For a fun holiday dessert platter, consider pairing them with other seasonal treats like peppermint bark, gingerbread cookies, or even a rich hot chocolate. You can also serve them on a festive cake stand topped with sprinkles or edible glitter for that extra sparkle!
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your Christmas sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re looking to extend their life, consider freezing them. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Remember to let them cool completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For perfectly soft cookies, make sure not to overbake. Removing them from the oven while they’re still slightly underdone allows them to firm up while cooling.
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and a fluffier cookie dough.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup without sacrificing texture.
Creative Twists
Why not try a few variations of this classic recipe? Incorporate festive spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm spiced flavor. You can also experiment with adding lemon or almond extract for a different taste profile. For added fun, consider mixing in chocolate chips or colored sprinkles in the dough for a festive touch!
Common Questions
How long do Christmas sugar cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last for about a week at room temperature or up to three months when frozen.
Can I substitute the butter with a non-dairy option?
Absolutely! You can replace the unsalted butter with vegan butter or a suitable dairy-free alternative.
What if I don’t have cream of tartar?
Cream of tartar can be substituted with additional baking powder; however, it’s best to keep it in the recipe for the best results.
Enjoy baking these delightful Christmas sugar cookies and share the joy they bring during this magical season!
