Christmas Cookie Recipe
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Celebrate the holiday season with these delightful Christmas cookies that are perfect for sharing and creating lasting memories. These festive treats are not only easy to make but also customizable with your favorite icing and toppings. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or holiday party, these cookies will spread joy and sweetness. Enjoy the warmth of the season with every bite!
These cookies are a cherished part of our family's holiday traditions, bringing everyone together for fun and laughter.
A Festive Tradition
Baking Christmas cookies is more than just a holiday activity; it’s a cherished tradition in many households. The smell of cookies wafting through the house evokes memories of family gatherings and the joy of the season. With each batch, you’re not just making treats; you're creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that brings loved ones together. Consider it a wonderful way to reconnect with family and friends during this special time of year.
These cookies are perfect for cookie exchanges and festive get-togethers. Imagine the delight on the faces of your friends and family as they taste your delicious creations. Plus, with this recipe being so customizable, you can tailor your cookies to suit every palate, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a sweet treat that reflects their taste.
Customizable Designs
One of the most exciting aspects of making these Christmas cookies is the opportunity for creativity. You can decorate them with colorful icing, sprinkles, or even edible glitter to make each cookie unique. This not only allows for personalization but also ensures that your cookies stand out at any holiday event. You can also try using different cookie cutters to create various festive shapes, adding to the fun of the baking experience.
Let your imagination run wild! Consider themes for your decorations—traditional red and green for Christmas, or perhaps a winter wonderland theme with blues and whites. This creativity can also be a wonderful activity for children, allowing them to express themselves and take pride in their cookie creations.
The Perfect Blend of Flavor
These Christmas cookies strike the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. The combination of butter, sugar, and vanilla creates a rich base, while the addition of sprinkles adds a playful texture and aesthetic appeal. The recipe is designed to yield cookies that are soft and chewy in the center while slightly crisp on the edges, making each bite a delightful experience.
Feel free to enhance the flavor profile further by experimenting with different extracts like almond or peppermint. You can also incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy holiday taste. These small modifications can take your cookies from good to spectacular, impressing your guests and elevating your holiday dessert table.
Ingredients
Basic Cookie 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 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups sprinkles or decorations
Feel free to customize with your favorite flavors and toppings!
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients
In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until smooth. Beat in the egg, then stir in the vanilla.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Shape Cookies
Roll the dough into balls and place on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten slightly and sprinkle with decorations.
Bake
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Enjoy your delicious Christmas cookies!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Christmas cookies turn out perfectly, always measure your ingredients accurately. Using the spoon-and-level method for flour, for example, prevents the cookies from becoming too dense or dry. Let your butter sit at room temperature before creaming it with sugar; this creates a light, fluffy mixture essential for texture.
Additionally, avoid overmixing the dough once you combine wet and dry ingredients. A gentle mix until just combined ensures your cookies remain tender and chewy. And don't forget to chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking—it helps prevent spreading and results in beautifully shaped cookies.
Storing Your Cookies
Once your cookies are baked and cooled, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature, separated by layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can typically stay fresh for up to a week, allowing you to savor them throughout the holiday season.
If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will remain good for up to three months, making it easy to have delicious treats on hand for unexpected guests or quick holiday snacking.
Sharing the Joy
What better way to spread holiday cheer than by sharing your homemade Christmas cookies? Consider packaging them in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful gifts for neighbors, teachers, or coworkers. A small note expressing your holiday wishes can turn a simple treat into a heartfelt gesture.
You might also want to participate in community events like cookie swaps or charity bake sales. Not only do these activities allow you to share your delicious creations, but they also help build community and goodwill during this special season. Remember, cookies are best enjoyed when shared!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.
→ What other decorations can I use?
You can use colored icing, chocolate chips, nuts, or any other festive sprinkles.
Christmas Cookie Recipe
Celebrate the holiday season with these delightful Christmas cookies that are perfect for sharing and creating lasting memories. These festive treats are not only easy to make but also customizable with your favorite icing and toppings. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or holiday party, these cookies will spread joy and sweetness. Enjoy the warmth of the season with every bite!
Created by: Lila Morgan
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Basic Cookie 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 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups sprinkles or decorations
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until smooth. Beat in the egg, then stir in the vanilla.
Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Roll the dough into balls and place on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten slightly and sprinkle with decorations.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 75mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 1g