Get ready to spread holiday cheer with my Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies! These cookies are soft, sweet, and perfect for any festive occasion. With just the right mix of buttery flavor and delightful decorations, you’ll impress everyone at your holiday gatherings. I’ll show you step-by-step how to create these irresistible treats. Let’s gather our ingredients, roll up our sleeves, and bake some magic this season!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies come out soft and chewy every time, making them a delightful treat during the holiday season.
- Simple Ingredients: With common pantry staples, this recipe is easy to whip up without any special trips to the grocery store.
- Customizable Decor: The addition of colored sugar or holiday sprinkles allows you to personalize each cookie for festive occasions.
- Perfect for Gifting: These cookies not only taste amazing but also look beautiful, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Colored sugar or holiday sprinkles for decoration
To make these soft Christmas sugar cookies, gather your ingredients first. The flour gives the cookies structure, while the baking powder and baking soda help them rise. Salt brings out the sweet flavor.
Using unsalted butter keeps the cookies rich without extra salt. The granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create a soft texture. The egg binds everything together.
Vanilla and almond extracts add a warm, holiday flavor. Cinnamon gives it that cozy, festive taste. Lastly, don’t forget the colored sugar or sprinkles. They make your cookies look extra special!
Measuring carefully is key. Too much flour can make the cookies dry. So, use the spoon-and-level method for flour. This means spooning the flour into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife.
Once you have everything ready, you’ll be on your way to making the best soft Christmas sugar cookies!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
– In a medium bowl, combine:
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cream Butter and Sugar
– In a large bowl, cream together:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– Mix until fluffy. This takes about 3-4 minutes.
– Add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon almond extract. Mix well.
Combine Mixtures
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
– Mix just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
Shape and Bake Cookies
– Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop rounded balls of dough onto the sheets.
– Space them about 2 inches apart.
– Lightly flatten each cookie ball.
– Add colored sugar or holiday sprinkles for decoration.
– Bake for 8-10 minutes. The edges should be set, and the tops lightly golden.
Cool and Serve
– Allow cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes.
– Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To make soft cookies, do not overmix your dough. When mixing the flour into the wet ingredients, stop as soon as you see no dry flour. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
The temperature of your butter matters too. Use softened butter, not melted. Cream the butter and sugar together until they look light and fluffy. This adds air to your dough, making your cookies tender.
Decorating Ideas
Get creative with your decorations! Use colored sugar or holiday sprinkles to make your cookies festive. Gently press the sprinkles onto the dough before baking. This helps them stick better.
You can also make icing for a fun touch. Use simple royal icing or glaze to add color and designs. It’s a great way to personalize each cookie for your friends and family.
Baking Equipment Recommendations
For even baking, use light-colored baking sheets. Dark sheets can cause the edges to brown too quickly. Choose sheets that are sturdy and flat.
Parchment paper is key for easy cleanup. It keeps cookies from sticking and helps them bake evenly. Line your baking sheets with parchment before placing the dough on them. This small step can make a big difference!
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: For even softer cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavor.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature to ensure a smooth and creamy batter, which contributes to the cookies’ soft texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be removed from the oven when the edges are set but the centers are still soft to achieve that perfect chewy texture.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other flavor extracts like peppermint or lemon for a twist, or mix in festive ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the taste of your cookies easily. Try adding different extracts, like peppermint or lemon. These flavors give your cookies a fun twist. A bit of zest from citrus fruits also adds brightness. Just a teaspoon can make a big difference. Experiment with what you like best. Each flavor brings a new joy to your holiday baking.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free cookies, use a gluten-free flour blend. Many blends work well in this recipe. For a vegan option, swap the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter. You can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce. These changes help everyone enjoy these sweet treats.
Holiday Themed Decorations
Get creative with your cookie decorations! Use icing to draw fun shapes or patterns. You can also use colored sugar or holiday sprinkles for a festive touch. Think about using cookie cutters for fun shapes like stars or trees. Arrange your cookies on a pretty plate to impress your guests. Each cookie can be a little holiday gift.
Storage Info
How to Store Cookies
To keep your soft Christmas sugar cookies fresh, store them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them soft and chewy. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid drying out.
Freezing Cookies
You can freeze the dough before baking. First, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the dough balls until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Make sure to label the bag with the date. To bake, take out the dough balls. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as usual. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies anytime!
Shelf Life
When stored right, your cookies can last up to a week at room temperature. You may notice they start to lose their soft texture after a few days. Signs of spoilage include hardening or an off smell. If you see any mold, it’s best to toss them out. Keeping track of your cookies’ condition helps you enjoy them at their best!
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time. You can prepare the dough, wrap it well, and store it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the dough fresh. When you are ready, just scoop and bake. You can also freeze the dough for up to two months. This makes holiday baking easier!
What’s the best way to keep cookies soft?
To keep cookies soft, store them in an airtight container. You can also add a slice of bread to the container. The bread will help keep the cookies soft. If you want, you can freeze them too. Just make sure to seal them well to prevent freezer burn.
How can I make these cookies less sweet?
To make these cookies less sweet, reduce the sugar by ¼ cup. You can also use less granulated sugar. Adding a bit more cinnamon can help balance the flavor. This way, you still get a great taste, but with less sweetness.
Can I use a stand mixer instead of a hand mixer?
Yes, you can use a stand mixer! It will save you time and effort. Just follow the same steps. Use the paddle attachment to cream the butter and sugar. This helps mix the ingredients well without overworking the dough.
What size cookie scoop should I use for uniform cookies?
I recommend using a tablespoon-sized cookie scoop. This size helps you make even cookies that bake evenly. If you want bigger cookies, a two-tablespoon scoop works great too. Just remember to space them well on the baking sheet!
These cookies are simple and fun to make. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for perfect results. Try different flavors and decorations to make them your own. Remember to store and freeze them properly for freshness. With this guide, you’re ready to bake delicious cookies that everyone will enjoy. Happy bakin
