Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies
There’s nothing quite like the sweet aroma of freshly baked sugar cookies wafting through the house during the holiday season. These Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies are fluffy, buttery, and melt in your mouth, making them the perfect festive treat. Having baked hundreds of cookies over the years, I can confidently say that this recipe stands out as a staple in my holiday repertoire.
Why Make This Recipe
- Irresistible Taste: These cookies are sweet and buttery, with a texture that’s soft and pillowy.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like flour, sugar, and butter, you’ll find it easy to whip them up anytime.
- Customizable: Decorate with frosting, sprinkles, or even festive sugar to suit any occasion.
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are ideal for holiday cookie exchanges or gifting to friends and family.
- Fond Memories: This recipe has been passed down in my family, bringing nostalgia and warmth with each batch we bake.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-27 minutes
- Servings: About 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cooking Method: Baking
These sugar cookies are baked to perfection in your home oven, providing an inviting and warm factor that you can’t replicate store-bought.
My Experience Making This Recipe
During my first attempt, I double-checked the baking powder measurement and realized just how crucial the freshness of your ingredients is for the most impressive results. I learned that letting the dough chill before baking not only makes handling easier but also helps develop flavors.
How to Make Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies
To make these delightful cookies, start by creaming together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This technique is critical as it incorporates air, giving your cookies that soft texture. Combine the dry ingredients, mix them into the wet ingredients, and chill the dough for at least an hour. Once ready, simply drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake until the edges are lightly golden. The result will be perfectly soft cookies with a slightly chewy bite.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise.
- Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough for at least an hour to enhance flavors and prevent spreading.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies from the oven when the edges start to turn golden; the centers will continue to cook from the residual heat.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Room Temperature Eggs and Butter: Allow your eggs and butter to come to room temperature for better emulsification and a smoother dough.
How to Serve Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies
These cookies are perfect on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them alongside a glass of milk or a warm cup of cocoa. For a festive touch, decorate them with colorful icing, edible glitter, or sweet sprinkles. They make a charming centerpiece in any holiday gathering or cookie platter.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Store your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes to regain their softness.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use vegan butter and almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Sugar Variation: Experiment with brown sugar in place of white sugar for a richer flavor.
- Flavor Additions: Add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Highlights
These sugar cookies provide a delightful treat, with key features being a good source of energy and a smaller serving size compared to many desserts. They contain common allergens like gluten and dairy, so keep this in mind when serving.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Cookies Too Flat: Ensure you’ve chilled the dough, as this helps prevent spreading.
- Dough Crumbly: Add a splash of milk to bring the dough together if it’s too dry.
- Cookies Hardening: Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough up to three days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. -
Should I roll the dough into balls?
No need to roll! Simply drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet; they will spread nicely as they bake. -
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Absolutely! They freeze beautifully. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. -
What can I use if I don’t have any sprinkles for decoration?
You can use colored sugar, crushed candy canes, or even decorate them with icing made from powdered sugar and a bit of milk.
Baking these Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies will surely fill your home with joy and sweetness. Happy baking!
Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 27
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies are fluffy, buttery, and melt in your mouth, making them the perfect festive treat.
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Decorative sprinkles or icing (optional)
Instructions
- Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
- Chill the dough for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 12
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg