The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through my kitchen, a sure sign that the holiday season is upon us. As I roll and frost each delightful shape, I'm reminded why Christmas Sugar Cookies have become a cherished family tradition for many. This beloved recipe not only brings joy to any festive gathering but is also perfect for those cozy afternoons spent creating memories with loved ones. With easy prep and a sprinkle of colorful sugar, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. They’re not just tasty treats; they also bring that nostalgic warmth that elevates any gathering. Ready to dive into your own cookie adventure? Let’s get baking!
What makes these cookies irresistible?
Simplicity: With just a few staple ingredients, these Christmas Sugar Cookies are a breeze to whip up, making them perfect for bakers of all levels.
Festive Appeal: Adorn them with colorful sprinkles or sugar, and watch as they transform into festive delights that brighten any holiday platter.
Nostalgic: The blend of vanilla and almond extracts brings a warm, familiar flavor that evokes memories of childhood baking days.
Quick to Make: In only 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a batch of cookies that are ready to share, making this a time-saving choice for busy holidays.
Versatile: Customize the shapes and decorations to fit any celebration or whim, ensuring that every batch is unique.
Crowd-Pleaser: Their delightful sweetness and festive look make these cookies a surefire hit whether at family gatherings or holiday parties. Want more deliciousness? Check out my easy cookie decorating tips to elevate your baking game!
Christmas Sugar Cookies Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create these delightful Christmas Sugar Cookies!
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – 2 ¾ cups; the base for a perfect cookie texture.
- Baking soda – 1 teaspoon; helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- Baking powder – ½ teaspoon; adds extra lift for a lighter bite.
- Unsalted butter – 1 cup, softened; gives richness and enhances flavor.
- White sugar – 1 ½ cups; sweetens the cookies to perfection.
- Egg – 1 large; binds the ingredients together for a cohesive dough.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon; adds warmth and sweetness to every bite.
- Almond extract – ½ teaspoon; infuses a lovely, nutty flavor that complements the vanilla.
- Milk – 3 to 4 tablespoons; softens the dough if it feels too crumbly.
- Salt – ½ teaspoon; balances the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.
For Decorating
- Colored sugar or sprinkles – as desired; elevates the festive look of your Christmas Sugar Cookies.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This step is crucial to ensure your Christmas Sugar Cookies bake evenly and achieve that delightful golden edge. As the oven heats, prepare your baking sheets by leaving them ungreased for the perfect cookie texture.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This mixture creates the base for your cookies while ensuring they rise perfectly during baking. Once combined, set this flour mixture aside for the next steps.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, turning light in color. This step is essential for achieving rich, sweet Christmas Sugar Cookies.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, incorporate 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract into the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Beat again until everything is well combined and you have a homogenous mixture. The addition of these flavors will elevate your cookies to delightful heights.
Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually blend the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, ensuring you don’t overwork the dough. If you find that the dough is too crumbly at this point, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture holds together nicely, giving you the ideal texture for your Christmas Sugar Cookies.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a teaspoon, scoop rounded portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for spreading while baking, ensuring your Christmas Sugar Cookies maintain their lovely shape.
Step 7: Flatten and Decorate
Gently flatten each dough ball with the bottom of a glass or your hands to create a uniform shape. Sprinkle the tops generously with colored sugar or sprinkles of your choice for a festive touch. This decoration will not only add color but also an extra layer of sweetness to your sugary delights.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Slide your baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes. Watch closely for edges that turn lightly golden, indicating that your cookies are perfectly baked. Avoid overbaking to keep those delightful, soft centers that make these Christmas Sugar Cookies so irresistible.
Step 9: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the cookie sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling step helps the cookies firm up while preventing them from becoming soggy, keeping your Christmas Sugar Cookies just right for serving.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sugar Cookies
Room Temperature: Store freshly baked Christmas Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and delicious.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can also refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Make sure to place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Christmas Sugar Cookies, thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a couple of hours. If you'd like them warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for just a few minutes.
Expert Tips for Christmas Sugar Cookies
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Proper Measuring: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour will dry them out, ruining the desired texture.
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Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is softened, not melted. This helps in creaming it with sugar for that fluffy and light cookie base crucial for Christmas Sugar Cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: Stir the dough just until the flour is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Remember, a light hand makes for tender treats!
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Chill for Control: If your dough feels too warm or sticky, chill it in the fridge for 15-30 minutes. This step helps maintain the cookie shape while baking.
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Watch the Time: Keep a close eye on baking time—8 to 10 minutes is ideal. Remove the cookies when the edges are golden but the centers remain soft for the perfect bite.
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Decorate After Cooling: Allow cookies to cool completely before decorating to prevent the icing or sprinkles from melting. It keeps those festive colors vibrant on your Christmas Sugar Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance for stress-free baking. Simply follow the steps until shaping the dough into balls, then place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate the dough, and when you're ready to bake, just preheat your oven and sprinkle the dough balls with colored sugar before flattening and baking. This method helps maintain the cookies' delightful texture and flavor while saving you precious time on busy holiday evenings. For best results, always ensure the dough is well wrapped to prevent drying out. Enjoy delicious, freshly baked cookies with minimal effort!
Christmas Sugar Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and tailor these cookies to your taste with delightful twists and substitutions!
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-friendly version. Watch everyone enjoy the same great taste!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute vegan butter or coconut oil for a creamy texture without the dairy. These cookies will still be a hit at your next gathering!
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Flavorful Boost: Add 1-2 teaspoons of lemon zest or peppermint extract. The bright flavors will take your cookies to a whole new level of deliciousness.
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Nutty Delight: Stir in 1 cup of finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for added crunch and a toasty flavor. It’s a lovely surprise in every bite.
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Chocolate Lover's Dream: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips or chunks for an indulgent treat. Chocolate and buttercream come together in perfect harmony!
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Spice It Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger for a warm, cozy flavor boost. The spices will add a seasonal flair to these classic cookies.
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Stay Soft: For an extra soft cookie, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This prevents spreading and gives them a chewy center.
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Decorate with Flair: Instead of colored sugar, ice your cookies with royal icing or glaze for a beautiful finish. Get creative with designs for festive fun!
These variations can make your cookie baking adventure even more exciting! And if you’d like more decorating tips to really elevate your cookies, check out my easy cookie decorating guide. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Christmas Sugar Cookies
Delightful accompaniments can elevate your cookie experience, making moments shared with family even sweeter.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of this creamy drink perfectly complements the sweetness of your Christmas Sugar Cookies, creating a cozy holiday vibe.
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Milk: Classic and simple, a glass of cold milk balances the sugary treat, invoking childhood memories and making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries and mandarin oranges add a refreshing zest, contrasting beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies. Their vibrant colors also enhance your festive display.
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Sugar Cookie Bars: For a cookie lover's delight, pair with these decadent bars. The flavors are similar, but the texture creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.
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Gingerbread Men: These spicy, sweet cookies enhance your holiday spread, and their contrasting flavors and festive shapes make for an inviting treat table.
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Eggnog: A classic holiday beverage, this creamy drink adds a delightful spiced richness that pairs beautifully with the cookies, offering a taste of tradition.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful sundae. As the cookies warm the ice cream, you're in for a delightful, decadent treat.
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Cup of Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai or peppermint tea provides a calming balance to the sweetness, deepening the holiday experience as you share bites and warmth with loved ones.
Christmas Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the perfect ingredients for Christmas Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! The key to great cookies starts with selecting high-quality ingredients. Choose all-purpose flour that’s fresh for the best texture. For butter, make sure it’s unsalted for better control of the sweetness. When it comes to sugar, opt for granulated white sugar to achieve that delightful sweetness. Check the eggs for freshness by placing them in water; if they sink, they’re good! Fresh vanilla and almond extracts also enhance the flavor, so buy pure extracts instead of imitation ones whenever possible.
How should I store my Christmas Sugar Cookies?
Very! To keep your Christmas Sugar Cookies soft and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, ensuring to use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keeping the cookies in a cool place will help them maintain their lovely texture.
Can I freeze Christmas Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! Freezing is a fantastic way to preserve your Christmas Sugar Cookies for those holiday moments when you’re in a pinch. To freeze, wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the fridge or on your countertop for a couple of hours. For a warm treat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes before serving.
What common issues should I watch for while baking?
It’s always good to be cautious! If your cookies turn out too flat, it could mean your butter was too soft or melted. For thicker cookies, make sure to chill the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking. If they spread too much, check if you’re using the correct measurements, especially with flour. Adding too little can result in flat cookies. And lastly, avoid overbaking; a light golden edge denotes a perfect cookie while overbaked ones will be dry.
Are Christmas Sugar Cookies safe for people with allergies?
Very! However, keep in mind that these cookies contain common allergens like gluten, dairy, and eggs. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, consider using gluten-free all-purpose flour and plant-based butter. You can also replace the egg with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) to create an egg substitute. Always double-check your ingredients to ensure they're safe for those you're serving!
Irresistible Christmas Sugar Cookies You’ll Love to Make
Equipment
- Oven
- baking sheets
- mixing bowls
- Electric Mixer
- whisk
- Teaspoon
- glass
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2.75 cups All-purpose flour the base for a perfect cookie texture
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda helps the cookies rise and become fluffy
- 0.5 teaspoon Baking powder adds extra lift for a lighter bite
- 1 cup Unsalted butter softened, gives richness and enhances flavor
- 1.5 cups White sugar sweetens the cookies to perfection
- 1 large Egg binds the ingredients together for a cohesive dough
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract adds warmth and sweetness to every bite
- 0.5 teaspoon Almond extract infuses a lovely, nutty flavor that complements the vanilla
- 3-4 tablespoons Milk softens the dough if it feels too crumbly
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt balances the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor
For Decorating
- Colored sugar or sprinkles as desired, elevates the festive look of your Christmas Sugar Cookies
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Christmas Sugar Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and prepare your baking sheets by leaving them ungreased.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, then set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the creamed mixture and beat until well combined.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, adding milk as needed for the right texture.
- Scoop rounded portions of dough and roll them into balls, placing them on the baking sheets spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Gently flatten each dough ball and sprinkle with colored sugar or sprinkles.
- Bake for about 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden, then cool on wire racks.
- Once cooled, transfer cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
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