Every time I make these Christmas Sugar Cookies, it's like unlocking a treasure chest of warm memories. The scent of sugar and vanilla fills my kitchen, blending seamlessly with the crisp winter air. I can see my grandchildren’s faces light up as they dive into the plate of colorful cookies, their laughter echoing in my home. These cookies remind me of the special times we all come together during the holiday season—baking, decorating, and sharing stories by the fire. They truly make my heart sing! When I think about spending cozy evenings in the kitchen, crafting something delightful to share with family and friends, these sugary delights are always at the top of my list. I can’t wait for you to experience this joy too!
How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: This is the backbone of our cookies, giving them that lovely chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and gives them a nice fluffy quality.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Works with the baking soda to create a soft, tender cookie.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This adds richness and flavor. I always opt for unsalted to control the salt content.
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar: Who can resist the sweetness? This ingredient is what makes our cookies pleasantly sugary and holds them together.
- 1 egg: A binding hero that helps maintain the structure of our cookies while keeping them moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds that warm, comforting essence we all adore in baked goods.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: A dash of this gives the cookies a lovely depth of flavor. You could skip it, but I wouldn’t recommend it!
- 3/4 cup red and green sprinkles: Because what’s Christmas without some festive colors? They add a fun crunch and cheer.
Cooking Steps
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First, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Trust me, this is key for those perfectly baked cookies!
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In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. I like to whisk them together for a good mix; it really helps with even baking.
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is essential for bringing in that rich, buttery flavor. You can use a hand mixer or simply your trusty wooden spoon—it’s all about what you feel comfortable with!
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Next, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Make sure everything is well combined; this is what makes your cookies deliciously moist and flavorful.
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Gradually blend the dry ingredients from the first step into the wet mixture. I like to do this slowly, a little at a time, to prevent flour dust clouds in my kitchen!
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Now, it’s time to roll these into dough balls. Take rounded teaspoonfuls of dough and roll them in your hands to make nice little balls. If they feel sticky, you can chill the dough for a bit in the fridge for easier handling.
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Roll each ball in the festive sprinkles. This is where the fun begins! Coat them generously; we want our cookies to be as merry and bright as the holiday season.
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Place the dough balls on ungreased cookie sheets, leaving about 2 inches between them. They’ll spread out a bit while baking, so give them some room to breathe!
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Bake in your preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they’re ready when the edges start to turn a lovely golden color, while the centers will seem a bit soft. That’s exactly how we want them!
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Allow your cookies to cool on the sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up a bit so they don’t crumble when you try to move them.
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And there you have it—a batch of warm, festive Christmas Sugar Cookies that are perfect for sharing!
Why I Love Making This Dish:
These cookies hold a special place in my heart. Not only do they bring back beautiful memories of Christmases past, but they also help create new ones with my family. I love an excuse to gather everyone around, sharing stories and laughter as the warm, sweet aroma fills the kitchen. Every bite is like a taste of nostalgia, and I know you’ll cherish them just as much!
What You’ll Need:
When you embark on this cookie-making adventure, make sure you have:
- A mixing bowl (or two) for combining ingredients.
- A whisk or mixer to cream that butter and sugar together.
- Measuring cups and spoons to get everything just right.
- Cookie sheets to bake those delightful treats.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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As mentioned before, preheat that oven—this is the first and most important step!
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Combine flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Keep an eye out for any lumps; we want a smooth, homogenous mix for the best texture.
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Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. If you have a little extra time, let the butter sit out for an hour to soften, which makes this step even easier.
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Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extracts. The more robust flavors, the merrier!
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Fold in the dry ingredients, ensuring you don’t overmix. You want soft, tender cookies, not tough ones!
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Roll the dough balls in sprinkles—be generous; these will be the highlight of your cookies.
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Arrange them on cookie sheets with enough space to expand.
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Bake until done, keeping an eye on those lovely edges turning golden.
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Transfer to a wire rack and let cool, allowing the flavors to settle beautifully!
Tips for Perfect Results:
To achieve the ultimate Christmas Sugar Cookies, here are a couple of personal tricks:
- If you prefer softer cookies, take them out of the oven a minute or two early. They’ll continue to cook on the sheet and then be perfectly gooey.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding different flavor extracts or even zest from an orange or lemon for a zingy twist!
Serving Suggestions and Sides:
When it comes to serving these cookies, the options are endless! They’re perfect alone, but if you want to bring them to the next level, pair them with a warm glass of milk, or for the adults, a splash of spiked eggnog. They also make a lovely gift when packaged nicely in a festive tin. Don’t forget to share some with your friends and neighbors; good cookies are meant to be enjoyed together!
Leftovers:
If you happen to have any leftover cookies (though I doubt it), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for several days. If you want them to last longer, try freezing them! Just make sure they are completely cooled before wrapping them well in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for a few months, though I can’t promise they’ll last that long!
FAQ Section:
Can I use margarine instead of butter? You can, but it will change the flavor. I’ve always found that butter gives the best-rich taste for these cookies. Trust me; butter truly is the secret ingredient for delicious cookies!
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day or two in advance. Just chill it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. It can even be frozen—just thaw it in the fridge the night before baking.
How can I make these cookies more festive? Sprinkles are a great start! You can also use icing to add a nice, sweet glaze. Or, consider adding crushed peppermint or chocolate chips into the dough for a delicious twist on the classic recipe!
Conclusion:
These Christmas Sugar Cookies have become a cherished tradition in my home, and I’m so excited for you to experience the same joy. Baking these cookies isn’t just about the final product; it’s about the warmth and love that goes into every step. You will enjoy their delightful taste and enticing aroma as much as I do. So grab your apron, gather your loved ones, and let’s create some wonderful holiday magic together! I can’t wait to hear how your baking adventure goes—let me know if your family is as enchanted by them as mine is! Happy baking!