Christmas Sugar Cookies

Ah, Christmas Sugar Cookies! They take me right back to my childhood kitchen, where the aroma of vanilla and butter filled the air as my mom and I rolled out dough and cut out festive shapes. I can still hear the joyful laughter and the chatter about which cookie would be decorated as Santa or a snowman. Each year, we’d set aside a whole afternoon to make these delightful treats, and it became a beloved holiday tradition that I now pass on to my own kids.

These Christmas Sugar Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a canvas for creativity and a way to make memories. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply baking with loved ones. With their soft texture and sweet taste, they’re sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces, making them a must-have for the festive season!

Why You’ll Love "Christmas Sugar Cookies"

• Quick to prepare: Ready to bake in just 15 minutes.
• Minimal ingredients: Uses pantry staples, making it easy to whip up.
• Family-friendly: Perfect for baking with kids; everyone can get involved!
• Freezer-friendly: Dough can be frozen, ensuring fresh cookies anytime.
• Versatile decorating: Easy to customize with colored sugars or fun toppings.
• Soft and chewy texture: Perfectly sweet, delightful with a cup of hot cocoa.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 ¼ cups bleached all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 ½ sticks (6 ounces) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest (optional, but adds a lovely brightness)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Colored sugars and silver dragées for decorating the cookies (let your creativity shine! Use whatever colors you love)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Make the Dough

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes, and trust me, it’s worth the wait! You’re looking for a texture that’s almost airy.
3. Next, add in the large egg, pure vanilla extract, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the finely grated lemon zest. Mix well until everything is combined. The lemon zest adds a little zing that I just adore, but feel free to skip it if you want a classic sugar cookie!

Add Flour and Salt

4. Now it’s time to gradually add the bleached all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined. Don’t worry if it looks a bit crumbly at first; it’ll come together beautifully as you mix. If it seems too dry, you can add a teaspoon of milk to help it bind.

Shape the Cookies

5. Once your dough is ready, roll it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on your baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie. Flatten them slightly with the palm of your hand.
6. Now for the fun part! Decorate the tops of your cookies with colored sugars and silver dragées. Let your imagination run wild! You can create festive patterns, or just sprinkle them with abandon — the more, the merrier!

Bake the Cookies

7. Pop those cookies in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Your kitchen is about to smell heavenly, so be prepared for some eager taste testers!
8. Once they’re done, let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before transferring them to a plate. Just try to resist the urge to grab one straight from the baking sheet — I know it’s tough!

Variations

• For a festive twist, add peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a minty flavor.
• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty taste.
• Try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm holiday spice.
• Make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• For a lighter version, use a reduced-fat butter substitute.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

These Christmas Sugar Cookies are delightful served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat. They also make fantastic gifts when packaged in festive tins or boxes!

Storage

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!

Helpful Notes

• If you have a dairy allergy, you can substitute unsalted butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil.
• To enhance the flavor, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla.
• For extra festive flair, consider dipping the cooled cookies in melted chocolate and sprinkling with crushed candy canes.
• Don’t forget to chill the dough for 30 minutes for a thicker cookie, if you prefer!
• Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is a little different, and you want them just golden, not overbaked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Christmas Sugar Cookies?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze these cookies! After baking and cooling them completely, place them in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature.

What can I use as a substitute for butter?

If you need a butter substitute, you can use vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Applesauce can work as a healthier alternative too, but it may change the texture slightly, making the cookies a bit softer.

How can I customize the flavor?

There are so many fun ways to customize your Christmas Sugar Cookies! You can switch out the vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty flavor, or add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm holiday twist. Just be sure to keep the overall liquid ratio in mind when experimenting!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! These Christmas Sugar Cookies are not just treats; they’re little bundles of joy that bring warmth and happiness to your holiday season. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and create your own memories in the kitchen. Whether you’re baking with family, hosting a cookie swap, or simply indulging in a sweet moment with a cup of cocoa, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Remember, the best part of baking is sharing, so gather your loved ones and enjoy every delightful bite together. Happy baking!