Christmas Cookies Recipe
Christmas Cookies are a classic festive treat that fills your home with warmth and delight during the holiday season. With their charming shapes and vibrant icing, these cookies are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. Baking these cookies is a step-by-step journey into holiday cheer, perfect for families looking to spend quality time together in the kitchen. The joy of creating, decorating, and ultimately indulging in these treats makes this recipe a must-try for the holidays!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Christmas Cookies recipe is loaded with benefits that make it a standout choice for your holiday baking. First, the prep is easy, allowing even novice bakers to shine! Plus, the straightforward steps make it a family-friendly project everyone can enjoy. Most importantly, this recipe uses minimal ingredients, which means less stress in your baking process and more time to create precious memories with loved ones. Whether traditional or quick, these cookies deliver on taste and fun!
Ingredients for Christmas Cookies
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – A staple that brings structure and lightness.
- 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the cookies rise to perfect fluffy heights.
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt – Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature – Adds richness and a tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough, making it irresistible.
- 1 large egg, room temperature – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Infuses the cookies with a warm, comforting aroma.
- 1 Tbsp heavy cream or whole milk – Contributes a hint of creaminess.
- 2 cups powdered sugar, for royal icing, sifted – Creates the perfect blank canvas for decoration.
- 1 egg white or 2 Tbsp meringue powder + 2–3 Tbsp water – Key for achieving glossy icing.
- Food coloring gels (red, green, blue, optional) – Brings your cookies to life with festive hues.
- Sanding sugar or sprinkles, for decorating – Adds that delightful crunch and sparkle.
Step-by-Step Directions for Christmas Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure an even bake.
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and sea salt, making sure there are no lumps.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy, almost like clouds in your bowl.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and heavy cream; mix until the dough is smooth and completely blended.
- Gradually add the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
- Chill the dough wrapped in plastic wrap for 20-30 minutes; this makes it easier to handle.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut shapes using cookie cutters for that festive flair.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are just set—keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking!
- Cool the cookies on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes before decorating.
- For the icing, whisk powdered sugar with the egg white until glossy and smooth.
- Decorate cookies with royal icing and additional decorations while they are still wet to achieve a beautiful finish.
For Christmas Cookies
These detailed steps ensure your Christmas cookies come out perfectly every time. The crinkly edges and soft center make for an inviting treat that everyone will love. Follow each step carefully, and you’ll create cookies that not only taste divine but bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces.
Tips & Tricks
- Chill the dough: This helps the cookies retain their shape while baking, preventing them from spreading too much.
- Use a variety of cookie cutters: Traditional shapes like stars, trees, and ornaments can make your cookie platter festive and exciting.
- Color your icing: Divide the royal icing into bowls and add food coloring for a vibrant holiday look.
- Experiment with flavors: A touch of almond extract can elevate the flavor profile and provide a delightful twist.
- Timing: Keep a close eye on your cookies in the last few minutes of baking, as ovens can vary.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
To present your Christmas cookies beautifully, arrange them on a festive platter or in a decorative box. Pair them with a steaming mug of hot cocoa, spiced tea, or even a glass of milk for a classic combination. They make a perfect gift to share with friends, neighbors, or family, allowing everyone to enjoy the spirit of the holiday season.
Nutritional Information
While enjoying Christmas cookies is a delightful indulgence, it’s important to be mindful of portions. Each cookie can roughly contain about 120 calories, but this can vary based on decorations and sizes. This recipe is about creating joy, so savor these treats in moderation, making them a true holiday delight.
Storing Tips & Variations for Christmas Cookies
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like to enjoy them later, consider freezing the undecorated cookies in freezer bags for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and decorate! For healthier swaps, consider using whole wheat flour or coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index. Adding ingredients like nuts or dried fruits can also create unique variations.
Conclusion for Christmas Cookies
Don’t wait any longer—try this delightful Christmas Cookies recipe today! The process of baking these cookies is a joyful experience, and the resulting treats will fill your home with festive cheer. Gather your loved ones, roll out the dough, and let the holiday magic unfold!
FAQs
-
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough a few days in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. -
How do I get my royal icing to the right consistency?
For a piping consistency, aim for a thick paste, and for flooding, thin it slightly with water until it flows smoothly. -
What if I don’t have meringue powder?
You can substitute it with egg whites, but ensure that you pasteurize them if you’re concerned about food safety. -
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! A gluten-free all-purpose blend can be used for a gluten-free version of these cookies. -
What decorations work best for Christmas Cookies?
Sanding sugar, edible glitter, and festive sprinkles work wonderfully! Get creative with your toppings!
Christmas Cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour A staple that brings structure and lightness.
- 1 tsp baking powder Helps the cookies rise to perfect fluffy heights.
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature Adds richness and a tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the dough, making it irresistible.
- 1 large egg, room temperature Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Infuses the cookies with a warm, comforting aroma.
- 1 Tbsp heavy cream or whole milk Contributes a hint of creaminess.
Royal Icing Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted Creates the perfect blank canvas for decoration.
- 1 egg white or 2 Tbsp meringue powder + 2–3 Tbsp water Key for achieving glossy icing.
- Food coloring gels (red, green, blue, optional) Brings your cookies to life with festive hues.
- Sanding sugar or sprinkles, for decorating Adds that delightful crunch and sparkle.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure an even bake.
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and sea salt, making sure there are no lumps.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and heavy cream; mix until the dough is smooth and completely blended.
- Gradually add the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
- Chill the dough wrapped in plastic wrap for 20-30 minutes.
Baking
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut shapes using cookie cutters.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are just set.
- Cool the cookies on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes before decorating.
Decorating
- For the icing, whisk powdered sugar with the egg white until glossy and smooth.
- Decorate cookies with royal icing and additional decorations while they are still wet.