Perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies
As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, and nothing evokes that festive spirit quite like Perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies. These delightful treats, with their soft texture and ability to hold intricate shapes, make them ideal for decorating and sharing with loved ones. Their versatility allows for various flavors and styles, catering to both traditionalists and those seeking the Easiest Cut Out Cookie Recipe. Whether youre aiming for Cookies That Hold Their Shape or searching for Soft Sugar Cut Out Cookies, this recipe is your go-to guide!
What are Perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies?
Perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies are a beloved holiday dessert that harmoniously blends sweetness with a soft, pillowy texture. Originating in the early 1700s, sugar cookies have evolved significantly over the years, with various adaptations and seasonal variations emerging. During the Christmas season, these cookies have become a staple at gatherings, often serving as a canvas for colorful icing and festive decorations, making them a favorite among both children and adults. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their adaptability, solidifying them as a Traditional Sugar Cookie Recipe for holiday baking.
Ingredients and Directions
Ingredients
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies, providing the perfect amount for sharing or enjoying at home.
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Imagine the buttery goodness from unsalted butter, perfectly complemented by the sweet kiss of granulated sugar, creating a delightful base for these cookies.
Directions
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about inch thick.
- Use cookie cutters to create festive shapes, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool before decorating.
Tip: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes helps prevent Sugar Cookies That Don’t Spread.
Serving Sizes for Every Occasion
| Serving Size | Flour | Butter | Sugar | Egg | Vanilla |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard (x1) | 3 cups | 1 cup | 1 cups | 1 | 1 tsp |
| x2 (48 cookies) | 6 cups | 2 cups | 3 cups | 2 | 2 tsp |
| x4 (96 cookies) | 12 cups | 4 cups | 6 cups | 4 | 4 tsp |
Recipe Variations
Feel free to modify the recipe to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Low-Sugar: Use erythritol or stevia as sugar alternatives.
- Seasonal Twists: Add peppermint extract for a minty holiday flavor.
Consider serving these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or eggnog for a cozy treat.
Serving Tips
Enhance your cookie experience with these serving suggestions:
- Pair cookies with festive beverages like mulled wine or hot cider.
- Arrange cookies on a decorative platter or in holiday-themed jars for a charming presentation.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its ease of preparation, making it ideal for holiday baking with family. The delicious flavor and soft texture of these cookies are sure to create lasting memories. Versatile enough for casual snacking or festive gatherings, they are the perfect addition to your holiday celebrations!
Pro Tips
- Always measure flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling off.
- Chill the dough before rolling out for best results in cuttable cookie shapes.
- Use cookie cutters with intricate designs to create beautiful shapes that hold well during baking.
Customizations
Explore these fun customizations:
- Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour for a low-carb cookie.
- Kid-Friendly Option: Incorporate fun flavors like chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles to entice children.
Key Takeaways:
- Perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies are soft and versatile, ideal for any festive occasion.
- The addition of baking soda ensures they hold their shape without spreading.
- Variations allow for dietary needs while maintaining the classic flavor profile.
FAQs
- Can I freeze sugar cookie dough? Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- What makes cookies hold their shape? The use of baking soda and proper chilling of the dough helps maintain shape during baking.
- How can I decorate sugar cookies? Use royal icing, colored sprinkles, or edible glitter for festive designs.
- What’s the best way to store sugar cookies? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Can I make these cookies in advance? Yes, they can be baked and stored or frozen before decorating.
Try your hand at the Perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies recipe this holiday season! We can’t wait to see how you decorate your cookies, so feel free to share your creations in the comments or on social media!
