Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies

by

Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies

Introduction:

Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies are a holiday favorite, featuring a soft and buttery texture, perfect for cutting into festive shapes and decorating with colorful sprinkles, frosting, or sugar. These cookies are simple to make, versatile, and loved by both kids and adults. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday party, gift-giving, or just to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa, these cookies bring holiday cheer to any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp almond extract (optional)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
  3. Cream the butter and sugar:
    • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add egg and extracts:
    • Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until combined.
  5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients:
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
  6. Roll the cookies:
    • Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the ½ cup of granulated sugar to coat it evenly.
  7. Shape and bake:
    • Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each cookie slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
  8. Bake the cookies:
    • Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake to keep them soft and chewy.
  9. Cool and decorate:
    • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, decorate with icing, sprinkles, or colored sugar if desired.

Description:

Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet, with a light crunch from the sugar coating. These cookies are the ideal canvas for fun, festive decorations, making them a must-bake during the holiday season. Simple and satisfying, they capture the essence of Christmas in every bite.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):

  • Calories: 120
  • Protein: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 9g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
    Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days before rolling and baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months.
  2. Can I use a different extract?
    Yes, you can experiment with other extracts, such as lemon or orange, for a unique flavor.
  3. Can I freeze these cookies after baking?
    Yes, once the cookies are cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Recommendations:

  • For Decorating: Try using royal icing, colored sprinkles, or edible glitter to add extra holiday flair to your sugar cookies.
  • Pairing Suggestions: Serve these cookies alongside hot chocolate, eggnog, or a cold glass of milk.
  • For a Crispier Texture: If you prefer a crispier cookie, roll the dough thinner and bake for an extra minute or two.

Conclusion:

Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies are a holiday tradition that never gets old. With their simple yet delicious flavor and endless decoration possibilities, they’re the perfect treat to share with loved ones during the festive season. Bake a batch, and let the holiday spirit shine through each cookie!

Leave a Comment