The aroma of freshly baked holiday sugar cookies wafting through the house is enough to make anyone’s heart skip a beat. With their delicate sweetness and soft, buttery texture, these little delights are like a warm hug on a chilly winter day. Picture this: you bite into one, and it crumbles perfectly in your mouth, releasing notes of vanilla and a hint of nostalgia that can only come from memories of baking with loved ones during the festive season.
Now, let’s be real. No holiday gathering feels complete without these sugary gems! Whether it’s a family get-together, cookie exchange parties, or simply indulging yourself while binge-watching holiday films, holiday sugar cookies bring joy and cheer to every occasion. Prepare for an amazing flavor experience that will have your friends wondering how they ever celebrated without your secret recipe!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These holiday sugar cookies are not only easy to prepare but also deliver a melt-in-your-mouth flavor experience.
- The vibrant colors and festive shapes make them visually stunning for any celebration.
- You can customize them with various icing designs or sprinkles to suit any occasion.
- Perfect for gifting or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa!
Ingredients for holiday sugar cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of your cookie dough; make sure to use unbleached flour for a richer flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key; this ingredient ensures your cookies are perfectly sugary without being overly sweet.
- Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy mixing; it adds richness and helps create that soft texture.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla elevates your cookies’ flavor profile to heavenly heights.
- Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and adding moisture—one large egg typically does the trick.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent gives your cookies that perfect rise and fluffy texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the overall taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make holiday sugar cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your holiday sugar cookies bake evenly and achieve that beautiful golden edge we all love.
Step 2: Mix the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process should take about three minutes of vigorous mixing—think of it as your arm workout for the day!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the egg (or two if you’re feeling bold) along with vanilla extract. Beat until well combined. The mixture should look smooth and creamy—like a cozy blanket on a cold night.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Don’t worry if things get messy; that’s just part of the fun!
Step 5: Shape Your Cookies
Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop dough onto ungreased baking sheets about two inches apart. If you want those perfect circles, roll them into balls beforehand—just don’t eat all the raw dough before they hit the oven!
Step 6: Bake
Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on wire racks before frosting or devouring straight away—because trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “holiday cheer.”
Serve these delightful holiday sugar cookies at gatherings or keep them close for late-night snacking sessions while watching cheesy Christmas movies. They’re guaranteed to bring smiles all around!
You Must Know
- These holiday sugar cookies are not just any ordinary treat; they’re a delicious way to spread cheer during the festive season.
- With their soft texture and vibrant decorations, they will bring smiles to every gathering.
- Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making baking fun for everyone.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar together until fluffy. Then, mix in the eggs and vanilla before gradually adding the dry ingredients. Once your dough is ready, chill it for at least an hour to prevent spreading during baking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these holiday sugar cookies! Swap out vanilla extract for almond or add festive spices like nutmeg or cinnamon. You can also throw in chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles for added flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store your holiday sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect holiday sugar cookies, always use room temperature butter for better mixing.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps achieve the right texture.
- Lastly, experiment with various frostings for delightful flavor combinations that surprise your friends and family!
Baking these holiday sugar cookies reminds me of my childhood when my grandma would fill her kitchen with laughter and flour while we decorated our masterpieces together. It was pure joy!
FAQs :
What are holiday sugar cookies?
Holiday sugar cookies are festive treats often made during the holiday season. They typically feature a sweet, buttery flavor and a soft, tender texture. These cookies can be cut into various shapes, such as stars or trees, and decorated with vibrant icing or sprinkles. The versatility of holiday sugar cookies allows bakers to customize them for different celebrations, making them a beloved tradition in many households.
How do I store holiday sugar cookies?
To keep your holiday sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents them from becoming stale. If you have decorated cookies, it’s best to let the icing dry completely before stacking them to avoid smudging. For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Can I freeze holiday sugar cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze holiday sugar cookie dough. After mixing the dough, shape it into a disk and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out and cutting it into shapes. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies any time!
What decorations can I use for holiday sugar cookies?
The possibilities for decorating holiday sugar cookies are endless! You can use royal icing for detailed designs or colored sprinkles for a festive touch. Edible glitter adds sparkle, while melted chocolate can be drizzled on top for richness. Additionally, candy pieces like M&Ms or gumdrops work well as decorations, allowing each cookie to reflect your personal style and creativity.
Conclusion for holiday sugar cookies :
In summary, holiday sugar cookies are delightful treats that bring joy during festive celebrations. Their customizable nature makes them perfect for family gatherings or gift-giving. Storing these cookies properly ensures they remain fresh, while freezing dough allows for convenient baking later on. With diverse decorating options available, you can create beautiful designs that brighten any occasion. Enjoy making these charming cookies as part of your holiday traditions!
Delightful Holiday Sugar Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Experience the joy of baking with these soft, buttery holiday sugar cookies, perfect for any festive occasion!
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract; beat until well combined and smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. For uniform cookies, roll the dough into balls before placing them on the sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on wire racks before enjoying or frosting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider substituting vanilla extract with almond extract or incorporating spices like nutmeg or cinnamon. Chill your dough for at least an hour before baking to prevent spreading and achieve the desired texture.
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