Irresistible Holiday Cookies with Butter: A Festive Treat

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by Molly white

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The aroma of freshly baked holiday cookies with butter wafts through the air, teasing your senses and stirring up warm memories. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that melts in your mouth, leaving behind a sweet buttery essence and a sprinkle of festive cheer. These cookies aren’t just treats; they are tiny morsels of joy that transform any occasion into a celebration. For more inspiration, check out this Easter shortbread cookies recipe recipe.

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As the holidays approach, it’s only fitting to bring out your inner baker and whip up a batch of these delightful cookies. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, these holiday cookies will make your heart sing – and perhaps even lead to some friendly cookie competition amongst friends!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These holiday cookies with butter are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy bakers.
  • The rich buttery flavor combined with festive spices creates an irresistible taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.
  • Their golden, crunchy edges and soft centers create a visual feast on any dessert table.
  • Versatile enough for personal touches, you can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to match your taste!

Ingredients for holiday cookies with butter

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • All-Purpose Flour: This is the foundation of your cookies. For best results, use unbleached flour for added flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter to ensure rich flavor; let it soften at room temperature before mixing.
  • Sugar: A mix of granulated sugar and brown sugar adds sweetness and moisture to the cookies.
  • Eggs: Two large eggs will bind the ingredients together while providing structure to the cookie dough.
  • Baking Powder: Essential for making the cookies rise and achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for an aromatic depth that enhances the buttery flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

 

How to Make holiday cookies with butter

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Trust me, this will save you from post-cookie cleanup drama.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about three minutes—perfect time for a dance break!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack those eggs into the fluffy mixture one at a time while mixing on low speed. Don’t forget to add the vanilla extract! Mix until everything is well combined; you want a smooth batter without eggy surprises.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined—don’t overdo it! We’re making cookies here, not bricks.

Step 5: Scoop It Out

Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets about two inches apart—they’ll spread while baking. Feel free to sprinkle some extra sugar on top for sparkle!

Step 6: Bake

Pop those bad boys into the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until they’re golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Once baked, let them cool on wire racks before devouring.

Now gather everyone around as you serve these holiday cookies with butter! Transfer them onto plates and watch as their eyes light up with delight. Happy baking!

You Must Know

  • These holiday cookies with butter are not just a treat; they bring a sprinkle of joy to your festive gatherings.
  • With their rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they might just become your go-to recipe for every holiday season.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by creaming the butter and sugar together until fluffy, then add eggs and vanilla. Mix dry ingredients separately, combine them with the wet mixture, and finally fold in any chocolate chips or nuts before baking. spiced roasted nuts This sequence ensures everything blends perfectly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the vanilla for almond extract for a nutty twist, or replace chocolate chips with dried cranberries for a holiday vibe. pumpkin spice overnight oats You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance that festive warmth.

Storing & Reheating

Store your holiday cookies with butter in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm later, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive their gooey goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use room-temperature butter for easier creaming, ensuring it mixes well with sugar.
  • Don’t overmix once you add flour; this keeps your cookies tender.
  • Lastly, let the dough chill before baking for thicker cookies that hold their shape.

A friend once told me these holiday cookies with butter had an uncanny ability to make people smile. I’ve served them at family gatherings, and every time, they disappear faster than my New Year’s resolutions!

FAQs:

What are holiday cookies with butter?

Holiday cookies with butter are rich, flavorful treats made primarily with butter, sugar, and flour. These cookies often feature festive flavors like vanilla or almond and can be enhanced with chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. They are perfect for sharing during the holiday season and are a delightful addition to any celebration. brown butter pecan cookies The use of butter gives these cookies a tender texture that melts in your mouth, making them irresistible to all who taste them.

How do I store holiday cookies with butter?

To maintain their freshness, store your holiday cookies with butter in an airtight container at room temperature. If you plan to keep them for longer than a week, consider refrigerating or freezing them. When freezing, place layers of parchment paper between the cookies to prevent sticking. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven for a few minutes before serving. This way, they will taste just as delicious as when they were freshly baked.

Can I substitute ingredients in holiday cookies with butter?

Yes, you can substitute some ingredients in holiday cookies with butter to suit your dietary needs or preferences. For instance, if you’re looking for a healthier option, try using coconut oil instead of butter or maple syrup instead of refined sugar. Gluten-free flour can also replace regular flour for those avoiding gluten. cranberry orange muffins However, note that these substitutions might alter the flavor and texture slightly. Experimenting with different ingredients can lead to delightful new variations on traditional recipes.

How long do holiday cookies with butter last?

Holiday cookies with butter typically last about one week when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature. If refrigerated, they may last longer but could lose some of their original texture. Freezing is an excellent option for extending their shelf life; frozen cookies can stay fresh for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. Always check for freshness before consuming any leftovers after the holidays.

Conclusion for holiday cookies with butter:

In conclusion, holiday cookies with butter offer a delightful way to celebrate the festive season. Their rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a favorite among cookie lovers. Storing these treats correctly ensures they maintain their deliciousness throughout the holidays. Feel free to experiment with ingredient substitutions based on your preferences while keeping the essence of these classic cookies intact. Whether sharing with friends or enjoying solo, these buttery delights will surely bring warmth and joy during any celebration.

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Holiday Cookies with Butter


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  • Author: Clare Schmidt
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

Description

Indulge in the melt-in-your-mouth delight of our holiday cookies with butter. These soft and chewy treats, infused with rich buttery flavor and festive spices, are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying during cozy nights at home. With a golden exterior and a tender center, these cookies will bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations.


Ingredients

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  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed along with the vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
  5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden but centers remain soft. Cool on wire racks before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

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