Irresistible Holiday Sugar Cookies: A Festive Treat Recipe

The scent of freshly baked holiday sugar cookies wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm, sugary hug. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery cookie adorned with colorful sprinkles, evoking memories of cozy family gatherings and festive cheer. cranberry orange muffins These delightful treats are the perfect way to celebrate any occasion, bringing smiles and joy to both young and old.

As you gather around the table, laughter fills the room while you decorate these sweet morsels with all the creativity your heart desires. The anticipation of sharing these delectable cookies makes your mouth water. With every bite, you’re reminded that life is too short not to indulge in something sweet!

Ingredients for holiday sugar cookies

For more inspiration, check out this Easter shortbread cookies recipe.

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

• All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your cookie dough; make sure to spoon and level it for accuracy.
• Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for a creamy texture; it enhances the flavor without adding extra salt.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create that soft, tender texture we all love.
• Eggs: One large egg binds everything together and gives your cookies that rich flavor.
• Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps create a light and fluffy cookie; don’t skip it!
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract brings depth to your cookies; it’s like a hug in liquid form.
• Sprinkles: Choose fun colors to decorate; they add visual appeal and a festive touch!

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

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats—this will prevent sticky situations later on.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined—your kitchen should start smelling like a bakery by now!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture into your butter-sugar blend, making sure not to overmix—gentleness is key!

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between them because they’ll spread while baking.

Step 6: Bake and Decorate

Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Once cooled slightly, let your inner artist shine by decorating them with colorful sprinkles before they disappear!

Transfer to plates and enjoy while reminiscing about those cherished moments shared over sweet treats.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, mix the dry ingredients together. Then, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Gradually add the egg and vanilla before folding in the dry mix. Finally, chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling out and cutting into shapes.

Add Your Touch

Feeling adventurous? Swap out some of the flour for almond flour for a nutty twist. Or try adding a dash of peppermint extract if you’re dreaming of candy canes. You can also sprinkle colored sugar on top for that extra sparkle!

Storing & Reheating

Store your holiday sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. If you have leftovers (unlikely!), you can freeze them for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

I still remember the first time I made these holiday sugar cookies; my kids went wild decorating them with sprinkles and icing, turning our kitchen into a glittery masterpiece!

FAQs:

What are holiday sugar cookies?

Holiday sugar cookies are sweet, buttery treats that are popular during festive seasons. These cookies have a soft texture and a delightful sweetness, making them perfect for celebrations. They can be cut into various shapes and decorated with icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter, enhancing their visual appeal. brown butter pecan cookies Many families have their unique recipes passed down through generations, adding personal touches to this beloved dessert. Whether enjoyed plain or adorned with festive decorations, holiday sugar cookies bring joy to gatherings and create lasting memories.

How do I store holiday sugar cookies?

To keep your holiday sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to maintain their softness, add a slice of bread to the container; it helps retain moisture. For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly stored, they can last up to three months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture.

Can I customize holiday sugar cookies?

Absolutely! One of the joys of making holiday sugar cookies is the ability to customize them. You can experiment with different extracts like almond or vanilla for varied flavors. Additionally, try incorporating chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the dough for added texture and taste. spiced roasted nuts When it comes to decorating, use royal icing or fondant in vibrant colors that reflect the holiday spirit. pumpkin spice overnight oats Let your creativity shine as you design unique cookie shapes that complement your festive theme.

Are holiday sugar cookies suitable for gifting?

Yes, holiday sugar cookies make excellent gifts! Their charming appearance and delicious taste make them a thoughtful present for friends and family during the holiday season. Consider packaging them in decorative boxes or tins with festive ribbons for an extra special touch. You can also create personalized cookie assortments by including different shapes and flavors. Gifting homemade treats not only shows appreciation but also spreads joy and warmth during this special time of year.

Conclusion for holiday sugar cookies:

In conclusion, holiday sugar cookies are a delightful addition to any festive celebration. Their versatility allows for endless customization options in flavor and decoration. Proper storage methods ensure they remain fresh and tasty whether shared with loved ones or gifted beautifully packaged. Embrace the spirit of creativity while making these treats as they become cherished memories during the holidays. Enjoy baking and sharing your delicious creations with family and friends!

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Holiday Sugar Cookies

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• Author: Clare Schmidt
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Holiday sugar cookies are a festive delight, perfect for any celebration! These soft, buttery cookies are easy to make and can be adorned with colorful sprinkles or icing, making them the star of your dessert table. Baking these treats fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma that evokes cherished memories of family gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or a birthday, these versatile cookies bring joy to all ages.

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Ingredients

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• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sprinkles (for decoration)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing gently until combined.
5. Drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool slightly before decorating with sprinkles.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg