Christmas Cookies

Every year when the holidays roll around, there is that one moment when the house smells like warm sugar and butter, and everything feels a little calmer. Christmas Cookies are my go-to when I want something comforting, festive, and guaranteed to make people smile. Baking these is not just about dessert, it is about slowing down, enjoying the process, and ending up with a treat that brings joy to everyone who takes a bite.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

These Christmas Cookies are soft in the center, lightly crisp at the edges, and perfectly sweet without being overwhelming. They are easy enough for a cozy afternoon bake but special enough to share and gift. Trust me, you’re going to love this, because this one’s a total game-changer when you need a reliable, festive cookie that never fails.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe comes from years of holiday baking, flour on the counter, music playing, and hands sneaking warm cookies straight from the tray. I wanted a cookie that felt nostalgic but still delivered that melt-in-your-mouth texture everyone hopes for during the holidays. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite, especially when shared with people you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together to create cookies that are tender, buttery, and full of classic holiday flavor.

1. All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/2 cups, forms the structure and gives the cookies their soft bite.
2. Unsalted Butter: 1 cup, softened, adds richness and that classic buttery aroma.
3. Granulated Sugar: 3/4 cup, provides sweetness and helps the edges lightly crisp.
4. Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup, packed, adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
5. Eggs: 2 large, bind the dough and give the cookies lift and tenderness.
6. Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons, enhances the sweetness and brings warmth.
7. Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon, helps the cookies rise gently.
8. Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, balances the sweetness and sharpens the flavors.
9. Colored Sugar Sprinkles: 1/2 cup, adds festive color and a light crunch on top.

Time Needed to Make This Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 to 12 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Special Equipment You’ll Need

These tools make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Mixing Bowls: Used to combine wet and dry ingredients evenly.
Electric Mixer: Helps cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Baking Sheets: Provide an even surface for consistent baking.
Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
Cookie Scoop: Ensures evenly sized cookies that bake uniformly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Take your time and enjoy each step, because holiday baking should feel joyful and relaxed.

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light, fluffy, and pale in color.
2. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract, blending until smooth and glossy.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
4. Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
5. Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each.
6. Decorate: Gently press colored sugar sprinkles onto the tops of each cookie.
7. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft.
8. Cool: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips

Arrange these Christmas Cookies on a festive platter with pops of red and green from extra sprinkles or holiday liners. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or milk, and they look especially inviting when stacked and tied with a ribbon for gifting. The soft centers and lightly golden edges make them irresistible at first glance.

Extra Tips for Best Results

A few simple tips make all the difference.

• Chill the dough for 20 minutes if your kitchen is warm to prevent spreading.
• Bake one tray at a time for even color and texture.
• Remove the cookies when the centers still look slightly soft for the best chew.
• Let cookies cool fully before stacking to keep decorations intact.

Variations You Can Try

For a citrus twist, add 1 teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a bright holiday flavor.
For a spice-forward version, mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for extra warmth.
For a chocolate lover’s option, fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for rich, melty bites.
For a softer cookie, replace 2 tablespoons of flour with cornstarch to enhance tenderness.

Make Ahead and Storage

These cookies are perfect for planning ahead. The dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 48 hours before baking. Baked cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to two months, and gently thawed at room temperature to keep their soft texture and flavor.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Professional touches make these cookies shine.

• Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly to trap air and improve texture.
• Use room temperature eggs for smoother mixing.
• Rotate baking sheets halfway through baking if needed for even browning.
• Always measure flour accurately to avoid dry cookies.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 24 cookies
Calories per serving: 165
Note: These are approximate values.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made up to two days in advance and kept refrigerated until ready to bake.

2. Why did my cookies spread too much?

This usually happens if the butter is too warm, chilling the dough helps control spreading.

3. Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely, baked cookies freeze well and retain their flavor and texture.

4. How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container and avoid overbaking.

5. Can I reduce the sugar?

You can slightly reduce it, but it may affect texture and browning.

6. Are these cookies good for gifting?

Yes, they hold their shape well and look festive when packaged.

7. Can I add nuts?

You can add chopped nuts if desired, keeping quantities moderate for balance.

8. What sprinkles work best?

Non-melting sugar sprinkles work best for maintaining color and texture.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily for larger batches.

10. How do I know when they are done?

The edges should be set while the centers remain soft and pale.

Conclusion

These Christmas Cookies are simple, comforting, and full of holiday cheer. Give them a try, share them with someone you love, and enjoy every cozy, sweet moment they bring.

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