Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Soft Christmas cookies are a timeless holiday treat, loved for their delicate texture, buttery flavor, and endless decorating possibilities. These cookies are ideal for family gatherings, gift-giving, or simply indulging in the festive spirit. Their pillowy softness makes them a hit with both kids and adults, and the option to decorate with colorful icing and sprinkles makes baking them a cherished tradition.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
1/3 cup sour cream
For the Icing:
2 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp milk (or as needed)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional)
Sprinkles or decorative sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and sour cream.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the Dough:
Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for easier handling.
- Roll and Cut:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
Use festive cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake:
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Do not overbake.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate:
In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the icing. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
Divide the icing into bowls and add food coloring as desired.
Use a piping bag, spoon, or knife to decorate the cookies, and add sprinkles before the icing sets.
History
Christmas cookies have a long tradition dating back to the 16th century in Europe, where they were made using spices and dried fruits to celebrate the holiday season. The soft sugar cookie variation became popular in the United States, with families passing down recipes and creating unique shapes and decorations for festive occasions.
Benefits
- Customizable: Decorate to match any holiday theme or personal style.
- Family Activity: Perfect for involving kids in baking and decorating.
- Long-Lasting: Stays fresh for days, making them great for gifting.
- Nostalgia: Brings back cherished holiday memories and traditions.
Formation
Soft Christmas cookies are crafted by blending a buttery dough, chilling it for easy handling, and cutting it into festive shapes. The decorating process allows for creativity, turning simple cookies into edible art. Their delicate texture comes from the addition of sour cream, which keeps them soft and moist.
Nutritional Information (per cookie)
Calories: 120
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 1.5g
Fiber: 0.5g
Lovers of Soft Christmas Cookies
Children: Love decorating and enjoying the sweet, soft cookies.
Home Bakers: Appreciate the ease and versatility of the recipe.
Holiday Enthusiasts: Use them to add cheer to their festive celebrations.
Gift Givers: Wrap them in decorative tins or boxes for heartfelt presents.
Conclusion
Soft Christmas cookies are more than just a holiday dessert—they’re a symbol of togetherness and creativity. Their tender texture, delightful taste, and beautiful decorations make them a centerpiece of Christmas celebrations. Whether you’re baking with loved ones or sharing them as gifts, these cookies are sure to spread joy and warmth this holiday season.