Why Make This Christmas Butter Cookies
Christmas Butter Cookies are one of those delightful treats that fill your home with the sweet aroma of butter and vanilla as they bake. These cookies are rich and buttery with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them perfect for any holiday gathering. They not only taste amazing but also add a festive touch to your dessert table. Plus, they’re an excellent activity for the whole family, whether you’re rolling, decorating, or indulging together.
How to Make Christmas Butter Cookies
Making Christmas Butter Cookies is straightforward and requires just a handful of ingredients. The creamy texture of the butter combined with the sweetness of the powdered sugar creates a delicious cookie that’s both soft and slightly crisp on the edges. This recipe is a lovely reminder of holiday warmth and togetherness, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. This step is key to achieving that light and fluffy texture.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, blending the flavors beautifully.
- Gradually blend in the flour and salt until the dough comes together. It should feel soft but not sticky.
- Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet, flattening them gently for an even bake.
- If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle the tops with colorful sprinkles or colored sugar to make them sparkle.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your festive treat!
Nutritional Information
Each Christmas Butter Cookie contains approximately:
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 55mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 13g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 1g
(Note: Nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands and measuring methods.)
How to Serve Christmas Butter Cookies
These Christmas Butter Cookies shine at holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or cozy family gatherings. Serve them on a festive platter alongside hot cocoa, coffee, or even a glass of milk. They also make for charming gifts when placed in cute cookie tins or bags, tied up with ribbons, bringing joy to friends and loved ones.
How to Store Christmas Butter Cookies
Once you make these delightful cookies, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 1 week. If you need to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper, and they can last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for a delicious treat.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Butter Cookies
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and the best texture.
- Measure Flour Correctly: When measuring flour, spoon it into the cup and level it off with a knife to prevent dense cookies.
- Cookie Thickness: For soft, chewy cookies, do not flatten the dough too thin. Aim for about 1/2 inch in thickness.
- Decorating: Experiment with different types of sprinkles or colored sugar to match your holiday themes!
Delicious Variations
Feel free to customize your Christmas Butter Cookies to suit your tastes:
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate on top for a decadent treat.
- Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor.
- Citrus Zest: A bit of orange or lemon zest gives a refreshing taste to these cookies, enhancing their sweetness.
- Almond Butter: Substitute half of the butter with almond butter for a nutty twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but if you use salted butter, consider reducing the added salt to a pinch so the cookies don’t become too salty.
2. What if my dough is too soft?
If your dough appears too soft and sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.
3. How can I make these cookies ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and freeze it before baking. Roll them into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply place them on a baking tray and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Christmas Butter Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season with loved ones. With their creamy, buttery flavor and customizable decorations, they make every occasion a little more festive. Try making this easy and delicious recipe, and enjoy the warmth of home-baked cookies. Don’t forget to share your cookie creations with friends and family – they’ll appreciate your efforts, and you might just start a new holiday tradition! Happy baking!
