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The holiday season brings in a flurry of joy, lights, and the delightful aroma of freshly baked cookies. Among the must-have treats in every festive kitchen are Christmas Cutout Cookies. These colorful, whimsical cookies not only brighten your holiday table, but they also provide an excellent opportunity for family bonding as you decorate them together. Whether you’re sharing them as gifts or leaving them out for Santa, they’re sure to add a touch of magic to your celebrations.
Why Make This Christmas Cutout Cookies
Christmas Cutout Cookies are a cherished holiday tradition for many families. Their ability to be shaped into festive designs means that you can personalize them for any occasion, from Christmas trees to snowflakes. These cookies boast a rich and buttery flavor that melts in your mouth, and they become even more appealing when decorated with colorful icing or sprinkles. Baking them fills your home with warm scents of vanilla and butter, drawing friends and family to the kitchen to share in the holiday spirit. Plus, they’re simple enough for children to help make, creating lasting memories in the process.
How to Make Christmas Cutout Cookies
Making Christmas Cutout Cookies is a joyful process that combines classic ingredients with a bit of creativity. Start with the basics: flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. The real fun begins when it’s time to roll out the dough and choose your favorite cookie cutters. This recipe is straightforward, ensuring that bakers of all levels can whip up a batch of these festive favorites. The end result? Beautifully shaped cookies that are perfect for sharing—or sneaking a few for yourself!
Ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- Royal icing or colored sugar for decoration
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let them cool before decorating with royal icing or colored sugar.
- Share and enjoy the festive treats!
Nutritional Information
Per cookie (approximately 1 medium-sized cookie):
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 5.5g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 1g
How to Serve Christmas Cutout Cookies
These festive cookies shine when served on a beautifully arranged platter. Consider pairing them with a warm cup of hot cocoa or a festive eggnog for a delightful holiday treat. They also make fantastic gifts when packaged in colorful boxes or tied with ribbon. You can even set up a cookie decorating station at your holiday party, inviting guests to personalize their own creations for a fun activity.
How to Store Christmas Cutout Cookies
To keep your Christmas Cutout Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to one week if stored correctly. If you prefer to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before decorating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Cutout Cookies
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft, chilling it in the fridge for about 30 minutes will make it easier to roll out and cut.
- Use Rigid Cutters: Opt for sturdy cookie cutters to ensure clear shapes and details.
- Don’t Over Bake: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be lightly golden on the edges. Overbaking can lead to tough cookies.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in other extracts, like peppermint or lemon, for a unique twist.
Delicious Variations
- Spiced Cookie Version: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the flour mixture for a warm spice flavor.
- Chocolate Variation: Substitute a portion of the flour with cocoa powder to create chocolate cutout cookies.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Yes, you can! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before rolling out.
2. What kind of decorations work best?
Royal icing creates a beautiful, glossy finish and can be piped into intricate designs. Colored sugar adds a fun, sparkly touch that’s easy to apply.
3. How can I make my cookies softer?
For softer cookies, slightly reduce the baking time and try using baking soda instead of baking powder for a chewier texture.
Conclusion
Christmas Cutout Cookies are more than just treats—they’re a way to bring joy, creativity, and a sense of togetherness to your holiday celebrations. This easy recipe makes it simple for anyone to get involved in the festive fun. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy making these delightful cookies with your loved ones. Don’t forget to share your creations and spread the holiday cheer! Happy baking!
