Christmas Cookies

Why Make This Christmas Cookies

Christmas Cookies are not just treats; they are a warm embrace of the holiday spirit! With their sweet, buttery flavor and the delightful crunch on the outside that gives way to a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center, these cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying by the fire. You can customize them with colorful decorations that spark joy and bring out the inner child in everyone. Whether you’re baking for family gatherings or simply filling your home with the aroma of fresh cookies, these festive delights will surely bring smiles to faces all around.

How to Make Christmas Cookies

Making Christmas Cookies is a simple and enjoyable process. You only need to follow a few basic steps to achieve those perfectly sweet, buttery goodies. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward nature, making it ideal even for novice bakers. Plus, the decorating part is where you can truly let your creativity shine! Let’s get started by gathering our ingredients and following the easy direction steps to create these delightful treats.

Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk
• Food coloring and sprinkles for decoration

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until everything is well combined.
5. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them onto ungreased cookie sheets, allowing some space between each ball.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is just set.
7. In a bowl, mix the confectioners’ sugar and milk to create a smooth glaze.
8. Once the cookies have cooled, decorate them with the glaze and sprinkle with festive toppings.
9. Enjoy your festive creations!

Nutritional Information

Per cookie (makes about 36 cookies):

• Calories: 125
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 16mg
• Sodium: 45mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 1g

How to Serve Christmas Cookies

Christmas Cookies are best served fresh out of the oven while they’re still slightly warm. They pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, hot cocoa, or a warm cup of tea. For holiday gatherings, arrange them on a festive platter and let guests enjoy a variety of colors and decorations. They also make lovely gifts when packaged in beautiful boxes or jars, spreading cheer and sweetness to friends and family alike.

How to Store Christmas Cookies

To keep your Christmas Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They typically last for about a week, but you can extend their life by placing them in the fridge, where they can last up to two weeks. If you need to store them even longer, consider freezing the cookies. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving—they’ll taste just as delicious!

Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies towards the end of the baking time; they should be just golden around the edges while the center remains soft.
• Chill the Dough: If time allows, refrigerate the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking to enhance the flavors and minimize spreading, resulting in thicker cookies.

Delicious Variations

• Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a rich twist.
• Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing flavor boost.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive family members.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute, but the flavor and texture might differ slightly. Unsalted butter is preferred for its creamy richness.

2. How can I make these cookies more festive?

You can enhance the festive feel by using colored sanding sugar instead of regular sprinkles or adding holiday-themed edible glitter to your glaze.

3. What if I want to shape my cookies differently?

You can use cookie cutters to create festive shapes. Just roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick, cut out the shapes, and follow the baking directions.

Conclusion

These Christmas Cookies are the perfect addition to any holiday celebration. With their delightful flavor, gorgeous decorations, and ease of preparation, they are sure to become a cherished tradition in your home. We encourage you to gather your loved ones in the kitchen and spread the joy of baking. Get creative with your decorations and relish every bite of these delectable treats. Happy baking, and may your holiday season be filled with sweetness and joy!