Christmas sugar cookies hold a special place in my culinary journey. I still remember the first time I attempted to bake them the dough was sticky, the shapes were uneven, and half of them burned while the other half remained undercooked. Sound familiar? You’re not alone if you’ve struggled with cookies that spread too much, turn out too hard, or lack that perfect buttery flavor that makes holiday baking truly magical.
As Michael, a passionate culinary artist at FoodyDish.com, I’ve spent years perfecting this Christmas sugar cookie recipe that delivers consistently beautiful, delicious results every single time. These cookies are soft yet sturdy enough to decorate, with a delicate vanilla flavor that transports you straight to a winter wonderland. Whether you’re baking with kids, preparing treats for a cookie exchange, or simply want to fill your home with the comforting aroma of holiday baking, this recipe is your ticket to success.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: selecting quality ingredients, mastering the dough consistency, achieving perfect cookie shapes, decorating like a pro, and troubleshooting common issues. Let’s transform your kitchen into a festive bakery!
Why This Christmas Sugar Cookies Recipe Works
This recipe has become a cornerstone in my holiday baking repertoire for three compelling reasons. First, it uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have in your pantry – no specialty items or hard-to-find components required. Second, the dough chills beautifully, which means you can prepare it a day ahead and bake when convenient, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules. Third, these cookies maintain their shape during baking, ensuring your Christmas trees actually look like trees and your snowflakes retain their delicate details.
The secret lies in the perfect flour-to-butter ratio and the crucial chilling step. Unlike many sugar cookie recipes that result in spreading or tough textures, this formula creates cookies that are tender yet stable. The addition of almond extract elevates the flavor profile beyond ordinary vanilla, while the baking powder provides just enough lift for a soft bite without turning them cakey.
Christmas Sugar Cookies Ingredients List
For the Cookies:
- 2 ¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Icing (Optional for Decorating):
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk (more as needed for consistency)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Food coloring (gel preferred)
- Sprinkles or edible glitter (optional)
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Christmas Sugar Cookies
Flour Selection Matters
All-purpose flour is your best friend for Christmas sugar cookies. It provides the ideal protein content for structure without creating toughness. I recommend measuring flour by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can compact the flour and lead to dry cookies.
Butter: The Foundation of Flavor
Unsalted butter is non-negotiable in this recipe. It allows you to control the salt level and provides superior flavor compared to margarine or shortening. The butter should be softened to room temperature not melted, not cold. It should leave a slight indent when pressed but still hold its shape.
Quality Extracts Make a Difference
Pure vanilla extract and almond extract work in harmony to create depth of flavor. While almond extract is optional, I strongly encourage using it. Just half a teaspoon adds a subtle sophistication that complements the vanilla without overpowering it.
Sugar Considerations
Granulated sugar creates the ideal texture, while powdered sugar in the icing provides smooth, professional-looking decorations. If you’re adapting this recipe for dietary needs, you can experiment with coconut sugar, though it will alter the color and slightly change the flavor profile.
Ingredients & Prep for Christmas Sugar Cookies
Organizing Your Workspace
Before diving into mixing, set up an organized workspace. Measure all ingredients, bring butter and eggs to room temperature, and clear counter space for rolling dough. This mise en place approach ensures smooth, stress-free baking.
The Dough Foundation
The dry ingredients flour, baking powder, and salt should be whisked together thoroughly to distribute the leavening agent evenly. This simple step prevents spots of concentrated baking powder that can create an off taste.
Creating the Perfect Dough Consistency
When creaming butter and sugar, beat for the full two to three minutes. This incorporates air, creating a lighter cookie texture. The mixture should look pale and fluffy. After adding the egg and extracts, mix just until combined overmixing at this stage can develop gluten and create tough cookies.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Christmas Sugar Cookies
Pre-Baking Prep for Christmas Sugar Cookies
The chilling step is absolutely critical and cannot be skipped. Dividing the dough into two disks and flattening them before wrapping ensures they chill evenly and roll out easily. One hour is the minimum chilling time, but overnight works beautifully if you’re planning ahead.
Rolling and Cutting Christmas Sugar Cookies
Preheat your oven to exactly 350°F use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy, as many ovens run hot or cold. Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to quarter-inch thickness. Too thin and cookies become crispy and break easily; too thick and they’ll be cakey. Use festive cutters and dip them in flour between cuts to prevent sticking.
Baking Method for Christmas Sugar Cookies
Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking. Space cookies about two inches apart. Bake for eight to ten minutes, watching carefully. The cookies are done when edges just begin to turn golden the centers may look slightly underdone, but they’ll continue cooking as they cool.
Cooling Christmas Sugar Cookies
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for two minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This brief resting period lets them firm up enough to move without breaking. Complete cooling is essential before decorating warm cookies will melt your icing.
Pro Tips for Perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies
Achieving Consistent Thickness
Roll dough between two sheets of parchment paper or use rolling pin rings to maintain even thickness. This ensures uniform baking and professional appearance.
Tool Recommendations for Christmas Sugar Cookies
Invest in quality metal cookie cutters they cut cleaner edges than plastic. A small offset spatula is invaluable for transferring cut cookies to baking sheets without distorting shapes. Piping bags or squeeze bottles give you precise control when decorating.
Storage and Freshness for Christmas Sugar Cookies
Store undecorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Once decorated, wait until icing sets completely before stacking with parchment paper between layers. These cookies also freeze beautifully for up to three months freeze undecorated and add icing after thawing.
Flavor Variations for Christmas Sugar Cookies
Spiced Holiday Twist
Add half a teaspoon of cinnamon and a quarter teaspoon of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for warm, spiced cookies reminiscent of gingerbread but with sugar cookie texture.
Citrus Infusion
Replace almond extract with lemon or orange zest for bright, refreshing flavors that cut through rich holiday meals.
Dietary Adaptations
For gluten-free Christmas sugar cookies, substitute with a one-to-one gluten-free baking flour blend. The texture will be slightly more delicate, so handle chilled dough gently. For vegan versions, replace butter with plant-based alternatives and use a flax egg, though this significantly changes texture and flavor.
| Variation | Key Ingredient | Flavor Profile | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Vanilla-Almond | Pure extracts | Sweet, delicate | Traditional decorating |
| Citrus Burst | Lemon/orange zest | Bright, tangy | Adult gatherings |
| Spiced Winter | Cinnamon, nutmeg | Warm, cozy | Cold weather comfort |
| Chocolate Dipped | Melted chocolate | Rich, indulgent | Elegant presentations |
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Sugar Cookies
These Christmas sugar cookies shine as standalone treats, but they also pair beautifully with hot cocoa, spiced apple cider, or eggnog. Create a festive cookie platter by arranging them with gingerbread men, peppermint bark, and fudge. For gifting, stack cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon, or arrange in decorative tins lined with tissue paper.
Consider setting up a cookie decorating station for holiday gatherings. Provide plain baked cookies, bowls of colored icing, and an assortment of sprinkles, letting guests unleash their creativity. This interactive activity creates memories while producing personalized edible art.
FAQs About Christmas Sugar Cookies
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! Wrapped dough keeps in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for three months. Thaw frozen dough overnight in the refrigerator before rolling.
Why did my cookies spread too much? Skipping the chilling step or using melted butter instead of softened butter causes spreading. Ensure dough is properly chilled and butter is the right temperature.
How do I prevent cookies from getting too hard? Don’t overbake remove cookies when edges are just barely golden. The centers should look slightly underdone. Also, store in an airtight container to maintain softness.
Can I use cookie stamps instead of cutters? Yes! Cookie stamps create beautiful embossed designs. Roll dough slightly thicker and press firmly before baking.
What’s the best way to color icing?
Gel food coloring provides vibrant colors without thinning icing. Add drops gradually until you achieve desired shade. Liquid food coloring works but requires more to achieve deep colors.
Conclusion
Now that you’re armed with this foolproof Christmas sugar cookie recipe and expert tips, it’s time to preheat that oven and start creating holiday magic! These cookies have brought joy to thousands of home bakers in the FoodyDish.com community, and I’m confident they’ll become a cherished tradition in your home too.
The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its delicious results but in the memories you’ll create while baking. Whether you’re carrying on a family tradition or starting a new one, these cookies are your canvas for creativity and connection.
Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with sweetness!
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Christmas Sugar Cookies: The Ultimate Holiday Baking Guide
- Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
These Christmas Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery, and perfect for holiday decorating. With crisp edges and tender centers, they hold their shape beautifully and are ideal for frosting, sprinkles, and edible glitter. A timeless festive treat everyone will love!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
2 ¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
½ tsp almond extract (optional)
For the Icing (optional for decorating):
2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk (more as needed for consistency)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Food coloring (gel preferred)
Sprinkles or edible glitter (optional)
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Add egg, vanilla, and almond extract. Mix until combined.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough in half, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch (6 mm) thick. Use festive cookie cutters to cut shapes.
5. Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are just turning golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Whisk together icing ingredients until smooth. Divide and color as desired. Pipe or spread over cooled cookies, then decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter. Let the icing set completely before storing.
Notes
Chill your dough for at least 1 hour before baking to prevent spreading.
Add orange or lemon zest for a citrus twist.
Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies.
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week or freeze undecorated cookies for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dessert, Holiday Cookies
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Christmas Sugar Cookies, Holiday Baking, Frosted Cookies, Easy Christmas Recipes, Sugar Cookies for Decorating