There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your home during the holiday season.
These Christmas Butter Cookies are a timeless classic, combining rich buttery flavors with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for cookie exchanges, gifting, or simply enjoying with family, they’re a delightful way to spread holiday cheer.
With their versatile dough and endless decorating possibilities, these cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat. Gather your loved ones and create sweet memories this holiday season with this festive recipe.
- Ingredients:
1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation)
2½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional: food coloring, sprinkles, or icing for decoration
- Instructions:
Preheat the OvenPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Cream Butter and SugarIn a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add Egg and VanillaBeat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. For a festive twist, you can use almond extract or a mix of both.
Combine Dry IngredientsIn a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. If you want colored cookies, divide the dough and mix in food coloring.
Chill the DoughWrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Shape the CookiesRoll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) thickness. Use festive cookie cutters to cut out shapes like stars, trees, or snowflakes. Place the cutouts on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
BakeBake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft and buttery.
Cool and DecorateAllow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, decorate with icing, sprinkles, or leave them plain for a classic look.
Tips for the Perfect Christmas Butter Cookies:
Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
Avoid overmixing the dough to maintain a tender texture.
Experiment with festive decorations to make your cookies stand out on holiday platters.
Conclusion:
These Christmas Butter Cookies are more than just a treat – they’re a symbol of togetherness and joy. Whether you’re baking them for family gatherings, sharing them with friends, or adding them to a holiday gift basket, these cookies are sure to leave a lasting impression. Celebrate the season with every bite, and don’t forget to pass the recipe along to spread the holiday cheer!
FAQ:
Can I make the dough ahead of time?Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance. Store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Allow it to soften slightly at room temperature before rolling out.
Can I freeze the cookies?Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What if I don’t have cookie cutters?You can use a glass or any round object to cut out shapes. Alternatively, shape the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly for a classic round cookie.
Can I use salted butter?Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking and avoid placing the cookies on a warm baking sheet.
These Christmas Butter Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or given as a gift, they’re sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Happy baking!
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