Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe 🎄🎅🏽 | Perfect Holiday Treats 🍪
Welcome to our festive Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe! These delightful holiday treats are soft, flavorful, and perfect for bringing cheer to any gathering. Infused with hints of vanilla and almond, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Cost: $$
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Soft Christmas Cookies are the epitome of holiday joy. Their perfectly chewy texture pairs with a subtle ginger flavor, multiplied by the festive touch of colorful sprinkles. They’re quick to make and easily customizable, ensuring they cater to everyone’s taste buds. From cozy family gatherings to larger holiday parties, these cookies are a must-bake Christmas treat.
Context/Background
Originating from a blend of European baking traditions, these cookies have been adapted over generations to reach the soft, chewy delight we now know. Often seen in cookie swaps and holiday feasts, they represent the warmth and togetherness of the season.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: Keep a close eye on them after 8 minutes to prevent hard cookies.
- Measuring flour incorrectly: Use the spoon and level method to avoid dense cookies.
- Using cold butter: Ensure your butter is softened for the perfect creamy consistency.
Tips for Perfect Soft Christmas Cookies
- Chill dough for 20 minutes to enhance flavor and texture.
- Experiment with extracts for varied undertones: mint or orange are festive choices.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
Variations and Substitutions
- Swap almond extract for peppermint for a minty twist.
- Add mini chocolate chips for a chocolaty indulgence.
- Try gluten-free flour for an allergy-friendly alternative.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies make a delightful pairing with warm beverages. Enjoy them with hot cocoa or mulled wine for the ultimate holiday experience. They’re also perfect served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage and Leftovers
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a zip-top bag. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.
Make Ahead Instructions
Prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it in portions. Simply thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and baking for fresh cookies on demand.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 12g
Dietary Notes
- Vegetarian
- Can be made gluten-free with a flour substitution
The Recipe
Serves: 24
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
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
- Sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let cool on wire rack.
Recipe Notes
- Adjust the almond extract if you prefer a milder taste.
- Decorate with royal icing for festive patterns.
Community Tips and Photos
Share your experience with this recipe! Tag us using #SoftChristmasCookies on social media.
Questions and Answers
- Can I freeze the dough? Yes, freeze portions for up to three months.
- How can I make them gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- What if I don’t have almond extract? Use more vanilla extract or another flavor of your choice.
