When you think about holiday baking, Christmas sugar cookies often come to mind as a staple treat. You might be familiar with classic recipes that allow for creative decorating, but there's also a world of flavors waiting to be discovered. From invigorating peppermint swirls to indulgent Nutella-filled delights, each recipe brings its own unique touch to your festive gatherings. Curious about how these can enhance your holiday spirit? Let's uncover the five best Christmas sugar cookie recipes that will transform your baking this season.
Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies
Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies are a beloved holiday treat that brings joy to both bakers and cookie lovers alike. These soft, buttery cookies are perfect for decorating with colorful icing and sprinkles, making them a festive addition to any holiday gathering. With their delightful sweetness and simple preparation, these cookies can become a cherished family tradition, allowing everyone to join in on the fun of baking and decorating.
Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 to 4 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: colored sprinkles or decorative icing for embellishment
To prepare Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, then gradually blend in the dry ingredients. If the dough is too crumbly, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together.
Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them on ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass, and decorate with sprinkles if desired. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
For best results, make certain that your butter is at room temperature before you start mixing, as this will help create a smooth dough. If you're planning on decorating your cookies, consider chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before rolling it out; this will make it easier to handle.
You can also experiment with different flavors by adding almond extract or lemon zest to the dough. Finally, don't hesitate to get creative with your decorations! Use royal icing, colored sugars, or even edible glitter to make your cookies stand out during the holiday season.
Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies
Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies are a festive treat that combines the classic sweetness of sugar cookies with a delightful hint of peppermint. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, these cookies aren't only visually appealing with their vibrant swirls of red and white, but they also deliver a reviving flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.
With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies to share with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Red gel food coloring
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Divide the dough in half; leave one half plain and add red gel food coloring to the other half, mixing until the desired color is achieved.
Roll each dough into logs, then twist the two logs together to form a spiral. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Slice the dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired, then bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, verify your butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with sugar; this helps create a light and airy texture in your cookies.
Feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract based on your taste preference, but be cautious not to add too much, as it can be overpowering.
To keep the cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
If you want to get creative, consider adding crushed peppermint candies on top of the cookies before baking for an extra festive touch!
Gingerbread Sugar Cookie Twist
Gingerbread Sugar Cookie Twist is a delightful holiday treat that combines the traditional flavors of gingerbread with the soft, chewy texture of sugar cookies. This festive dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply to enjoy with a warm cup of cocoa.
The spiced aroma and warm flavors will fill your home with the essence of Christmas, making it a favorite among friends and family alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; set aside.
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out one half of the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to create shapes and transfer them to a lined baking sheet.
Take the other half of the dough and roll it into ropes, twisting them together with the cut-out shapes. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Extra Tips:
For an extra festive touch, consider adding a glaze or icing on top after the cookies have cooled. You can easily make a simple icing by mixing powdered sugar with a bit of milk and vanilla extract.
Also, be sure to chill the dough adequately; this helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
If you want to improve the gingerbread flavor, feel free to add a bit more ginger or even some finely chopped crystallized ginger to the dough.
Enjoy your baking experience!
Nutella Stuffed Sugar Cookies
Indulge in the delightful combination of classic sugar cookies and rich, creamy Nutella with these Nutella Stuffed Sugar Cookies.
These cookies are wonderfully soft and chewy on the outside, with a luscious Nutella center that melts in your mouth. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, they're sure to impress family and friends alike.
Get ready to bake a batch of these heavenly treats that will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup Nutella
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
To assemble the cookies, scoop a tablespoon of dough, flatten it in your hand, place a teaspoon of Nutella in the center, and fold the dough around the Nutella to seal it.
Roll the cookie dough into a ball and roll it in granulated sugar before placing it on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor and texture, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, allowing for better incorporation into the sugar mixture.
You can chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before rolling to prevent spreading during baking.
If you want a more intense Nutella flavor, consider using Nutella hazelnut spread mixed with a pinch of sea salt for an added touch.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh, but they're best enjoyed the same day they're made!
Funfetti Holiday Sugar Cookies
Funfetti Holiday Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies, perfect for adding a festive touch to your holiday celebrations. These colorful cookies aren't only visually appealing but also deliciously sweet, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. The vibrant sprinkles incorporated into the dough create a fun surprise in every bite, ensuring that your cookie platter will stand out during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- ¾ cup rainbow sprinkles
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing well to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Extra Tips:
For even more festive flair, consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate on top of the cooled cookies.
If you want to improve the flavor, you can substitute some of the vanilla extract with peppermint extract for a holiday twist.
Make sure to keep an eye on the cookies while they bake, as oven temperatures may vary, and you want to avoid over-baking them for the perfect soft texture.
Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh, and enjoy sharing them with family and friends!