Introduction
Christmas Cookies are a staple of the holiday season, and for good reason – they’re delicious, festive, and fun to make. Soft Christmas Cookies, in particular, are a favorite among many, with their chewy texture and sweet flavor. As we dive into the world of soft Christmas Cookies, you’ll learn why they’re a must-have for any holiday gathering.
The smell of freshly baked Christmas Cookies wafting from the oven is a sensation like no other, filling your home with the warm, comforting aromas of cinnamon, vanilla, and sugar. The texture of a soft Christmas Cookie is equally appealing, with a gentle crunch on the outside giving way to a soft, chewy center.
In this article, we’ll explore the magic of soft Christmas Cookies, from the ingredients and instructions to tips and tricks for making them perfect every time. So, let’s get started on this festive journey and make some unforgettable soft Christmas Cookies!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soft Christmas Cookies recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to make delicious, easy-to-make treats for the holiday season. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to whip up a batch of soft Christmas Cookies in no time. The best part? They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family, or enjoying all to yourself (we won’t judge!)!
The unique feature of this recipe is the combination of white sugar and butter, which gives the cookies a rich, sweet flavor. The addition of vanilla extract adds a deep, creamy note that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this soft Christmas Cookies recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, let’s dive in and explore the ingredients and instructions you’ll need to make these tasty treats! For more holiday baking ideas, check out our No-Bake Christmas Treats recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
When it comes to the ingredients, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to use high-quality ingredients, such as real butter and pure vanilla extract, to get the best flavor out of your cookies. If you’re looking for substitutions, you can try using margarine instead of butter or almond extract instead of vanilla.
It’s also important to note that the type of flour you use can affect the texture of your cookies. All-purpose flour is a good all-around choice, but you can also try using bread flour for a chewier cookie or cake flour for a more tender one.
In terms of sugar, you can use either white sugar or brown sugar, depending on your preference. Brown sugar will give your cookies a richer, deeper flavor, while white sugar will result in a sweeter, more delicate taste.
Equipment Needed
To make soft Christmas Cookies, you’ll need a few pieces of equipment, including:
- Medium bowl
- Large bowl
- Electric mixer
- Cookie sheets
- Christmas cookie cutters
- Wire rack
These tools will help you to mix, roll out, and bake your cookies to perfection. Make sure to have them on hand before you start baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl; set aside.
- Beat sugar and butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Beat first egg into butter mixture. Beat second egg into mixture along with vanilla extract; add flour mixture and stir until dough is just combined.
- Wrap dough and chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
- Roll out dough on a clean floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out shapes using Christmas cookie cutters; arrange them on the prepared cookie sheets. Gather scraps and repeat this step.
- Bake in batches in the preheated oven until edges are golden, about 6 to 8 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet briefly before removing to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or decorating.
- Serve and enjoy! If you’re looking for more festive dessert ideas, be sure to check out our Grinch Cookies recipe.
Visual Guide & Tips
As you work through the instructions, keep an eye on the texture and consistency of your dough. It should be smooth and pliable, with a slightly sticky feel. If it’s too dry, you can add a little more butter or egg to bring it together.
When rolling out the dough, make sure to use a light touch and even pressure to get a consistent thickness. This will help your cookies to bake evenly and prevent them from becoming too thick or thin.
Finally, keep an eye on your cookies as they bake, as the baking time may vary depending on the size and shape of your cutouts. You want to catch them when they’re golden brown and still soft in the center.
Pro Tips & Tricks
To take your soft Christmas Cookies to the next level, try these pro tips and tricks:
- Use high-quality ingredients, such as real butter and pure vanilla extract, to get the best flavor out of your cookies.
- Don’t overbake your cookies – this will help them to stay soft and chewy.
- Experiment with different add-ins, such as sprinkles, chocolate chips, or nuts, to give your cookies a unique twist.
- Try using different types of flour, such as bread flour or cake flour, to change the texture of your cookies.
- Use a light touch when rolling out the dough to prevent it from becoming too thin or thick.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make soft Christmas Cookies that are sure to impress your friends and family. So, don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and techniques! For more holiday recipe ideas, check out our Holiday Bacon Appetizers recipe.
Storage & Freezing
Once your soft Christmas Cookies are baked and cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cookies for up to 2 months, either before or after baking.
To freeze the cookies, simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until they’re frozen solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer.
When you’re ready to serve the cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees F (180 degrees C) for a few minutes.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about soft Christmas Cookies:
- Q: Can I use a stand mixer to make the dough?
- A: Yes, you can use a stand mixer to make the dough. Simply cream the butter and sugar together, then add the eggs and vanilla extract, and finally mix in the flour mixture.
- Q: Can I substitute egg whites for eggs?
- A: Yes, you can substitute egg whites for eggs, but keep in mind that the cookies may be slightly more dense and chewy.
- Q: Is there an associated frosting recipe?
- A: Yes, you can use a simple powdered sugar frosting or a royal icing to decorate your cookies. You can also experiment with different flavorings, such as almond extract or lemon zest, to give your frosting a unique twist.
- Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 2 months.
- Q: How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
- A: To prevent the cookies from spreading too much, make sure to chill the dough for at least 2 hours before baking, and use a light touch when rolling out the dough.
- Q: Can I use different types of sugar?
- A: Yes, you can use different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or turbinado sugar, to give your cookies a unique flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Here is the approximate nutritional information for one soft Christmas Cookie:
- Calories: 385 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 17g
- Sugar: 22g
Please note that this is an approximate calculation and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Conclusion
And there you have it – a simple and delicious recipe for soft Christmas Cookies that’s sure to become a new favorite. With their soft, chewy texture and sweet, festive flavor, these cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holiday season.
So, go ahead and give this recipe a try – we’re sure you’ll love it! And don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes if you make it. Happy baking, and happy holidays!
Did you make this? Pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes!
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl; set aside.
- Beat sugar and butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Beat first egg into butter mixture. Beat second egg into mixture along with vanilla extract; add flour mixture and stir until dough is just combined.
- Wrap dough and chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
- Roll out dough on a clean floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out shapes using Christmas cookie cutters; arrange them on the prepared cookie sheets. Gather scraps and repeat this step.
- Bake in batches in the preheated oven until edges are golden, about 6 to 8 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet briefly before removing to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or decorating.
- Serve and enjoy!