Description
Hello, holiday bakers! Are you ready to dive into a world of warmth and sweetness with our Soft Christmas Cookies? This recipe brings you everything festive and cozy about the holidays, with cookies that melt in your mouth and spread joy with every bite. Whether you’re baking with loved ones or whipping up treats to share, these Soft Christmas Cookies will fill your home with holiday cheer. Let’s make this season extra sweet with cookies that are as soft as snowflakes!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookies rise.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – The secret to a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens and adds structure.
- 2 large eggs – Binds and adds moisture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds a warm, comforting flavor.
- ½ teaspoon almond extract – Enhances the Christmas cookie vibe with a subtle nutty note.
- 4 tablespoons milk – Adds moisture to create a smooth, pliable dough.
For the Icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar – Ensures a smooth, sweet icing.
- 4 tablespoons milk – Creates the perfect consistency for icing.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor depth to the icing.
- Food coloring and sprinkles (optional) – Adds festive flair and makes each cookie unique!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even rise and consistent texture throughout each cookie.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Be sure the butter is softened, as this helps create a smooth, creamy consistency that’s essential for soft cookies.
4. Add the Eggs and Extracts
Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined. These add a rich flavor base, and the almond extract gives a hint of holiday warmth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients with Milk
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. If the dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
6. Roll and Cut the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use festive cookie cutters to shape the dough into stars, trees, snowflakes, or any design you like!
7. Bake the Cookies
Place the cookies on your prepared baking sheets and bake for 6-8 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Prepare the Icing and Decorate
In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add food coloring if desired. Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe the icing on top and decorate with sprinkles.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Chill the Dough: If your dough is sticky, chilling it makes rolling and cutting easier.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake until edges are lightly golden for a soft, tender cookie.
- Use High-Quality Butter and Vanilla: The butter and vanilla are key to a rich flavor, so use high-quality ingredients for the best results.