Name: Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 2 h 23 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

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Introduction to Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies

There’s something special about the season of giving, and baking Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies is like wrapping your love in each sweet bite. I can still remember the joy of spending evenings in the kitchen, which, to be honest, was a cozy escape from the holiday hustle. These cookies are not only easy to whip up, but they also melt in your mouth, making them a perfect treat for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create sweet memories this festive season.

Why You’ll Love This Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies

What’s not to love about Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies? They’re quick to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients. The best part? They turn out soft and tender, practically begging for a cozy cup of cocoa alongside. These cookies are also versatile; you can decorate them any way your heart desires. With just a bit of time and effort, you can create delicious treats that will warm the hearts of family and friends.

Ingredients for Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies

To create these delightful Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies, you only need a few key ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the cookies, providing structure and texture.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and become soft and fluffy.
Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness, enhancing the flavor of each bite.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and a delightful crunch on the edges of the cookies.
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter gives the cookies their rich flavor and tender texture, so be sure it’s at room temperature.
Eggs: They provide moisture and act as a binding agent, ensuring everything holds together beautifully.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla brings warmth and depth to the flavor, making each cookie taste homemade.

You can find these ingredients at any grocery store or consider ordering them online for convenience. Exact quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Get ready to turn your kitchen into a holiday wonderland!

How to Make Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by sifting together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Sifting is crucial as it removes lumps and aerates the flour, making your cookies light and fluffy. Once sifted, set this mixture aside for use later. Trust me; this step lays the groundwork for cookies that melt in your mouth!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this process helps to incorporate air and gives the cookies a delightful texture. Remember, using room temperature butter is key here; it blends better, resulting in those irresistibly soft Christmas sugar cookies.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Now it’s time to bring your mix to life! Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step ensures even distribution throughout the dough. Next, pour in the vanilla extract, which adds a cozy warmth to the flavor. A steady pulse of the mixer will make this part easy, and you’ll love the smell wafting through your kitchen!

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Gently stir in the flour mixture into the creamed mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold the ingredients together until they are just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want that tender crumb that melts in your mouth. This is where the magic of Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies begins to happen, so treat the dough gently!

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Once combined, wrap your cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about two hours. Chilling allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to roll out later. Plus, resting the dough enhances the flavors while preventing your cookies from spreading too much during baking. Think of this as letting the dough relax before its big moment!

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and lightly grease two cookie sheets. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about a 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out festive shapes with your favorite cookie cutters and place them on the prepared sheets. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, just until the edges are golden. A sprinkle of colored sugar before baking can add that holiday sparkle!

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted; it blends better for a creamy texture.
Use festive cookie cutters to add joy and creativity to your cookies.
Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s essential for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Check your cookies while baking; oven temperatures can vary, and you want them just golden.
Customize your cookies with icing or sprinkles for a personal touch!

Equipment Needed

Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; any size will work.
Electric Mixer: While a hand mixer is great, a whisk can do the job too!
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accuracy; use any standard set.
Cookie Cutters: You can use festive shapes or even a glass if needed.
Baking Sheets: A couple of sheets are best; parchment paper can help with cleanup.

Variations of Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies

Chocolate Chip Addition: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a festive twist that your chocolate-loving family will adore.
Almond Extract: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor that’s perfect for holiday baking.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities without losing the softness.
Frosted Sugar Cookies: After baking, ice your cookies with cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.
Seasonal Sprinkles: Incorporate festive sprinkles into the dough or on top of the frosting to add a colorful, joyful touch.

Serving Suggestions for Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies

Pair with Hot Cocoa: Serve these delightful cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa for a heartwarming treat.
Festive Platter: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with holiday-themed decorations for a charming presentation.
Gift Baskets: Package cookies in festive boxes or bags for lovely homemade gifts during the holiday season.
Milk and Cookies: A classic pairing—offer a glass of cold milk to complement the sweetness of the cookies.
Holiday Gatherings: Bring these cookies to parties or potlucks as a memorable dessert everyone will love!

FAQs about Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies

As a fellow lover of baking, I know you might have some questions swirling around in that lovely mind of yours. Here, I’ve gathered a few common queries, along with my tried-and-true answers, to help you enjoy your Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies to the fullest.

Can I use colored sugar on Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely! Sprinkling colored sugar on your cookies before baking adds a festive touch that makes them beautiful and fun. It’s an easy step that children love to help with!

How should I store the cookies after baking?

Once cooled, store your Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week if you can resist devouring them all at once!

Is it possible to freeze these cookies?

You bet! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just make sure they’re fully cooled, then store them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.

What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?

If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixed with water as an alternative. This works well for maintaining moisture and texture!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Of course! The cookie dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days before rolling and baking. Just remember to wrap it tightly to keep it fresh!

Final Thoughts

As the holiday season unfolds, whipping up a batch of Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies can bring joy and warmth to your home. Each cookie is a sweet reminder of cherished moments spent in the kitchen, surrounded by laughter and love. Whether you’re decorating them with your little ones or sharing them at gatherings, these simple treats create delightful memories. So, let the aroma fill your space and the flavors dance on your palate, making every bite worth savoring. Embrace the spirit of the season with these melt-in-your-mouth cookies that truly celebrate the joy of giving and sharing.