A detailed, foolproof guide for soft centers, crisp edges, and perfect decorating
When people think of Christmas cookies, classic sugar cookies almost always come to mind. They are timeless, festive, and perfect for decorating. This recipe and method will give you sugar cookies that hold their shape, taste buttery and rich, and stay soft for days.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¾ cups all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For simple icing (optional):
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring if desired
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step takes about 2 to 3 minutes and is key to soft cookies. Do not rush it. Creaming adds air and creates the perfect texture.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing or the cookies may become tough.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step is essential. Chilled dough prevents spreading and helps the cookies keep their shape.
Step 5: Roll and Cut
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a parchment lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes. The edges should be set but not browned. The centers may look slightly underdone, which is exactly what you want for soft cookies.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Icing
In a bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more milk for thinner icing or more powdered sugar for thicker icing.
Step 8: Decorate and Enjoy
Once cookies are completely cool, decorate with icing, sprinkles, or sanding sugar. Allow icing to set before stacking or storing.
Storage Tips
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
- Layer cookies with parchment paper to protect decorations
- These cookies also freeze well before or after decorating
Final Thoughts
These classic Christmas sugar cookies are more than a recipe. They are a tradition. Perfect for family baking days, neighbor gifts, and holiday gatherings, they bring comfort, creativity, and joy into every kitchen.
Happy baking and Merry Christmas 🎄🍪