Delicious Christmas Sugar Cookies
Why Sugar Cookies are the Perfect Holiday Treat
Christmas sugar cookies are more than just a dessert; they embody the spirit of the holiday season. Their soft, buttery texture and festive decorations make them a favorite among both kids and adults alike. These cookies not only bring joy to those who indulge in them but also provide a wonderful opportunity for family bonding as you decorate them together. Baking sugar cookies can become a cherished holiday tradition, offering a chance to create lasting memories while filling the home with delightful aromas.
Variations to Try
While the classic sugar cookie recipe is beloved, there are countless variations to explore. For those looking to add a twist, consider integrating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, aromatic flavor. Another delightful option is to incorporate citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to brighten the taste. You can also experiment with different toppings, including sprinkles, edible glitter, or even crushed candy canes for a festive touch. Each variation allows you to personalize your cookies, making them unique to your family s traditions.
Storage and Freshness Tips
To keep your Christmas sugar cookies fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Once the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to maintain their soft texture, consider placing a slice of bread in the container; the moisture from the bread helps to keep the cookies soft. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container. When you re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature, and they ll taste just as delightful as the day they were baked.
Healthier Alternatives
While these Christmas sugar cookies are a delightful treat, it s always possible to make healthier substitutions without sacrificing flavor. For a lighter version, consider using unsweetened applesauce instead of butter, which can reduce the overall fat content. You can also substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. Additionally, using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar can provide a different flavor profile and potentially lower the glycemic index of the cookies. These alternatives can help you enjoy your holiday treats with a little less guilt.
Engaging the Kids in Baking
Baking Christmas sugar cookies is a wonderful way to engage children in the kitchen. Not only does it help teach them basic cooking skills, but it also allows them to express their creativity when it comes to decorating. Involving kids in the baking process can lead to fun moments, laughter, and a sense of pride when they see their creations. From measuring ingredients to rolling out dough and applying frosting, children can take part at every step, making it a fun and educational experience that they will remember for years to come.
Conclusion
These Christmas sugar cookies are not just desserts; they are a celebration of the season, filled with opportunities for creativity and connection. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or venture into new flavor territories, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to faces young and old. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create delicious memories that will last long after the last cookie is gone!
These Christmas sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and topped with a delightful frosting. Perfect for holiday celebrations!
Cook time:
Total time:
Yield:36 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened (no substitutes)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups sifted confectioners sugar (must be sifted)
- 1 tablespoon milk (add more for spreading consistency)
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting
- 1 teaspoon food coloring
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed until light and fluffy.
- In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the butter mixture until well blended.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill for . Do not skip this step!
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper (do not grease).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters and place on cookie sheets, 2 inches apart.
- Bake for . Remove cookies to wire racks to cool completely before icing.
Frosting Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the sifted confectioners sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk. Add more milk as needed for the perfect spreading consistency.
- Whisk in the corn syrup and vanilla until the icing is smooth and glossy. If too thick, add a little more corn syrup.
- Divide the icing into multiple bowls for color variations and add food coloring to achieve desired shades.
- Apply icing over cookies with a brush or dip the tops into the icing. Allow to set on waxed paper.
Helpful Tips
You can substitute almond extract in the cookie dough and icing for a delightful flavor twist!
Nutritional Information
Approximate Information for One Serving:
- Calories: 140 cal
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 23 mg
- Sodium: 97 mg
- Potassium: 23 mg
- Total Carbs: 21 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 13 g
- Net Carbs: 20 g
- Vitamin A: 171 IU
- Calcium: 7 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
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