These classic sugar cookies are a festive treat perfect for the holiday season. With their soft texture and sweet flavor, they are ideal for decorating with icing or enjoying plain.
This straightforward recipe requires basic ingredients and simple techniques, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. You can customize them with various toppings or flavors to make them your own.
Creating the Perfect Holiday Atmosphere
Setting the scene for your festive gathering can be just as important as the treats you serve. A red and green tablecloth instantly brings a cheerful vibe to any Christmas celebration.
Complement your beautifully decorated sugar cookies with holiday decorations like twinkling lights, garlands, and ornaments. These elements not only enhance the visual appeal but also evoke the spirit of the season.
Choosing Your Cookie Shapes
When it comes to sugar cookies, the shapes you choose can add a fun twist to your holiday festivities. Classic shapes like stars, trees, and snowflakes are always a hit.
These shapes are not only easily recognizable but also provide ample surface area for decorating. Let your creativity shine through with colorful icing and sprinkles, transforming each cookie into a unique masterpiece.
Decorating Techniques
The decoration process is where the magic happens. Start by preparing a variety of icing colors to match your holiday theme. Use piping bags for precise designs or simply spread icing with a spatula for a more rustic look.
Sprinkles can add a delightful crunch and a pop of color. Consider using edible glitter for an extra festive touch. Encourage friends and family to join in the decorating fun, making it a memorable activity.
Storage and Presentation
Once your cookies are decorated, proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay delicious for several days.
For presentation, arrange the cookies on a festive platter or tiered stand. This not only showcases your hard work but also invites guests to indulge in these sweet treats.
Making It a Family Tradition
Baking and decorating sugar cookies can become a cherished family tradition. Set aside a day each holiday season to gather in the kitchen, share stories, and create together.
As you make memories, consider trying out different flavors or decorations each year. This keeps the tradition fresh and exciting, ensuring everyone looks forward to this special time.
Sharing the Joy
Don’t forget to share your beautifully decorated cookies with friends and neighbors. A plate of homemade treats can brighten anyone’s day and spread holiday cheer.
Consider packaging some cookies in festive boxes or bags for easy gifting. A handwritten note can add a personal touch, making your gesture even more meaningful.
Easy Christmas Sugar Cookies Recipe
These sugar cookies are made with butter, sugar, flour, and eggs, resulting in a tender and delicious cookie. The recipe yields about 24 cookies and takes approximately 1 hour from start to finish.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar for decoration
- Icing or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well blended.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten each ball slightly and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake: Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let cool on wire racks.
- Decorate: Once cooled, decorate with icing or sprinkles if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 20g