These festive Christmas cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations and gatherings. With a variety of shapes and decorations, they bring joy and sweetness to any occasion.
The recipe is simple and allows for creativity in decorating. You can use different icing colors, sprinkles, and toppings to make each cookie unique.
Creating the Perfect Festive Cookie Platter
When it comes to holiday gatherings, a beautifully arranged platter of festive cookies can truly elevate the celebration.
Each cookie, shaped like stars, trees, or snowflakes, adds a touch of whimsy and cheer to the occasion.
The vibrant colors of icing and the sparkle of edible glitter make these treats not just delicious but also visually appealing.
Choosing the Right Shapes and Decorations
Selecting various shapes for your cookies is an excellent way to create a playful and inviting display.
Stars, trees, and snowflakes are classic choices that resonate with the holiday spirit.
Once baked, the real fun begins with decorating. Use colorful icing to bring each shape to life, adding sprinkles and edible glitter for that extra festive touch.
Setting the Scene for Your Cookie Display
The presentation of your cookie platter is just as important as the cookies themselves.
A cozy setting with twinkling lights and holiday decorations can enhance the festive atmosphere.
Consider using a decorative platter or cake stand to showcase your cookies, and surround them with seasonal decorations for a warm and inviting look.
Tips for Baking and Decorating
Baking cookies can be a delightful activity, especially when preparing for the holidays.
Make sure to follow the recipe closely for the best results, ensuring your cookies are soft and chewy, perfect for decorating.
Once cooled, let your creativity shine through as you ice and embellish each cookie, making them unique.
Storing Your Festive Cookies
After the festivities, you might find yourself with leftover cookies.
These treats can be stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
They can be enjoyed later, allowing the holiday spirit to linger a little longer.
Sharing the Joy of Holiday Baking
Baking and decorating festive cookies is a wonderful way to bring friends and family together.
Consider hosting a cookie decorating party where everyone can contribute their own creative flair.
This not only makes for a fun activity but also creates lasting memories during the holiday season.
Easy Christmas Cookies Recipe
This recipe yields soft and chewy cookies that are ideal for decorating. The dough can be made in advance and chilled, making it convenient for holiday baking. The cookies can be enjoyed fresh or stored for later.
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
- 3 to 4 tablespoons milk
- Icing and decorations (sprinkles, colored sugar, etc.)
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.
- 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.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. If the dough is too dry, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches a workable consistency.
- Shape Cookies: Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place them onto ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake: Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let cool on wire racks.
- Decorate: Once cooled, decorate with icing and sprinkles as desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 21g