Christmas Sugar Cookies have been a cherished tradition in my family for years. These cookies are buttery, perfectly sweet, and topped with a deliciously rich buttercream frosting that transforms them into a festive delight. Whether for holiday gatherings or gifting, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the joy of baking these delightful treats!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Sugar Cookies

There are many reasons to adore these Christmas Sugar Cookies. First, they’re incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for holiday baking sessions with family. They’re versatile enough to be decorated as festive sugar cookies for various occasions. Plus, with their soft, buttery texture, they’re a hit among kids and adults alike. These cookies are not just delicious; they also allow for creative expression with Christmas-themed cookie decorating ideas. Finally, you can easily make easy Christmas sugar cookies that fit any dietary needs, such as vegan or gluten-free versions.

Ingredients for Christmas Sugar Cookies

Gather these items:

1 cup butter (softened)
1 ½ cups sugar
2 eggs
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup butter (softened)
16 ounce package powdered sugar
3 tablespoons half-and-half
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional)
Colored granulated sugar for topping (optional)

How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cream 1 cup butter with 1 ½ cups sugar, gradually adding the sugar and beating until light and fluffy. Add 2 eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract.
Step 2: Combine 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Add flour mixture to creamed butter mixture, stirring well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
Step 3: Work with one-fourth of the dough at a time, storing the remainder in the refrigerator. Roll dough to 1/4- to 1/8-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Cut with assorted cookie cutters and place on ungreased cookie sheets.
Step 4: Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 8 to 9 minutes. Cool cookies slightly on cookie sheets, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 5: Combine ½ cup softened butter and 1 (16-ounce) package powdered sugar, creaming until light and fluffy. Add 3 tablespoons half-and-half and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat until frosting reaches spreading consistency.
Step 6: Color frosting with food coloring if desired. Spread frosting onto cooled cookies. Sprinkle with colored granulated sugar if desired.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies

Keep these in mind:

These cookies will become the standard in your family for every holiday.
For a softer texture, ensure your butter is softened but not melted.
Experiment with unique flavors like almond or peppermint for a twist on classic sugar cookies for Christmas.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Sugar Cookies

These delightful cookies can be served in various ways. Consider arranging them on a festive platter alongside a warm cup of cocoa for a cozy treat. They also make perfect sugar cookie gift ideas for Christmas, beautifully packaged in a decorative box. Additionally, you could host a cookie decorating party, allowing everyone to personalize their cookies with different toppings and colors.

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How to Store and Reheat Christmas Sugar Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week this way. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just ensure they are completely cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Sugar Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies?

The secret lies in chilling the dough for at least 8 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to maintain their shape while baking, making them perfect for decorative holiday cookies.

Can I make Christmas Sugar Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to a week. This makes it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you need them during the busy holiday season.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Sugar Cookies?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your measurements are accurate and your butter is at the right temperature. Overmixing the dough can also lead to tough cookies, so mix just until combined.

Variations of Christmas Sugar Cookies You Can Try

There are countless variations to enjoy. Consider making vegan Christmas sugar cookie recipes by substituting eggs with applesauce or flaxseed. You can also create gluten-free Christmas sugar cookies using almond or coconut flour. For a festive twist, try adding zest from citrus fruits or spices like nutmeg to your dough.

For more tips on baking cookies, check out this baking guide. If you’re interested in gluten-free options, visit this resource for more information. Lastly, for creative decorating ideas, see this article.