Name: Deliciously Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (The foundation of your cookies; it gives them structure and softness.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Helps the cookies rise for that perfect soft texture.); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (Adds a bit of extra lightness to your delightful Christmas Sugar Cookies.); 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (Ensures a rich, creamy base and buttery flavor.); 1 1/2 cups white sugar (Sweetens the cookies beautifully for that festive taste.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Infuses a warm, familiar flavor that delights all ages.); 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (Adds a subtle nutty note for added complexity.); 3 to 4 tablespoons milk (Adjust as needed for perfect dough consistency.); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.); colored sugar or sprinkles (Add a pop of color and festive cheer to your cookies!)

The sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, instantly transporting me back to cozy holiday gatherings. There's something undeniably special about making Christmas Sugar Cookies, a recipe that not only captures the joy of the season but also brings people together in the kitchen. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, these delightful treats are perfect for busy days when you still want a homemade touch. Plus, the fun of decorating them with colorful sugar or sprinkles adds an extra layer of excitement for everyone involved! Join me in embracing the festive spirit by whipping up a batch of these irresistible cookies—did I mention they’re a hit for cookie exchanges too? What festive memories will you create while baking them?

Why are Christmas Sugar Cookies irresistible?

Delightful Flavor: These cookies boast a soft, buttery texture with hints of vanilla and almond that melt in your mouth.

Quick Prep: In just 30 minutes, you'll go from mixing to munching, making them a perfect choice for busy holiday schedules.

Customizable Fun: Get creative with colorful sprinkles or unique toppings—each batch can reflect your festive spirit!

Nostalgic Tradition: Baking Christmas Sugar Cookies can become a cherished holiday ritual, creating joyful memories with family and friends.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether you're bringing them to a party or exchanging with neighbors, these cookies are sure to impress!

For more holiday treats, check out my classic gingerbread cookies or whip up a batch of peppermint bark.

Christmas Sugar Cookies Ingredients

Get ready to bake some festive magic with these essential ingredients!

For the Cookie Dough

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of your cookies; it gives them structure and softness.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise for that perfect soft texture.
½ teaspoon baking powder – Adds a bit of extra lightness to your delightful Christmas Sugar Cookies.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Ensures a rich, creamy base and buttery flavor.
1 ½ cups white sugar – Sweetens the cookies beautifully for that festive taste.
1 egg – Binds the ingredients together for a deliciously chewy result.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, familiar flavor that delights all ages.
½ teaspoon almond extract – Adds a subtle nutty note for added complexity.
3 to 4 tablespoons milk – Adjust as needed for perfect dough consistency.
½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

For Decorating

Colored sugar or sprinkles – Add a pop of color and festive cheer to your cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This will ensure it's perfectly hot when your Christmas Sugar Cookies are ready to bake. While the oven heats up, gather your mixing bowls and baking sheets, setting the stage for your cookie-making adventure.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, stir together 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture is essential for the structure of your cookies. Once combined, set it aside to use later, letting the baking magic begin in your kitchen!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of white sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3 to 5 minutes. Aim for a light, fluffy texture, which is key for achieving the perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies. This is where your delicious cookies start to take shape!

Step 4: Mix in Liquids
Beat in 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract into the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well combined. The aroma of the extracts will begin to fill your kitchen, creating that warm holiday spirit as you prepare your dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually blend the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. If the dough seems too crumbly, add milk a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together but is not sticky. Your Christmas Sugar Cookies dough should feel smooth and soft, ready for shaping!

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them onto ungreased cookie sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each. Make sure the dough balls are evenly spaced—this allows your Christmas Sugar Cookies to bake evenly and achieve that perfect shape without merging together.

Step 7: Flatten and Decorate
Flatten each dough ball using the bottom of a glass or your hands to create a uniform shape. Sprinkle colored sugar or festive sprinkles on top of each cookie for decoration, adding a pop of color and holiday cheer. This step is where your creativity shines, making each cookie uniquely festive!

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the decorated cookie sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch closely as the edges of your Christmas Sugar Cookies turn lightly golden. Do not overbake; you want the center to remain soft and chewy—a delightful treat to sink your teeth into!

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, gently transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This step is important to let the cookies firm up while still preserving that soft texture—perfect for sharing with family and friends.

What to Serve with Christmas Sugar Cookies?

The holidays are about sharing and delight, and nothing pairs better with these sweet treats than a few seasonal favorites!

Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate brings a cozy contrast to the sweet crunch of sugar cookies. Top it with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Peppermint Bark: This festive candy offers a refreshing minty flavor that complements the buttery cookies beautifully. It's a delightful duo that captures the essence of the season.
Christmas Fruit Salad: Bursting with vibrant colors and fresh flavors, a fruit salad adds a refreshing touch to the table, balancing the sweetness of your cookies. The juicy fruits create an enjoyable texture contrast.
Creamy Eggnog: For the adults, a glass of spiced eggnog adds a rich creaminess that pairs perfectly, making your holiday gathering feel even more special.
Gingerbread Cookies: Go all out with a platter of gingerbread alongside your Christmas Sugar Cookies. The spices create a wonderful harmony of flavors that everyone will love.
Festive Spritz Cookies: Include an assortment of festive cookies for an irresistible holiday spread. Their different textures and tastes enhance the joy of cookie munching with family and friends.
Mulled Cider: Serve up warm mulled cider with delightful spices that tie beautifully into the holiday flavors, creating a merry experience with each sip alongside your cookies.
Shortbread Cookies: A buttery and crumbly shortbread cookie provides a different texture, enhancing the cookie feast with its simple elegance.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your cooled Christmas Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their delightful softness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy holiday cheer anytime!

Thawing: To thaw, simply leave the cookies at room temperature for a few hours or microwave them for about 10 seconds. Enjoy warm cookies once again!

Reheating: If desired, reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked taste.

Christmas Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to add your own twist to these festive cookies and discover delightful new flavors!

Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a cookie everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based butter alternative and almond milk for a delicious dairy-free version.
Chocolate Chip: Mix in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of finely chopped nuts for a satisfying crunch—walnuts or pecans work wonderfully!
Citrus Zest: Stir in the zest of one orange or lemon to brighten up the flavors with a fresh twist.
Spiced Version: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, inviting spice that perfectly complements the holiday spirit.
Minty Fresh: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter, making them perfect for a holiday treat.
Decorating Twist: Try using chocolate icing or caramel drizzle instead of colored sugar for a decadent finish.

These variations can elevate your Christmas Sugar Cookies, turning a classic recipe into a canvas for countless delicious creations. For more festive inspirations, consider making my classic gingerbread cookies or try out a batch of peppermint bark for your holiday gatherings!

Expert Tips for Christmas Sugar Cookies

Chill the Dough: Allow the dough to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.

Don’t Overmix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

Check for Doneness: When edges are golden but centers are soft, it’s time to take them out. Overbaking will result in dry Christmas Sugar Cookies.

Decorate Quickly: Sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles while the cookies are still warm to ensure they stick well.

Storing Cookies: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—if they last that long!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. For even longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months; simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. If you'd like to take it a step further, you can also shape the cookie balls and freeze them, then bake straight from the freezer—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time. When you're ready to indulge, flatten, decorate, and bake as usual for soft, delicious cookies just like fresh from the oven!

Christmas Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for Christmas Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! All-purpose flour is the best choice for these cookies as it provides the right structure and softness. I recommend using a good-quality brand to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly fluffy and tender.

How should I store my Christmas Sugar Cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your cooled Christmas Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay deliciously soft for up to 1 week. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them!

Can I freeze Christmas Sugar Cookies? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your cookies, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or microwave for about 10 seconds to warm them up!

What if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is too crumbly, don’t worry! Just add milk one tablespoon at a time while mixing until the dough holds together but is not sticky. This will help bind your ingredients nicely and make shaping the cookies much easier!

Is there anything I should avoid for allergy considerations?
When making Christmas Sugar Cookies, keep in mind potential allergies to nuts or gluten. The almond extract could trigger nut allergies in sensitive individuals, so you can omit it or replace it with extra vanilla extract. Always double-check with your guests to ensure they're safe while enjoying your festive treats.

How can I make my cookies even more festive?
Absolutely! Let your creativity flow by sprinkling colored sugar or festive sprinkles immediately after flattening your dough balls. You might even consider adding edible glitter or using cookie cutters to create fun shapes before baking. Each batch can be a unique holiday masterpiece!