Ah, Christmas butter cookies! Just saying the name makes my heart skip a beat! There’s something so magical about the aroma of these sweet, buttery delights wafting through the house during the holiday season. It takes me back to my childhood, when I would spend hours in the kitchen with my grandma, rolling out dough and cutting it into festive shapes.
We’d sprinkle them with colorful sugar and giggle as we decorated them with icing.
Trust me, these cookies are not just treats; they’re a tradition! You’ll want to have a batch ready for holiday gatherings, cozy nights by the fire, or just because you deserve a little sweetness in your life. So, let’s dive into making the best Christmas butter cookies ever!
To whip up these delightful Christmas butter cookies, you’ll need some simple ingredients that come together to create that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love. Here’s what you’ll need:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Make sure your butter is softened; this is key for that creamy, smooth consistency when you mix it with the sugars. Trust me, it makes a difference!
How to Prepare Christmas Butter Cookies
Making Christmas butter cookies is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with warmth and festive cheer! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This makes cleanup a breeze!
Mixing Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until it’s light and fluffy—oh, the smell is heavenly! Then, add in the vanilla extract and mix well to combine all that sweetness.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and ensures your cookies rise beautifully. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix; we want tender cookies!
Forming Cookies
Now comes the fun part! Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between because they’ll spread a little. Flatten each ball gently with a fork or your hands to give them that classic cookie shape.
Baking and Cooling
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell divine! Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them set just right!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Delightfully festive flavor that captures the spirit of the holidays.
Easy preparation, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
A classic holiday treat that brings back sweet memories.
Customizable with sprinkles or icing for a personal touch.
Perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holiday season.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Christmas butter cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips! First, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. Want to switch it up? Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for that extra holiday warmth, or mix in some chocolate chips for a tasty twist! Don’t forget, decorating with icing or colorful sprinkles adds a festive flair that makes these cookies even more special. Enjoy the process and have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. Typically, each Christmas butter cookie contains around 120 calories, 8g of fat, 1g of protein, and 12g of carbohydrates. Enjoy these treats in moderation as part of your holiday celebrations!
FAQ About Christmas Butter Cookies
Got questions about these delightful Christmas butter cookies? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up:
Can I use different types of flour? Absolutely! While I love using all-purpose flour, you can experiment with almond or gluten-free flour for a twist. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture a bit.
How should I store these cookies? Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully for up to two months!
Can I add mix-ins? Definitely! Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit can add a fun twist to your Christmas butter cookies. Just fold them in gently after mixing the dough.
What if my dough is too sticky? If your dough feels sticky, just sprinkle a little flour on your hands and work surface while rolling. Chilling the dough can also help make it easier to handle.
Are these cookies suitable for gifting? Yes, they make wonderful gifts! Just package them in a festive tin or box, and you’ve got a sweet present that’s sure to spread holiday cheer.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Christmas butter cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them longer, simply pop them in the freezer! Just wrap each cookie individually or place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last for about two months. When you’re ready to indulge again, let them thaw at room temperature. No need to reheat—just enjoy them as they are, with that lovely buttery taste still intact!
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas butter cookies are delightful on their own, but why not elevate your experience? Serve them alongside a steaming cup of hot cocoa or a fragrant spiced tea for the ultimate cozy treat! They’re also perfect for holiday gatherings, so consider arranging them on a festive platter with other treats like peppermint bark or gingerbread cookies. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a holiday dessert that’s sure to impress!
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