Description
Festive Holiday Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
Red and green sprinkles
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions
Preheat & Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream the Butter & Sugar:
In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
Add Sprinkles:
Fold in festive red and green sprinkles to the dough.
Shape the Cookies:
Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
Bake:
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Decorate:
Once cooled, dust cookies with powdered sugar for a snowy holiday look!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories: 120 kcal per cookie
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect cookies every time. First, ensure your butter is truly softened at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes; this is crucial for proper creaming. Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar on medium-high speed for a full 3-4 minutes until pale and fluffy. This incorporates air for a lighter texture. When adding the dry ingredients, mix on low speed just until no white streaks remain. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough cookies. For uniform cookies, use a #40 cookie scoop or a rounded tablespoon measure. Bake one sheet at a time on the center rack for even browning.
Serving Suggestions
Present these festive cookies on a tiered stand for a holiday party. Pair them with a mug of hot cocoa, spiced apple cider, or a glass of cold milk. For a gourmet touch, serve alongside a small bowl of vanilla icing or melted chocolate for dipping. They also make wonderful edible gifts; stack them in a clear cellophane bag tied with a ribbon or package them in a decorative tin.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy, mix in egg and vanilla. Whisk dry ingredients separately, then combine with wet ingredients. Fold in sprinkles, scoop into balls, and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Cool and dust with powdered sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can refrigerate the dough, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 days. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before scooping and baking.
Why are my cookies spreading too much? This usually means your butter was too warm or your dough wasn’t chilled. If the dough feels sticky, refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes before baking.
Can I freeze the baked cookies? Absolutely. Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
How do I keep the powdered sugar from melting? Dust the cookies only after they are completely cool. Store them in a single layer or with parchment between layers to prevent smudging.
Can I use other extracts? Yes! Almond or lemon extract (use 1/2 tsp) are delicious alternatives to vanilla for a different festive flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using melted or cold butter, which ruins the texture.
- Overmixing the dough after adding flour, which creates tough cookies.
- Placing dough balls on warm baking sheets, causing them to spread prematurely.
- Overbaking; cookies continue to set on the hot sheet. Remove them when the edges are just set.
- Adding sprinkles to the mixer; always fold them in by hand to prevent color bleeding.
Conclusion
These Festive Holiday Sugar Cookies are a simple, joyful project that captures the spirit of the season. With their buttery base, cheerful sprinkles, and snowy dusting, they are as delightful to make as they are to share. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a timeless treat that will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Happy baking!