Christmas cookies, a beloved holiday tradition, are a symbol of warmth, joy, and togetherness during the festive season. These delightful treats come in a variety of shapes, flavors, and decorations, adding a touch of sweetness and magic to the holiday celebrations.
The heart of Christmas cookies is the joy they bring to kitchens around the world. Families and friends gather to bake, decorate, and share these delectable creations. Whether it’s classic sugar cookies, gingerbread men, or intricate frosted designs, each cookie is a labor of love that reflects the spirit of the season.
In this festive exploration, we’ll dive into the world of Christmas cookies, exploring the history, variety, and the many ways these treats are enjoyed during the holiday season. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, we’ll provide insights, tips, and inspiration to help you create your own batch of Christmas cookies. These delightful creations are perfect for sharing with loved ones, leaving out for Santa on Christmas Eve, or gifting as a token of your holiday spirit.
Prepare to embark on a sweet and joyful journey as we celebrate the magic of Christmas cookies. Whether you’re enjoying them by the fireplace, at a holiday gathering, or as a special gift, these cookies are a cherished tradition that spreads the warmth and sweetness of the season to all. 🍪🎄✨
Ingredients:
For the Sugar Cookies:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Royal Icing:
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons meringue powder
- 3 tablespoons warm water
- Gel food coloring (various colors)
- Edible sprinkles or decorations (optional)
Instructions:
For the Sugar Cookies:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
- In another large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and pure vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, and continue to beat until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until the dough forms. If the dough is too crumbly, you can use your hands to knead it into a smooth ball.
- Divide the dough into two portions, flatten each into a disc, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up the dough.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes, and transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges of the cookies start to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Royal Icing:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar and meringue powder.
- Add warm water a little at a time and mix until the icing reaches a smooth and thick consistency. You can adjust the water or sugar as needed for the desired consistency.
- Divide the icing into separate bowls and add gel food coloring to create various colors.
- Use a piping bag or a small spoon to decorate your cooled cookies with the colored royal icing. You can add edible sprinkles or decorations at this stage, too.
- Allow the icing to set and harden before storing your decorated sugar cookies in an airtight container.