Christmas Sugar Cookies That Stay Soft

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Christmas sugar cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Beat in the egg along with the vanilla and almond extracts until well combined.
5. Mix in the sour cream until incorporated.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined—don’t overmix!
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Flatten each ball slightly using the bottom of a glass or your palm.
9. Sprinkle with colored sugar or sprinkles, as desired.
10. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges only start to turn golden while the centers remain soft.
11. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These Christmas sugar cookies are perfect on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a few creative serving suggestions. Try pairing them with a glass of chilled milk or a warm cup of cocoa for a cozy treat. They also make a wonderful addition to any holiday dessert platter, accompanied by gingerbread men or peppermint bark. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a dollop of frosting on top for a festive twist!

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To keep your cookies soft and delicious for as long as possible, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you have leftovers, they can generally last for about one week. For long-term storage, consider freezing them. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Here are some pro tips for the best results with your Christmas sugar cookies:

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
• Don’t skip the sour cream; it’s the secret to keeping your cookies soft and moist!
• For perfectly shaped cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling.
• Feel free to use different extracts or flavored sugars to add a personal twist—try citrus zest or peppermint extract for variations.

Creative Twists

Looking to mix things up? Here are a few variations you could try with this basic recipe:

• Substitute the almond extract with peppermint or lemon for a new flavor profile.
• Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the dough for extra texture.
• Roll the cookies in cinnamon sugar instead of colored sugar for a warm, festive touch.
• Use themed cookie cutters to create fun shapes perfect for holiday parties.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for these cookies?
The preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional 10–12 minutes for baking.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter gives the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute if necessary. Just be mindful that it may affect the overall taste.

How do I know if my cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft. They will firm up as they cool, ensuring a soft bite!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking, or freeze it for longer storage. Just thaw before using.

These Christmas sugar cookies are bound to become a holiday tradition in your home, with their delightful softness and festive flair ensuring smiles all around. Happy baking!

Christmas Sugar Cookies

Delightful, soft, and chewy sugar cookies perfect for holiday gatherings, topped with colorful sprinkles to evoke the festive spirit of Christmas.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Baking

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use at room temperature for best results.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract Can be substituted with lemon or peppermint extract.
• 1/4 cup sour cream Key ingredient for softness.

For Decorating

• as needed colored sugar or sprinkles For a festive touch.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Beat in the egg along with the vanilla and almond extracts until well combined.
5. Mix in the sour cream until incorporated.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined—don’t overmix!
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Flatten each ball slightly using the bottom of a glass or your palm.
9. Sprinkle with colored sugar or sprinkles, as desired.

Baking

1. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges only start to turn golden while the centers remain soft.
2. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain softness for up to one week. For long-term storage, freeze cookies after cooling completely. When ready to use, thaw at room temperature.