Soft Christmas Cookies
Soft Christmas cookies are a timeless treat that brings comfort and joy during the festive season. Every year, I look forward to baking a batch of these delightful cookies, enjoying the aroma that fills my kitchen. Their soft, chewy texture paired with a buttery sweetness creates a wonderful indulgence, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fireplace. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, ensuring that even novice bakers can whip up something special without a hitch.
Why you’ll love this dish
There’s magic in these Soft Christmas Cookies, and it’s not just the taste. They are quick to make, budget-friendly, and above all, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike. The simplicity of this recipe allows for plenty of creative flair—whether it’s adding chocolate chips or dusting with powdered sugar, everyone can personalize their batch. Perfectly fitting for holiday celebrations, cookie exchanges, or simply as a delightful after-dinner treat, these cookies hold a special place at the table.
“Absolutely loved these cookies! They are soft, flavorful, and disappeared in minutes at our holiday party. I’ll be making these every year!” — A satisfied baker
Preparing Soft Christmas Cookies
This recipe is straightforward, with just a few easy steps that lead to delectable results. Starting with the dry ingredients, you’ll create a light and fluffy dough by creaming the butter and sugar. The best part? You can have these cookies in the oven in no time. Simply mix, scoop, and bake!
What you’ll need
To get started, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (optional)
Feel free to substitute unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil if desired, and experiment with different types of chocolate chips for a unique flavor!
Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract to combine well.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just incorporated.
- If you’re feeling indulgent, stir in the chocolate chips at this point.
- Drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Soft Christmas Cookies can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Serve them warm with a glass of milk or alongside a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat. Consider sprinkling them with powdered sugar or drizzling with melted chocolate for a festive touch. They also make a sweet addition to gift boxes or as a special treat for guests.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to prolong their shelf life, you can freeze them! Simply layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes to get that fresh-baked feel.
Tips to make
For the best outcome, ensure your butter is softened at room temperature—this makes all the difference in achieving that fluffy texture. Don’t overmix once you add the dry ingredients; combine just until they’re no longer visible to maintain softness. And for an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
Creative twists
Feel free to shake things up by incorporating different flavors! Swap half of the all-purpose flour for almond flour for a nutty flavor or use maple syrup instead of sugar for a unique twist. Remember, these cookies are a blank canvas—add dried fruits, nuts, or even sprinkles according to your preference.
Common questions
What is the prep and bake time for these cookies?
The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and baking takes around 8-10 minutes, so you can have a fresh batch ready in under 30 minutes!
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be substituted, but it may result in a denser cookie. Consider using a mix of both for balance.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Look for lightly golden edges. If the center looks slightly soft, that’s okay! They will continue to firm up as they cool on the sheet.
With this recipe, you’re set to create delicious Soft Christmas Cookies that will delight everyone during the holidays. Happy baking!
Soft Christmas Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just incorporated.
- If desired, stir in the chocolate chips.
- Drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
