Directions to follow

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat together the brown sugar and softened butter until the mixture is creamy and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
Dissolve the baking soda in hot water; then incorporate it along with the milk into the butter-sugar mixture.
Gradually blend in the dry ingredients, stirring just until a soft dough forms.
Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart. Flatten each slightly with the palm of your hand.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are just set and the centers look slightly underbaked. Allow them to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
For the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Mix in the vanilla extract, then gradually add in the sifted powdered sugar. Beat until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread or pipe the frosting onto each cookie. Feel free to decorate with holiday sprinkles or colored sugar for extra festive flair!

Best ways to enjoy it

Enjoy your Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies fresh out of the oven or cool, topped with frosting! Pair them with a glass of milk or a warm cup of cocoa for an irresistible treat. For festive gatherings, serve them on a decorative platter with a beautiful holiday backdrop or alongside a selection of other baked goods to create a cookie bar!

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them! Place the completely cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before serving!

Helpful cooking tips

Make sure your butter is truly softened, as this impacts the texture of your cookies.
For an even fluffier outcome, try chilling your dough slightly before baking; this helps prevent spreading.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the frosting by adding a touch of peppermint extract or lemon zest for a fun twist!

Creative twists

Feel free to get creative with your Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies! You can add citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the dough for a refreshing flavor. Try incorporating chopped nuts or holiday-themed sprinkles for visual appeal. If you’re looking for an alternative to cream cheese frosting, a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can be a delightful option!

FAQs

How long does it take to make these cookies?

The entire process, from preparation to baking, takes about one hour. Chilling the dough might extend this time slightly, depending on your preferences.

Can I substitute the cream cheese in the frosting?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can replace the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative or even a simple powdered sugar glaze.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can experiment with granulated sugar, though using brown sugar is what makes these cookies extra soft and chewy. If you prefer, you could blend half brown and half granulated for a unique flavor and texture!

With these Soft Christmas Sugar Cookies, you’re sure to spread joy and cheer this holiday season! Happy baking!