Christmas Powdered Sugar Cookies
Christmas Powdered Sugar Cookies: The Ultimate Holiday Treat
Ah, Christmas! A time of joy, laughter, and, of course, delicious treats that bring the family together. Among the myriad of festive delicacies, Christmas Powdered Sugar Cookies stand out as a true classic. With their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle sweetness, these cookies are perfect not just for holiday gatherings but also cozy weeknight dinners or a weekend baking session with your loved ones.
The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the home creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making this recipe a family favorite that you’ll cherish for years. Imagine biting into a cookie that’s soft yet slightly crunchy on the edges, dusted with a generous coat of powdered sugar that tastes like a cloud of sweet bliss. That’s what you get with these magical Christmas cookies!
Background & Origin
The roots of Christmas cookies can be traced back to various ancient cultures that celebrated the holiday season with baked goods, often decorated to symbolize joy and festivity. The tradition of sugar cookies, in particular, blossomed in the United States during the holiday season, becoming a beloved favorite due to their versatility and ease of decoration.
What makes this version special is its simplicity—it’s a straightforward recipe that yields irresistibly tender cookies, ideal for budding bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Did you know that sugar cookies were originally shaped using decorative molds or impressed with designs? This made them not only delicious but delightful to look at, a practice we still enjoy today during the holiday season.
Ingredients
Great news—these cookies require just a handful of basic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s at room temperature)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for coating
Note: For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth dough.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Baking these delightful Christmas Powdered Sugar Cookies is as easy as pie! Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C)—this ensures your cookies bake evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. You want this mixture to be creamy and thick.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, salt, and baking powder together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. The dough should be thick but manageable.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them room to spread.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden—don’t overbake for a tender texture!
- Let them cool for a few minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while still warm. This creates a delightful, sweet coating.
- Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Tip: For perfectly round cookies, you can gently reshape them while they’re still warm!
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes
- How to improve flavor: Use high-quality vanilla extract or try adding a hint of almond extract for an unexpected twist.
- Texture tricks: Ensure the butter is truly softened but not melted, for the right consistency.
- What NOT to do: Don’t overmix once you add the dry ingredients; this keeps the cookies tender.
- Helpful shortcuts: Freeze rolled cookie balls for quick baking. Just add a couple of extra minutes to baking time!
- Prep-ahead hacks: Prepare the dough a day in advance and chill it until you’re ready to bake.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to customize these cookies? Here are some ideas:
- Vegan: Substitute the egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend, making sure to include a binding agent like xanthan gum.
- Low-carb: Use almond flour and a low-carb sweetener like erythritol.
- Kid-friendly: Let the little ones decorate with sprinkles or colored sugar before baking.
- Extra creamy: Add a bit of cream cheese for a richer flavor.
- Spicy: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger for a festive kick!
- Budget-friendly: Use ingredients you already have at home where possible.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delicious on their own, but for a festive touch, serve them with:
- Beverages: Hot chocolate, eggnog, or a warm glass of milk.
- Sides: A fruit salad to balance the sweetness or a simple green salad for contrast.
- Plating ideas: Stack them neatly on a festive plate and dust with a touch of extra powdered sugar for a delightful presentation.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- How long it lasts in the fridge: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezer-friendly instructions: Place baked cookies in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.
- Best reheating method: Simply enjoy them at room temperature. If desired, warm slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
- Meal-prep options: Prepare the dough in advance and freeze before baking.
Nutrition & Health Info
These delightful cookies are around 90 calories each, alongside 1g of protein. For a lighter version, consider using reduced sugar or swapping ingredients to lower calories while retaining flavor.
FAQ Section
Can I prepare Christmas Powdered Sugar Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate.How do I thicken/thin the sauce?
You can use more flour for thickening or a touch of milk for thinning in frosting.Ingredient substitutions?
Yes, as mentioned above, there are plenty of alternatives for dietary needs.Can I double or halve the recipe?
Yes, simply adjust the measurements according to your preferences.What cookware is best?
A standard baking sheet is perfect; just make sure it’s lined with parchment paper.Can I make it dairy-free or meat-free?
Definitely! Substitute with vegan ingredients as specified.What sides go well with it?
Pair with beverages like coffee or tea for a lovely treat.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and sharing these Christmas Powdered Sugar Cookies as much as I do! They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, family traditions, or just a tasty treat for yourself. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Please leave a comment, rate the recipe, and share your delightful cookie creations on social media. Happy baking!
Christmas Powdered Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, salt, and baking powder together.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let them cool for a few minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while still warm.
- Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
