Introduction
The holiday season is here, and what better way to spread joy and cheer than by baking delicious Christmas cookies for your loved ones? Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, we’ve got you covered with some of our favorite Christmas cookie recipes and baking tips that are sure to impress.
1. Classic Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating.
2. Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and peppermint extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and roll them in powdered sugar.
- Place the dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Baking Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for best results.
- Chill the dough before baking to prevent spreading.
- Don’t overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies.
- Experiment with different cookie shapes and decorations to add a festive touch.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
With these mouthwatering Christmas cookie recipes and helpful baking tips, you’ll be able to create delectable treats that will fill your home with the sweet aroma of the holiday season. Enjoy baking and making cherished memories with your loved ones!