Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out? These Christmas Celebration Cookies are exactly what your holiday needs. They bring the magic of the season right into your kitchen. You will love how easy they are to make with your family.
Nothing beats the smell of fresh butter cookies on a cold winter day. These cookies are soft, sweet, and perfectly golden. They are designed for making memories and sharing treats. Grab your favorite cookie cutters and let’s get started.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
You will love how these cookies hold their shape perfectly. They are ideal for holiday baking with little helpers. This recipe uses simple pantry staples you likely already have. They are soft, buttery, and melt in your mouth.
These cookies are great for gifting to neighbors and friends. They look professional but are beginner-friendly and simple to master. Your holiday guests will love the classic flavor. It is a reliable recipe you will use every year.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making these Christmas Celebration Cookies is a simple, joy-filled process. You just mix, chill, and cut out your favorite shapes. The dough is very forgiving for beginner bakers. You can even make the dough ahead of time to save energy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These cookies use fresh, simple ingredients for the best flavor.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups royal icing
- 2 tablespoons festive sprinkles
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide dough into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut into desired holiday shapes using cookie cutters and place on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are barely golden.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before decorating with royal icing and sprinkles.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Set these out on a festive platter for your holiday party. They look beautiful next to a mug of hot cocoa. You can also gift them in pretty tins to neighbors. Your friends will love the personal touch. Serve them at your next cookie swap for a guaranteed hit.
Storage & Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container for five days. You can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Just wait to ice them until you are ready to serve. This makes holiday prep much easier for you. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the chilling time for the dough.
- Flour your surface well to prevent sticking.
- Use room temperature eggs for a smoother dough.
- Roll the dough to a uniform thickness for even baking.
- For Thanksgiving, use leaf and pumpkin cookie cutters.
- Add a tiny pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Wait for cookies to be completely cool before icing.
- Double the batch if you are feeding a large crowd.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Add lemon zest to the dough for a bright, fresh twist.
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a friendly dietary option.
Common Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can keep the dough in the fridge for two days. This is perfect for stress-free holiday entertaining. Just let it soften slightly before rolling.
How do I know when they are done?
Look for the edges to be just barely golden. The centers should still look pale. They will firm up as they cool on the rack.
Will kids enjoy making these?
Absolutely, kids love using the cookie cutters. It is a fun, hands-on activity for the whole family. They will love adding the colorful sprinkles.
I hope these cookies bring a little extra sparkle to your holiday season. Enjoy every sweet moment with your loved ones in the kitchen. Happy baking!
— Lidia
Christmas Celebration Cookies
Ingredients
- 3 cups all -purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon sal t
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg , room temperature
- 1 tablespoon whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups royal icing
- 2 tablespoons festive sprinkles
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide dough into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut into desired holiday shapes using cookie cutters and place on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are barely golden.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before decorating with royal icing and sprinkles.
