Christmas Sugar Cookies

Directions to follow

Here’s how to create these mouth-watering cookies step-by-step:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this mixture aside.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
Add egg and extracts: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully combined.
Combine mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Chill the dough: Roll the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use Christmas-themed cookie cutters to create fun shapes and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Decorate: Sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles on top as desired.
Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Best ways to enjoy it

These Christmas Sugar Cookies are versatile and perfect for various occasions! Serve them on a festive platter at your holiday gatherings, package them in decorative boxes for gifts, or simply enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa. You can also use them to create a fun cookie decorating party where everyone can showcase their creativity! Pair them with warm beverages like coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.

How to store & freeze

To keep your Christmas Sugar Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to one week if kept properly. If you’d like to freeze them, make sure they are completely cooled, and then layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months! When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature and add fresh decorations if desired.

Helpful cooking tips

For perfect sugar cookies every time, keep these tips in mind:

Make sure your butter is softened, but not melted—it should be pliable and easy to cream with sugar.
Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the dough firm up, preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Invest in a good set of cookie cutters to create various shapes. This adds a personal touch that everyone will love!

Creative twists

While the classic version of these cookies is unbeatable, feel free to experiment! Try adding citrus zest for a bright flavor, or substitute some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty twist. You can also incorporate different extracts, such as peppermint or coconut, to surprise your taste buds. Additionally, consider using royal icing instead of colored sugar for more intricate designs.

Your questions answered

What is the prep time for Christmas Sugar Cookies?
The total prep time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the chilling time.

Can I substitute butter for margarine?
Yes, you can use margarine in place of butter; just be aware that it may affect the flavor and texture slightly.