Christmas is just around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about what treats you’ll be whipping up for the holiday season. Sugar cookies are a classic favorite, and this easy recipe will help you make perfectly chewy and delicious cookies that are sure to impress your friends and family.
With just a few simple ingredients and an 8×8 pan, you can make a batch of these cookies in no time. So why not get into the holiday spirit and start baking? Here’s everything you need to know to make these easy Christmas sugar cookies.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Sprinkles, for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Press the dough into the prepared pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Cool the cookies completely in the pan before slicing into squares and serving.
- If desired, decorate with sprinkles before serving.
Nutritional Information:
Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 65mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 1g
Cooking Time:
20-25 minutes
Equipment:
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Serving Suggestions:
These Christmas sugar cookies are perfect on their own or with a glass of cold milk. They’re also great for sharing at holiday parties or giving as gifts.
Variations:
You can customize these cookies by adding different mix-ins such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit. You can also switch up the shape and use cookie cutters to make festive holiday shapes.
Substitutions:
- You can use salted butter instead of unsalted, but be sure to adjust the amount of added salt accordingly.
- If you don’t have granulated sugar, you can use brown sugar instead.
- You can use gluten-free flour to make these cookies gluten-free.
Storage:
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Tips:
- Be sure to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy to ensure a chewy texture.
- Make sure to let the cookies cool completely in the pan before slicing to ensure they hold their shape.
- If you’re using sprinkles, be sure to add them before the cookies cool completely so they stick.
Notes:
You can double the recipe and bake in a 9×13 inch pan for a larger batch of cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
- Can I freeze these cookies?
- Can I use a different size pan?
Yes, you can make these cookies up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Yes, you can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Yes, you can use a larger or smaller pan, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Personal Thoughts:
These easy Christmas sugar cookies are a must-try during the holiday season. They’re simple to make and taste delicious, making them the perfect treat to share with loved ones. The recipe is also easily customizable, so you can switch it up if you’re feeling adventurous. Give them a try and let me know what you think!