Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and of course, delicious treats. One of the quintessential items that grace holiday tables and cookie boxes during this time is none other than the delightful Christmas sugar cookies. These cookies are incredibly soft and chewy, and they radiate festive cheer with their charming red and green sanding sugar coating. What makes this Christmas Sugar Cookies recipe particularly appealing is its simplicity — there’s no chilling time required, making it a breeze to whip up a batch of these treats in no time. Whether you’re baking for a cookie swap, gifting them to friends and family, or simply enjoying a cozy day in the kitchen, these cookies promise a delightful experience for everyone involved.

The beautiful colors of the sanding sugar evoke a sense of holiday spirit, turning each cookie into a mini work of art. Plus, this recipe yields about 12 to 14 cookies, perfect for sharing or indulging on your own. You can even freeze the cookie dough or baked cookies for later, making them an excellent go-to treat for impromptu gatherings. The combination of vanilla and a hint of almond give these sugar cookies not just a wonderful festive look but also an inviting, delicious flavor that will have everyone reaching for more.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Sugar Cookies

Festive Appeal: The eye-catching red and green colors are perfect for the holiday season.
No Chilling Required: You can get your cookies in the oven quickly without waiting.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together for a deliciously soft and chewy cookie.
Perfect for Gifting: These cookies make a lovely addition to cookie boxes and gifts.
Freezing Option: You can freeze both the dough and the baked cookies.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into baking your Christmas sugar cookies, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF (177ºC). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that delightful soft texture. You’ll need a mixing bowl for the dough and a separate small bowl for whisking your dry ingredients. Having a whisk, measuring cups, and spoons on hand will make measuring your ingredients straightforward and fast.

It’s also a good idea to line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. A cookie scoop or tablespoon will help you portion your dough uniformly, allowing for consistent baking. Remember to gather the colorful sanding sugar in shallow bowls, as this will make rolling your cookie dough balls quick and mess-free. With everything set, you’re ready to embark on your chewy, sugar-filled journey!

Ingredients

3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
½ tsp cornstarch
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 ½ cups (297g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
⅛ tsp almond extract
Red and green sanding sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF (177ºC) to prepare for baking. In a small bowl, take the time to whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and ensures that your cookies rise beautifully when baked. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, add the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together on medium speed for about one minute. You’re looking for a light and fluffy texture, which will add air into the mix, giving your cookies that desirable soft and chewy quality. Take a moment to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, crack the egg into your creamed butter and sugar mixture. Pour in the vanilla extract and the almond extract. Beat everything together until the mixture is well combined, creating a smooth and cohesive mixture. The almond extract adds a subtle flavor that complements the vanilla beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Now it’s time to gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Start mixing on a low speed to prevent the dry ingredients from flying everywhere. If you prefer, use a spatula to gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. You want to continue mixing until a soft dough forms that is not sticky but holds together well.

Step 5: Form Dough Balls

Once your dough is prepared, it’s time to create the cookie shapes. Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into individual balls. For a festive touch, prepare shallow bowls filled with red and green sanding sugar. Roll each dough ball in the colored sugar until it is fully coated, giving them that eye-catching sparkle. Place them about 2 inches apart on a prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes. Your cookies are ready when the edges are just set but the centers may still look slightly soft. This is crucial for achieving that soft and chewy texture we all love. When the baking time is up, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time allows them to finish setting without becoming too hard.

Variations

Protein: Add some mini chocolate chips or nuts like hazelnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated carrots or zucchini for a subtle twist on texture.
Spices: Experiment with seasonal spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to add more warmth to the flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

For larger cookies, consider using 3 heaping tablespoons of dough to create a more substantial treat.
Keep an eye on cookie color to avoid overbaking — they should be lightly golden at the edges.
Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Cookies freeze wonderfully, so don’t hesitate to prepare a batch in advance!

Serving Suggestions

Present these cookies as part of a holiday dessert platter alongside cupcakes and brownies.
Include them in a festive cookie box, perfect for gifting to friends and family.

Tips

Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor impact.
Invest in a cookie scoop for uniform shapes and even baking results.
Feel free to mix in fun holiday sprinkles for added visual appeal and texture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 150
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 50mg

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine may work, using unsalted butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture in your cookies.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Can I replace granulated sugar with brown sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar, but it will give your cookies a slightly different taste and texture. They might be chewier!

Are Christmas sugar cookies suitable for freezing?

Yes, these cookies can be frozen either baked or unbaked. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

Christmas Sugar Cookies are not just treats; they are festive bites infused with warmth, joy, and a sprinkle of creativity. Whether you’re baking with loved ones or surprising someone with a thoughtful gift, these cookies embody the spirit of the season. Their soft and chewy texture, along with their vibrant colors, makes them a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and start creating edible holiday cheer! Don’t forget to share your results, variations, or experiences in the comments below. Happy baking!