Soft Christmas Cookies

Short Description

Soft Christmas Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat—pillowy, buttery, and lightly sweetened with hints of vanilla and almond. These festive cookies hold their shape while staying soft and chewy, making them perfect for decorating with icing and sprinkles. Whether for holiday cookie exchanges or a fun family baking day, these cookies are sure to bring Christmas cheer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and chewy texture that stays fresh for days
• Easy to make and decorate for festive fun
• Perfect for Christmas cookie platters or gifting
• Holds its shape well for cookie cutters
• Customizable with flavors and decorations

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookies:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
• Milk

For the Frosting (Optional):

• Powdered sugar
• Milk or heavy cream
• Vanilla extract
• Food coloring
• Sprinkles or sanding sugar for decoration

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough

• In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
• In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Mix in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract (if using).
• Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until a soft dough forms.

2. Chill the Dough

• Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours).

3. Roll and Cut

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
• Use cookie cutters to cut festive shapes and place them on the baking sheet.

4. Bake

• Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
• Let cool completely before decorating.

5. Decorate (Optional)

• Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create a simple icing. Add food coloring if desired.
• Spread or pipe onto cookies and add sprinkles before the icing sets.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Bake Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Spiced Christmas Cookies: Add cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm, holiday flavor.
• Chocolate Version: Replace ¼ cup flour with cocoa powder for a chocolaty twist.
• Citrus Twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a fresh, bright flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Dough: Wrap dough tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before rolling and baking.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months and decorate after thawing.

FAQs

How do I keep these cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

Can I skip chilling the dough?

Chilling helps prevent spreading, so it’s best not to skip this step.

What’s the best icing for these cookies?

A simple powdered sugar glaze or royal icing works best for decorating.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! Bake them a day or two ahead and decorate when ready.

Do these cookies hold their shape well?

Yes! Chilling the dough ensures clean-cut shapes.

Can I make them without almond extract?

Yes, just use extra vanilla extract instead.

How thick should I roll the dough?

About ¼ inch thick for the perfect soft texture.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter gives the best flavor, but margarine can work in a pinch.

How do I make them extra festive?

Use red and green icing, edible glitter, or holiday-shaped sprinkles!

Can I use this recipe for drop cookies instead of cut-outs?

Yes! Just scoop and bake for soft, round cookies.

Conclusion

Soft Christmas Cookies are a must-have holiday treat—easy to make, fun to decorate, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re baking with kids, making gifts, or just indulging in some holiday cheer, these cookies will bring joy to any celebration. Try different flavors and decorations to make them your own, and enjoy a batch of homemade Christmas magic!

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