If you’re dreaming of a treat that melts in your mouth and radiates holiday cheer, look no further than this Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe. These cookies aren’t just delightfully tender and rich—they’re bursting with festive colors and flavors that make every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you want to cozy up by the fire or share something special with loved ones, these soft, buttery cookies are the perfect holiday companion that’s sure to become a beloved tradition.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe lies in its simple and familiar ingredients, each playing a vital role in crafting that unbeatable texture and flavor. From the creamy butter that guarantees softness to the burst of vanilla and almond extracts that add layers of aroma, every component is essential.
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: This is the sturdy foundation that gives structure without toughening the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Provides gentle leavening to keep the cookies fluffy and light.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Ensures a rich, tender crumb and prevents the cookies from drying out.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens perfectly without overwhelming.
- 2 large eggs: Binds ingredients together and adds moisture for softness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings warm, inviting vanilla notes that delight with every bite.
- ½ teaspoon almond extract: Adds a subtle, festive twist to the flavor profile.
- 4 tablespoons milk: Helps achieve the perfect dough consistency—smooth and easy to work with.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: The base for the luscious frosting that tops these cookies with a sweet glow.
- 4 tablespoons milk (for frosting): Combines with powdered sugar to create silky, spreadable icing.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Elevates the frosting with a delightful vanilla finish.
- Food coloring (optional): Bring your festive creativity to life with cheerful colors.
- Sprinkles (optional): Add sparkle and crunch to make each cookie a mini celebration.
How to Make Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures the leavening agent and salt are evenly distributed, which will help your cookies bake evenly and rise just right. It’s a simple but crucial step before we jump into the buttery goodness.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, which is crucial for getting that tender, soft texture we want from this Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe. Your kitchen will start to smell wonderfully sweet, and that’s your cue that things are moving along perfectly.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts
Next, mix in the eggs one at a time to ensure they are fully incorporated, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts. These ingredients bring moisture and a wonderful fragrant lift. Almond extract especially gives this recipe a unique holiday twist that’s subtle but unforgettable.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, alternating with the 4 tablespoons of milk. This technique keeps the dough silky and manageable, preventing it from becoming too firm or heavy. Stir until just combined—overmixing can make the cookies less soft, which we definitely want to avoid!
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Wrap your dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least an hour. Chilling solidifies the butter, making the dough easier to roll and ensuring the cookies hold their shape when baked. It also enhances the flavors, allowing them to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough out to about ¼ inch thickness on a floured surface and cut into festive shapes. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You’re aiming for the edges to just start turning golden while the centers remain soft—this is the hallmark of the perfect Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
While your cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for a smooth, glossy frosting. Divide the frosting into bowls if you want to add food coloring to make it extra festive. This frosting is sweet but light, pairing beautifully with the buttery cookies.
Step 8: Decorate and Enjoy
Spread or pipe frosting onto cooled cookies, then decorate with sprinkles if you like. Let the frosting set a bit before serving. This final touch turns simple cookies into holiday masterpieces that are as fun to make as they are to eat.
How to Serve Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkles, edible glitter, or small candy pieces are fantastic garnishes to add fun textures and vibrant colors. They bring playful pops that catch the eye and elevate your cookie platter instantly.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a cozy cup of hot cocoa, spiced apple cider, or a creamy latte. The warmth and sweetness of the drinks complement the soft, buttery cookies perfectly for a comforting holiday treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your decorated cookies on a tiered serving tray or holiday-themed platter to create an inviting centerpiece for your dessert table. Wrapping a few in clear cellophane tied with ribbon also makes for delightful gifts that your friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to 5 days, making it easy to enjoy them throughout the holidays.
Freezing
You can freeze both the baked and unbaked dough. For baked cookies, place them between parchment sheets in a freezer bag to prevent sticking. For dough, shape and freeze on a tray before transferring it to a bag; this way, you’ll have freshly baked treats whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
Warm your cookies briefly in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to revive that soft, just-baked texture. Be careful not to overheat, as it can dry them out.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond extract if I don’t have it?
Absolutely! You can replace almond extract with an equal amount of more vanilla extract or leave it out altogether, though the almond adds a charming, festive flair.
How do I keep the cookies soft for longer?
Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread or a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. This simple trick helps maintain softness for days!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend designed for cookies, you can enjoy these treats without gluten. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
What if I don’t want to use food coloring?
That’s totally fine! The cookies are delightful without added colors. You can also experiment with natural coloring agents like beet juice or matcha powder for subtle hues.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
While this Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe shines with its simplicity, feel free to add your favorite mix-ins in small amounts. Just keep in mind that extra ingredients might change the texture slightly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about baking a batch of Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe during the holidays—it’s like wrapping your loved ones in a sweet, cozy embrace. These cookies offer not only a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth experience but also a chance to create joyful memories. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a cherished part of your festive celebrations year after year.
Print
Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 44 minutes
- Yield: 48 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Soft Christmas Cookies are perfect for the holiday season with a tender texture and sweet vanilla-almond flavor. Decorated with colorful frosting and festive sprinkles, they are ideal for sharing with family and friends or creating a holiday cookie platter.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 4 tablespoons milk
Frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs and extracts: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated, then mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract until combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the 4 tablespoons of milk. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain cookie softness.
- Chill the dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up, which helps with shaping.
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Shape cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender.
- Cool cookies: Remove cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare frosting: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, 4 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Add food coloring if desired to create festive colors.
- Decorate cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread or pipe the frosting onto each cookie and add sprinkles for decoration. Let the frosting set before serving or storing.
Notes
- For a stronger almond flavor, increase the almond extract to 1 teaspoon.
- Ensure cookies are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For softer cookies, do not overbake and keep an eye on them in the last few minutes.
- Food coloring and sprinkles are optional but add a festive touch perfect for Christmas.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
