These Best Soft Christmas Cookies have been a beloved tradition in many families during the holiday season. Soft, sweet, and irresistibly festive, these cookies bring joy and nostalgia with every bite. Made with simple ingredients and love, they encapsulate the essence of Christmas and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 cup margarine, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Preparation
Step 1: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the sugar and softened margarine until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
Step 5: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease two cookie sheets.
Step 7: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use festive cookie cutters to shape the dough, then place the cutouts on the prepared cookie sheets. Re-roll any scraps and continue cutting until all the dough is used.
Step 8: Bake the cookies in batches for 6-8 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake to maintain their soft texture.
Step 9: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect as they are, or you can decorate them with icing and holiday-themed sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
Tips
- For a buttery flavor, substitute butter for margarine in the same amount.
- Decorate with royal icing or a simple glaze and colored sugars for a festive appearance.
- Ensure cookies are completely cool before decorating to prevent the icing from melting.
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
- 2 hours chilling time
Cooking Time
- 6-8 minutes per batch
Total Time
- Approximately 2 hours 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
Each cookie is approximately 150-180 calories, depending on size and decorations.
Conclusion
The Best Soft Christmas Cookies are more than just treats; they are a festive tradition that brings warmth and smiles. Perfect for holiday parties, school events, or quiet evenings at home, these cookies are a delightful reminder of the joy of the season.
Print
Best Soft Christmas Cookies
- Total Time: 14 minute
Ingredients
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 cup margarine, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the sugar and softened margarine until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
Step 5: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease two cookie sheets.
Step 7: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use festive cookie cutters to shape the dough, then place the cutouts on the prepared cookie sheets. Re-roll any scraps and continue cutting until all the dough is used.
Step 8: Bake the cookies in batches for 6-8 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake to maintain their soft texture.
Step 9: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect as they are, or you can decorate them with icing and holiday-themed sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
Tips
- For a buttery flavor, substitute butter for margarine in the same amount.
- Decorate with royal icing or a simple glaze and colored sugars for a festive appearance.
- Ensure cookies are completely cool before decorating to prevent the icing from melting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes per batch