Soft Christmas Cookies are a quintessential holiday treat that brings joy and sweetness to any festive gathering. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are easy to make and fun to decorate, making them a perfect activity for families during the holiday season.
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: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream Sugar and Margarine
In a large bowl, beat the sugar and softened margarine with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the first egg, then the second egg along with the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine with Flour
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until the dough comes together.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease two cookie sheets.
Step 7: Roll and Cut Cookies
Roll out the chilled dough on a clean, floured surface to a 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and arrange them on the prepared cookie sheets. Gather the scraps and repeat.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in batches for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spicy twist.
- Decorate with icing and holiday-themed sprinkles after baking.
Cooking Notes
- Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary and may affect cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these cookies with hot cocoa or warm apple cider for a festive treat.
Tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Refrigerating the dough makes it easier to handle and helps in keeping the shape of the cookies when baking.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes per batch
- Total Time: About 2 hours and 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories per Cookie: Approximately 150 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 55 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use butter instead of margarine? A: Yes, butter can be used for a richer flavor; however, margarine helps in keeping the cookies soft.
Q: How long can these cookies be stored? A: Stored in an airtight container, the cookies can last up to a week at room temperature or can be frozen for up to three months.
Conclusion
Soft Christmas Cookies are not just delicious treats but also a wonderful way to create lasting holiday memories. Whether baking for a party or as a family activity, these cookies are sure to add a touch of magic to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcomes!
Print
Soft Christmas Cookies
- Total Time: About 2 hours and 45 minutes
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: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream Sugar and Margarine
In a large bowl, beat the sugar and softened margarine with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the first egg, then the second egg along with the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine with Flour
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until the dough comes together.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease two cookie sheets.
Step 7: Roll and Cut Cookies
Roll out the chilled dough on a clean, floured surface to a 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and arrange them on the prepared cookie sheets. Gather the scraps and repeat.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in batches for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spicy twist.
- Decorate with icing and holiday-themed sprinkles after baking.
Notes
- Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary and may affect cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these cookies with hot cocoa or warm apple cider for a festive treat.
Tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Refrigerating the dough makes it easier to handle and helps in keeping the shape of the cookies when baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
- Sodium: 55 mg
- Protein: 2g