The holiday season is synonymous with sweet indulgences, and what better way to spread cheer than by baking delicious Christmas sugar cookies? This timeless recipe, coupled with a straightforward icing technique, guarantees festive treats that will leave your taste buds singing carols. Let’s delve into the details of creating these delightful confections, starting with the ingredients.
Ingredients that Bring Joy:
To embark on this sugary journey, gather the following for the cookies:
- 2 and 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (1.5 sticks or 170g) unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 or 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For the easy icing, ensure you have:
- 3 cups (360g) confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons light corn syrup
- 4.5–5 Tablespoons (67–75ml) room temperature water
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: Gel food coloring & sprinkles for decorating
Crafting the Festive Delight:
Creating these festive treats is a labor of love, requiring both time and patience. The process can be divided into the following steps:
Prepare the Cookie Dough:
- Combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar, then add egg and extracts.
- Mix in the dry ingredients to form a soft dough.
- Divide and chill the dough for 1–2 hours.
Roll and Cut:
- Roll out the chilled dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut out festive shapes using cookie cutters.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 11–12 minutes.
Create the Icing:
- Stir together confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, corn syrup, and water.
- Achieve the right consistency by gradually adding water.
- Tint the icing with food coloring if desired.
Decorate with Finesse:
- Dip cookies into the icing or use piping bags for precision.
- Add sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
- Allow icing to dry for 24 hours.
Serve and Share the Sweetness:
- Enjoy the cookies as they are or gift them to spread joy.
- Store decorated cookies for up to 5 days at room temperature or 10 days in the refrigerator.
Embrace the Holiday Spirit:
In the midst of the holiday hustle, take the time to indulge in the joy of baking. These Christmas sugar cookies, with their perfect blend of flavors and festive decorations, are a delightful addition to any celebration. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe promises a sweet and joyful experience for all.
As the aroma of freshly baked cookies fills your kitchen and the icing sets on your festive creations, you’ll find yourself immersed in the true spirit of the season. These Christmas sugar cookies are more than a treat; they’re a tradition, a way to share love and sweetness with those around you. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let the holiday baking extravaganza begin!
