Soft Sugar Cookies Dressed for the Holidays

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Ah, the holiday season! It’s that magical time of year when the air is filled with the scent of pine, twinkling lights adorn every corner, and delicious treats come out to play. One of my absolute favorites are these Soft Sugar Cookies Dressed for the Holidays. I can still remember the first time I baked them with my grandmother, her laughter filling the kitchen as she helped me roll the dough and sprinkle on the bright, festive decorations. Every bite is like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with family and friends at holiday gatherings.

These cookies are not just adorable; they’re delightfully soft, sweet, and oh-so-decoratable! Whether you’re nibbling on them during a cozy movie night or serving them at a festive party, they’re sure to bring smiles and cheer. Trust me, you’ll want to add this recipe to your holiday baking tradition!

Why You’ll Love Soft Sugar Cookies Dressed for the Holidays

Oh, where do I even start? These Soft Sugar Cookies are the epitome of holiday cheer! They’re incredibly soft and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, making them a real treat for anyone lucky enough to snag one. The sweet vanilla flavor is comforting and familiar, instantly transporting you to cozy moments with loved ones.

What truly sets these cookies apart is their festive appearance. Dressed in a glossy glaze and topped with colorful sprinkles, they look like little works of art! Imagine a plate of these beauties at your holiday gathering, each one just waiting to be devoured. It’s like the cookies are shouting, “Pick me! I’m part of the fun!”

Plus, they’re super versatile! Whether you’re hosting a big holiday bash or just having a quiet night in, these cookies can brighten any occasion. I promise, they’ll bring a smile to everyone’s face and a little extra joy to your celebrations. So, get ready to spread some holiday magic with these delightful cookies!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun of baking these Soft Sugar Cookies Dressed for the Holidays! You’ll find that most of what you need is probably already in your pantry, making it a breeze to whip up a batch. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for these delightful cookies!

Core Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookies, giving them structure. Make sure to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy!
• 1 tsp baking soda: This will help your cookies rise a bit and get that lovely soft texture.
• ½ tsp baking powder: A little extra lift, ensuring your cookies are fluffy and not too dense.
• ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors! Don’t skip this, as it balances the sweetness beautifully.
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: This is where the magic happens! Softened butter creams beautifully with sugar, creating a rich flavor. Leave it out for about an hour before baking.
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: The star of the show! This sweetener creates that delightful sweetness we all crave.
• 1 large egg:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

Alright, let’s get started on these tasty Soft Sugar Cookies! First up, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a bowl and whisk together your flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This little mix is going to be the backbone of your cookies, so make sure it’s well combined.

In a separate large bowl, cream together your softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s smooth and fluffy. This part is super important—give it a good 2-3 minutes. You want it to be light in color and airy! Then, mix in your egg and vanilla extract until everything is well blended. Now, gradually add that dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring until combined. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there if you need to! Finally, stir in the milk (or heavy cream if you want those cookies extra soft) until the dough is nice and soft.

Baking the Cookies

Now that your dough is ready, it’s time to form those adorable cookies! Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they’ll spread a little while baking. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Ooh, the smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly! Once they’re out, let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before transferring them to the rack to cool completely. This cooling time is crucial, as it helps them set nicely.

Making the Glaze

While your cookies are cooling, let’s whip up that delicious glaze! In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing well. You want a nice, thick consistency that’s still spreadable, so if it feels too thick, add in a tablespoon or two of milk until you reach your desired texture. A little vanilla extract will elevate the flavor, so toss that in too!

Decorating the Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cool, it’s time to make them sparkle! Spread a generous layer of glaze on top of each cookie using a knife or an offset spatula—get creative with it! Then, sprinkle on your festive decorations. I love using a mix of red, green, and white sprinkles to really capture that holiday spirit. Don’t worry if they get a little messy; that’s all part of the fun! Let the glaze set for a few minutes, and then they’re ready to be devoured. Enjoy your delightful creations!

Variations

One of the best things about these Soft Sugar Cookies Dressed for the Holidays is how easily they can be customized to fit your taste and the occasion. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a bit of almond extract alongside the vanilla for a nutty twist that’s simply divine! You could also mix in some citrus zest—think lemon or orange—for a refreshing flavor that cuts through the sweetness.

When it comes to shapes, don’t just stick to the classic round cookie! Use festive cookie cutters to create stars, trees, or even little gingerbread men. They’ll be a hit at any holiday gathering and look adorable on your dessert table.

And let’s talk about decorations! While I adore the traditional holiday sprinkles, you can get creative with colored icing, edible glitter, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate. You might even consider making themed cookies for different holidays—think red, white, and blue for Independence Day or pastel colors for Easter. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting and make these cookies truly your own!

Serving and Storage Tips

When it comes to serving your Soft Sugar Cookies Dressed for the Holidays, presentation is key! Arrange them on a festive platter, maybe even sprinkle some extra holiday sprinkles around the edges for that extra flair. They’re perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or just enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa on a chilly evening. Trust me, your friends and family will be delighted!

As for storage, keep those cookies fresh by placing them in an airtight container. They’ll last for about a week at room temperature, but if you want to enjoy them even longer, pop them in the fridge. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving, as they taste best when they’re soft and a bit warm. If you need to store them for an extended period, you can freeze them! Just layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container, and they’ll be good for up to three months. Happy baking and sharing!

Helpful Notes

Now that you’re all set to bake these Soft Sugar Cookies Dressed for the Holidays, here are a few extra tips to make your baking experience even better! First off, if you want your cookies to be extra soft and tender, definitely opt for heavy cream instead of milk. It adds richness that makes a world of difference!

Also, don’t be afraid to get creative with your decorations! If you’re looking for something a little different, try using crushed candy canes for a minty crunch or even drizzling some melted chocolate over the glaze for a decadent touch. And if you’re in a pinch, store-bought frosting can work in a hurry—just make sure it’s festive! Remember, the joy of baking is all about making it your own!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just make sure to cool them completely, then layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container. They’ll last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for the best texture.

2. What if I don’t have cream cheese for the glaze?
No worries at all! You can substitute the cream cheese with more butter, or use a simple powdered sugar glaze made with just powdered sugar and milk. It’ll still be delicious, just a bit different in flavor!

3. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Sure! If you want a healthier twist, you can replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind that the texture might be a little denser, but still yummy!

4. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Soft Sugar Cookies, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that includes xanthan gum for the best results. They’ll turn out just as soft and delightful!

5. How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Great question! You’ll want to look for the edges turning a light golden color. The centers will look a bit soft and puffy, but they’ll firm up as they cool. Trust your nose too; the aroma will be irresistible!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it—my cherished recipe for Soft Sugar Cookies Dressed for the Holidays! These cookies aren’t just treats; they’re a celebration of joy, warmth, and togetherness during this magical season. I can’t tell you how many sweet memories I’ve made while baking and sharing them with loved ones. Trust me when I say, they’ll become a staple in your holiday traditions!

I can’t wait for you to try making these delightful cookies. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make them your own with fun variations, I just know you’ll love every bite. Don’t forget to share your cookie creations with me! I’d love to hear about your baking adventures and see those sprinkles in action. Happy baking, friends, and may your holiday season be filled with love and cookies galore!

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