Name: Irresistibly Chewy Christmas Sugar Cookies Recipe to Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Can substitute with more granulated sugar if needed.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (No direct substitutes, but can use a lower-sugar option if needed.); 1 cup Butter (softened) (Can substitute with margarine, though texture may vary.); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Crisco can be used as an alternative, but cookies may be more crumbly.); 2 large Eggs (beaten) (Flax eggs can be used for a vegan version.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (No substitutions but extract can be replaced with vanilla bean paste for a more robust flavor.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Baking powder can be used in a pinch, but results may vary.); 1/2 teaspoon Cream of Tartar (May be omitted altogether or replaced with an equal amount of baking powder.); 1 pinch Salt (Omit for low-sodium diets.); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour blends.); 1 cup Sugar Sprinkles (red and green) (Use any colored sprinkles for customization.)

The sound of laughter and holiday music fills the air as I pull a tray of warm Christmas Sugar Cookies from the oven. These festive delights, adorned with cheerful red and green sugar sprinkles, instantly transform any gathering into a celebration. The best part? This incredibly easy recipe brings sheer joy to both experienced bakers and culinary novices alike. Not only are these Christmas Sugar Cookies soft and chewy, they make great last-minute gifts or a delightful treat for Santa! Whether you're looking to start a new family tradition or simply carve out a bit of cozy time in your kitchen, these cookies promise to wrap you in the warmth of the season. Curious about how to make these delicious holiday treats? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Irresistible sweetness: Each bite of these Christmas Sugar Cookies is a delightful experience, boasting a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth.

Easy to make: The straightforward steps mean you can whip up a fresh batch in no time, perfect for busy holiday schedules.

Customizable joy: With options like adding chocolate chips or colorful frosting, you can personalize each cookie, making them as unique as your celebrations.

Festive flair: Topped with cheerful red and green sprinkles, they are not just treats but eye-catching additions to your holiday spread.

Great for gifting: Pack them in decorative tins, and spread smiles among family and friends with these delightful homemade gifts that everyone will love!

Christmas Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and a soft texture. Can substitute with more granulated sugar if needed.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps in browning. No direct substitutes, but can use a lower-sugar option if needed.
• Butter (softened) – Gives richness and flavor. Can substitute with margarine, though texture may vary.
• Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and tenderness. Crisco can be used as an alternative, but cookies may be more crumbly.
• Eggs (beaten) – Binds ingredients and adds moisture. Flax eggs can be used for a vegan version.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor. No substitutions but extract can be replaced with vanilla bean paste for a more robust flavor.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent. Baking powder can be used in a pinch, but results may vary.
• Cream of Tartar – Helps stabilize the dough. May be omitted altogether or replaced with an equal amount of baking powder.
• Pinch of Salt – Enhances flavor. Omit for low-sodium diets.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies. Can substitute with gluten-free flour blends.

For Decoration
• Sugar Sprinkles (red and green) – For decoration. Use any colored sprinkles for customization.

These ingredients will guide you to make the most delightful Christmas Sugar Cookies that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it's heating, line baking sheets with parchment paper to create a non-stick surface for your cookies. This setup will ensure even baking and easy cleanup, preparing your space for the delightful process of making Christmas Sugar Cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer, cream these ingredients together on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that light, tender texture in your Christmas Sugar Cookies.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Gradually blend in the vegetable oil, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Continue to mix on low speed, allowing the ingredients to incorporate fully for another minute or so. You’ll know it’s ready when the batter transforms into a smooth and creamy substance, fragrant with vanilla.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and a pinch of salt. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed and activates the leavening agents, crucial for the perfect rise in your Christmas Sugar Cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until a dough forms. Take care not to overmix; stop as soon as you see no more flour visible. The dough should be soft but slightly sticky, perfect for shaping into those delightful cookie balls.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place the cookie balls on your prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space in between each to allow for spreading. Visualize rows of glossy, festive orbs ready to transform into Christmas Sugar Cookies in the oven!

Step 7: Create Decorative Patterns
Dip a fork in flour and gently press down on each cookie ball to create a cross-hatch pattern on top. This not only adds a lovely texture but also enhances the festive presentation. Next, sprinkle each cookie generously with red and green sugar sprinkles to give them that holiday cheer.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Slide your baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; you want the cookies to be lightly browned around the edges, while staying soft in the center. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, marking the magic of Christmas Sugar Cookies.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheets for a few minutes to firm up. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step allows them to set perfectly, ensuring a soft, chewy texture that will wow family and friends alike!

What to Serve with Christmas Sugar Cookies

Indulge in the festive spirit by creating a complete holiday spread that pairs beautifully with your delicious baked treats.

Hot Cocoa: A rich, steaming cup of cocoa enhances the sweetness of the cookies, providing a warm and cozy drink for the season.
Eggnog: This creamy, spiced beverage adds a traditional holiday touch, making it a perfect complement to the light sweetness of the cookies.
Gingerbread Men: The savory warmth of ginger and molasses cookies offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness of Christmas Sugar Cookies, bringing festive cheer to your spread.
Fruit Platter: A fresh assortment of seasonal fruit adds a refreshing lightness, balancing the richness of the cookies and inviting variety to your dessert table.
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels coated in rich chocolate provides a satisfying texture that beautifully pairs with the soft, chewy cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your cookies warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream on soft cookies creates a heavenly contrast that delights the senses.
Milk: A classic pairing, a cold glass of milk complements the sweet, buttery flavors of the cookies, making every bite all the more enjoyable.
Candy Canes: These festive treats add a minty crunch, offering a refreshing twist that enhances the flavor profile of the sugar cookies.

As you gather with loved ones this holiday season, these pairings will not only enhance your Christmas Sugar Cookies but also bring warmth and joy to your celebrations.

Expert Tips for Christmas Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and to achieve the best texture in your Christmas Sugar Cookies.
Watch the Baking Time: Avoid overbaking by pulling the cookies from the oven when edges are lightly browned to keep them soft and chewy.
Prevent Sticking: Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to keep cookies from sticking to the baking sheets and to aid in easy removal.
Customize with Additions: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for extra flavor and texture. This versatility makes your Christmas Sugar Cookies even more personalized!
Sugar Sprinkle Variations: Experiment with different colored sprinkles or edible glitter for decoration to match your holiday theme and delight everyone.
Storing Cookies: Store the finished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to keep them fresh and delicious.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly. Alternatively, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months; just scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. For finishing, bake the chilled or frozen dough straight from the fridge or freezer, adding an extra minute to the baking time, and you'll enjoy deliciously soft and chewy Christmas Sugar Cookies with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Christmas Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, keeping them soft and chewy.

Fridge: If you wish to keep them fresher for longer, you can store the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they're sealed tight to avoid moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the dough, well-wrapped, for up to 3 months and bake fresh cookies whenever you crave.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheating in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds can help restore that soft texture, making your Christmas Sugar Cookies feel freshly baked.

Christmas Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own magic into these holiday treats with delightful twists and substitutions!

Almond Extract: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract to introduce a delightful nutty flavor that elevates your cookies.
Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a gooey, chocolatey surprise in every bite. These will take the classic Christmas Sugar Cookies to a new level of decadence!
Coconut Flakes: Stir in unsweetened coconut flakes to bring tropical charm to your cookies, creating a wonderful chewy texture that’s extra special.
Frosting Fun: Top your cookies with festive icing or colored frosting for a fun and decorative touch, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Orange Zest: Add a dash of zesty orange peel to the dough for a refreshing citrus note that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive delights without compromising taste!
Nuts Galore: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cookies.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, holiday-spice flavor, perfect for cozy winter celebrations.

These variations will keep your Christmas Sugar Cookies refreshing and exciting, perfect for sharing—whether in decorative tins filled with sweet memories or on festive cookie trays. For more festive fun, you’ll love our Thumbprint Cookies Melt or even the delightful Eggnog Cookies Soft. Happy baking!

Christmas Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my Christmas Sugar Cookies?
When it comes to making the perfect Christmas Sugar Cookies, the quality of your ingredients matters! Always choose room temperature butter to ensure creaminess and easy mixing. Eggs should be fresh and at room temperature to help bind the dough effectively. For flour, opt for all-purpose flour unless you need a gluten-free alternative; in that case, a certified gluten-free flour blend is your best bet.

How should I store my Christmas Sugar Cookies?
To keep your Christmas Sugar Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, tightly sealed, for up to 2 weeks. If you want to enjoy them later, freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months, ensuring they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Can I freeze the dough for my Christmas Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze the dough, first shape it into balls, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and place the frozen dough balls directly on the baking sheet, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your Christmas Sugar Cookies dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the dough, making it easier to shape into balls. If it’s still sticky, you can dust your hands and the working surface with a little flour while rolling. Just remember to avoid adding too much flour, as it may affect the cookie’s texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for my Christmas Sugar Cookies?
Yes! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with margarine or a plant-based butter alternative. For a vegan version, use flax eggs in place of the beaten eggs (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens). Be mindful of cross-contamination with allergens like nuts, and choose gluten-free flour blends if necessary.

How long will my Christmas Sugar Cookies stay fresh?
When stored correctly, your delicious Christmas Sugar Cookies will stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. If refrigerated, they can last up to two weeks without losing their delightful flavors. For long-term storage, make sure to freeze them, as this will keep their taste and texture intact for up to three months!