Introduction
Nothing evokes the holiday spirit quite like Soft Christmas Cookies. From the moment you roll out the buttery dough to the first bite of these pillowy delights, your kitchen transforms into a festive wonderland. Imagine cookies that are tender, chewy, and perfectly soft—melting in your mouth with every bite. These cookies are not just a treat; they’re a holiday tradition that brings family and friends together, infusing warmth, joy, and sweet memories.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your first holiday recipe, mastering these Soft Christmas Cookies will make you the star of any festive gathering. With this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to achieve flawless texture, delightful flavors, and gorgeous decoration every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chewy and Tender Texture: Enjoy soft, melt-in-your-mouth Christmas cookies every time.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and straightforward instructions.
Customizable: Decorate with icing, sprinkles, or leave plain for a classic look.
Kid-Friendly: Safe and fun baking activity for the whole family.
Festive Appeal: Perfect for holiday gifts, cookie exchanges, or cozy nights by the fire.
Affordable Ingredients: Uses pantry staples without breaking the budget.
Perfect Flavor Balance: Buttery sweetness with hints of vanilla and almond extract.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be prepped in advance and baked fresh.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
4 tablespoons milk
For the Icing:
2 cups powdered sugar
4 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Food coloring and sprinkles (optional)
Ingredient Tips & Substitutions:
Butter: Use high-quality unsalted butter for rich flavor. Can substitute half with margarine for lighter cookies.
Milk: Adds tenderness; almond or oat milk works for dairy-free options.
Flour: All-purpose works best; for gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
Extracts: Vanilla is essential; almond adds festive depth.
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This evenly distributes the leavening agents, giving cookies a consistent rise.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, resulting in tender, pillowy cookies.
4. Add Eggs and Extracts
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and almond extracts. Proper mixing ensures even flavor distribution.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. Chill if too sticky.
6. Shape Cookies
Roll dough on lightly floured surface to ¼-inch thickness. Use festive cookie cutters for shapes and place on baking sheets, leaving space between cookies.
7. Bake
Bake for 6–8 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Soft center ensures a chewy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
8. Cool
Allow cookies to cool 5 minutes on baking sheets, then transfer to a wire rack.
9. Prepare Icing
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Add colors for a festive touch.
10. Decorate
Once cooled, pipe or spread icing and add sprinkles for extra holiday cheer.
Pro Tips & Tricks
How do you make Soft Christmas Cookies extra chewy?
Slightly underbake by 1–2 minutes.
Use room-temperature butter and eggs for better incorporation.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! Shape into a disk, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before rolling out.
Best icing for festive cookies?
Royal icing for crisp decorations, glaze icing for soft finish. Add food coloring or edible glitter.
How to avoid spreading too much?
Chill dough 30 minutes before baking.
Use parchment paper or silicone mats for even heat distribution.
Best Ways to Serve
Serve with hot cocoa or spiced cider for a cozy holiday snack.
Arrange on decorative plates or cookie platters for parties.
Gift in festive tins or jars for neighbors, friends, and teachers.
Pair with other holiday treats like peppermint bark or gingerbread.
Nutrition (Per Cookie, Approx.)
Calories: 180 kcal
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbs: 24g
Sugars: 14g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 0.5g
Storage & Leftovers
Room Temperature: Airtight container, up to 5 days.
Freezing: Baked cookies freeze up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature.
Icing Tips: Store undecorated cookies separately from icing for best results.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Add 1 tsp xanthan gum if needed for structure.
Q2: How long will Soft Christmas Cookies stay soft?
Stored airtight, they remain soft for 4–5 days. Adding a slice of bread in the container helps retain moisture.
Q3: Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes! Brown sugar adds extra chewiness and a subtle caramel flavor.
Q4: Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Fold in ½–1 cup of chocolate chips, cranberries, or chopped nuts for a festive twist.
Recipe Variations
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, flax eggs, and non-dairy milk.
Chocolate Soft Christmas Cookies: Add ½ cup cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
Spiced Holiday Cookies: Add 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves.
Mini Cookies: Perfect for gift tins or bite-sized treats.
Conclusion
These Soft Christmas Cookies aren’t just cookies—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and holiday spirit. With this foolproof recipe, anyone can create tender, chewy, melt-in-your-mouth delights that impress family and friends. Bake them, decorate them, and watch smiles light up the room.