Christmas is a time for indulgence and what better way to satisfy your sweet tooth than with a delicious batch of homemade Christmas sugar cookies? These classic treats are not only a staple during the holiday season, but they also make for a great gift or party treat. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this Christmas sugar recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress. So, let's get baking and spread some holiday cheer!
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Cookies:
- All-purpose flour - 2 ½ cups
- Granulated sugar - 1 cup
- Butter - 1 cup (softened)
- Eggs - 2
- Milk - 2 tablespoons
- Baking powder - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - ½ teaspoon
- Vanilla extract - 2 teaspoons
For the Frosting:
- Confectioners' sugar - 2 cups
- Butter - 2 tablespoons (softened)
- Milk - 2 tablespoons
- Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
- Food coloring - (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is an important step as it helps to create a smooth and even texture for the cookies.
2. Add in the eggs, one at a time, and mix well after each addition. Then, stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it's too dry, add a little more milk.
4. Once the dough is formed, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This allows the dough to firm up and makes it easier to roll out.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. While the cookies are cooling, make the frosting by creaming together the softened butter, confectioners' sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. If desired, add food coloring for a festive touch.
9. Once the cookies are completely cooled, decorate them with the frosting using a piping bag or simply spread it on with a knife. Get creative with your designs and have fun!
Conclusion:
There's nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked Christmas sugar cookies to get you in the holiday spirit. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add some festive sweetness to their celebrations. So, gather your loved ones and get baking this holiday season! Merry Christmas and happy baking!
HTML Code:
<h2>Ingredients You'll Need</h2>
<h3>For the Cookies:</h3>
<ul>
<li><b>All-purpose flour</b> - 2 ½ cups</li>
<li><b>Granulated sugar</b> - 1 cup</li>
<li><b>Butter</b> - 1 cup (softened)</li>
<li>Eggs - 2</li>
<li>Milk - 2 tablespoons</li>
<li><b>Baking powder</b> - 1 teaspoon</li>
<li>Salt - ½ teaspoon</li>
<li><b>Vanilla extract</b> - 2 teaspoons</li>
</ul>
<h3>For the Frosting:</h3>
<ul>
<li><b>Confectioners' sugar</b> - 2 cups</li>
<li><b>Butter</b> - 2 tablespoons (softened)</li>
<li><b>Milk</b> - 2 tablespoons</li>
<li><b>Vanilla extract</b> - 1 teaspoon</li>
<li><b>Food coloring</b> - (optional)</li>
</ul>
<p>1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is an important step as it helps to create a smooth and even texture for the cookies.</p>
<p>2. Add in the eggs, one at a time, and mix well after each addition. Then, stir in the milk and vanilla extract.</p>
<p>3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it's too dry, add a little more milk.</p>
<p>4. Once the dough is formed, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This allows the dough to firm up and makes it easier to roll out.</p>
<p>5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.</p>
<p>6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.</p>
<p>7. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.</p>
<p>8. While the cookies are cooling, make the frosting by creaming together the softened butter, confectioners' sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. If desired, add food coloring for a festive touch.</p>
<p>9. Once the cookies are completely cooled, decorate them with the frosting using a piping bag or simply spread it on with a knife. Get creative with your designs and have fun!</p>
