These soft Christmas cookies capture everything magical about holiday baking: buttery dough, tender texture, and a festive finish that makes them as beautiful as they are delicious. They are the type of cookies that feel nostalgic from the very first bite, offering a melt-in-your-mouth crumb that pairs perfectly with a mug of cocoa or a cup of coffee. Whether you bake them for a cookie exchange, a holiday gathering, or simply to fill the kitchen with warm seasonal aromas, they never fail to bring joy.
What sets these cookies apart is their delicate balance of richness and lightness. The creamed butter and sugar create a soft, airy base, while the vanilla adds warmth and depth that complements the holiday spices and flavors found elsewhere on the dessert table. Their softness comes from careful baking—just long enough to set, but not so long that the edges brown—ensuring each cookie stays tender and plush.
Decorating them is just as enjoyable as eating them. The simple vanilla icing provides a smooth, glossy surface that holds color well and sets with a gentle sheen. Red and green piping transforms these classic sugar cookies into charming Christmas trees, while sprinkles or pearls add dimension and sparkle. It is a wonderful activity to share with children or friends, making the experience as festive as the final result.
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These cookies store beautifully, making them ideal for gifting or preparing ahead for holiday events. Their versatility means you can adapt shapes, colors, and decorations to suit your style while relying on a dough that rolls cleanly and bakes consistently. Once the icing sets, they become the perfect balance of soft bite and decorative beauty—true holiday treasures.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes plus cooling
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- Food coloring (red and green)
- Sprinkles or decorative pearls
Instructions:
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