Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies
This easy Christmas sugar cookie recipe bakes up buttery, soft cookies that hold their shape—perfect for decorating! Ideal for holiday baking with kids, cookie exchanges, or edible gifts, these cookies have a clean, classic flavor and a festive flair.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Rolling Pin
- Cookie cutters
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone mats
- Cooling rack
- Optional: piping bags or decorating tools
Ingredients
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated white sugar
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract optional
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour sifted
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 –3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring optional
- Sprinkles sanding sugar, or candies for decorating
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes using a mixer.
- Mix in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract (if using). Beat until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry mix to wet ingredients.
- Divide dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough on lightly floured surface to ¼ inch thick. Cut with your favorite Christmas cookie cutters.
- Place cut cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill for 30 minutes to reduce spreading.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are just beginning to brown. Let cool completely before decorating.
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Add food coloring if desired. Decorate cookies as desired.
Notes
Nutritional Info (per cookie, approx.):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sugar: 9g
- Protein: 1g
(May vary depending on icing and decorations)
