Holiday Cookies
The holiday season isn’t complete without a batch of homemade cookies. These festive treats are not only delightful to eat but also a joy to decorate. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in some festive cheer, these holiday cookies are sure to bring warmth and joy to your celebrations. Gather your loved ones and create sweet memories with this easy and fun recipe!
Ingredients
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups white sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk
– Food coloring (optional)
– Sprinkles (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 8-10 minutes per batch.
Nutritional Value
Each cookie (about 30g) contains approximately 150 calories, 7g of fat, 22g of carbohydrates, and 1g of protein. Note that values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- Roll rounded tablespoonfuls of dough into balls, and place them on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Press the balls down slightly to flatten them.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, decorate with icing and sprinkles as desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Also, use vegan butter and egg replacers for a dairy-free and egg-free alternative.
Serving and Pairings
These holiday cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa, spiced tea, or a glass of milk. They also make a great gift when packaged beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the dough; it should be just combined.
- Ensure your baking soda is fresh for best results.
- Don’t skip cooling cookies on the baking sheet before transferring.
- Be careful not to overbake; cookies should be soft.
- Measure ingredients accurately for consistent results.
Helpful Tips
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for easier handling.
- Experiment with different flavors of extracts in the dough.
- Use a piping bag for more intricate icing designs.
- Decorate with seasonal themes for a festive touch.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This allows for convenient baking later.
What type of icing works best for decoration?
Royal icing is ideal for decorating holiday cookies, as it dries hard and allows for detailed designs.
Are these cookies suitable for shipping?
Absolutely! Just make sure they are well-packaged to avoid breaking during transit.
Can I freeze the decorated cookies?
Yes, decorated cookies can be frozen. Just ensure the icing is fully dried before wrapping them tightly in plastic.
How do I make the cookies softer?
To achieve softer cookies, underbake them slightly and add a bit more butter to the recipe.
Conclusion
Holiday cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the season, bringing joy and warmth to gatherings. With endless decorating possibilities, they create not only a treat but also cherished memories. Enjoy baking and sharing these festive cookies with loved ones!
Holiday Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups confectioners' sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Food coloring optional
- Sprinkles optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- Roll rounded tablespoonfuls of dough into balls, and place them on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Press the balls down slightly to flatten them.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, decorate with icing and sprinkles as desired.