These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth Christmas Butter Cookies are the perfect holiday treat. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or creating a fun family activity, these cookies are simple to make, delicious, and ready for decorating with your favorite sprinkles or icing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s versatile, easy to customize, and a holiday classic. The cookies have a tender, buttery texture and a hint of almond flavor, making them irresistible. Plus, decorating them is a delightful way to bring holiday cheer to your kitchen.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional for extra flavor)
2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Holiday sprinkles, colored sugar, or royal icing for decorating
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
I start by creaming butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, I add the egg, vanilla, and almond extract (if using) and mix until everything is combined. Gradually, I incorporate the flour and salt to create a soft dough.
Chill the Dough:
I divide the dough in half, flatten it into discs, and wrap each portion in plastic wrap. It needs to chill in the fridge for at least an hour until it’s firm enough to handle.
Roll and Cut:
Preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) is the next step. On a lightly floured surface, I roll out one portion of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness and use festive cookie cutters to shape the cookies. I place them on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them an inch apart.
Bake:
I bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes, watching for the edges to turn a light golden color. After removing them from the oven, I let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Decorate:
Once the cookies are completely cool, I get creative with decorations. Whether it’s sprinkles, royal icing, or a dusting of colored sugar before baking, these cookies always look and taste delightful.
Servings and Timing
Servings: This recipe yields about 36 cookies, depending on the size of the cutters.
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour for chilling)
Cook Time: 10 minutes per batch
Variations
Spiced Butter Cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy flavor.
Citrus Twist: Swap the almond extract for lemon or orange zest.
Chocolate Lovers: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for a decadent touch.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
Classic Sugar Cookies: Omit almond extract for a simpler, traditional flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freezing: The baked cookies or raw dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing dough, I recommend shaping it into discs and wrapping them tightly before freezing.
Reheating: These cookies don’t require reheating but can be refreshed in the oven at 300°F for 2–3 minutes if needed.
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FAQs
How can I ensure my cookies keep their shape?
Chilling the dough before baking is key. I also avoid overworking the dough, which can cause spreading.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare the dough a day in advance. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for longer storage.
What’s the best way to decorate these cookies?
I use royal icing for intricate designs and sprinkles for a quick and fun touch. A piping bag or squeeze bottle helps create neat patterns.
Can I substitute almond extract?
If you’re not a fan of almond flavor, you can leave it out or replace it with another extract, like lemon or orange, for a fresh twist.
Why are my cookies dry or crumbly?
This can happen if too much flour is added. I always measure flour carefully and avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender.
Conclusion
These Christmas Butter Cookies are a festive delight, perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings by the fire. With their buttery flavor, tender texture, and endless decorating possibilities, they’re sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Happy baking and happy holidays.
📖 Recipe:
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Christmas Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: About 36 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Christmas Butter Cookies – buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats perfect for the holidays! Easy to make, customize, and decorate, these festive cookies are ideal for gatherings or family fun.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
Holiday sprinkles, colored sugar, or royal icing for decorating
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using); mix well.
- Gradually incorporate flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the Dough:
- Divide dough into two portions, flatten into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap.
- Chill for at least 1 hour.
- Roll and Cut:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to shape cookies and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake:
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Decorate:
- Once completely cool, decorate with sprinkles, royal icing, or colored sugar.
Notes
Variations: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for spiced cookies, lemon or orange zest for citrus, or dip in chocolate for indulgence.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Pro Tip: Chill dough thoroughly to maintain cookie shapes while baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes per batch
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 36 cookies
