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
