Introduction
It’s that magical time of year again, and what better way to celebrate than with a batch of Festive Holiday Sugar Cookies! These delightful treats are soft, sweet, and buttery, making them the perfect addition to any holiday gathering. Picture a cookie that melts in your mouth, with a sprinkle of colorful sugar glistening on top – simply irresistible, right? These classic cookies not only taste amazing, but they also fill your home with the warm aroma of holiday baking. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or packaging them up as thoughtful gifts, these festive sugar cookies are sure to spread holiday cheer!
Overview of the Recipe
When you make these Festive Holiday Sugar Cookies, you can expect a light, buttery cookie with a slightly crisp edge and a soft, chewy center. The delightful flavors of vanilla and almond extract shine through, while a hint of nutmeg adds a cozy warmth. With a simple preparation process, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels. In just over two hours, including chilling time, you’ll create a batch of 24 beautiful cookies that will impress everyone around you.
History and Origin
Sugar cookies have been a beloved treat for generations, with their origins tracing back to the mid-1700s in Nazareth, Pennsylvania. Known as “Nazareth Cookies,” they gained popularity for their sweet, buttery taste and versatility. Over time, they have become a staple in holiday celebrations, especially during festive times, where cookie decorating is a cherished family activity. Each family may have their unique twist on the recipe, but the joy of baking and sharing these cookies has remained constant throughout the years.
Ingredients
For these Festive Holiday Sugar Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
– 1/4 cup colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Extracts: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just blended. Don’t overmix.
6. Chill Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
7. Roll and Cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Decorate: Sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles on top of the unbaked cookies before placing them in the oven.
9. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
10. Cool: Remove cookies from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
11. Serve: Enjoy your festive holiday sugar cookies with family and friends, or package them up to give as gifts!
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
These Festive Holiday Sugar Cookies pair beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa, mulled wine, or even a refreshing glass of milk. Settle around the fireplace with friends and family and enjoy these delightful cookies while sharing stories or watching holiday movies. They’re also perfect for cookie exchanges or festive parties where everyone can enjoy a sweet moment together.
Variations of the Recipe
Feel free to get creative with this base recipe! Here are a few variations you might consider:
– Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
– Colorful Chilling: Use food coloring to create vibrant doughs. Roll them into logs and slice for visually stunning cookies.
– Flavor Twist: Mix in citrus zest (like lemon or orange) for a refreshing twist on flavor.
Health Benefits and Notes
While these cookies are a sweet treat, they do have some nutritional benefits from methods used. For instance, using almond extract provides a nutty flavor without the need for nuts, making them accessible for those with nut allergies (if you omit the extract). To make them slightly healthier, you could use coconut oil instead of butter or replace some sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup, though this may change the texture a bit.
FAQs
– Can I freeze the dough? Yes! You can wrap the dough in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before rolling out.
– How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much? Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
– What can I use instead of almond extract? If you don’t have almond extract, you can simply increase the vanilla extract or use another flavor like lemon extract.
Conclusion
These Festive Holiday Sugar Cookies are more than just a delicious treat; they bring people together, creating memories during the festive season. Whether you’re baking them for a party, a gift, or just to enjoy at home, this recipe is worth trying. So gather your loved ones, unleash your creativity with sprinkles and colors, and enjoy the magic of holiday baking! Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any fun variations with us! Happy baking!