Holiday Cookies
The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in the sweet tradition of baking cookies. These festive treats, adorned with colorful icing and sprinkles, are not just delicious; they also bring joy to gatherings and celebrations. Whether you’re sharing them with family or gifting them to friends, holiday cookies are a delightful way to spread cheer during this magical time of year.
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
- 3 to 4 tablespoons milk
- Royal icing for decoration
- Sprinkles (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, and baking time is around 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 150 calories, 7g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 1g of protein. This is based on a standard recipe without added toppings.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and mix well.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- If dough is too dry, add milk one tablespoon at a time.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on wire racks before decorating with icing and sprinkles.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Additionally, use dairy-free butter for a vegan version. Vanilla extract can be replaced with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Holiday cookies are delightful on their own, but they pair beautifully with a warm cup of cocoa, spiced tea, or coffee. They also make great gifts when packaged in decorative boxes or tins.
Storage and Reheating
Store your holiday cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to poor texture.
- Overbaking cookies can make them dry.
- Skipping the cooling step before decorating can cause icing to melt.
- Using cold butter instead of softened can affect dough consistency.
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven baking.
Helpful Tips
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling for easier handling.
- Experiment with different shapes using cookie cutters.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before icing.
- Use a piping bag for more intricate designs.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour for holiday cookies?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Use a mix of both for a healthier option while retaining some lightness.
How long can I freeze holiday cookies?
Holiday cookies can be frozen for up to three months. Ensure they are well-wrapped in airtight packaging to prevent freezer burn.
Can I decorate cookies in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake and decorate cookies a few days before your event. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
What types of icing work best for decorating?
Royal icing is popular for detailed decorations, while buttercream is great for spreading. Both can be colored with food dyes for festive designs.
Are holiday cookies suitable for gifting?
Yes, holiday cookies make wonderful gifts! Package them in decorative boxes or tins for a thoughtful and tasty present.
Conclusion
Baking holiday cookies is a cherished tradition that brings joy and flavor to the season. With endless possibilities for decoration and flavor, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the process, share with loved ones, and create sweet memories this holiday season.
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
- 3 to 4 tablespoons milk
- Royal icing for decoration
- Sprinkles optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and mix well.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- If dough is too dry, add milk one tablespoon at a time.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on wire racks before decorating with icing and sprinkles.
