why make this recipe
Christmas Sugar Cookies are a deliciously festive treat perfect for the holiday season. These cookies are soft, sweet, and topped with creamy frosting, making them a favorite among kids and adults alike. This particular recipe is inspired by the popular Crumbl cookies, known for their size and flavor. Making these cookies at home will fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas and spread holiday cheer among family and friends.
how to make Christmas Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 270 g (2¼ cups) all-purpose flour
- 4 g (1 tsp) baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 170 g (1½ sticks / ¾ cup) unsalted butter, softened (68-72°F)
- 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp almond extract (optional)
- 54 g (⅓ cup) Christmas jimmies sprinkles
- 283 g (1¼ bricks / 10 oz) full-fat cream cheese, softened (68-72°F)
- 184 g (13 Tbsp) salted butter, softened (68-72°F)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅛ tsp salt
- 150 g (1¼ cups) powdered sugar, sifted
- 80 ml (⅓ cup) heavy cream, very cold
- 24 g (2 Tbsp) Christmas sprinkles (jimmies, nonpareils, trees, etc.)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line 2-3 baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or a hand mixer), beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. Pause to scrape down the bowl as needed.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, then beat on medium-low speed until combined, about 30 seconds.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in two parts, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in the Christmas jimmies sprinkles using a spatula until evenly distributed.
- Use a 3-Tablespoon cookie scoop to portion the dough (48-50 g each).
- Roll each scoop into a ball and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
- Slightly flatten each dough ball with your fingers or the bottom of a glass, keeping the cookies at least ½-inch thick.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look soft and no longer glossy. The cookies should not brown.
- Remove from the oven and immediately shape into a perfect circle by gently rotating a cookie cutter or glass bigger than the cookies around each one.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or a hand mixer), beat the cream cheese and butter on low speed until smooth, creamy, and lump-free, about 1-2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add the vanilla extract and salt, then beat on low until just combined.
- Add the sifted powdered sugar in three parts, mixing on low speed until just combined, about 10-15 seconds each. Stop to scrape the bowl as needed.
- Gradually drizzle in the cold heavy cream (about 1 tablespoon at a time), whisking on low until stiff peaks form, about 1-1½ minutes. Be careful not to overwhip the heavy cream.
- Pipe the frosting in a spiral pattern over the cookies with a #2A or #1A piping tip, starting from the center and working outward. Alternatively, spread the frosting with a spatula to create decorative swirls.
- Just before serving, sprinkle Christmas sprinkles over the frosting (less is more!).
how to serve Christmas Sugar Cookies
Serve these Christmas Sugar Cookies at holiday parties, family gatherings, or just enjoy them as a sweet treat with your favorite hot beverage. They make a lovely addition to cookie platters and can easily bring joy to your celebrations.
how to store Christmas Sugar Cookies
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to three months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before storing.
tips to make Christmas Sugar Cookies
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at the right temperature for the perfect texture.
- Do not overmix the dough; this keeps the cookies tender.
- Use cold heavy cream for the frosting to achieve stiff peaks.
variation
You can customize your cookies by adding flavors such as lemon or orange zest. For a fun twist, try using colored sprinkles or different holiday-themed decorations to suit any occasion.
FAQs
1. Can I make the cookie dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before baking.
2. How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure the baking powder is also gluten-free.
3. Can I use a different frosting?
Absolutely! You can use any creamy frosting you like, such as buttercream or a royal icing for a different taste. Just ensure the frosting pairs well with the cookies.