Classic Archway Christmas Cookies Recipe And Decorating Ideas

The sweet scent of sugar and spices fills the air as Christmas approaches, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with a classic Christmas cookie recipe? Archway Christmas cookies are a beloved treat that many of us remember from our childhood, with their soft, chewy texture and sweet, slightly spicy flavor. In this article, we'll share a classic Archway Christmas cookies recipe, along with some creative decorating ideas to make your holiday season even more special.

What Makes Archway Christmas Cookies So Special?

Archway Christmas cookies have been a holiday tradition for many families for over 80 years. The company was founded in 1936 by a husband-and-wife team, and their signature cookies quickly became a favorite among families across the United States. The secret to their success lies in the combination of high-quality ingredients, careful attention to detail, and a commitment to tradition.

A Brief History of Archway Christmas Cookies

Archway cookies were originally made with a traditional European recipe that used molasses, sugar, and spices. The cookies quickly gained popularity, and by the 1950s, Archway was one of the largest cookie companies in the United States. Over the years, the company has remained committed to using only the finest ingredients and adhering to traditional baking methods.

Classic Archway Christmas Cookies Recipe

Now that we've covered the history of Archway Christmas cookies, it's time to share a classic recipe that you can try at home. This recipe makes approximately 24-30 cookies, depending on the size of your cutter.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness.
8. Use your favorite holiday cookie cutters to cut out the cookies.
9. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
10. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Decorating Ideas for Archway Christmas Cookies

One of the best things about Archway Christmas cookies is the opportunity to get creative with decorating. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Colored sugar: Use a variety of colored sugars to create festive designs on your cookies. You can also use a small paintbrush to create intricate designs.
• Sprinkles: Add a pinch of magic to your cookies with sprinkles in a variety of colors and shapes.
• Royal icing: Make a simple royal icing by mixing powdered sugar and milk, and use it to create intricate designs and patterns.
• Candy pieces: Use small candy pieces, such as M&M's or chopped peanut butter cups, to create fun and colorful designs.

Tips for Making the Perfect Archway Christmas Cookies

Making the perfect Archway Christmas cookies requires a few tips and tricks. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the taste and texture of your cookies.
• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough will help the cookies to retain their shape and bake up with a nice texture.
• Don't overbake: Archway Christmas cookies are best when they're soft and chewy. Avoid overbaking, as this will cause the cookies to become dry and hard.
• Experiment with flavors: While the traditional Archway Christmas cookie recipe is delicious, feel free to experiment with different flavors and spices to create your own unique recipe.

Sharing the Joy of Archway Christmas Cookies

One of the best things about Archway Christmas cookies is the opportunity to share them with friends and family. Here are a few ideas for sharing the joy of Archway Christmas cookies:

• Host a cookie exchange: Invite friends and family over for a cookie exchange, where everyone brings a batch of their favorite holiday cookies to share.
• Make a cookie gift basket: Put together a gift basket filled with Archway Christmas cookies, along with other festive treats and decorations.
• Share with neighbors: Share a batch of Archway Christmas cookies with your neighbors, along with a friendly note or card.

Conclusion: A Delicious Holiday Tradition

Archway Christmas cookies are a delicious holiday tradition that's perfect for sharing with friends and family. With their soft, chewy texture and sweet, slightly spicy flavor, it's no wonder they've remained a favorite for over 80 years. Whether you're a fan of the classic recipe or like to experiment with new flavors and decorations, Archway Christmas cookies are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.

We hope this article has inspired you to try your hand at making Archway Christmas cookies. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, these delicious treats are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. So go ahead, get creative, and make some magical memories with your loved ones.