Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than by baking some delicious Christmas butter cookies? These classic treats are a staple of the season, and with these 5 easy recipes, you'll be able to whip up a batch in no time.
Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to get into the holiday baking spirit. From classic sugar cookies to more unique flavor combinations, we've got you covered.
So, grab your mixing bowls and your favorite holiday tunes, and let's get started on these 5 easy Christmas butter cookies to make!
Recipe 1: Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies are a staple of the holiday season, and for good reason. They're easy to make, delicious, and perfect for decorating with your favorite frosting and sprinkles.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations
- Use a variety of cookie cutters to create fun shapes.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness.
- Use colored sugar or sprinkles to decorate.
Recipe 2: Cranberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are perfect for the holiday season, with the sweetness of white chocolate and the tanginess of cranberries.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.
- Stir in white chocolate chips and cranberries.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations
- Use fresh cranberries for a more intense flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of cookies before baking.
Recipe 3: Snickerdoodle Butter Cookies
These cinnamon-sugar cookies are soft and chewy on the inside and crispy on the outside, perfect for a holiday treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 Tbsp cinnamon sugar (see notes)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in cinnamon.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations
- Use a mixture of white and brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra spice.
Recipe 4: Shortbread Butter Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are easy to make and perfect for dunking in tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners' sugar.
- Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes.
- Allow to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations
- Use a high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of cookies before baking.
Recipe 5: Lemon Rosemary Butter Cookies
These bright and citrusy cookies are perfect for a holiday party or gift exchange.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in lemon juice and rosemary.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations
- Use a high-quality lemon extract for the best flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of sugar on top of cookies before baking.
We hope these 5 easy Christmas butter cookies to make have inspired you to get into the holiday baking spirit! Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to create delicious treats for friends and family.
So, which recipe will you try first? Let us know in the comments below!
What is the best type of butter to use for Christmas cookies?
+The best type of butter to use for Christmas cookies is high-quality, unsalted butter. This will give your cookies the best flavor and texture.
Can I make Christmas cookies ahead of time?
+Yes, you can make Christmas cookies ahead of time. Many cookies can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container. Some cookies, like shortbread, can even be made up to 2 weeks in advance.
How do I store Christmas cookies?
+Christmas cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.