Very few things scream Christmas like a batch of freshly baked sugar cookies. These bite-sized delights are not only adorable but also packed with festive flavors that will have everyone reaching for more. Perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or just a cozy night in by the tree.
Why This Recipe Works
- These cookies are bite-sized, making them perfect for parties and easy to decorate.
- The recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
- They bake quickly, so you can have a festive treat ready in no time.
- The dough is versatile, allowing for various shapes and decorations.
- They stay soft and chewy for days, if they last that long!
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This little trick saves you from scrubbing pans later and ensures your cookies slide off effortlessly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. This ensures your cookies will rise evenly and have that perfect texture. No one likes a flat cookie, unless it’s supposed to be that way!
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes. The fluffier it is, the lighter your cookies will be. Don’t rush this step; it’s the foundation of your cookie’s texture.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The vanilla adds that classic sugar cookie flavor we all love. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of almond extract can add a nice twist.
Step 5: Combine and Roll
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass for even baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The centers will still look soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool. Overbaking is the enemy of a soft cookie, so keep a close eye on them.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted. This makes a huge difference in the texture of your cookies. If you’re in a hurry, you can cut the butter into small pieces to speed up the softening process. Another pro tip is to chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if you find it too sticky to handle. This makes rolling and cutting much easier. Lastly, if you’re decorating with icing, let the cookies cool completely to avoid a melty mess.
Recipe Variations
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spicy twist.
- Mix in some colored sprinkles or edible glitter for extra festive flair.
- Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate for a decadent touch.
- Use different shapes of cookie cutters to match any holiday theme.
- For a citrusy version, add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance and keep it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator. Just let it soften slightly at room temperature before rolling and baking.
How do I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’ve decorated them with icing, layering them between sheets of parchment paper will prevent sticking.
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Summary
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bites are the perfect way to spread holiday cheer. Easy to make, delicious, and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to become a holiday tradition in your home.