Get ready to fill your home with the delightful aroma of freshly baked holiday cookies! These festive treats are not only a joy to make but also a pleasure to share. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking to indulge in some seasonal goodness, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. With a perfect blend of spices and sweetness, each bite is a reminder of the joys of the holiday season.
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
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Food coloring (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, and cooking time is around 10-12 minutes per batch.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 150 calories, 7g of fat, 22g of carbohydrates, 1g of protein, and 0g of fiber. This is based on a standard cookie size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar.
- Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden.
- Let cool on wire racks.
- Once cooled, mix powdered sugar and milk for icing, and decorate with food coloring if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, coconut oil can be used instead of butter for a dairy-free alternative. Use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetening option.
Serving and Pairings
These holiday cookies are perfect on their own or served alongside a warm cup of cocoa or spiced tea. They also make great gifts when arranged in festive boxes.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
- Not chilling the dough may result in cookies spreading too much.
- Using too much flour can make cookies dry.
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven baking.
- Skipping the cooling step can cause icing to melt.
Helpful Tips
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for better texture.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cinnamon.
- Use colored sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Try adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Start with a mix of both for best results.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make these cookies vegan, substitute butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg in place of the egg.
What is the best way to decorate holiday cookies?
The best way to decorate is with royal icing or colored frosting. You can also use edible glitter or sprinkles for added flair.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Conclusion
Baking holiday cookies is a delightful tradition that brings joy and warmth to the season. With simple ingredients and a few steps, anyone can create these festive treats to share with loved ones. Embrace the spirit of the holidays and enjoy the delicious results of your baking!
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
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Food coloring optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar.
- Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden.
- Let cool on wire racks.
- Once cooled, mix powdered sugar and milk for icing, and decorate as desired.
