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Christmas is a time for joy, togetherness, and celebration. It’s also a season of indulgence, with cookies often being the star of the show in many homes. Making scrumptious cookies can be a delightful way to bond with your family, reflect on cherished traditions, or establish new ones.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a first-time novice, this article provides a variety of simple recipes for you to explore. Explore and master these delectable treats to make your Christmas even more memorable.
1. Classic Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies are a beloved favorite enjoyed by people of all ages. Their simple yet irresistible sweet and buttery flavor sets them apart.
Ingredients:
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– ½ tsp baking powder
– 1 cup softened unsalted butter
– 1 ½ cups white sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ½ tsp almond extract
– 3-4 tbsp buttermilk
– Sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration
Preparation:
- Start by combining flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until creamy.
- Add the egg and both extracts, then gradually incorporate the dry mixture.
- Shape the dough into balls, place them on a tray, and flatten them with a fork.
- Brush the tops with buttermilk and add sprinkles or colored sugar.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 9 minutes.
- Allow them to cool before serving.
2. Mexican Wedding Cookies
Mexican wedding cookies are a timeless treat, particularly cherished during festive occasions. Their melt-in-the-mouth texture, combined with the nutty flavor of pecans, makes them an irresistible choice for many.
Our recommendation of the best Mexican wedding cookies recipe found here will leave you licking your fingers. Here is an overview of how you can try these at home:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup softened unsalted butter
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– A pinch of salt
– 1½ tsp vanilla extract
– 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup finely chopped pecans
– Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two trays with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the butter, ½ cup sugar, and salt until smooth.
- Add the vanilla and gradually mix in the flour and pecans.
- Shape the dough into small balls and place them on the trays.
- Bake for approximately 14 minutes.
- Once baked, let them cool slightly, then coat with powdered sugar.
- Allow them to cool completely before serving.
3. Delightful Almond Crescents
Almond crescents are delicious cookies with a unique shape and a delightful almond flavor. If you’re seeking a cookie that isn’t overly sweet but offers a rich taste, this one fits the bill.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup softened butter
– 2/3 cup sugar
– 1 tsp almond extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/8 tsp salt
– Confectioners’ sugar (for rolling)
Preparation:
Start by creaming together the butter and sugar in a bowl. Add the almond extract. In a separate bowl, mix flour, chopped almonds, and salt, then blend this with the butter mixture. Shape some of the dough into crescent forms and place them on a baking tray.
Bake at 350°F for approximately 18 minutes. After baking, while they’re still warm, roll the cookies in confectioners’ sugar. Allow them to cool before enjoying.
4. Chocolate Peppermint Crunch
Chocolate peppermint crunch combines the richness of chocolate with the fresh taste of peppermint.
This cookie is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a blend of sweet and minty flavors. It’s not limited to just the holiday season; you can make it any time of the year when you’re craving something special.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup softened butter
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup cocoa powder
– Crushed peppermint candies (for topping)
Preparation:
In a bowl, thoroughly mix the butter, sugar, egg, and peppermint extract. Gradually incorporate the flour and cocoa powder, ensuring everything is well combined. Use a spoon to drop bits of dough onto a baking sheet.
Bake them at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Once out of the oven and still hot, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies on top. Allow them to cool before enjoying.
5. Gingerbread Men
Gingerbread men are timeless cookies cherished for generations. They are known for their spicy flavor and playful shapes, often resembling little people.
These cookies are particularly popular during the holiday season. Baking them can be a fun family activity, allowing everyone to decorate and personalize their own gingerbread man.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups flour
– 1 ½ tsp baking powder
– ¾ tsp baking soda
– ¼ tsp salt
– 1 tbsp ground ginger
– 1 ¾ tsp ground cinnamon
– ¼ tsp ground cloves
– 6 tbsp unsalted butter
– ¾ cup dark brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– ½ cup molasses
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
Preparation:
Begin by combining all the dry ingredients in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the butter, brown sugar, and egg until well blended.
Add the molasses and vanilla to this mixture. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients and mix. Once the dough is ready, divide it into two parts and allow it to cool in the fridge.
When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375°F. Roll out the dough, cut it into your preferred shapes, and bake for about 7 to 10 minutes. Allow them to cool, and they’re ready to be enjoyed or decorated!
6. Coconut Snowballs
Coconut snowballs evoke wintertime memories for many. Their name comes from their round shape and white appearance, resembling small snowballs.
These cookies are soft, with a hint of sweetness, and the coconut lends them a unique texture. They’re perfect for those who savor coconut-flavored desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup softened unsalted butter
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ¼ tsp salt
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup desiccated coconut
Preparation:
Start by beating the softened butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla until they become creamy. Gradually add the flour to the mixture, ensuring thorough blending. Then, incorporate the coconut into the dough and mix it in.
Once the dough is ready, shape it into small balls and place them on a baking tray. Place the tray in an oven preheated to 350°F and bake the cookies for approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Once baked, allow them to cool on wire racks. Enjoy these delectable treats with a cup of tea or coffee!
Conclusion
Baking is a joyful experience, particularly when crafting delicacies like coconut snowballs, classic sugar cookies, and almond crunchies. Each of these desserts boasts its distinct flavor, catering to a variety of cravings.
Coconut snowballs provide a tropical flair, almond crunchies introduce a nutty dimension, and classic sugar cookies consistently win over the crowd.
To ensure a hassle-free baking session, make sure to use ingredients at room temperature, verify the freshness of baking soda, and measure with precision.
Remember that patience is essential for achieving the best results. With these straightforward tips, anyone can craft these treats to perfection. Savor both the process and the delicious outcomes!
