Introduction
There’s something magical about baking during the holiday season, and these Best Soft Christmas Cookies embody that festive spirit perfectly! With their tender, cake-like texture and delightful flavors, they’re bound to become a cherished tradition in your home. Each bite offers a burst of sweetness, enhanced by colorful sprinkles that make them as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, or leaving out for Santa, these cookies are sure to warm your heart and fill your home with inviting aromas!
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract
- 3 tbsp sour cream
- ½ cup colored sprinkles or sugar crystals for decoration
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to get nice and hot while you prepare the cookie dough.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder until well combined. Set this mixture aside for later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar. Beat it until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes – this is where the magic of texture begins!
- Next, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and sour cream, mixing until everything is beautifully blended together.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients you set aside earlier, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want these cookies to be soft and tender!
- Using a rounded teaspoon, drop mounds of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, leaving enough space between each for spreading.
- Gently flatten each mound slightly using the back of a spoon, then sprinkle the tops with colorful sprinkles or sugar crystals. This little touch adds not only flavor but also festive flair!
- Bake in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft and a touch underbaked.
- Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra festive touch, consider using different colors of sprinkles that match your holiday theme! These cookies can also be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, though they’re sure to disappear quickly. If you want to make them ahead of time, the dough can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and frozen for up to a month. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
Cooking Techniques
Beating the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy is critical for achieving that soft texture. If you’re using cold butter straight from the fridge, consider cutting it into smaller pieces to soften faster. When it comes to baking, always measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife for the most accurate measurement.
FAQ
Can I use margarine instead of butter? While butter adds rich flavor, margarine can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind it may alter the texture slightly.
What can I substitute for sour cream? Plain yogurt is a great substitute if you’re out of sour cream. It will maintain the moisture and flavor profile!
How can I keep my cookies soft the next day? Store the cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The bread will help maintain moisture and keep your cookies soft!
Conclusion
These Best Soft Christmas Cookies are more than just a treat; they embody the joyful spirit of the holidays. Whether enjoyed at festive gatherings or shared with loved ones, they’re bound to bring smiles all around. So preheat that oven, gather the ingredients, and let the holiday baking begin. Happy baking and enjoy every bite!