why make this recipe
Slice and Bake Christmas Cookies are not just any cookies; they are festive treats that bring joy to the holiday season. These easy-to-make cookies allow for creativity with colors and can be cut into fun shapes. They are perfect for family gatherings, parties, or simply to enjoy with a warm drink. Plus, the log shape makes them easy to prepare in advance, so you can have freshly baked cookies ready when you need them.
how to make Slice and Bake Christmas Cookies
Ingredients :
- 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Food coloring gel or natural, optional
Directions :
- In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half, adding food coloring if desired.
- Shape each half into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice chilled logs into 1/4 inch rounds and place on prepared sheets.
- Bake for 8-11 minutes, or until edges are golden.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks.
how to serve Slice and Bake Christmas Cookies
These cookies are great on their own or can be decorated with frosting, sprinkles, or icing for an extra special touch. Serve them on a festive platter during holiday gatherings, or package them in decorative bags as sweet gifts for friends and family.
how to store Slice and Bake Christmas Cookies
To keep your Slice and Bake Christmas Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for 1-2 weeks. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
tips to make Slice and Bake Christmas Cookies
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Chill the dough thoroughly; this will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Use different food coloring to create festive colors for your cookies.
- Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the dough for additional flavor.
variation
You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor or use flavored extracts like almond or peppermint for a twist on the traditional recipe. You can also make these cookies in different shapes by rolling the dough into shapes before chilling.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the logs of dough before slicing. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are just starting to turn golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
Slice and Bake Christmas Cookies
- Total Time: 191 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Festive and easy-to-make cookies that bring joy to the holiday season, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Food coloring gel or natural, optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half, adding food coloring if desired.
- Shape each half into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice chilled logs into 1/4 inch rounds and place on prepared sheets.
- Bake for 8-11 minutes, or until edges are golden.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. Chill the dough thoroughly to maintain cookie shape.
- Prep Time: 180 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
