Christmas Sugar Cookies to Share and Gift

Christmas Sugar Cookies: Sweet Treats for the Holidays

Christmas sugar cookies are a holiday staple that brings joy to both bakers and tasters alike. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing, decorating, and enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa. Let's dive into two delicious sugar cookie recipes, some creative decorating ideas, and a few essential kitchen items you'll need to make your holiday baking experience a breeze.

Some visuals to get you excited for baking and decorating Christmas cookies.  

Choose your cookie cutter shapes and bake and decorate as desired. 

Here are Two Versions of Sugar Cookie Recipes

Classic Sugar Cookie Recipe

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 granulated sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)

• 3 tbsp milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.

3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until a dough forms.

5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out festive shapes.

6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool completely before decorating.

Chewy Sugar Cookie Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup light brown sugar

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 large eggs

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.

5. Roll the dough into balls and place on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.

6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool completely before decorating.

Sugar Cookie Labels 

Decorating Ideas

• Royal Icing: Use royal icing to outline and fill in your cookies. Add food coloring to create festive designs in red, green, and white.

• Sprinkles and Edible Glitter: Add a touch of sparkle to your cookies with colorful sprinkles and edible glitter.

• Piping Gel: Create intricate details like snowflakes, holly leaves, and reindeer faces with piping gel.

Essential Kitchen Items

• Rolling Pin: A good rolling pin is essential for evenly rolling out your cookie dough.

• Cookie Cutters: Invest in a variety of festive cookie cutters to make fun shapes like stars, trees, and snowmen.

• Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.

• Favor Bags: A fun and festive way to package your baking for gifts

• Cooling Racks: Ensure your cookies cool evenly by placing them on wire cooling racks.

• Baking Aprons: Look awesome while keeping your clothes clean

Packaging and gifting sugar cookies can be just as delightful as baking and decorating them. A charming way to present your festive treats is by placing them in clear cellophane bags or

Citrus Orange Cinnamon and Pine Favor Bag

paper bags that you can personalize like the one above, adding festive baking labels and also adding colorful ribbons to add a touch of holiday cheer. This allows the beautiful decorations on the cookies to shine through while keeping them fresh. Alternatively, gifting cookies in decorative tins is a classic choice that offers both practicality and a nostalgic feel. These tins often feature festive designs, making them perfect for holiday gifting. For an extra creative touch, consider using fun containers like mason jars, small baskets, or themed gift boxes. These containers can be lined with parchment paper or decorative tissue paper to add a bit of flair. No matter how you choose to package your sugar cookies, the thoughtful presentation is sure to bring joy to your friends and family.

Pink Snowman Winter Wonderland Treat Bag