Looking for the perfect holiday cookie that melts in your mouth? Look no further than Christmas Meltaway Cookies! These buttery, soft, and slightly crumbly cookies are topped with a sweet glaze and festive sprinkles, making them a true holiday delight. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a batch of melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for glaze)
- Sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat them together until smooth and fluffy. Add the 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and cornstarch. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can affect the texture of the cookies.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Once the dough is ready, it should be soft but not sticky. Scoop out small portions of dough, about 1 tablespoon each, and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls onto an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. You don’t need to flatten the balls; they will naturally spread and form slightly as they bake.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden. The center of the cookies should still look slightly soft. Don’t worry if the cookies seem a little underbaked—they’ll firm up as they cool, and this is what makes them so tender.
Step 5: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures that they don’t break apart while they’re still soft.
Step 6: Glaze the Cookies
While the cookies are cooling, you can prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon milk, and 1/2 cup powdered sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 7: Decorate the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over each cookie using a spoon or a small piping bag. Sprinkle festive decorations such as colored sprinkles, sugar crystals, or edible glitter on top to add a touch of holiday cheer.
Tips for Success
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. This helps create a smooth dough and prevents the cookies from being too dense.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies should be soft and slightly crumbly, so be careful not to overbake them. The cookies will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.
- Customize the Glaze: You can add food coloring to the glaze to match your holiday theme. Try red or green for Christmas, or add a touch of peppermint extract for a festive flavor twist.
- Storage: Store your Christmas Meltaway Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to layer the cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Creative Variations
- Citrus Glaze: Add a little lemon or orange zest to the glaze for a fresh, citrusy twist.
- Chocolate Dipped: For an extra indulgent treat, dip half of each cooled cookie into melted chocolate, then let it set before serving.
- Sprinkles: Use different types of sprinkles, such as sugar crystals, nonpareils, or chocolate sprinkles, to customize the look of your cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas Meltaway Cookies are perfect for:
- Holiday cookie exchanges
- Gifting in cute cookie jars
- Snacking with a cup of hot cocoa or tea
- Serving at Christmas parties or family gatherings
Storage Instructions
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze these cookies for up to three months, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time for holiday events.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter? While butter provides the best flavor and texture for these cookies, margarine can be used as a substitute in a pinch. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes! You can bake the cookies a day or two in advance, and they will still taste fresh. Just store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to glaze and serve.
Can I use a different flavor of extract in the glaze? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different extracts such as almond, hazelnut, or even peppermint for a different twist on the classic flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Christmas Meltaway Cookies are the perfect balance of buttery goodness and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Their simple ingredients and easy preparation make them an accessible option for holiday baking, while their delicate texture and festive appearance make them an impressive treat. These cookies are sure to become a new holiday favorite in your household!
Conclusion
Christmas Meltaway Cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves buttery, soft cookies with a delicate texture. These cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for busy holiday baking. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or enjoying them by yourself with a cup of hot cocoa, these cookies are sure to bring some holiday cheer to your festivities.