These festive Christmas Cookies with Sprinkles are the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season. Buttery, soft, and adorned with colorful sprinkles, these cookies are easy to make and great for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, giving homemade gifts, or just craving a sweet treat, these cookies are guaranteed to bring joy.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles (plus more for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Fold in 1/2 cup of holiday sprinkles with a spatula.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, form balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten the tops with your fingers or the back of a spoon.
Step 7: Add More Sprinkles
Press additional sprinkles onto the tops of the cookies for an extra festive touch.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden. Avoid overbaking for soft and chewy cookies.
Step 9: Cool
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and room-temperature eggs help create a smooth, even dough.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
- Customize the Sprinkles: Use red, green, and white sprinkles for a classic Christmas look, or choose other festive colors to match your theme.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: After the cookies have cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the tops for an elegant finish.
- Add Zest: Mix in a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
- Sprinkle Sandwich Cookies: Spread buttercream or chocolate frosting between two cookies to make a delightful sandwich cookie.
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas Cookies with Sprinkles are ideal for:
- Holiday cookie exchanges
- Gifting in decorative tins or boxes
- Serving with hot cocoa or coffee
- Adding to dessert trays at parties
Storage Instructions
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature before baking.
What if I don’t have sprinkles? You can skip the sprinkles or substitute them with mini chocolate chips, crushed peppermint, or colored sugar.
How do I make gluten-free Christmas cookies? Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute for the all-purpose flour. Ensure your sprinkles are gluten-free as well.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Christmas Cookies with Sprinkles are easy to make, endlessly customizable, and full of holiday cheer. They’re perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike, and their festive appearance makes them a hit at any holiday gathering. With their buttery flavor and soft texture, they’ll quickly become a seasonal tradition!
Conclusion
Baking these Christmas Cookies with Sprinkles is a joyful and delicious way to embrace the holiday spirit. Share them with family and friends, or keep a batch for yourself to enjoy throughout the season. This recipe is a keeper, so get ready to make your holidays even sweeter!