### Beautifully Molded Christmas Sugar Cookies
This sugar cookie recipe serves as your ideal source for beautifully molded Christmas cut-outs each year. A cherished holiday custom, these cookies roll out effortlessly, maintain their shape magnificently, and remain soft for several days. They’re excellent for decorating or giving away.
#### Flavor Profile
– **Flavor**: Sweet and creamy with tender centers, slightly crunchy edges, and flawless vanilla icing that makes each bite feel warm and homemade.
– **Technique**: Refrigerated dough guarantees cookies retain their festive shapes without spreading.
– **Prep Note**: Prepare dough up to 4 days in advance, or freeze in discs for hassle-free holiday baking.
– **Swaps**: Substitute vanilla for almond or peppermint extract for a seasonal twist.
– **Serving Suggestions**: Adorn with frosting, royal icing, simple sugar cookie icing, or sprinkles for Christmas cookie platters.
### Ingredient Notes
– **Butter**: Unsalted butter enhances flavor; softened but not melted butter produces the finest texture.
– **Vanilla Extract**: Pure vanilla gives the cookies a lovely aroma; consider replacing some with almond extract for a bakery-style essence.
– **Egg**: Allow eggs to reach room temperature before incorporation, aiding even dough mixing.
– **All-Purpose Flour**: Accurate flour measurement is essential for baking. Lightly spoon it into the measuring cup, then level off to prevent dense dough.
### How to Create Sugar Cookies
1. **Prepare the Dough**: Beat butter and sugar until airy, then blend in the egg, vanilla, and dry ingredients until a soft dough is formed. Chill until firm.
2. **Roll & Cut**: Roll the dough to ¼-inch thickness, cut into charming shapes, and transfer to baking sheets.
3. **Bake & Decorate**: Bake until edges are lightly golden, allow to cool completely, then embellish with icing or sprinkles.
**Tip**: If the dough appears dry or fails to hold together, keep mixing for up to 5 more minutes, and it will come together.
### Holly’s Expert Tips for Holiday Baking Success
– Use butter and eggs at room temperature for a smooth dough.
– Measure flour accurately to prevent a dry dough.
– Roll dough between sheets of parchment to avoid sticking. If it becomes too soft, refrigerate for a few moments.
– Chilling the sugar cookie dough is crucial to minimize spreading.
– Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet for optimal results.
### Decorating Cut-Out Sugar Cookies
– Sugar cookies are ideal for decoration. Utilize Christmas cookie cutters, stamped rolling pins, and colorful frosting topped with festive sprinkles!
– Ensure cookies are fully cooled before decorating to avoid melting icing.
– Employ soft frostings or basic sugar cookie icing for a glossy finish. Gel food coloring provides the most vibrant hues.
### Storing & Freezing Christmas Cookies
– Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
– Refrigerate dough for up to 4 days prior to baking.
– Freeze dough discs or baked cookies (undecorated) in a freezer-safe container for as long as 3 months.
– Insert parchment paper between layers to safeguard frosting when storing decorated cookies.
### Conclusion
This sugar cookie recipe is not just a delightful indulgence but also a fantastic way to create enduring memories throughout the holiday season. Whether you are decorating with family or gifting to friends, these cookies are guaranteed to bring happiness and sweetness to your festivities.