As the holiday season approaches, there’s one scent that never fails to evoke memories of cozy gatherings and festive cheer: the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies. I vividly remember the first time I shared a batch of these Best Soft Christmas Cookies with friends—it was like a moment from a holiday movie, where smiles and laughter filled the air. Each cookie boasted a soft, buttery texture that just melted in your mouth, making it impossible to eat just one.
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between nostalgia and warmth, combining simple ingredients that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re baking solo while sipping on hot cocoa or with kids gathered ’round, this cookie project is a delicious way to spread holiday joy. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s create these delightful treats that not only brighten your day but also make for the perfect gift or dessert at your holiday table!
Why are these Best Soft Christmas Cookies amazing?
Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of butter and sugar creates a sweet, rich base that’ll transport you back to childhood memories of holiday baking.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Each bite is delightfully soft and chewy, making them irresistible fresh out of the oven.
Easy to Make: This quick recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festive fun.
Perfect for Celebrations: With 48 delightful cookies in one batch, you’ll have plenty to share at holiday parties, gift to neighbors, or pack in lunchboxes.
Endless Customization: Add sprinkles or festive shapes to make these cookies your own. Looking for more holiday inspiration? Check out some gift-worthy cookie ideas.
Best Soft Christmas Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – 3 ¾ cups; this is the backbone of the cookies, providing the perfect structure.
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon; for that lovely rise and soft texture.
- Salt – ½ teaspoon; enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- White sugar – 1 ½ cups; adds sweetness and helps create that coveted soft texture.
- Butter (softened) – 1 cup; you’ll want it at room temperature for easy blending into creamy goodness.
- Large eggs – 2; these provide moisture and help bind the ingredients together.
- Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons; infuses the cookies with a warm, inviting aroma.
Feel inspired to spread joy this season with these Best Soft Christmas Cookies!
How to Make Best Soft Christmas Cookies
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently until well incorporated, allowing the baking powder to distribute evenly for the best rise.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until smooth and fluffy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes, achieving a light color and airy texture.
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Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, filling your kitchen with a warm, comforting scent.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined, ensuring not to overwork the dough—this keeps your cookies soft.
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Shape the Cookies: Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them onto ungreased cookie sheets. Leave enough space between them as they will spread a bit while baking.
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Flatten and Topping: Gently flatten each dough ball with the bottom of a glass. Before popping them in the oven, sprinkle a little extra sugar on top for added sweetness and sparkle.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. Your cookies will continue to firm up slightly after cooling, keeping that soft center.
Optional: Decorate cooled cookies with festive icing or sprinkles for a cheerful touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Best Soft Christmas Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these delightful cookies to your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure it has xanthan gum to maintain the cookie’s lovely texture.
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Dairy-Free: Swap the butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. The flavor remains rich and satisfying without any dairy.
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Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture beautifully.
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Chocolate Twist: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for an indulgent treat. Each bite becomes a delightful surprise, blending rich chocolate with soft cookie goodness.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of orange or lemon zest into the dough. This will add a refreshing and aromatic twist to your cookies!
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Spice it Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. This warm spice will create that classic holiday aroma that fills your home with cheer.
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Festive Sprinkles: Top your cookies with colorful holiday sprinkles before baking. It not only adds a festive flair but also a fun crunch!
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Poppy Seed Lattice: Fold in 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds for a delightful crunch and unexpected flavor that will have everyone guessing your secret ingredient.
Make Ahead Options
These Best Soft Christmas Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain freshness. If you’re looking to prep even further, rolled cookie dough balls can be frozen for up to 3 months—just ensure they are spaced apart on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, allow the dough to thaw in the fridge overnight and then flatten and sprinkle with sugar just before baking. This way, you’ll enjoy soft, buttery cookies that taste just as delightful as if they were made fresh that day!
Helpful Tricks for Best Soft Christmas Cookies
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Use Room Temperature Butter: Ensuring your butter is softened at room temperature makes it easier to cream with sugar, resulting in that perfect soft texture.
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Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, contrasting with the goal of soft Christmas cookies.
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Monitor Baking Time: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on the cookies, baking until the edges are golden while the centers remain soft for the best results.
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Cool on the Sheet: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps maintain their soft texture and prevents breakage.
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Experiment with Mix-ins: While the base recipe is fantastic, feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for a delightful twist on these classic soft cookies!
Enjoy your festive baking and share the warmth of these Best Soft Christmas Cookies with loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Best Soft Christmas Cookies
Room Temperature: Enjoy your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and delicious!
Fridge: If you prefer, store the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure they’re in a sealed container to avoid drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months! Thaw at room temperature for a delightful treat whenever you crave the best soft Christmas cookies.
Reheating: For a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes. Enjoy the cozy aromas filling your kitchen!
What to Serve with Best Soft Christmas Cookies?
Baking these delightful cookies is just the beginning of your festive celebration; let’s explore what pairs beautifully with them.
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Hot Cocoa: The rich, smooth flavors of hot cocoa create a cozy atmosphere that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cookies. Imagine snuggling up by the fire with a warm mug in hand.
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Eggnog: Nothing says holiday cheer quite like eggnog. Its creamy, spiced taste enhances the festive spirit while offering a delightful contrast to the cookies’ soft texture.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a luscious creaminess, melting joyfully over a warm cookie. The combination creates an inviting dessert that feels like a warm hug.
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Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like apples or berries bring a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ sweetness. Their natural acidity cuts through the richness, providing a balanced bite.
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Festive Spritz Drink: A sparkling holiday beverage can elevate your gathering. The fizz and flavor will make each bite of the cookies even more exciting and celebratory.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For a simple yet indulgent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies. The rich chocolate coating enhances their flavor, making them even more irresistible during the holidays.
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Whipped Cream Topping: Add a dollop of whipped cream atop each cookie for an extra touch of sweetness. It’s like icing on the cake—except it’s a cookie, and that’s totally permissible!
Bring delight to your table this holiday season by complementing your Best Soft Christmas Cookies with these delicious pairings!
Best Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for these cookies?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for these Best Soft Christmas Cookies. It offers just the right balance to achieve that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone loves. If you want to get a bit adventurous, you could try using a gluten-free flour blend!
How can I tell if my butter is properly softened?
Softened butter should feel smooth and pliable to the touch, not melted or hard. If you press your finger into the butter, it should leave an imprint without crumbling. For best results, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before beginning your recipe.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store your Best Soft Christmas Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and delicious! If you want to prolong their freshness, place them in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to a week. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before storing.
Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Yes, absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring they’re sealed tightly. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature, and they’ll be just as soft and scrumptious.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough seems too sticky to handle, it’s likely that it needs a light dusting of flour. Sprinkle a little flour on your work surface and on your hands while shaping the dough. If your dough still feels too soft, you can chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes; chilling helps firm up the butter and makes it easier to work with!
Are these cookies safe for pets?
While sugar cookies may be delicious for us, they’re not suitable for pets, especially dogs. Ingredients like butter and sugar can upset their stomachs. Always keep these delightful treats away from your furry friends and ensure they stick to their proper treats instead.
Best Soft Christmas Cookies to Spread Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently until well incorporated.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Gently flatten each dough ball with the bottom of a glass and sprinkle a little extra sugar on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.