Get ready to spread some joy this holiday season with my super fun Holiday Sprinkle Sugar Cookies! These festive treats are not just delightful to taste, but they also add a splash of color to your celebrations. With easy steps, common ingredients, and plenty of sprinkles, you can create cookies that impress everyone. Join me as I share my favorite tips, tricks, and variations to make this recipe your own!
Ingredients
To make these delightful Holiday Sprinkle Sugar Cookies, you need a few simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
List of Ingredients
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– ½ cup holiday sprinkles (assorted colors)
– Extra sugar for rolling
Each ingredient adds something special. The all-purpose flour gives structure. Baking powder and baking soda help cookies rise. Unsalted butter makes them creamy and rich. Both granulated and powdered sugars sweeten and lighten the dough. The egg binds everything together, while vanilla and almond extracts add depth of flavor.
Using holiday sprinkles makes these cookies festive and fun. Finally, rolling the dough in extra sugar gives a nice crunch. Gather these ingredients and get ready for some holiday cheer!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheets
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the cookies bake evenly. Next, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This keeps the cookies from sticking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is important. It ensures the dry ingredients mix well. Set this mixture aside for later.
Creaming the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer for best results. Mix until the mixture looks light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This process adds air to the cookies. Next, add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
Combining Ingredients
Now, it’s time to mix the dry and wet ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Then, gently fold in the holiday sprinkles. Make sure they spread evenly in the dough.
Shaping and Baking Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough. Roll them into balls and then roll each ball in granulated sugar. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each cookie slightly with your hand or the bottom of a glass. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get your cookies just right, start by creaming the butter and sugars well. Use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter with granulated and powdered sugar. Mix for about 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy. This step adds air to the dough, making your cookies soft and chewy.
Do not overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined. Overmixing can change the cookie’s texture, making them tough instead of tender.
Decorating Ideas
For a fun touch, drizzle some icing over the cookies. You can make a simple icing with powdered sugar and a splash of milk. It adds extra sweetness and makes your cookies look festive.
Do not forget to use extra sprinkles for decoration. After icing, sprinkle more holiday colors on top. This adds a cheerful look and makes them perfect for sharing.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your cookies spread too much, check your butter temperature. Make sure it is softened but not melted. Also, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps keep their shape.
If cookies turn out too dry or too soft, adjust the baking time. Every oven is different. Keep an eye on them, and bake until the edges are lightly golden. This way, the centers will stay soft and chewy.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of these cookies easily. One fun way is to use different extracts. For example, try peppermint extract for a minty twist. Just swap it for the almond extract. You can also mix in chocolate chips or nuts. Both add great taste and texture. Just remember to keep the amount about half a cup.
Different Themed Sprinkles
Sprinkles can make your cookies stand out. Use seasonal sprinkles for different holidays. For Halloween, try orange and black. For Christmas, use red and green. You can even choose colors for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries. Customizing colors makes your cookies more festive and fun.
Gluten-Free Alternative
If you need a gluten-free option, you can easily adapt this recipe. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend has xanthan gum for the right texture. This ensures your cookies stay soft and tasty. They will still look and taste amazing!
Storage Info
Keeping Cookies Fresh
To keep your holiday sprinkle sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to lock in moisture and keep the cookies soft. You can also add a slice of bread to the container. The bread helps keep the cookies from drying out.
Make sure the cookies are completely cool before storing them. This prevents condensation from forming. If you stack them, place parchment paper between layers to stop sticking.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these cookies both before and after baking. To freeze unbaked dough, scoop the dough into balls and place them on a tray. Freeze them for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag.
To bake later, simply take out the frozen dough when you’re ready. You can bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
If you want to freeze baked cookies, let them cool completely first. Then, place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. To thaw, leave them at room temperature for about an hour. This ensures they taste fresh and delicious!
FAQs
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
You can use vegan butter in place of regular butter. Brands like Earth Balance work well. You can also try coconut oil, though it will change the flavor a bit. Make sure to use the same amount as the butter called for in the recipe.
Can I chill the cookie dough before baking?
Yes, chilling the dough is a great idea. It helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances the flavor. I recommend chilling for at least 30 minutes. This time allows the butter to firm up and makes the dough easier to handle.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Look for a light golden edge on the cookies. The centers may appear soft, but they will firm up as they cool. A good rule of thumb is to check them after 10 minutes in the oven. If the edges are golden, it’s time to take them out.
Can these cookies be made in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for longer storage. Just scoop the dough into balls, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the balls to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready, bake them straight from the freezer.
You now have all the steps to bake delicious holiday cookies. We covered ingredients, mixing methods, and baking tips. You learned about troubleshooting and decorating to make your cookies stand out. Don’t forget to store them right or freeze for later. Baking cookies can be fun and easy, especially with these tips. I hope you enjoy making your treats and sharing them. Let your creativity shine as you bake. Happy baking!
