Holiday Cookies
Baking holiday cookies is a cherished tradition that brings warmth and joy to the festive season. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing with family and friends, making them a staple during holidays. With vibrant colors, unique shapes, and sweet flavors, holiday cookies can brighten up any gathering. Dive into this recipe and create your own batch of holiday cheer that will impress everyone at your celebrations!
Ingredients
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon almond extract
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (various colors)
– Royal icing for decoration
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 10-12 minutes per batch.
Nutritional Value
Each cookie (approximately 30g) contains about 150 calories, 8g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, 1g of protein, and 10g of sugar. This nutritional value is for one cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
6. Divide the dough into portions and color each with different food coloring.
7. Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick.
8. Use cookie cutters to shape the cookies and place them on a baking sheet.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Allow to cool completely before decorating with royal icing.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of these cookies. Additionally, you can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a healthier option.
Serving and Pairings
Holiday cookies pair beautifully with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or spiced tea. They also make excellent gifts when packaged in festive boxes or tins.
Storage and Reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can freeze them for up to three months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. There’s no need to reheat, as they are delightful at room temperature.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
- Not chilling the dough may cause cookies to spread too much while baking.
- Using expired baking powder or soda can result in poor rise.
- Skipping the cooling stage before decorating can cause icing to melt.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can alter the texture.
Helpful Tips
- Chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes for better shaping.
- Experiment with different flavors of extracts for a unique twist.
- Use a mix of sprinkles for festive decoration.
- Consider using a silicone baking mat for even baking.
FAQs
Can I freeze holiday cookies?
Yes, holiday cookies can be frozen. Ensure they are completely cooled and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
What is the best way to decorate holiday cookies?
Using royal icing is the best way to decorate holiday cookies. It dries hard and can be easily colored and piped into various designs.
How long do holiday cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container, holiday cookies can last about a week at room temperature. If frozen, they can last for three months.
Can I use cookie cutters for different shapes?
Absolutely! Cookie cutters come in various shapes and sizes, allowing you to create festive designs for any occasion.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. If it’s still sticky, you can gradually add more flour until it reaches the desired consistency.
Conclusion
Baking holiday cookies is a delightful way to celebrate the season, creating memories and sweet treats for loved ones. With this recipe, you can customize your cookies and bring cheer to every gathering. Happy baking!
Holiday Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Food coloring
- Royal icing for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Divide the dough into portions and color each with different food coloring.
- Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick.
- Use cookie cutters to shape the cookies and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool completely before decorating with royal icing.
