Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step helps prevent spreading during baking, though it’s not essential if you’re short on time.
Form the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. For a festive touch, roll the dough balls in holiday sprinkles or colored sugar. Place them about 2 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should be soft, but firm to the touch.
Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these sweet treats immediately or store them for later!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving: These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual afternoon snacks. Pair them with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or milk for a comforting treat. Add them to a cookie platter, or pack them in festive boxes for a homemade gift.
Storing: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to layer the cookies between parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Decorating: While these cookies are simple and delicious on their own, they can also be decorated with icing, sprinkles, or colored sugar to match the season. If you’re making them for Christmas, try adding red and green sprinkles for a festive look.
Variants:
Gingerbread Version: For a spiced variation, add 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, ½ teaspoon of ground cloves, and ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg to the dry ingredients. This will give your cookies the traditional gingerbread flavor that is perfect for the holiday season.
Sugar Cookie Version: For a classic sugar cookie, omit the cinnamon and sprinkles, and simply roll the dough into balls, flatten them with a fork, and bake. You can frost them with royal icing or glaze once they have cooled.
Chocolate Chip Variation: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious twist. This version adds a rich chocolatey flavor that pairs well with the soft texture of the cookies.
Lemon or Orange Zest: For a citrusy burst, add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated lemon or orange zest to the dough. This adds a fresh, fragrant flavor that brightens up the cookies.
FAQ:
Can I freeze the dough for later? Yes! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before rolling it out and baking.
How can I make these cookies more festive? You can make these cookies more festive by adding colorful sprinkles, sanding sugar, or edible glitter before baking. You can also decorate them with icing, or use holiday-themed cookie cutters for a fun shape.
What if I don’t have cinnamon? If you don’t have cinnamon, you can substitute it with other spices like nutmeg, allspice, or cloves. You can also omit the spice entirely for a more neutral cookie.
Can I make these cookies without using eggs? Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or an egg substitute like aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas). This will work well in keeping the texture soft and chewy.
Can I use a stand mixer or hand mixer for this recipe? Yes, both a stand mixer and a hand mixer work well for this recipe. A stand mixer can help you mix the dough more efficiently, but a hand mixer or even mixing by hand is perfectly fine too.
Why are my cookies spreading too much while baking? If your dough is too warm, the cookies may spread too much. Try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help control the spread. You can also make sure to use the right amount of flour in the dough.
Conclusion:
Christmas cookies are not just for the holidays—they’re perfect for year-round enjoyment. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of delicious, festive cookies that will leave everyone asking for more. So don’t wait until December—bake these sweet treats any time of year and indulge in their delightful flavor and texture!
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