A curated selection of holiday cookies perfect for festive gatherings, cookie exchanges, and shipping. Includes make-ahead classics and beautifully decorated sugar cookies.
Author:purejoyalex
Prep Time:45 min
Cook Time:10 min
Total Time:55 min
Yield:3 dozen 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
For decorating: Royal icing, sprinkles, edible glitter
Instructions
Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Divide dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out desired shapes using cookie cutters.
Place cookies on prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Let cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorate with royal icing and other desired toppings once fully cooled.
Notes
Dough can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
For best results when decorating, ensure cookies are completely cool.
Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.