Standing in my kitchen, the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, instantly transporting me to my childhood holiday memories. These Best Soft Christmas Cookies are my go-to festive treat, combining rich flavors with vibrant red and green sprinkles that bring joy to any gathering. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; with quick prep and soft, tender results, you can whip up a delightful batch even on the busiest holiday nights. Perfect for sharing with friends, family, or simply indulging during quiet moments, these cookies encapsulate the warmth of the season. Are you ready to add a sprinkle of cheer to your baking this year?
Why are these the best soft cookies?
Irresistible Flavor: The buttery sweetness paired with festive sprinkles creates a cookie that’s hard to resist. Each bite melts in your mouth, bringing a blissful holiday experience.
Quick and Easy: With a simple preparation process, these cookies can be made in no time, making them ideal for those busy festive days.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a thoughtful gift, these cookies are sure to spread joy and cheer among friends and family. They are reminiscent of classic holiday treats, just like my popular Soft Pumpkin Cookies.
Customizable: Want to switch things up? Try adding chocolate chips or nuts for a delightful twist. The possibilities are endless, just like with my beloved Nutella Marshmallow Cookies.
Festive Presentation: Topped with vibrant sprinkles, these cookies not only taste fantastic, but they also look festive on any holiday dessert table.
Best Soft Christmas Cookies Ingredients
Get ready to create the most delightful batch of cookies with this simple ingredient list!
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Margarine (softened) – Adds rich flavor and tenderness; replace with unsalted butter for a traditional twist.
- Baking powder – The leavening hero; ensure it’s fresh to achieve that perfect rise!
- Eggs – Essential for moisture and binding; no good substitutes here—keep it classic!
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; feel free to omit if you’re watching your sodium intake.
- Vanilla extract – Brings warmth and depth; try almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- White sugar – Sweetens and softens the cookie; brown sugar can be used for a chewier texture.
For the Festive Topping
- Red and green sprinkles – Adds holiday cheer and a touch of fun; feel free to use colored sugar to match your theme!
These Best Soft Christmas Cookies will bring joy and sweetness to your holiday celebrations!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Soft Christmas Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This initial step is crucial, as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that delightful soft texture. While the oven heats up, take a moment to gather and prepare your baking sheets, lining them with parchment paper if desired.
Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened margarine and white sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into your batter, which helps create the soft, tender cookies that define the Best Soft Christmas Cookies.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Next, add the eggs, one at a time, to the creamed mixture. Beat well after each addition to ensure that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step adds moisture and richness to the dough, essential for achieving the tender consistency you want in your holiday cookies.
Step 4: Add the Vanilla Extract
Stir in the vanilla extract, blending it into the mixture until well combined. The vanilla adds a warm, sweet aroma that enhances the flavor of your Best Soft Christmas Cookies. Make sure it is evenly distributed before moving on to the dry ingredients for the next step.
Step 5: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This crucial step combines the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour, ensuring each cookie rises beautifully. Take care to break up any lumps in the flour, as this will lead to a smoother batter.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; you want the dough to remain soft and slightly sticky rather than tough. This careful blending is key to ensuring your Best Soft Christmas Cookies come out perfectly tender.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the ungreased baking sheets. Make sure to leave some space between each ball, as they will spread during baking. For even shapes, gently flatten the tops with the bottom of a glass, pressing just enough to create a slight indentation.
Step 8: Add Festive Sprinkles
Generously sprinkle the tops of each cookie with vibrant red and green sugar sprinkles. This festive touch not only adds a pop of color but also an appealing crunch to your cookies, making them even more delightful. Feel free to get creative with the sprinkles, matching them to your holiday theme.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should have set edges while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked. This is essential for that melt-in-your-mouth texture that characterizes the Best Soft Christmas Cookies.
Step 10: Cool on Racks
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This will help them firm up slightly. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This step is important to prevent sogginess and allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in a perfectly delicious festive treat.
Best Soft Christmas Cookies Variations
Feel free to personalize these delightful cookies for a festive twist that speaks to your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously tender cookie that everyone can enjoy.
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Butter: Replace margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. It adds that classic buttery taste that makes holiday cookies so comforting.
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Nutty Surprise: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The nuts will add an earthy depth that complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Chocolate Delight: Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent treat. Chocolate and festive sprinkles create a beautiful, modern twist that feels like a hug in cookie form.
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Peppermint Bark: Add crushed peppermint candies or extract for a refreshing seasonal twist. This fragrant addition will instantly conjure up visions of candy canes and holiday cheer.
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Citrusy Zest: Grate a bit of lemon or orange zest into the dough for a zesty freshness. This bright flavor will dance on your palate, making these cookies even more special.
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Red and Green Sprinkles: Swap traditional sprinkles with themed colored sugar for a fun, custom look. Choose colors that reflect your holiday décor for a personalized touch!
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Caramel Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of salted caramel for an indulgent finish. This rich sweetness will elevate your cookies into a gourmet treat!
No matter how you choose to celebrate, these variations ensure that your Best Soft Christmas Cookies will bring warmth and joy to any gathering. Whether you’re sticking to the traditional or feeling adventurous, have fun with your holiday baking! And remember, if you’re in the mood for more delightful treats, my recipe for Dirt Cake Cookies is also a festive favorite!
What to Serve with Soft Christmas Cookies
These delightful cookies create the perfect sweet moment, warming hearts and spreading joy during the holiday season.
- Warm Cocoa: A cozy cup of rich hot chocolate complements the sweet, buttery cookies while enhancing the festive mood.
- Eggnog: This creamy, spiced drink pairs wonderfully, adding a rich layer to the light, festive taste of your cookies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop this frosty delight alongside your cookies for a delicious contrast of temperatures and textures. The combination is simply heavenly!
- Gingerbread Men: Serve these classic treats alongside your cookies to create a whimsical dessert spread that’s bound to please guests. The spicy flavor contrasts beautifully with the soft sweetness.
- Fruit Platter: Crisp apples and juicy oranges provide a refreshing bite, balancing the sweetness and adding vibrant colors to your holiday table.
- Mint Tea: The refreshing aroma and flavor of mint tea can cleanse the palate, making it an excellent beverage choice while enjoying your freshly baked cookies.
- Christmas Sugar Cookies: Complement the soft Christmas cookies with another festive favorite for a delightful cookie platter during gatherings.
- Cheesecake Bars: Indulge your sweet tooth further by serving up these creamy treats as a rich and satisfying contrast to the cookies.
- Festive Fruit Punch: Create a colorful and cheerful drink that brings a delightful zing and keeps the holiday spirits high during your celebrations.
Expert Tips for Best Soft Christmas Cookies
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Room Temperature Margarine: Make sure your margarine is at room temperature for easy creaming, leading to the perfect soft texture in your cookies.
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Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cookies; they’re best when slightly underbaked in the center to maintain their soft consistency.
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Consistent Shapes: Use a glass to flatten the cookie dough balls gently, ensuring they have uniform thickness for even baking.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always check the freshness of your baking powder; stale leavening agents can prevent your Best Soft Christmas Cookies from rising properly.
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Customize with Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different extracts or add-ins like chocolate chips; it’s a simple way to make each batch uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Best Soft Christmas Cookies are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients, rolling them into balls, and placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, the dough remains fresh and the flavors deepen overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven, arrange the chilled dough on baking sheets, sprinkle with festive toppings, and bake as directed. You can also freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months—just remember to let them sit at room temperature while your oven heats up, ensuring your cookies come out just as delicious as fresh-baked!
How to Store and Freeze Best Soft Christmas Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This will preserve their soft texture while maintaining freshness.
Fridge: For longer-lasting cookies, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to use an airtight container to prevent them from becoming dry.
Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. This brings back that delightful soft texture, making them taste like freshly baked Best Soft Christmas Cookies!
Best Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour works best for these cookies?
All-purpose flour is perfect for these cookies as it provides the ideal structure and texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure to check the blend’s properties to ensure it behaves similarly during baking.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store your Best Soft Christmas Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks; just be sure to keep them well-sealed to prevent drying out!
Can I freeze soft cookies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, first, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for that freshly-baked taste.
What should I do if my cookies become too hard?
If your cookies turn out harder than anticipated, it may be due to overbaking. Always check them a minute or so before the baking time is up, as cookies often continue to set while cooling on the baking sheet. A quick fix for hard cookies is to place a slice of bread in the container with them overnight; the moisture will help soften them.
Are there any dietary considerations I need to keep in mind?
Yes! These Best Soft Christmas Cookies contain eggs and margarine, making them unsuitable for those with egg allergies or dairy considerations (if using regular margarine). For those looking for alternatives, use an egg replacer for the eggs and a dairy-free margarine to cater to vegan diets. Always ensure to check the specific branding for potential allergens.
Best Soft Christmas Cookies You'll Love to Bake Together
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened margarine and white sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Sprinkle the tops of each cookie with vibrant red and green sugar sprinkles.
- Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes until edges are set and centers remain soft.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
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