When the twinkling lights of the holiday season begin to adorn every corner of our homes, I can’t help but feel the excitement of holiday baking. Enter Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies – an effortless delight that brings festive cheer with every bite. The moment I take a tray out of the oven, the sweet aroma of buttery cookies fills the air, instantly transporting me to cherished memories of joy and laughter shared with family.
These cookies are not just any ordinary treat; they boast a soft, pillowy texture that melts in your mouth, paired with a dreamy layer of creamy frosting that begs for a sprinkle of holiday spirit. Best of all, you won’t need fancy tools or skills— just simple ingredients and a bit of creativity to personalize your decorations. They’re the perfect solution for busy schedules, allowing anyone to whip up a delightful batch in no time, whether for a cookie exchange, a holiday gathering, or just a sweet moment at home. Get ready to spread some holiday joy with every irresistible bite!
Why are Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies a must-try?
Irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth texture: Every bite of these cookies offers a delightful softness that simply melts away, creating a memorable experience.
Creative decorating options: The versatile frosting allows for endless creativity—choose from colors and sprinkles to match any festive mood!
Low-effort holiday baking: Whip up these cookies without the need for rolling pins or intricate techniques, making them perfect for busy schedules.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: With their bright colors and sweet flavors, these cookies are sure to brighten up any gathering or cookie exchange.
Make-ahead and freeze-friendly: Prepare a batch ahead of time and freeze them, ensuring that tasty treats are always on hand when the holiday craving strikes!
Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake delightful treats!
For the Cookie Dough
- Butter – Provides richness and flavor; use unsalted for better control of salt levels.
- Shortening – Enhances softness and helps cookies maintain their shape; can be substituted with more butter if preferred.
- Granulated Sugar – The main sweetener that contributes to browning; stick with this for optimal taste.
- Eggs – Act as a binder and add moisture; make sure they’re at room temperature for even mixing.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely flavor; feel free to swap with peppermint extract for a festive twist.
- All-Purpose Flour – The foundation of the cookies; measure properly to avoid density.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix – Increases moisture and chewiness; simply add the dry mix directly.
- Baking Powder – Provides the lift to keep these cookies light and airy.
- Salt – Essential for balancing sweetness and enhancing flavor.
For the Buttercream Frosting
- Unsalted Butter – Creates a creamy texture for the frosting; beat until fluffy.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; ensure it’s sifted for a smooth blend.
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness and helps with consistency; adjust for desired thickness.
- Vanilla Extract – Perfect for flavor; a little goes a long way!
- Food Coloring/Sprinkles – Optional for decoration; personalize to match the holiday theme.
These Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies are a breeze to make, making holiday baking fun and stress-free!
How to Make Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick!
- Cream together the softened butter, shortening, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes, for that perfect texture.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. This adds moisture and flavor, creating a delightful cookie base.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually incorporate the dry mix into the wet ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This gives the cookies room to spread as they bake.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are light golden brown and the centers are set. Look for a soft, pillowy appearance—perfection!
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to firm up a bit without becoming too dry.
- Prepare the frosting by beating the unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar and heavy cream while mixing, then blend in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Decorate your cooled cookies with the buttercream frosting and sprinkle with fun holiday sprinkles for that festive touch!
Optional: For a fun twist, use a piping bag to create beautiful frosted designs!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies are perfect for busy holiday schedules! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and refrigerating it until ready to bake. Just be sure to cover the bowl tightly to prevent drying out. In addition, you can also frost the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, allow them to cool completely before frosting and separate layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to serve, simply take them out, and enjoy these delicious, festive treats that are just as delightful as fresh-baked!
Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative! Here are some delightful ideas to customize your cookies.
- Flavor Twist: Add almond or orange zest to the frosting for a fresh, citrusy kick that brightens those sweet flavors.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks into the dough for added richness and delicious melty bites.
- Nutty Goodness: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch and depth of flavor within every cookie.
- Spiced Up: Include cinnamon or nutmeg in the cookie dough for a warm, festive touch that embodies the essence of the holidays.
- Mini Cookie Version: Use a mini cookie scoop to make bite-sized treats; they’re perfect for sharing and will disappear in a flash!
- Frosting Fun: Experiment with different frosting flavors, like chocolate, coffee, or even matcha, to delight your taste buds in new ways.
- Colorful Delight: Use vibrant food colorings in your frosting to match different holiday themes or festivities, making your cookies a visual treat.
- Sprinkle Varieties: Try topping with themed sprinkles for various occasions — think red and green for Christmas or pink and red for Valentine’s Day!
What to Serve with Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies?
As you prepare to share these delightful treats with friends and family, consider pairing them with comforting accompaniments that enhance the festive spirit.
- Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of rich hot cocoa is the perfect companion, making every cookie bite even more indulgent. The chocolatey flavors complement the sweetness of the frosting beautifully.
- Festive Fruit Salad: A bright and refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of freshness to counterbalance the sugary cookies, creating a balanced holiday spread.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Enjoy a heartwarming glass of spiced apple cider, whose warm spices enhance the holiday atmosphere and pair perfectly with your cookies.
- Gingerbread Latte: A festive gingerbread latte with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a sweet, spiced flavor that resonates with the cookies’ warm flavors.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap out the buttercream for a tangy cream cheese frosting. The creaminess juxtaposes beautifully with the chewy cookies, offering a delightful twist.
- Peanut Butter Cups: These chocolatey treats bring in a nutty flavor that harmonizes well with the sweetness of the cookies, perfect for any peanut butter lover!
- Sugar Cookie Icing: Add a little variety by using colorful sugar cookie icing instead. It creates a delightful texture change while maintaining the holiday spirit.
- Eggnog: A classic holiday favorite, eggnog’s rich, creamy texture and festive spices make it a perfect drink to sip alongside these cookies during celebrations.
- Chocolate Milk: Delight the kids (and the young at heart) with a glass of cold chocolate milk, providing a fun pairing that marries well with the sweetness of the cookies.
- Christmas Cheesecake: Serve a festive cheesecake topped with cranberries or peppermint; its creamy texture complements the soft cookies for a delightful dessert platter.
Storage Tips for Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days to keep them fresh and soft.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, keep them in the fridge for up to 10 days. Make sure they’re sealed properly to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: These cookies freeze wonderfully! Store them unfrosted in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Frost after thawing for best results.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm cookie, microwave for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as you want to maintain that soft melt-in-your-mouth quality!
Expert Tips for Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies
- Avoid Overmixing: Keep the dough tender by mixing just until ingredients are combined. Overworking can lead to tough cookies.
- Check Baking Time: Monitor the cookies closely while baking; remove them when edges are light golden to prevent dryness.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment to avoid sticking and achieve even baking for your Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs are at room temperature for even mixing; this helps create that soft, chewy texture.
- Frosting Technique: For a professional look, use a piping bag to decorate your cookies with frosting; it’s easier than you think!
Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness for my ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your butter is softened at room temperature (about 68-72°F or 20-22°C) before using it in the cookie dough. This helps to achieve that light and fluffy texture. Eggs should also be at room temperature to blend evenly. If they’re cold from the fridge, simply place them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes.
What’s the best way to store Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies?
You’ll want to keep your delicious cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about 5-7 days to maintain their softness. If you’re storing them in the fridge, they can last up to 10 days, but be sure to seal them tightly to fend off drying out.
Can I freeze Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies? How?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze the cookies unfrosted for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow the cookies to thaw at room temperature, then frost them post-thawing for the best flavor and appearance.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels overly sticky, don’t fret! It may be due to scooping too much flour or the butter not being fully softened. You can either chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, allowing it to firm up for better handling, or gradually mix in a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a manageable consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies?
Definitely! If you or someone in your family has allergies, always check the ingredient labels, especially for allergens like gluten and dairy. Additionally, if you’re looking to make these cookies suitable for vegan diets, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg) and use dairy-free butter for frosting.
Can I use different types of frosting on these cookies?
Very much! While buttercream is the classic choice, consider trying cream cheese frosting for a tangy kick or even a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a lighter topping. Feel free to get creative with flavors like almond or peppermint extract in the frosting to switch things up!
Irresistibly Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies for Festive Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together the softened butter, shortening, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually incorporate into the wet ingredients.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are light golden brown.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Beat the unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar and heavy cream, blending in the vanilla extract.
- Decorate cooled cookies with buttercream frosting and add sprinkles for decoration.
