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When the holiday season rolls around, I can’t help but reminisce about the sweet scents that filled my childhood home. The moment I hear the first crackle of a cozy fire, my mind drifts to the buttery goodness of soft Christmas cookies fresh from the oven. These little morsels of joy, infused with delicate hints of vanilla and almond, are a staple that transforms any holiday gathering into a cherished memory.

Making these cookies is not just about baking; it’s an invitation to get hands-on with loved ones, decorating them with colors and sprinkles that reflect our festive spirit. What I adore most about this Best Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe is its versatility—while they shine in their classic guise, it’s a cinch to add a twist like peppermint or even citrus zest for a fun update! Whether enjoyed plain or adorned with icing, these cookies not only guarantee indulgence but also quickly become a beloved tradition in any home. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and create a batch of these delightful treats together!

Why is this the Best Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe?

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe is straightforward, perfect for bakers of all levels, allowing you to produce impressive cookies without fuss.

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Delight: The combination of butter, vanilla, and almond extract ensures each bite is heavenly and rich.

Versatile Flavor Profiles: Easily customize this recipe with variations like peppermint or citrus zest for a festive twist.

Perfect for Decorating: These cookies are ideal for decorating with family, making them a fun activity for holiday gatherings.

Traditional Holiday Charm: Soft Christmas cookies have become a cherished part of family celebrations, ensuring you create joyful memories year after year.

Embrace the holiday spirit with these delightful treats that are not just cookies; they’re a festive tradition.

Best Soft Christmas Cookies Ingredients

• Dive into the delightful world of baking with these essential ingredients for the Best Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe!

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise and maintain their softness; no substitutes are recommended.
Baking Soda – Aids in browning and leavening; use ammonium bicarbonate for a similar effect.
Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt can impart a different, delightful taste.
Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; replace with margarine or coconut oil for dairy-free cookies.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and contributes to texture; opt for brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; flax egg or applesauce are great vegan substitutes.
Vanilla Extract – Introduces fragrant sweetness; substitute with almond extract or peppermint for a twist.
Almond Extract – Provides a subtle nutty flavor; omit for nut-free cookies or use more vanilla.
Sour Cream – Keeps cookies moist and soft; Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute.

For the Icing

Powdered Sugar – Used for icing; can be replaced with alternative sweeteners like stevia for a healthier option.
Milk – Thins icing to desired consistency; replace with any dairy-free milk as a substitute.

With these ingredients at your fingertips, you’re ready to create a joyful batch of soft Christmas cookies that will leave everyone craving more!

How to Make Best Soft Christmas Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to keep cookies from sticking.
Whisk Together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This will provide the dry foundation for your dough.
Cream the butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl for 2-3 minutes until it becomes fluffy and light. This process adds air and helps the cookies rise.
Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract next, mixing until just combined. Then, fold in the sour cream to achieve a lovely, smooth dough.
Gradually Mix in the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture forms a soft and cohesive dough, but be careful not to overmix!
Roll Out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out festive shapes.
Transfer the shaped cookies to the prepared baking sheets, ensuring there’s space between them. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are barely golden.
Cool the cookies on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare the Icing by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and your choice of vanilla or almond extract until smooth. Add food coloring for a festive touch!
Decorate the cooled cookies with icing and allow them to set before storing.

Optional: For a delightful twist, add colorful sprinkles on top of the icing for extra holiday cheer!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Best Soft Christmas Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, store in the fridge for up to 7 days; just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze uniced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy freshly baked taste, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, ensuring they stay lovely and soft.

Best Soft Christmas Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this recipe to suit your taste and make it even more festive!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or margarine for a delicious dairy-free version of these cookies.
Minty Twist: Replace almond extract with peppermint extract for a refreshing seasonal flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of fresh orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the vanilla.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich, chocolaty contrast to the buttery sweetness.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that enhances the cookie’s texture.
Colorful Icing: Mix food coloring into your icing to create vibrant patterns or holiday-themed designs that add a festive touch to your cookies.
Sprinkle Fun: Toss some colorful sprinkles into the icing or on top of the cookies before they set; it brings a joyful pop of color and adds texture.
Fruity Fusion: Replace half the granulated sugar with mashed ripe bananas or applesauce for a fruity sweetness that still keeps the cookies soft and delicious.

Each variation can transform the recipe into a new favorite, making your holiday cookie plate all the more special!

Make Ahead Options

These Best Soft Christmas Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 2 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps maintain the dough’s freshness and prevents it from becoming overly sticky. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling it out and cutting into shapes. You can also bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They will still be just as delicious when you ice them right before serving, ensuring you enjoy fresh, festive treats!

Tips for the Best Soft Christmas Cookies

Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to promote better incorporation and a fluffier dough, essential for the best soft Christmas cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stir until just combined to avoid tough cookies; a gentle hand creates a tender bite.
Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This makes rolling easier and helps maintain shape during baking.
Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different! Keep a close eye on the cookies while they bake, removing them when edges are barely golden for optimum softness.
Store Properly: To maintain freshness, keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, or freeze them for longer storage without icing to savor later.
Experiment with Flavor: Don’t hesitate to play around with extract flavors or even add mix-ins like chocolate chips or festive spices to customize your best soft Christmas cookies.

What to Serve with Best Soft Christmas Cookies?

Indulging in the warmth of holiday baking is best complemented by delightful pairings that elevate your experience.

Hot Cocoa: The creamy richness and sweet aroma of hot cocoa perfectly balance the buttery softness of the cookies. It’s a cozy combination that warms the heart!
Eggnog: This festive beverage, spiced and creamy, enhances the holiday spirit and creates a wonderful interplay of flavors when paired with your cookies. It’s a classic comfort that invites reminiscing about cherished gatherings.
Milk: A simple and classic choice, chilled milk beautifully complements the sweet, buttery bliss of the cookies, making each bite even more enjoyable. It’s the ultimate nostalgic pairing!
Coffee: The robust flavors of freshly brewed coffee bring out the cookie’s sweetness while adding a touch of adult sophistication, providing a delightful contrast to the soft texture.
Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing addition, the bright flavors of fresh fruits like berries or citrus cleanse the palate and create a lovely balance with the richness of the cookies.
Marshmallow Topping: For a whimsical touch, toast marshmallows and create an indulgent sandwich with your cookies. The gooey sweetness adds another layer of fun and flavor.
Spiced Tea: Enjoy a warm cup of chai or herbal spice tea to pair with the cookies, as the aromatic flavors complement the almond and vanilla notes beautifully.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Elevate your cookies further with a dollop of cream cheese frosting on top. Its tangy sweetness makes each bite feel extra special and festive!

Let these delightful pairings enhance your cookie experience and spread joy throughout your holiday gatherings!

Best Soft Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs

Which flour should I use for the Best Soft Christmas Cookies?
Using all-purpose flour is ideal as it provides the perfect structure for soft cookies. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with a good-quality gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that it includes xanthan gum or add it separately to ensure consistency.

How can I store my soft Christmas cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them fresher for longer, transferring them to the fridge will keep them nice for about 7 days, though I recommend letting them warm up to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.

Can I freeze the Best Soft Christmas Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your uniced cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet for a couple of hours to freeze solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature and add your favorite icing.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too soft to handle?
If your dough feels too soft, don’t worry! Simply refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This chilling helps firm up the dough, making it much easier to roll out and cut into festive shapes. Remember, a little patience goes a long way!

Are these cookies suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can easily make these cookies vegan! Swap the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit until gelatinous) or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce. Additionally, use coconut oil instead of butter and a non-dairy milk alternative for the icing.

Can I modify the flavor of these cookies?
Yes, the versatility is one of the best parts of this recipe! While classic vanilla and almond make for divine cookies, mixing in a teaspoon of peppermint extract or adding citrus zest can create wonderful seasonal variations. Don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors that reflect your festive spirit!