Save
Buttery soft sugar cookies with a festive touch make these the perfect treat for holiday celebrations and sharing with friends and family. Their tender texture and delicate sweetness have made them a favorite in my home every Christmas season.
I first baked these cookies as a gift to neighbors, and now they ask for them every year. It is truly a recipe that brings holiday cheer and warm memories.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: Use a good quality white flour for a soft crumb
- Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a tender bite
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor
- White sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the soft texture
- Margarine: Use softened margarine to keep cookies dairy-free and moist
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sift Dry Ingredients:
- Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt by sifting them into a medium bowl to ensure even distribution. Set aside to add gradually to the wet ingredients.
- Cream Sugar and Margarine:
- In a large bowl, beat the white sugar and softened margarine together using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for incorporating air and creating a light texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat the first egg into the creamed mixture until well blended. Then add the second egg and the vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated for a uniform dough.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Gradually add the sifted flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently just until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Chill the Dough:
- Wrap the dough tightly in cling film and refrigerate for at least two hours. This makes the dough easier to roll and helps maintain shape during baking.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Lightly grease two baking sheets to prevent sticking.
- Shape the Cookies:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about six millimeters thick. Cut into festive shapes using cookie cutters. Arrange the cookies on the prepared sheets, saving scraps to reroll.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake each batch for six to eight minutes. Watch carefully for the edges to turn just a light golden color to ensure the perfect soft texture.
- Cool Before Serving:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for several minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating or storing.
Save
My favorite ingredient here is vanilla extract because it deepens the flavor without overpowering the cookie. I remember rolling these out with my children during holiday breaks and the house filled with the scent of vanilla and sugar—those simple moments made the season feel magic.
Storage Tips
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and soft for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies separated by parchment paper for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap margarine for dairy butter if you do not need the cookies to be dairy-free; butter adds richness. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar slightly by about 20 grams. For a gluten-free option, try a blend of almond and rice flour but expect a texture variation.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect on their own or paired with a hot cup of cocoa or tea. For festive gatherings, consider sprinkling powdered sugar on top or decorating with royal icing for colorful holiday patterns. They also make wonderful edible gifts when packaged in decorative tins.
Cultural Context
Sugar cookies have a long tradition in American holiday baking, symbolizing warmth, family, and celebration. Their simplicity allows for creativity in decoration and customization, making them a beloved seasonal activity in many households.
Pro Tips
- Always sift your dry ingredients for a uniform dough and consistent baking
- Do not skip chilling the dough; this prevents spreading and keeps shapes crisp
- Keep a close eye during baking as the cookies go from soft to overdone quickly
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I keep cookies soft and tender?
Ensuring the dough isn’t overmixed and baking just until edges turn light golden helps maintain softness and tenderness inside.
- → Why is chilling the dough important?
Chilling firms the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut, while enhancing the texture and flavor.
- → What’s the secret to buttery flavor without butter?
Using softened margarine provides a rich, buttery taste and smooth texture while accommodating dairy-free needs.
- → How thick should the dough be rolled?
Roll the dough to about 6 mm thickness to ensure cookies bake evenly with a soft center and delicate edges.
- → Can I prepare dough in advance?
Yes, refrigerating the dough overnight softens flavors and improves the dough’s handling during baking.
- → What equipment is best for shaping cookies?
Cookie cutters create precise shapes, while a rolling pin and floured surface ensure even thickness.