Sugar cookies as we know them today likely emerged in North America during the 1700s. The cookie gained particular popularity in Pennsylvania, where German immigrants brought with them a recipe for a simple, buttery, and slightly sweet biscuit known as the “jumble cookie.” This cookie had a dough consistency that was easy to shape and could be flavored with basic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, both affordable and common at the time.
Christmas is the season for cozy kitchens, holiday music, and the delightful aroma of freshly baked cookies. Among all the holiday treats, there’s nothing quite as classic as sugar cookies. Crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and easy to decorate, these cookies are the perfect canvas for festive creativity. Whether you’re making them for a holiday party, a gift, or a family tradition, these sugar cookies are sure to bring holiday cheer.
Why Sugar Cookies Are a Holiday Classic
Sugar cookies have been a holiday staple for centuries, beloved for their versatility and delicious simplicity. With just the right amount of sweetness, they’re easy to shape, bake, and decorate, making them perfect for cookie decorating parties and cozy family baking sessions. Plus, they’re fun for all ages, from kids who love sprinkles to adults who get creative with icing designs.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookies
- Chill the Dough – Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape while baking, so don’t skip this step!
- Use Softened Butter – Softened (not melted) butter gives the cookies their tender texture and helps blend the ingredients smoothly.
- Don't Overbake – Sugar cookies should just barely start to brown at the edges. This keeps them soft and chewy.
Recipe Instructions
Prepare the Dough- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Scrape down the bowl and then beat the mixture for another 5 minutes.
- Reduce the speed to low, add the egg, and beat until incorporated. Scrape down the bowl and beat for 1 minute on medium.
- Add the remaining ingredients, reduce the speed to low, beat until the mixture comes together as a dough. Form dough into a ball and then flatten it into a disc. Cover it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours.
Roll and Cut
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for 5 minutes.
- Place the dough on a flour-dusted work surface and roll it out until it is approximately 1/4 inch thick. Use holiday cookie cutters to cut the dough into desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Form any scraps into a ball, roll it out, and cut into cookies. If the dough becomes sticky or warm, place it back in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Place the cookies in the oven and bake until lightly golden brown at their edges, 8-10 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, transfer to a wire rack, and let cool for 10 minutes before decorating or enjoying.
Decorating Ideas
Now comes the fun part: decorating! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Royal Icing Designs – Use royal icing to create detailed holiday patterns, like snowflakes, Christmas trees, and candy canes.
- Sprinkles & Edible Glitter – For quick, festive flair, sprinkle edible glitter or colored sugar on the cookies while the icing is still wet.
- Holiday Themes – Personalize each cookie with names or holiday messages for an extra-special touch, perfect for gifting.
Storage Tips
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them (undecorated) for up to three months. Just let them come to room temperature before decorating and serving.
Conclusion
These sugar cookies are sure to add a little sparkle to your holiday season! Simple, sweet, and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for any celebration, from Christmas Eve gatherings to holiday gift exchanges. Try them with family, friends, or even as a solo baking project to unwind and enjoy the holiday spirit. Happy baking, and happy holidays!
For more recipes like this, be sure to check out The Encyclopedia of Cookies with over 500 tasty recipes for cookie lovers of all ages. Whether you want to whip up a quick treat to take the edge off a long day or dazzle everyone at your holiday swap, simple recipes centered around pantry staples and tried-and-true techniques in The Encyclopedia of Cookies guarantee that you’ll rise to the occasion.
