Get ready to make the holidays sweeter with my Holiday Sprinkle Sugar Cookies! These festive treats are easy to bake and fun to share. You’ll love the way they look and taste, especially with colorful sprinkles on top. Whether you’re a baking pro or just starting out, my simple steps will guide you. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on your new favorite cookie!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon pure almond extract
– ½ cup assorted holiday sprinkles
– Extra granulated sugar for rolling
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making great cookies. I use all-purpose flour for a soft texture. Baking powder and baking soda help them rise just right. A little salt brings out the sweet flavors.
For the fats, I prefer unsalted butter. It gives the cookies a rich taste. I blend granulated sugar and powdered sugar for the perfect balance of sweetness. The egg binds everything together, making the dough smooth.
Vanilla and almond extracts add depth to the flavor. The holiday sprinkles make these cookies festive and fun. Don’t forget the extra sugar for rolling. It gives the cookies a nice crunch on the outside.
With all these ingredients, your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, prepare your baking sheets. Line two sheets with parchment paper. This step helps prevent the cookies from sticking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, mix the dry ingredients. Combine 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk to blend everything well. Set this bowl aside for later.
Creaming Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars. Use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of powdered sugar. Mix until it looks light and fluffy. This takes about 3-4 minutes.
Combining Wet Ingredients
Next, add the wet ingredients to the butter-sugar mix. Crack in 1 large egg and pour in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
Incorporating Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add the dry mix. Gradually pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps the cookies tender.
Folding in Sprinkles
It’s time for the fun part! Gently fold in ½ cup of assorted holiday sprinkles. Use a spatula to mix them in evenly. This step adds color and joy to your cookies!
Forming and Shaping Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough. Roll each portion into a ball with your hands. Then, roll each ball in extra granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared sheets. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie.
Baking Instructions
Place the baking sheets in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges. This means your cookies are ready to come out.
Cooling Process
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven. Let them cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks. Let them cool completely before enjoying.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Perfection Tips
To avoid common baking mistakes, start by measuring ingredients correctly. Use a scale for precision. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. When creaming butter and sugars, mix until light and fluffy. This step helps cookies rise well. Always preheat your oven to the right temperature. This ensures even baking.
Achieving the Best Cookie Texture
The texture of cookies comes from several factors. First, the type of flour matters. All-purpose flour gives good results. Second, the amount of butter affects softness. Too much butter can make cookies greasy. Third, avoid overmixing the dough. Mix just until combined to keep cookies tender. Lastly, baking time is key. Take cookies out when the edges are lightly golden.
Presentation Tips
For a fun display, drizzle icing on your cooled cookies. Mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk for a simple icing. Use a spoon to drizzle it on top. Arrange cookies on a colorful platter. Scatter extra holiday sprinkles around them for a festive look. This makes the cookies even more inviting for guests.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make these cookies even more fun by changing the flavors. Here are some ideas to try:
– Chocolate Chips: Add about 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough. This gives a sweet, rich flavor.
– Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or orange peel into the mix. This adds a bright, fresh taste.
– Nut Flavors: Try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. They give a nice crunch and flavor.
– Spices: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor. These spices work great for the holidays.
Holiday-Themed Decorations
Decorating these cookies can be a blast! Here are some ideas to make them festive:
– Icing: Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk. Use festive colors like red and green.
– Sprinkles: Use different holiday sprinkles. You can find stars, snowflakes, or even candy canes.
– Edible Glitter: Add some edible glitter for a shiny finish. It makes them look magical.
– Marshmallows: Top cookies with mini marshmallows for a fun twist. They add a soft texture and sweetness.
Dietary Adjustments
You can also change these cookies to fit your diet. Here are some options:
– Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. This keeps the cookies tasty and safe for those with gluten issues.
– Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg or applesauce. Use vegan butter instead of regular butter. This makes the cookies vegan-friendly.
– Lower Sugar: You can cut back on the sugar if you want a less sweet treat. Just reduce the granulated sugar by a little.
These variations make the holiday sprinkle sugar cookies perfect for everyone!
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your holiday sprinkle sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep the container in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can dry out the cookies. This method helps maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these cookies for future joy. First, let the cookies cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Shelf Life
When stored correctly, these cookies can last about one week at room temperature. If you freeze them, they will stay fresh for up to three months. This allows you to enjoy them during the busy holiday season or any time you crave a sweet treat.
FAQs
What makes these cookies unique?
These cookies shine because of the colorful holiday sprinkles. They add joy and fun to each bite. The sprinkles make the cookies look festive and bright. This extra touch makes them perfect for any holiday gathering. Plus, the sprinkles can add a slight crunch, enhancing the texture.
Can I use other types of sprinkles?
Absolutely! You can use any sprinkles you like. Try chocolate, rainbow, or even themed sprinkles for different holidays. Each type will give the cookies a new look and taste. Feel free to mix and match for a fun twist.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for lightly golden edges on your cookies. The centers may still look soft, and that’s okay! They will firm up as they cool. If you notice the edges turning brown, it’s time to take them out. Overbaking will make them too hard.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, making the dough ahead is a great idea! You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the dough for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies whenever you want!
You have all the tools to bake delicious sugar cookies. This guide covered ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips. You learned how to mix, shape, and bake. I shared ways to customize flavors and decorate for any occasion. Proper storage keeps your cookies fresh longer. Follow these steps, and you’ll bake cookies everyone loves. Remember, practice makes perfect. Enjoy your baking journey and share your treats with friends and family!
