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Delicious homemade Christmas cookies decorated for the holiday season.

Soft Christmas Cookies

Cozy, soft bites that melt in your mouth, perfect for holiday gatherings and kid-approved decorating.
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Prep Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 30 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cookie Ingredients
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour spoon into the cup, level off.
  • 1 tsp baking soda fresh = best lift.
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder helps gentle rise.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened unsalted controls salt.
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar gives tender crumb.
  • 1 pc egg room temperature blends easier.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract real vanilla for depth.
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional) small touch boosts flavor.
  • 3 tbsp sour cream keeps cookies soft.
  • 1/4 tsp salt balances the sweetness.
Icing Ingredients
  • 2 cups powdered sugar sift for smooth icing.
  • 1-2 tbsp milk (for icing) add slowly to adjust thickness.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (for icing) aromatic lift.
  • Gel food coloring stronger color, less runny.
  • Sprinkles (optional) add after icing sets.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment.
  2. Whisk the flour, baking soda, and baking powder in a bowl until even.
  3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the egg, vanilla, almond extract (if using), sour cream, and salt until smooth.
  5. Gradually add the flour mix to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
  6. Chill the dough for 1 hour.
Baking
  1. Roll the chilled dough out about 1/4 inch thick and cut shapes.
  2. Lay cookies on the sheet, spaced.
  3. Bake 8–10 minutes, until cookies look set and edges barely color.
  4. Cool completely before icing.
Icing
  1. Whisk powdered sugar, 1 tbsp milk, and vanilla until smooth.
  2. Add more milk for thinner glaze.
  3. Tint with gel colors and decorate with sprinkles.

Notes

Time-saver: Chill dough in flattened disk—chills faster. Common mistake: If dough spreads, chill longer and reduce oven temp by 10°F. Simple variation: Add 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon for a warm note.