why make this recipe
Christmas Sugar Cookies are a festive treat that bring joy and cheer to any holiday gathering. These soft, sweet cookies topped with cream cheese frosting are perfect for sharing with family and friends. With colorful sprinkles that capture the spirit of Christmas, they are not just delicious but also a fun activity to make together. This Crumbl copycat recipe makes it easy to recreate a beloved favorite at home.
how to make Christmas Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 270 g (2¼ cups) all-purpose flour
- 4 g (1 tsp) baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 170 g (1½ sticks / ¾ cup) unsalted butter, softened (68-72°F)
- 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp almond extract (optional)
- 54 g (⅓ cup) Christmas jimmies sprinkles
- 283 g (1¼ bricks / 10 oz) full-fat cream cheese, softened (68-72°F)
- 184 g (13 Tbsp) salted butter, softened (68-72°F)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅛ tsp salt
- 150 g (1¼ cups) powdered sugar, sifted
- 80 ml (⅓ cup) heavy cream, very cold
- 24 g (2 Tbsp) Christmas sprinkles (jimmies, nonpareils, trees, etc.)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line 2-3 baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or use a hand mixer), beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. Pause to scrape down the bowl once or twice.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, then beat on medium-low speed until combined, about 30 seconds.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture in two parts, stirring on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in the Christmas jimmies sprinkles using a spatula.
- Use a 3-Tablespoon cookie scoop to portion the dough (about 48-50 g each). Roll each scoop into a ball and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
- Slightly flatten each dough ball with your fingers or the bottom of a glass, keeping the cookies at least ½-inch thick.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops no longer look glossy. The cookies should not brown.
- Remove from the oven and immediately shape into perfect circles by gently rotating a cookie cutter or glass larger than the cookies around each cookie.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or a hand mixer), beat the cream cheese and salted butter on low speed until smooth and lump-free, about 1-2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add the vanilla extract and salt, then beat on low until just combined.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar in three parts, beating on low speed until combined, about 10-15 seconds each time. Scrape the bowl as needed.
- Gradually drizzle in the cold heavy cream (about 1 tablespoon at a time) while whisking on low speed until stiff peaks form, about 1-1½ minutes. Do not overwhip.
- Pipe the frosting in a spiral pattern over the cookies using a #2A or #1A piping tip, starting from the center and working outward. You can also spread it with a spatula to create swirls.
- Just before serving, sprinkle with Christmas sprinkles.
how to serve Christmas Sugar Cookies
These cookies are wonderful served on their own or as part of a dessert platter during holiday gatherings. They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can also gift them in festive boxes or bags for loved ones. Pair the cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate or eggnog for a delightful treat.
how to store Christmas Sugar Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. You can also freeze the baked cookies (without frosting) for up to three months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
tips to make Christmas Sugar Cookies
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are properly softened for smooth mixing.
- Don’t overmix the dough to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and even baking.
- Rotate your baking sheets halfway through baking for even results.
- Adjust the amount of sprinkles based on your personal preference for color and festivity.
variation
You can adjust the flavor of the cookies by adding different extracts, such as peppermint for a more festive twist. You can also use different types of sprinkles or decorations for a personalized touch.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Refrigerate it for up to three days, or freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before rolling and baking.
Can I use a different type of frosting?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any frosting you love, such as chocolate buttercream, royal icing, or even a simple glaze.
How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much while baking?
Make sure your oven is fully preheated and consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while cooking.
