Frosted Sugar Christmas Cookies are delightful, festive treats that celebrate the holiday spirit with their bright colors and sweet flavors.
These soft and chewy cookies feature a buttery base, perfectly adorned with vibrant frosting and festive sprinkles. Ideal for family gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, they bring joy to both kids and adults alike.
Baking these cookies allows for creativity in decoration, making it a fun activity for families or those seeking to share holiday cheer with loved ones.
Make sure to use room temperature butter for best results.
Adjust the amount of food coloring based on how vibrant you want the frosting to be.
Different colors of sprinkles can be used to match various holiday themes.
Cooking Steps
Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
Add 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and mix until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough will be soft.
Roll the dough into small balls, approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
Flatten each dough ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to about 1 cm (½ inch) thickness.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops are set but still soft. The aroma of baking cookies will fill the kitchen.
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, approximately 15-20 minutes.
While cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting by whisking together 2 cups powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk in a medium bowl until smooth. If using, add food coloring until desired color is achieved.
Once the cookies are completely cooled, frost each cookie using a spatula or piping bag and top with sprinkles as desired.
Allow the frosting to set for about 30 minutes before storing the cookies in an airtight container.
Enjoy your festive treats!
Variations
Citrus Zest Sugar Cookies: Add 1 tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, invigorating flavor twist.
Gluten-Free Cookies: Substitute all-purpose flour with 3 ½ cups (420g) of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Vegan Cookies: Replace the egg with 1/4 cup (60ml) of unsweetened applesauce and use dairy-free butter for a plant-based option.
Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies: Fold in 1 cup (180g) of semisweet chocolate chips into the dough for a delicious chocolatey twist.
Tips on plating and presentation
While decorating and plating your frosted sugar Christmas cookies, I’m always amazed at how a little creativity can elevate their presentation.
I love using colorful plates or festive trays to make the cookies pop. A simple layer of parchment paper or a sprinkle of powdered sugar underneath adds an elegant touch.
Grouping cookies in odd numbers or placing them at varying heights creates visual interest. Don’t forget to incorporate small decorative elements, like holiday sprinkles or edible glitter, to enhance the theme.
For a touch of charm, I sometimes add a few pine branches or cinnamon sticks around the cookies.
Finally, lighting a few candles nearby can create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Happy plating!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
If you want to elevate your holiday gatherings, pairing frosted sugar Christmas cookies with complementary dishes can create a delightful spread.
I love to set out a variety of festive treats alongside these cookies. For starters, a platter of gingerbread men or peppermint bark adds a spicy and minty contrast. Cheese platters, featuring brie and sharp cheddar, provide a savory balance that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
Don’t forget a selection of mixed nuts for some crunch! I also enjoy serving them with fresh fruit like cranberries and oranges, which adds a rejuvenating touch.
Finally, a rich chocolate cake can satisfy those with a sweet tooth, rounding out the dessert table beautifully. Happy pairing!
What drinks can I pair it with?
After setting up a delightful spread of treats, I love to think about drinks that pair perfectly with frosted sugar Christmas cookies.
One of my all-time favorites is a warm cup of spiced apple cider. The sweet and tangy notes complement the cookies beautifully.
If I’m in the mood for something colder, I often reach for a classic eggnog—it’s rich and creamy, making each bite of cookie even more indulgent.
For a non-alcoholic option, a simple glass of milk never disappoints; it balances the sweetness wonderfully.
If I want something unique, I might enjoy gingerbread-infused chai tea, which adds a holiday twist.
No matter what I choose, pairing drinks with these cookies brings even more holiday cheer to my celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze Frosted Sugar Cookies for Later Use?
I’ve frozen frosted sugar cookies before. Just make sure they’re properly wrapped to keep the frosting intact. When you’re ready, let them thaw in the fridge for the best texture. Enjoy!
How Long Do Frosted Cookies Stay Fresh?
Frosted cookies stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. I always store mine in an airtight container to maintain their flavor and texture. If you want them longer, consider freezing them!
What Type of Flour Works Best for These Cookies?
I’ve found that all-purpose flour works best for these cookies. It gives them a perfect balance of softness and structure. I always choose high-quality flour to guarantee my cookies turn out delicious every time.
Are There Gluten-Free Options for This Cookie Recipe?
Absolutely, I’ve used gluten-free all-purpose flour for these cookies, and they turned out great! Just verify it contains xanthan gum for structure, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free cookies your friends and family will love.
Can I Use a Different Type of Frosting?
Absolutely, you can use a different type of frosting! I often switch things up with cream cheese or chocolate ganache. Just make sure it complements the cookie flavor for a delicious combination. Enjoy your baking!
