Soft and tender sugar cookies with a thick, creamy layer of frosting.
These Christmas frosted sugar cookies are the perfect festive treat for the holiday season. With their buttery, soft texture and vibrant, thick frosting, they're sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Why you'll want it now, These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings with their festive shapes and vibrant frosting.
Why this recipe works
This recipe combines the perfect balance of butter and sugar to create a soft and tender cookie base. The addition of baking powder ensures a light texture, while chilling the dough allows the cookies to hold their shape during baking. The thick frosting adds a sweet and creamy finish.
Equipment
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer with paddle attachment
Rolling pin
Christmas-shaped cookie cutters
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Cooling rack
Spoon or offset spatula
How to make it
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thickness.
Cut out cookies using Christmas-shaped cookie cutters and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.
To make the frosting, beat together the powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Divide the frosting into separate bowls and tint with food coloring as desired.
Frost the cooled cookies using a spoon or offset spatula, decorating with festive designs.
Enjoy these festive frosted sugar cookies at your holiday gatherings, and share the joy of homemade treats with loved ones.
How you'll know it's ready
The cookies are ready when the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft.
Convection oven? (and if you don't have one)
If using a convection oven, reduce the baking temperature to 325°F (160°C) and start checking the cookies a couple of minutes early. Standard oven users, the written temperature is perfect for you.
Frosting, filling & glaze notes
The frosting should be thick and creamy, spreading easily without running off the cookies.
Troubleshooting
If cookies spread too much, ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking.
For softer cookies, avoid overbaking, remove them as soon as the edges are lightly golden.
If frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar to thicken.
To prevent dough from sticking, roll it out between two sheets of parchment paper.
Storage
Store frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Make ahead
Prepare and chill the dough up to 2 days in advance. Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months; frost after thawing.
Variations
Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the cookie dough for a different flavor.
Use royal icing for a firmer frosting that sets hard.
Sprinkle edible glitter on the frosting for extra sparkle.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter for the cookies?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used if necessary.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly and avoid over-creaming the butter and sugar.
Can I freeze the frosted cookies?
It's best to freeze the cookies unfrosted and add the frosting after thawing for the best texture.
What type of food coloring should I use?
Gel food coloring is recommended for vibrant colors without altering the frosting's consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: 1 cookie (40 g)
Calories180
Total Fat8 g
Saturated Fat5 g
Cholesterol25 mg
Sodium60 mg
Total Carbohydrate25 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars18 g
Protein2 g
Nutrition information is estimated based on the ingredients used and may vary depending on brands and exact measurements.
Recipe from softsweetdough.com · Soft, sweet desserts worth every bite.