Festive Traditional Holiday Sugar Cookies with Icing
Celebrate the holiday season with these delightful Traditional Holiday Sugar Cookies! Known for their sweet, buttery flavor and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are a timeless favorite. Perfect for decorating with family and friends, they bring a touch of joy and festivity to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon, these cookies are sure to be a hit!
These sugar cookies have a sweet flavor profile with hints of vanilla, and the icing adds a delightful sugary finish. The texture is soft yet slightly crunchy around the edges, creating a perfect contrast when you take that first bite.
Prep and Cook Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 1 hour (not including chilling time)
- Skill Level: Beginner
Serving Information
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies, depending on the size of the cookie cutters used. These festive cookies can be served as a standalone treat or paired with a warm cup of cocoa or milk. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in decorative boxes or tins.
Ingredients List
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- For the Icing:
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (or more for desired consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. For vegan options, replace the butter with vegan butter and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
Equipment List
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Electric mixer (stand or hand)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheets (2-3)
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cookie cutters (various shapes)
- Cooling rack
- Spoon or piping bag for icing
Using a stand mixer is recommended for ease, but a hand mixer will work just as well.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Mix the Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add Egg and Extracts: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, flatten it into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed. Add food coloring if desired.
- Decorate: Once the cookies are completely cooled, use a spoon or piping bag to decorate with icing. Let the icing set before serving.
Technique Tips and Troubleshooting
Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar. If the dough is too sticky when rolling out, sprinkle a little flour on the surface. If your icing is too runny, add more powdered sugar to thicken it.
Plating and Presentation
Arrange the decorated cookies on a festive platter or tiered stand for an eye-catching display. Consider garnishing with edible glitter or sprinkles for extra sparkle!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer to freeze them, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to customize your cookies by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. For a twist, try different extracts like peppermint or lemon to change the flavor profile.
Notes on Ingredients and Equipment
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will enhance the flavor of your cookies. Look for pure extracts rather than imitation ones for the best taste.
Final Touches and Personal Notes
This sugar cookie recipe has been a cherished tradition in my family for generations. I love how it brings everyone together during the holidays, and I encourage you to make it your own by experimenting with flavors and decorations. Happy baking!
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments! I’d love to hear about your holiday cookie adventures!
