Christmas Cookies (Vanilla Biscuits / Sugar Cookies)

Vanilla biscuits, also known as sugar cookies, are a delightful treat, especially during the festive season. They are soft, buttery, and perfect for decorating with colorful icing. These cookies can be enjoyed plain or adorned with various toppings, making them a favorite for family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Baking these treats not only fills your home with a wonderful aroma but also creates cherished moments with loved ones.

Making Christmas cookies brings joy and warmth to your holiday season. The process of baking together with family or friends creates lasting memories. Plus, these cookies are versatile; you can decorate them for any occasion, from Christmas to birthdays. Simple yet delicious, they are sure to please everyone, making them a perfect addition to any dessert platter.

How to make Christmas Cookies (Vanilla Biscuits / Sugar Cookies)

Ingredients:

225g / 1 cup unsalted butter (softened, or use salted and skip salt)
1 cup caster/superfine sugar (granulated/ordinary white sugar also works)
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 large egg (55-60g / 1.9-2oz)
3 cups flour (plain / all-purpose)
3/4 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp salt
Icing for sugar cookies

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F (160°C fan). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until creamy (about 1 minute on speed 5).
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture, beating until thoroughly combined.
Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Start mixing slowly, then beat until the dough is clumpy.
Dust your work surface with flour, scrape the dough out of the bowl, and pat it together. Then cut the dough in half and shape it into 2 discs.
Roll out each disc to 0.3cm / 1/8" (for thinner, crispier cookies) or 0.6cm / 1/4" (for thicker, softer cookies), using flour underneath and on top to prevent sticking.
Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, then transfer them to the prepared baking sheets using a knife or spatula. Chill any dough that doesn’t fit in the oven.
Bake for 10 minutes, swapping the trays halfway through. The cookies should be pale golden on the surface with lightly golden edges.
Allow the cookies to cool completely on the trays, as they will continue to cook slightly from the residual heat.

Decorating options:

Consider using colored icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter to make your cookies festive and fun!

How to serve Christmas Cookies (Vanilla Biscuits / Sugar Cookies)

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a tall glass of milk or hot chocolate. They make a delightful addition to any holiday dessert platter and can be served at parties or given as gifts during the festive season.

How to store Christmas Cookies (Vanilla Biscuits / Sugar Cookies)

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can remain fresh for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to make Christmas Cookies (Vanilla Biscuits / Sugar Cookies)

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Don’t overmix the dough; you want to avoid tough cookies.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it feels too soft to roll out easily.
Experiment with different cookie shapes to make the baking process even more fun!

Variation

You can add sprinkles or chocolate chips into the dough for extra flavor and texture. Alternatively, try flavoring the cookies with almond extract or adding zest from a lemon or orange for a citrusy twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of sugar?
Yes! You can use granulated sugar instead of caster/superfine sugar, but the texture may be a bit grainier.

2. What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let sit for a few minutes) as a vegan alternative.

3. How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your dough is chilled before baking. If your kitchen is warm, you might need to refrigerate the shaped cookies for about 15 minutes before placing them in the oven.