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Soft Chewy Christmas Sugar Cookies

soft chewy christmas sugar cookies - featured image

These soft chewy Christmas sugar cookies feature a delicate crisp edge and a tender, moist center. They are easy to make, hold their shape for decorating, and deliver a nostalgic holiday flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated white sugar
  • ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 2 cups (240g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted (for royal icing)
  • 2 tablespoons meringue powder (for royal icing)
  • 4–6 tablespoons warm water (for royal icing)
  • Gel-based food coloring (for royal icing)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until pale, fluffy, and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture. Beat on low speed just until combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients on low speed. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Scoop balls of dough onto prepared sheets for drop cookies, or roll dough out to ¼-inch thickness and cut into shapes.
  8. Bake for 9-11 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers still look soft.
  9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Once completely cool, pipe or spread royal icing and allow to dry completely.

Notes

Ensure butter is softened but not melted. Chill dough thoroughly to prevent spreading. Weigh flour for accuracy. Rotate pans halfway through baking for even browning. Cookies continue to cook on the hot pan after removal from the oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas cookies, sugar cookies, soft chewy cookies, holiday baking, royal icing, easy cookie recipe, festive treats