There’s nothing more festive than baking a batch of sugar cookies at Christmas.
These classic cookies are buttery, sweet, and perfect for decorating with family and friends.
They’re simple to make, fun to cut into shapes, and a holiday tradition everyone loves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are soft in the center with slightly crisp edges.
They’re versatile—enjoy plain, dusted with sugar, or decorated with icing.
The dough is easy to handle and perfect for cutting into holiday shapes.
They make wonderful homemade gifts during the Christmas season.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
All-purpose flour gives structure to the cookies.
Unsalted butter adds richness and buttery flavor.
Granulated sugar sweetens and helps create a tender texture.
Eggs add moisture and help bind the dough together.
Vanilla extract brings a warm, sweet aroma.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Chill the dough for at least 2 hours for easier rolling and cutting.
Lightly flour the rolling pin and surface to prevent sticking.
Bake in small batches to keep the oven temperature consistent.
Decorate only after cookies have cooled completely to avoid melting.
Store cooled cookies in layers separated by parchment paper to maintain freshness.
How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookies
Step 1 – Prepare the dry mix
Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
Step 2 – Cream butter and sugar
Beat butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3 – Add eggs and vanilla
Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
Step 4 – Combine wet and dry
Stir in the flour mixture until just combined to form a dough.
Step 5 – Chill the dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours.
Step 6 – Preheat and prepare
Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C) and lightly grease cookie sheets.
Step 7 – Roll and cut shapes
Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness, cut into festive shapes, and place on sheets.
Step 8 – Bake and cool
Bake 6–8 minutes until edges are golden.
Cool briefly on sheets, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 9 – Decorate
Sprinkle with sugar before baking or frost after cooling.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with hot cocoa for a cozy holiday treat.
Serve alongside eggnog for a classic Christmas pairing.
Arrange on a festive cookie platter for holiday parties.
Variations / Substitutions
Add almond extract for extra flavor.
Top with royal icing or buttercream for decorating.
Use colored sugar or sprinkles for festive flair.
Try lemon or orange zest for a citrus twist.
Storage & Leftovers
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 2 months.
Keep decorated cookies in single layers separated by parchment.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer.
Can I freeze baked cookies?
Absolutely, freeze undecorated cookies and thaw before decorating.
Do I need to chill the dough?
Yes, chilling prevents spreading and helps with cutting shapes.
Can I use salted butter instead?
Yes, just reduce the added salt slightly.
How do I keep cookies soft?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles easily for big batches.
What thickness should I roll the dough?
About ¼-inch thick for the best balance of soft and crisp.
How do I know when they’re done?
The edges should be lightly golden, and centers just set.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Yes, it’s a perfect family baking activity for the holidays.
What’s the best icing for decorating?
Royal icing for crisp designs, or buttercream for softer, colorful swirls.
Final Thoughts
Christmas sugar cookies are a timeless holiday favorite.
Buttery, tender, and endlessly customizable, they bring joy to both baking and sharing.
Once you bake them, you’ll want to make them part of your yearly traditions.