Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe for a Delightful Christmas

Introduction to Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are a timeless treat that bring joy to holiday celebrations. Their simplicity and delightful sweetness make them a favorite around Christmas time. Perfect for baking with family or gifting to friends, this guide will help you make sugar cookies easily and create cherished memories this season.

Gathering Your Ingredients

To embark on your sugar cookie baking adventure, you will need a few basic ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 1/2 cups white sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

• 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar for decoration

These ingredients are commonly found in many kitchens, making it easy for anyone to start baking.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to create delectable sugar cookies:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

2. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and baking powder together. In a separate larger bowl, cream the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until thoroughly combined.

3. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on an ungreased cookie sheet, leaving enough space between each for expansion while baking.

4. Flatten and Sprinkle: Using the bottom of a glass or your hands, gently flatten each ball. Sprinkle a little sugar on top for added sweetness and decoration.

5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Allow them to cool on the cookie sheet for a few moments before transferring to a wire rack.

Now you have a delightful batch of sugar cookies ready to enjoy! They can be served plain or decorated with icing for a festive touch.

Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookies

To ensure your sugar cookies turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

• For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them.

• If decorating, let the cookies cool completely before applying icing.

• Experiment with different extracts, like lemon or peppermint, to add unique flavors to your cookies.

By following this easy guide, making sugar cookies for Christmas becomes a delightful and simple task. Enjoy the process, share the cookies with loved ones, and relish the sweet taste of the holiday season.