Go Back

Christmas Sugar Cookies

Thick, pillowy soft sugar cookies adorned with creamy frosting, perfect for the holiday season.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Total Time 41 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cookies
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Should be soft but not greasy.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract, optional Adds a delicious flavor.
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour Measure using the spoon and level method.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Helps maintain a tender texture.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
For the frosting
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted Sifting helps achieve smooth frosting.
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk Plus more as needed for consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract, optional
  • 1 pinch salt Balances sweetness.
  • Red or green gel food coloring, sprinkles to finish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cream the butter and sugar: Beat softened butter with sugar on medium until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Don’t rush this step.
  2. Add eggs and flavor: Beat in the egg, yolk, vanilla, and almond extract if using. Scrape the bowl.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add to the butter mixture on low until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
  4. Portion and press: Scoop dough into 2 tablespoon balls and place on a parchment lined sheet. Gently press each ball into a thick disk using a flat bottom glass.
  5. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 9 to 11 minutes, until the edges look set and tops are still pale. Do not overbake. Let them rest on the sheet for 5 minutes, then move to a rack.
Frosting
  1. Make frosting: Beat butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, cream, vanilla, almond extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy and spreadable, adding tiny splashes of cream if needed. Tint with gel color.
  2. Frost and decorate: Once cookies are fully cool, swirl frosting on top. Add sprinkles and let set for 20 minutes so the frosting crusts slightly.

Notes

Store frosted cookies in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temp or in the fridge if your kitchen is warm. Unfrosted cookies freeze well for up to 2 months.