Soft Christmas Cookies
These delightful, tender Christmas cookies are an excellent choice for the festive season. With a subtle blend of almond and vanilla flavors, they are perfect for embellishing with icing, sprinkles, or colored sugar.
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Ingredients
3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (accurately measured to prevent dense cookies)
1 teaspoon baking powder (to provide a gentle rise)
½ teaspoon salt (to enhance sweetness)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened (at room temperature for easy mixing)
1 ½ cups granulated sugar (for added sweetness)
2 large eggs (at room temperature for optimal blending)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for a classic taste)
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds a holiday flair)
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For Decorating (Optional):
Royal icing or buttercream frosting
Sprinkles, colored sugar, or edible glitter
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Instructions
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly mixed into the dough. Set aside.
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2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together. Beat on medium speed for 2–3 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is crucial for achieving soft, tender cookies.
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3. Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings:
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then, incorporate the vanilla and almond extracts, mixing until fully blended.
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4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, adding about 1 cup at a time, and mixing on low speed just until the dough forms. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the cookies’ softness.
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5. Chill the Dough:
Divide the dough into two portions. Flatten each into a disk, wrap securely in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps prevent the cookies from spreading and makes rolling easier. The dough can be chilled for up to 24 hours.
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6. Preheat and Roll Out Dough:
When ready to bake, preheat your oven.
