Description
This recipe for Traditional Christmas Cookies combines the timeless charm and memories of classic sugar cookies with a slight twist—a touch of almond extract in the dough to enhance their richness without overpowering the traditional buttery flavor. Paired with a simple royal icing, these cookies are perfect for decorating with family and friends. This recipe honors tradition while offering just a hint of something new.
Equipment
Ingredients
Cookies:
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended)
Royal Icing:
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) meringue powder or pasteurized egg whites
- 4 tablespoons (60ml) water (add more for thinner consistency)
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. - Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). - Add Egg and Flavorings:
Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully incorporated. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until a soft dough forms. - Chill the Dough:
Divide the dough into two disks, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling ensures the cookies hold their shape during baking. - Preheat Oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. - Roll and Cut:
Roll out one dough disk at a time on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use festive cookie cutters to cut shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets. - Bake:
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. - Make the Royal Icing:
In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed. Divide into bowls and add food coloring if desired. - Decorate:
Decorate cooled cookies using a piping bag or small offset spatula. Allow icing to dry completely before stacking or storing.
Notes
Adding almond extract is a subtle twist that enhances the traditional sugar cookie flavor, giving them a slightly nutty depth while remaining true to the classic buttery profile. This tweak elevates the recipe without detracting from its familiar, nostalgic charm.
Store undecorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. For a truly traditional experience, involve family or friends in the decoration process—it’s as much about the memories as the flavor!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg