Introduction to Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
Ah, the holiday season! It’s a time filled with joy, laughter, and, of course, delicious treats. If you’re like me, you love to bake but sometimes feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of life. That’s where these Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies come in! They’re the perfect solution for busy days when you want to whip up something festive without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can create delightful cookies that will impress your loved ones and fill your home with the sweet aroma of the holidays.
Why You’ll Love This Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
These Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies are a game-changer for anyone juggling a busy schedule. They’re incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy the festive spirit without the stress. Just mix, chill, and slice! Plus, the taste is simply divine—soft, buttery cookies with a delightful crunch. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.
Ingredients for Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cookies, providing structure and a soft texture.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter adds richness and flavor. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar: This sweetener helps create that lovely crisp edge while keeping the center soft.
- Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, making your cookies extra delicious.
- Large egg: The egg binds everything together, giving your cookies a nice lift and chewy texture.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making each bite feel like a warm hug.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps your cookies rise, ensuring they’re light and fluffy.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Chocolate chips or festive sprinkles: These are the fun part! Use chocolate chips for a classic treat or colorful sprinkles to add a festive touch.
For those looking to switch things up, consider using whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or coconut sugar for a healthier alternative. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that will make your home smell like a winter wonderland.
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Start by placing the softened butter in a large bowl. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, making your cookies tender and delicious.
Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, crack in the large egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. The egg adds moisture, while the vanilla brings a warm, inviting aroma to your cookie dough.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps your cookies rise beautifully.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cookies to be soft and tender, not tough!
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips or Sprinkles
Now comes the fun part! Fold in your choice of chocolate chips or festive sprinkles. This is where you can get creative. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a mix of both!
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Divide the dough in half. Shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; they’ll taste amazing regardless of their shape!
Step 7: Chill the Dough
Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to slice later. Plus, it enhances the flavors!
Step 8: Preheat the Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
Step 9: Slice and Bake
Remove the chilled dough from the fridge. Slice the logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, grab a cup of hot cocoa and enjoy your delicious Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing.
- Chill the dough long enough; this helps with slicing and flavor.
- Use a sharp knife for clean, even slices.
- Experiment with different mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
- Keep an eye on the cookies while baking to avoid overcooking.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for dry ingredients. Any size will do!
- Hand mixer or wooden spoon: Use a hand mixer for ease, or a sturdy spoon for a workout!
- Plastic wrap: Essential for chilling the dough. You can also use beeswax wraps.
- Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper works best.
- Wire rack: Perfect for cooling cookies. A plate can work in a pinch!
Variations for Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and rich flavor.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, festive twist.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
- Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter.
- Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Holiday Citrus: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus kick.
Serving Suggestions for Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
- Pair your cookies with a warm cup of spiced chai or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Serve on a festive platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves or seasonal berries for a pop of color.
- For a fun twist, create a cookie sandwich with your favorite frosting in between!
- Include a side of milk or eggnog for a classic holiday experience.
- Wrap a few cookies in cellophane and gift them to friends or neighbors as a sweet gesture.
FAQs about Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
As you embark on your baking adventure with these Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you along the way.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough logs for up to 3 months. Just slice and bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. It’s a great way to have fresh cookies on hand whenever the craving strikes!
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
If chocolate isn’t your thing, feel free to swap in dried fruit, nuts, or even toffee bits. You can also use colorful sprinkles for a festive touch. The possibilities are endless!
How do I store the baked cookies?
Store your Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them in a single layer and then transferring them to a freezer bag.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free.
What’s the best way to decorate these cookies?
For a festive flair, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkle them with colored sugar before baking. You can also use icing to create fun designs once they’re cooled. Get creative!
Final Thoughts
As the holiday season approaches, these Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies become more than just a treat; they’re a way to create cherished memories with family and friends. The joy of baking together, the laughter shared over a warm batch of cookies, and the delightful aroma wafting through your home are all part of the magic. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of cocoa or gifting them to loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the festive spirit, and let the cookie-making adventure begin!
Print
Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies: Easy Festive Treats!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make slice and bake Christmas cookies that are perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips or festive sprinkles
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips or sprinkles.
- Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter.
- Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a festive touch, use colored sprinkles or holiday-themed cookie cutters.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Dough logs can be frozen for up to 3 months; just slice and bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
