- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Egg and Extracts: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. You can also roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface and use cookie cutters to make shapes if desired.
- Decorate (Optional): If you’d like to decorate the cookies, lightly press the tops with a fork or your hands and sprinkle them with colored sugar or sprinkles before baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these classic butter cookies with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for the ultimate holiday treat.
- They make a great addition to cookie trays or can be individually wrapped for gift giving.
- If you’ve decorated the cookies, they’re perfect for a holiday dessert table or to bring to a party!
Storage Tips
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They will stay crisp and fresh!
- These cookies freeze well too. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by layers of parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips
- For a festive touch, try dipping half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkling with crushed candy canes or colorful sprinkles.
- If you prefer a softer cookie, you can reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet. They will remain soft in the center.
- For an extra buttery flavor, consider using European-style butter with a higher fat content for an even richer taste.
Conclusion
These **Classic Christmas Butter Cookies** are a simple yet delicious treat that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. With a soft, buttery texture and the option to decorate them as you please, they are sure to become a beloved part of your holiday traditions. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or enjoying a few cookies with a cozy beverage, these cookies will bring warmth and joy to your holiday season!
FAQ
Can I use salted butter for this recipe?
It’s best to use unsalted butter for this recipe to control the amount of salt in the dough. If you use salted butter, you may want to reduce the pinch of salt in the recipe.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 2 months and bake the cookies directly from frozen.
Can I use a different flavor extract instead of almond extract?
Yes! If you prefer, you can use lemon extract, orange extract, or even peppermint extract to give the cookies a different flavor. Vanilla extract alone also works beautifully!
