Soft Christmas Cookies That Practically Melt in Your Mouth

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Soft, buttery, and delicately sweet, these Christmas cookies are the kind you dream about all year long. They come out of the oven tender and fluffy, ready to be adorned with icing, sprinkles, or a dusting of sugar. Each bite truly melts in your mouth, making them a holiday favorite for both kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, holiday party, or cozy night in with your favorite Christmas movie, these cookies are a must. The dough is easy to work with, perfect for cutting into festive shapes like trees, stars, and snowflakes. Decorate with loved ones and create a sweet memory in every bite.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before we get started, make sure your kitchen is stocked with these essential tools:

• Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: Creaming butter and sugar thoroughly is key to the tender texture of these cookies. An electric mixer will save your arms and ensure the dough is well-mixed.
• Rolling Pin: A must-have for evenly rolling out the dough to just the right thickness, which ensures even baking.
• Cookie Cutters: Choose your favorite holiday-themed shapes—these cookies hold their form beautifully.
• Baking Sheets: Opt for light-colored baking sheets to prevent over-browning.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Keeps your cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Cooling Rack: Proper cooling ensures the icing doesn’t melt and cookies stay crisp underneath but soft in the center.

With these tools ready, you’re all set to make the best soft Christmas cookies of the season.

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Ingredients for the Soft Christmas Cookies

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a role in creating cookies that are soft, buttery, and packed with classic flavor:

• Unsalted Butter: Adds rich flavor and soft texture. Room temperature butter is key for creaming.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and helps create that soft, slightly crisp edge.
• Eggs: Provide structure and add moisture to the dough.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the cookie with warm, comforting flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly and stay fluffy.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens flavor.
• Icing Sugar (for decorating): Adds the festive finishing touch once cookies are cooled.
• Holiday Sprinkles: Optional but recommended for color and cheer!

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How To Make the Soft Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This step builds the soft structure of the cookie.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a smooth dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling makes it easier to roll and cut without sticking.

Step 5: Roll and Cut

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Use your favorite holiday cookie cutters to shape the cookies.

Step 6: Bake

Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes, just until the edges are set but not browned. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 7: Decorate

Once the cookies are completely cooled, decorate with icing and sprinkles. Let the icing set before storing or serving.

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How to Serve and Store These Cookies

Serve these soft Christmas cookies at room temperature with a cup of hot cocoa or milk. They shine on dessert platters, make lovely homemade gifts, or can be packaged in festive tins for sharing.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’ve decorated with icing, allow it to fully harden before stacking. For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies in a single layer and decorate after thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough up to 3 days in advance. Just wrap it tightly and refrigerate. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before rolling.

Can I freeze the cookies?

Absolutely. These cookies freeze well both baked (undecorated) and unbaked. For best results, layer with parchment paper and store in an airtight container.

How can I make them gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend made for baking. The results are surprisingly close to the original, though the texture may be slightly different.

What icing works best?

A simple powdered sugar glaze or royal icing both work beautifully. Glaze is easier for kids to use, while royal icing gives a more defined look.

Why are my cookies spreading?

If your cookies are spreading too much, the dough may not have been chilled long enough. Also, check that you’re not using too much butter.

Can I add flavors or spices?

Yes! Try adding almond extract, cinnamon, or nutmeg to add a festive twist.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these soft Christmas cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Whipped Shortbread Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth texture with minimal ingredients.
• Brownie Mix Cookies if you’re craving something chewy and chocolatey.
• Tiramisu Cupcakes for an elegant dessert with coffee flair.
• Kentucky Butter Cake for a rich, buttery finish that pairs beautifully with tea.
• Coconut Snowballs for a no-bake wintry treat that’s light and sweet.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for bold red sprinkles or a delicate sugar glaze? Maybe you added a hint of almond extract?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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