Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies

Why Make This Recipe

Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. They combine the classic flavors of snickerdoodle cookies with festive holiday spirit. Soft, chewy, and slightly tangy from the cream of tartar, these cookies are rolled in sweet cinnamon sugar, making them a favorite treat for many.

The bright red and green sugar sprinkles add a touch of festive cheer, making them perfect for holiday gift baskets or cookie exchanges. Everyone will love the aroma of freshly baked cookies that fill your home during the Christmas season.

Equipment Needed For Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies

To get started with these delightful cookies, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Gather a large mixing bowl for combining your ingredients and a separate bowl for mixing your dry ingredients. A whisk or electric mixer will help you combine everything smoothly, and a baking sheet is essential for baking your cookies.

You will also want to have measuring cups and spoons to ensure accuracy. A cookie scoop can make rolling the dough easy, and parchment paper will help prevent sticking to the pans. Finally, don’t forget a cooling rack to let your cookies cool properly.

What You Need to Make Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies

• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 cup softened butter
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 3 ½ cups flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• TOPPING
• 3 tablespoons red and green sugar sprinkles
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

How to Cook Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies Step by Step

To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. Next, take a large mixing bowl and combine the sugar and softened butter. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to beat them together until the mixture is nice and smooth, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Once the sugar and butter mixture is creamy, it’s time to add in the eggs and vanilla. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined and the mixture has a smooth consistency. The next step involves creating the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.

Gradually stir in the dry ingredients with the butter mixture. Mix gently until the cookie dough is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your cookies. After your dough is ready, it is time to prepare the topping. In another bowl or on a plate, mix the red and green sugar sprinkles with the cinnamon. This will give your cookies that festive look and sweet flavor.

Start rolling the cookie dough into 2-inch balls using your hands. Make sure each ball is consistent in size for even baking. Place the rolled dough balls on your prepared cookie sheet, ensuring they have enough space between them to spread while baking. Once all your dough balls are on the sheet, use your hand or the bottom of a glass to press each ball down gently, flattening them slightly.

Now you can bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. You’ll know they are ready when the edges are lightly golden brown, and the centers are still soft. Once they are out of the oven, allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. This will help them set before you dig in.

How To Make Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies

Making Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies is straightforward and very rewarding. Start by gathering all your ingredients and equipment, as this will streamline the process. Preheating your oven is essential, as it sets the stage for even baking.

Measure your ingredients carefully to ensure the perfect balance of flavors, especially when it comes to sugar and fat. Mixing the sugar and butter until light and fluffy creates a great base for the cookie dough. Adding the eggs and vanilla enhances the flavor and moisture.

When mixing the dry ingredients separately, be mindful of the cream of tartar, as it gives snickerdoodles their unique flavor and texture. After everything is combined, rolling the cookies in sugar and cinnamon is not only fun but also gives them a delicious outer crust. Just make sure to space them out on the baking sheet, as they will spread while baking.

Bake until light golden brown, and your kitchen will be filled with a delightful aroma. Allowing them a bit of time to cool helps ensure that they retain their soft and chewy texture.

How To Serve Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies

Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for serving at holiday gatherings. You can create a festive cookie platter by mixing them with other cookies. Arrange them on a beautiful tray with red and green decorations for a vibrant holiday display.

These cookies also make delightful gifts. Consider wrapping a few in cellophane bags with a festive ribbon for a personal touch. They are lovely to share with friends and family, making them feel special during the holiday season.

For an extra treat, serve these cookies warm right out of the oven alongside a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa. The combination is a classic comfort that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

What To Serve With Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies

When serving Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies, a warm beverage is always a great pairing. Hot chocolate, spiced cider, or even a cup of tea can complement the sweet and cinnamon flavors beautifully.

You might also consider serving them with ice cream. Vanilla bean or peppermint ice cream makes a fabulous pairing, transforming your cookies into a delightful dessert sundae. Add some whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair.

These cookies also go well with a variety of other holiday treats. Consider placing them on a buffet alongside gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, or traditional fruitcake. Mixing up different treats will cater to all tastes at your holiday gathering.

How To Store Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies

To keep your Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for up to a week, retaining their soft and chewy texture. If you prefer a firmer cookie, you can place them in the refrigerator, where they will last for about two weeks.

For longer storage, consider putting the cookies in the freezer. To do this, allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cookies can be stored for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Make sure to separate layers of cookies with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. This will help retain their shape and texture during storage, ensuring they taste as great as the day they were baked.

Tips To Make Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies

To ensure your Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps achieve the right consistency when blending with sugar.

When measuring flour, spoon it into the cup and level it off instead of scooping directly from the bag. This will prevent you from using too much flour, which can lead to a dense cookie.

If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon in your topping blend. Additionally, refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can help improve the texture of your cookies by preventing them from spreading too much.

Do not be afraid to experiment with the toppings. You can replace the red and green sugar with other colors or even add chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough for added flavor.

Variation

Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies can be customized to fit your taste. For an extra festive twist, consider adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for a delightful minty flavor. This pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon topping.

You might also want to replace some of the regular flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version. This adds a rich flavor and gives a bit more nutrition to your cookies while still tasting amazing.

If you are a chocolate lover, try adding chocolate chips to the dough. The combination of chocolate with the soft, tangy snickerdoodle creates a unique twist on the classic version.

Best Time To Make Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies

The best time to make Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies is during the holiday season. Many families have traditions involving baking cookies together, making it a wonderful way to bond. Baking these cookies fills your home with warmth and festive aromas, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Consider making these cookies as part of your holiday preparations. You can bake a batch to share with friends, neighbors, or during office parties. Preparing these cookies ahead of time provides a delicious homemade touch for any gathering.

Anytime in December is great for baking these cookies, but making them on a snowy evening with loved ones can create a memorable experience. Enjoying fresh cookies while sipping hot cocoa in front of a warm fire captures the essence of the holiday season.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

While making Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies is simple, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. One of the biggest pitfalls is using cold butter directly from the refrigerator, leading to a mix that doesn’t combine well. Make sure to soften your butter to room temperature for the best results.

Another mistake is not measuring ingredients accurately. Too much flour can cause dry cookies, while too little can result in dough that spreads excessively. Always use the proper measuring techniques for the best outcomes.

Lastly, be careful not to overbake your cookies. They should be soft in the center when you take them out of the oven; they will continue to cook as they cool. Keep a close eye to prevent them from becoming hard and crunchy.

Nutritional Notes

These cookies, like many treats, are best enjoyed in moderation. Each cookie is a delightful blend of sugar, butter, and flour, making them rich in calories and carbohydrates. However, they also provide some energy and a burst of sweetness for festive occasions.

For those watching their sugar intake, consider modifying the recipe. You can use sugar substitutes or whole-grain flour to create a slightly healthier version of this delightful treat. Remember that while holiday treats are meant for enjoyment, balance is key.

FAQs

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the rolled cookie dough balls before baking. Place them in an airtight container, or wrap them individually before freezing. You can bake them straight from the freezer; add a minute or two to the baking time.

What if I don’t have cream of tartar?

If you don’t have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of baking powder. Just remember to reduce the baking soda in the recipe slightly, or the cookies may rise too much.

Can I use other flavorings?

Absolutely! This recipe is very adaptable. You can try adding flavorings like almond extract, orange zest, or even spices like nutmeg for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies are a festive delight that adds magic to your holiday celebrations. Their soft, chewy texture and sweet cinnamon flavor create a sense of nostalgia during this wonderful season. Whether you are baking for family gatherings or simply enjoying them at home, these cookies are sure to become a cherished tradition in your kitchen.

The simple process and adaptable nature of this recipe make it accessible to bakers of all levels. By following the tips and suggestions provided, you can create a batch of these delightful cookies that will fill your home with the spirit of Christmas. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and savor the delicious results of your hard work!