The aroma of freshly baked cookies swirling through the house is a holiday tradition that never gets old. This season, I’m excited to share my Festive Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies, a delightful addition to your holiday repertoire. Soft, buttery, and oh-so-easy to whip up, they’re perfect for anyone—especially those new to baking! The beauty of these cookies lies in their versatility; you can customize them with various mix-ins and sprinkles for a personal touch. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, so you’ll have a stash of cookie dough ready whenever the holiday cravings hit! What festive flavors will you add to your batch?
Why are Slice & Bake Cookies so Loved?
Ease of Preparation: With minimal effort required, these Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies are perfect for novice bakers eager to impress.
Customizable Delight: Experiment with flavors by adding your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, making each batch uniquely yours.
Festive Flair: Their colorful sprinkles bring joy to any holiday gathering, ensuring they are a hit at any party.
Make-Ahead Magic: Chill the dough ahead of time, and you’ll always have the perfect treat ready to bake whenever the mood strikes.
Traditional yet Trendy: These cookies not only honor classic holiday recipes but also allow for modern twists—try adding dried fruits or flavored extracts for an exciting update!
For even more delicious ideas, don’t forget to check out my Tiramisu Christmas Cookies or Christmas Mini Cookies!
Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure; a gluten-free flour blend can be a great alternative.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; non-iodized salt is recommended for purity.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; you can use salted butter but reduce additional salt to 1/4 tsp.
- Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and texture to the cookies.
- Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and a deep, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract – A classic flavor enhancer; almond extract also works wonderfully for variation.
- Large Egg – Binds all ingredients together; consider using an egg substitute for vegan options.
For the Decorations
- Festive Sprinkles – Add a joyful touch; optional, but they enhance both sweetness and appearance.
- Chopped Nuts (optional) – Introduces crunch; pecans and walnuts are fantastic choices.
- Mini Chocolate Chips (optional) – Boosts sweetness; feel free to swap in white chocolate chips for a twist.
Get ready to enjoy the delightful process of preparing your Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This mixture forms the base of your Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies, providing them with structure and lightness. Set it aside while you focus on creaming the butter and sugars, ensuring all the dry ingredients are well combined.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of brown sugar for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies a tender texture. Once fluffy, it’s time to blend in the vanilla and egg to enrich the flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 large egg into the creamed butter and sugars. Beat everything together on medium speed until fully combined, ensuring the egg is thoroughly mixed in. The rich, creamy mixture is a lovely base for your Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies, merging the sweet flavors beautifully before the dry ingredients are introduced.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually mix the dry ingredient blend into the wet mixture at low speed. Do this until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough cookies. You’ll want to see a beautiful, soft dough coming together, leaving behind any flour streaks. It’s time to enhance this cookie dough with festive flavors!
Step 5: Fold in Festive Add-ins
Gently fold in 1 cup of festive sprinkles, along with any optional add-ins like 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts using a spatula. This step adds delightful pops of color and flavors to your Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies, making them visually appealing and delicious. Once well-mixed, prepare to shape your cookie dough.
Step 6: Shape and Wrap the Dough
Divide your cookie dough in half and shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap to preserve their shape and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling process firms up the dough, making it easier to slice for those perfect, uniform cookies later.
Step 7: Preheat and Prepare
Once the dough has chilled and firmed, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This preparation step will set you up for baking your lovely Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies evenly and will help create a beautiful batch ready for the holiday season.
Step 8: Slice the Cookie Logs
Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and use a sharp knife to slice the logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Carefully place each slice onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between for spreading. It’s exciting to see the colorful sprinkles pop out, giving a preview of the festive treats to come!
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; the subtle aroma will fill the kitchen as they bake! Upon removal, the cookies should still feel slightly soft in the center, as they’ll continue to firm up on the baking sheet.
Step 10: Cool and Transfer
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Once they’ve set slightly, gently transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This final step prevents them from becoming too soft and ensures your Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies are ready for a festive gathering or to be stored as holiday treats.
Expert Tips for Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
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Butter Matters: Use softened butter for easy mixing. Cold butter can create a lumpy dough, making your Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies less smooth.
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Mixing Wisely: Avoid overmixing after adding the flour. This can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, tender texture you desire.
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Slicing Evenly: Clean your knife between cuts of the chilled dough. This prevents sticking and ensures uniform cookie slices for even baking.
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Chill Time: If the dough feels too soft to slice after chilling for 2 hours, consider giving it extra time in the refrigerator. A firmer dough yields better results.
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Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check around the 10-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
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Custom Add-Ins: Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like dried fruits or flavored extracts. This personalization makes each batch of Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies exciting!
Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies: Customization Ideas
Feel free to sprinkle some creativity into your baking—these cookies lend themselves beautifully to your personal touch!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a tasty, inclusive treat everyone can enjoy.
- Dried Fruits: Substitute sprinkles with dried cranberries or apricots for a chewy, fruity twist that sings of festive cheer.
- Nutty Flavor: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a delightful crunch that enriches each bite and adds a layer of texture.
- Flavor Extracts: Switch vanilla for almond or peppermint extract to give your cookies a signature flavor profile that’s uniquely yours.
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap mini chocolate chips for white chocolate or even caramel bits to elevate the sweetness and introduce rich layers of flavor.
- Spicy Alternatives: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into your dough for a warm, spiced experience that fills your kitchen with holiday aromas.
- Thick vs. Thin: Experiment with the thickness of your cookie slices; thinner slices will yield crispy treats, while thicker ones will remain soft and chewy.
- Festive Frosting: Once cooled, drizzle with a simple icing or chocolate ganache for added sweetness and a touch of elegance.
For more delightful ideas, be sure to explore my Christmas Mini Cookies or try your hand at some Tiramisu Christmas Cookies for even more holiday inspiration!
What to Serve with Festive Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
The delight of these cookies is only enhanced when paired with the right holiday treats and beverages.
- Creamy Hot Cocoa: A rich cup of creamy hot cocoa complements the buttery sweetness of the cookies, creating a cozy winter embrace. Perfect for dunking!
- Festive Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness, offering a vibrant burst of flavor and color at your holiday gathering.
- Gingerbread Tea: The warm spices in gingerbread tea harmonize beautifully with the buttery cookies, making each sip a delightful complement to your festive snack.
- Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The sweet and salty combination of chocolate-dipped pretzels adds a fun textural contrast that pairs well with the soft cookies.
- Mini Cheesecakes: These rich, creamy desserts add a touch of elegance with their velvety texture, providing a sophisticated counterpoint to the cookies’ playful charm.
- Spiced Eggnog: Whether traditional or non-alcoholic, spiced eggnog is a holiday classic that enhances the festive spirit, making it a delightful drink choice alongside your cookies.
- Candy Cane Bark: The peppermint flavor of candy cane bark adds a refreshing twist, complementing the sweetness of the cookies and creating a merry flavor experience.
- Warm Apple Cider: The fruity and spiced notes from warm apple cider evoke a sense of nostalgia while perfectly pairing with the buttery richness of your Christmas cookies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve slices of these cookies warm over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that’s sure to satisfy!
How to Store and Freeze Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer to keep the dough longer, wrapped logs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: If desired, reheat cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their delightful softness.
Make Ahead Options
These Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies are perfect for anyone looking to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by shaping it into logs, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating. This not only saves you time on busy baking days but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice the chilled logs into rounds and bake as per the instructions—enjoy freshly baked cookies with just a minimal amount of effort! Just remember, to maintain their quality, keep the dough logs tightly wrapped to prevent drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge.
Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or suitable?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, ensure the butter is softened but not melted to achieve a creamy texture. The egg should be fresh, and if you’re using flour, check for any lumps or signs of moisture—both can affect your cookie dough. For festive sprinkles, choose vibrant colors without any dark spots or fading, as these will contribute to the cookies’ visual appeal.
How should I store Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies?
After baking, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This keeps them soft and fresh, ready for holiday snacking! If you want to protect your cookies longer, consider layering them with parchment paper in the container to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?
Very! To freeze the dough, wrap the logs in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight before slicing. For baked cookies, freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for the same duration. Just allow them to thaw at room temperature before indulging!
What should I do if my cookies aren’t spreading while baking?
If your Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies aren’t spreading, they might be too chilled or the dough could be too firm. Consider letting the sliced dough sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before baking to encourage spreading. Additionally, ensure you aren’t packing the flour too tightly when measuring, which can lead to a too-dense dough.
Are these cookies safe for pets or specific allergies?
These cookies contain common allergens such as eggs, dairy, and gluten. If you’re making them for pets or anyone with allergies, I recommend omitting chocolate chips and nuts, as these can be harmful to dogs. Always adjust your ingredients appropriately to match dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festive spirit of your Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies.
Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies: Easy Holiday Treats to Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and egg to the butter mixture and beat until fully combined.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in sprinkles and optional add-ins like mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
- Divide dough in half, shape each part into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice chilled logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place on baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool before transferring to racks.
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