There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Holiday Butter Cookies wafting through your home during the festive season. Picture this: a warm kitchen, the sweet scent of vanilla and butter dancing in the air, and the joy of sharing these delightful treats with family and friends. hearty oatmeal apple bake Holiday Butter Cookies have a way of bringing everyone together, creating memories that last well beyond the last crumb.
I remember my first attempt at baking these cookies; I was a nervous wreck, hoping to impress my family during our annual holiday gathering. As I mixed the ingredients, I could feel the excitement building. And when they finally came out of the oven—golden brown and ready for devouring—I realized that not only did they taste amazing, but they also brought smiles to everyone’s faces!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Holiday Butter Cookies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Their buttery flavor melts in your mouth, paired with delightful hints of vanilla and nutmeg.
- Visually appealing with their golden edges and soft centers, they will steal the show on any dessert platter.
- Plus, you can easily customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist!
Ingredients for Holiday Butter Cookies – Urban Farmie
zesty creamsicle orange cookies.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness while ensuring rich flavor throughout.
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Granulated Sugar: This is key for sweetness and helps create that lovely crispy edge we all adore.
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Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a deeper flavor profile, giving our cookies that chewy texture.
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Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract for an authentic aroma that will elevate your cookies.
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All-Purpose Flour: This is your base; it provides structure while keeping your cookies light and fluffy.
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Baking Powder: A little helps our cookies rise beautifully in the oven, ensuring they don’t turn out flat.
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Salt: Just a pinch enhances all those wonderful flavors hiding in our ingredients.
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Nuts or Chocolate Chips (optional): These add a delightful crunch or creamy surprise to each bite!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Holiday Butter Cookies – Urban Farmie
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper so you can place those heavenly cookie dough balls right on there.
Step 2: Creaming Time
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. You want it light enough that it feels like you’re whipping clouds—this is where magic starts!
Step 3: Add Flavor
Next, mix in your vanilla extract. Trust me; this step transforms your cookie dough into something fragrant and fantastic!
Step 4: Dry Ingredients Unite
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix! We aren’t trying to create gluten monsters here.
Step 5: Optional Fun
If you’re feeling adventurous or simply love chocolate as much as I do, fold in some chocolate chips or nuts at this stage. They’ll be little surprises waiting in every bite!
Step 6: Bake Those Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets about two inches apart (they’ll spread!). Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on wire racks if you can resist diving in headfirst!
Transfer to plates and enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa for the perfect finishing touch!
You Must Know
- These delightful Holiday Butter Cookies are not just a treat; they bring the holiday spirit alive!
- With their buttery richness and festive flavors, they make every gathering feel special.
- Perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa, they are a must-have in your holiday baking arsenal.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add your eggs and vanilla. Mix the dry ingredients separately before combining them all. Roll into balls and chill before baking to ensure that perfect chewy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in almond extract for a nutty twist, or toss in some chocolate chips or sprinkles for added flair. You can even experiment with citrus zest for a refreshing flavor boost. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them fresh and warm later, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about five minutes to revive their buttery goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making these Holiday Butter Cookies, always use room temperature butter for easier mixing and fluffier results.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough; it prevents spreading during baking.
- Lastly, keep an eye on your cookies – overbaking leads to crunchiness instead of softness!
Sometimes, I bake these cookies just to see my family’s faces light up when they walk into the house filled with that irresistible buttery aroma! It’s pure holiday magic!
FAQs :
What are Holiday Butter Cookies?
Holiday Butter Cookies are rich, buttery treats that melt in your mouth. They often feature simple ingredients such as flour, sugar, butter, and vanilla extract. These cookies are perfect for festive occasions and can be decorated with icing or sprinkles for a colorful touch. rich brown butter treats The combination of flavors and textures makes them a favorite during the holiday season. Many families have their own versions of this classic recipe, passed down through generations. Enjoying these cookies with loved ones brings warmth and joy to any celebration.
How do I store Holiday Butter Cookies?
To keep your Holiday Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their soft texture and rich flavor. If you want to keep them for an extended period, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours. This way, you can savor the taste of holiday cheer any time you desire.
Can I customize my Holiday Butter Cookies?
Absolutely! Customizing Holiday Butter Cookies is part of the fun. You can add various ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to enhance their flavor and texture. For a seasonal twist, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough. Decorating is another way to personalize these cookies; use icing, colored sugars, or edible glitter for a festive look. Each variation can bring a unique flair while still keeping the essence of these delightful cookies intact.
Are Holiday Butter Cookies suitable for gifting?
Yes, Holiday Butter Cookies make fantastic gifts! Their beautiful appearance and delicious taste create perfect homemade presents for friends and family during the festive season. To gift them, consider packaging them in decorative boxes or tins lined with parchment paper to keep them safe and fresh. You can also include a personalized note or card to add a special touch. Sharing these delightful cookies not only spreads joy but also showcases your baking skills and thoughtfulness during the holidays.
Conclusion for Holiday Butter Cookies – Urban Farmie :
In summary, Holiday Butter Cookies are delectable treats that embody the spirit of celebration. Their buttery richness and versatility make them perfect for any occasion, especially during the festive season. With easy customization options and straightforward storage methods, these cookies are not just tasty but also convenient to prepare and share with loved ones. apple cheesecake breakfast quesadillas Whether enjoyed fresh or gifted beautifully, they bring warmth and joy to every gathering. Embrace this timeless recipe from Urban Farmie and create lasting memories with each delightful bite!
Holiday Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Holiday Butter Cookies are a festive treat that fills your home with the warm aromas of vanilla and butter. These melt-in-your-mouth delights are incredibly easy to make, perfect for sharing during the holidays, and ideal for creating sweet memories with family and friends. With their customizable options, these cookies are sure to become a favorite on any dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or nuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just mixed; avoid overmixing.
- If desired, fold in chocolate chips or nuts.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
- Allow cookies to cool on wire racks before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (15g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg