Have you ever bitten into a cookie so buttery and delicate that it practically melts in your mouth? That’s the magic of Christmas Butter Cookies. Whether you’re baking for holiday gatherings, gifting sweet treats to loved ones, or simply indulging in a cozy baking day at home, these cookies are the perfect way to capture the joy of the season. With simple ingredients and an easy to follow recipe, you’ll whip up a batch that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.

Plus, their versatility means you can get creative, roll them in festive sprinkles, drizzle with chocolate, or shape them into adorable holiday designs. No matter how you customize them, these buttery, melt in your mouth cookies will have everyone asking for more. So, are you ready to bake a little holiday magic? Let’s get started.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When it comes to holiday baking, nothing beats the charm of homemade Christmas Butter Cookies. These buttery delights are not only irresistibly delicious but also incredibly simple to make, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re creating festive treats for your family or whipping up an elegant addition to a holiday dessert platter, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Imagine the joy of filling your kitchen with the warm, buttery aroma of freshly baked cookies as you decorate them with sprinkles, icing, or a dusting of powdered sugar. The best part? These cookies are as versatile as they are tasty. Want to personalize them? Use festive cookie cutters for holiday shapes or experiment with different toppings like chocolate drizzles or crushed candy canes.

Here’s why these cookies will quickly become your go-to holiday recipe:

Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your pantry no last minute grocery store runs.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: These cookies are soft, delicate, and perfectly buttery.
Perfect for Gifting: Wrap them in a festive box or tin, and you’ve got a heartfelt, homemade gift everyone will love.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Let your little ones help with rolling, cutting, or decorating for a fun family activity.

Whether you’re baking for a quiet night in or planning a festive holiday gathering, these cookies bring a little extra magic to the season. Ready to create something everyone will love? Let’s dive into the recipe.

Ingredients

Before you start baking, let’s make sure you have everything you need to create these melt-in-your-mouth Christmas Butter Cookies. The beauty of this recipe is that it uses simple, pantry friendly ingredients that come together to create something magical.

You’ll feel like a pro baker with minimal effort.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: This is the star of the show, giving your cookies their rich, buttery flavor. Make sure the butter is softened to ensure a smooth, creamy dough.
1 cup powdered sugar: Powdered sugar helps create that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your cookies, providing structure while keeping them tender.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma that pairs perfectly with the buttery dough.
1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Optional: Decorations: Get creative with festive toppings like sprinkles, sanding sugar, chocolate drizzles, or colorful icing.

A Few Tips for Success:

Use quality butter: Since butter is the foundation of this recipe, opt for unsalted, high-quality butter for the best flavor.
Measure accurately: Scoop and level your flour to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can make the dough crumbly.
Prep for decorations: If you’re planning to add sprinkles or sugar before baking, have them ready to go once the dough is rolled out.

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from making buttery, festive perfection. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking.

Directions

Get ready to bake these festive Christmas Butter Cookies with this simple, step-by-step process. You’ll create perfectly buttery cookies that look as good as they taste. Let’s get started.

Step 1: Mix the Dough

Cream the butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix until the texture is smooth and creamy this gives your cookies that melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Add the vanilla and salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, ensuring the flavors blend evenly into the mixture.
Incorporate the flour: Gradually add the flour while mixing at a low speed. Keep mixing just until the dough comes together; avoid overmixing to preserve the soft texture of the cookies.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Form the dough into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the dough, making it easier to roll and shape.

Step 3: Roll and Cut

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
Roll out the dough: Dust a clean surface with a little flour, then roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a bit of flour on your rolling pin.
Cut into shapes: Use holiday-themed cookie cutters to make festive shapes like stars, trees, or snowflakes. Collect any scraps of dough, roll them out again, and repeat until you’ve used it all.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Arrange on baking sheets: Place your cookie cutouts onto the lined baking sheets, leaving a small gap between each one to allow for slight spreading.
Bake: Bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking for soft and tender cookies.
Cool completely: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool fully.

Step 5: Decorate Your Masterpieces

Now comes the fun part. Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them however you like. Add festive sprinkles, pipe on icing, or dust with powdered sugar for a magical finish.

These easy steps will leave you with a batch of buttery, golden cookies that are perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. Whether you enjoy them plain or with extra flair, they’re guaranteed to make your holiday season extra special.

Expert Tips and Variations

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s explore some expert tips and creative variations to make your Christmas Butter Cookies even more special. Whether you want to customize the flavors, try a different texture, or add a festive twist, these suggestions will elevate your cookie game.

Expert Tips

Soft, Not Too Soft Dough: If your dough feels too sticky to roll out, simply chill it for a little longer or sprinkle a bit more flour on your work surface. It should be soft but manageable don’t let it get too dry.
Don’t Skip the Chilling: Chilling the dough is key to keeping the cookies from spreading too much while baking. It also helps the flavors meld together better. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes in the fridge will do wonders.
Perfect Bake Time: For cookies that are just the right balance of crispy on the edges and soft in the middle, keep a close eye on them in the oven. Bake until the edges start to turn golden, but don’t wait for the entire cookie to brown.

Flavor Variations

Add a Dash of Spice: If you’re looking to mix things up, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor. These spices complement the butter perfectly and give your cookies a cozy holiday vibe.
Orange Zest: For a citrusy twist, mix in some freshly grated orange zest. It’ll add a refreshing, bright note to your cookies that pairs beautifully with vanilla.
Chocolate Chip Delight: If you’re a fan of chocolate, try folding in a handful of mini chocolate chips or even drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Decorating Ideas

Sprinkles and Sugar: You can’t go wrong with classic sprinkles or colored sugar. Apply them before baking to add a festive touch.
Icing and Glaze: If you love a bit of sweetness on top, make a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar and a little milk or water. Pipe the glaze onto the cooled cookies for a beautiful, glossy finish.
Holiday-Themed Shapes: Use cookie cutters in holiday shapes like trees, stars, or snowflakes, and decorate them with themed colors or even edible glitter for a truly magical look.

Storage Tips

Keep Them Fresh: Store your Christmas Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2–3 months. Just make sure they’re completely cool before wrapping them up for the freezer.
Prevent Sticking: If you’re stacking your cookies, place a layer of parchment paper between each to prevent them from sticking together.

With these tips and variations, you can make these Christmas Butter Cookies truly your own. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different flavors, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your holiday season.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve baked your perfect batch of Christmas Butter Cookies, you may be wondering: How can you serve them in the most festive and appealing way? Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, sending a sweet gift, or simply enjoying them at home, here are some creative serving ideas to make your cookies even more special.

Holiday Dessert Platter

One of the easiest ways to impress your guests is by arranging your cookies on a beautiful holiday dessert platter. Add a mix of treats like gingerbread cookies, mini pies, and your buttery Christmas Butter Cookies to create a colorful, festive spread. This is perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or even cozy nights by the fire.

Gift-Worthy Presentation

Looking for a gift idea? Your homemade Christmas Butter Cookies make a thoughtful and delicious present. Here’s how to package them beautifully:

Decorative tins: Place your cookies in a cute tin decorated with holiday designs.
Cellophane bags: Arrange a few cookies in a clear cellophane bag and tie it with a festive ribbon for a charming gift.
Gift boxes: For a more elegant touch, use small gift boxes and add a few colorful bows. Your loved ones will appreciate the effort and the tasty treat.

Pairing with Beverages

To elevate your cookie experience, pair your Christmas Butter Cookies with a warm holiday beverage. Here are a few ideas:

Hot cocoa: The rich, creamy flavors of hot cocoa complement the buttery cookies perfectly.
Spiced cider: For a cozy, fall-inspired pairing, try serving your cookies with a cup of warm spiced apple cider.
Coffee or tea: For adults, enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea alongside your cookies. The mild sweetness of the cookies pairs wonderfully with a slightly bitter drink.

Make It a Cookie Decorating Party

These cookies aren’t just fun to bake, they’re fun to decorate too. Invite family and friends over for a cookie decorating session. Set up a decorating station with different icings, sprinkles, and edible decorations. This is a great activity for kids and adults alike and makes for a fun, interactive holiday tradition.

Enjoying at Home

Of course, the simplest way to enjoy these Christmas Butter Cookies is with a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of your own home. Perfect for a quiet afternoon or cozy evening, these cookies are sure to make any moment feel extra special.

No matter how you choose to serve them, Christmas Butter Cookies will bring joy to everyone who gets a taste. Whether gifting, serving at a party, or just enjoying them yourself, they’re the perfect holiday treat.

FAQs

Have a few questions about making Christmas Butter Cookies? Let’s clear up any doubts and help you bake the best batch possible. Check out these helpful tips and tricks to make your cookie making experience even easier.

1. Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Absolutely. If you want to save time, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After mixing, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw the dough overnight in the fridge before you roll it out and start baking.

2. Why do my cookies spread so much while baking?

If your cookies spread too much, it could be because the dough is too warm when it hits the baking sheet. To prevent this, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. If you’re still having issues, you can chill the cut out cookies for a bit before placing them in the oven to help them maintain their shape.

3. How can I add more holiday spirit to my cookies?

There are so many ways to give your cookies a festive touch. Try these ideas:

Add colored sugar or sprinkles before baking for a fun, sparkly look.
Decorate them with holiday icing for a beautiful, personalized touch.
Use cookie cutters in fun shapes like snowflakes, trees, or stars to make the cookies extra special. If you want to go all out, drizzle the cookies with melted chocolate or add a bit of edible glitter for some extra holiday magic.

4. Can I substitute margarine for butter?

While margarine is a possible substitute, it can affect the flavor and texture of your cookies. Butter is key to achieving that rich, melt-in-your-mouth taste that makes these cookies so delicious. For the best results, stick with unsalted butter for that perfect buttery flavor and texture.

5. What’s the best way to store these cookies?

To keep your Christmas Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for up to 1 week. If you want to store them for a longer period, freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure the cookies are completely cooled before storing them, and thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

6. Can I freeze the cookies after baking?

Definitely. After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature.

7. How can I ensure the cookies are soft and tender?

To get that soft and tender texture, be careful not to overmix the dough. Simply mix until everything is just combined. Also, make sure to keep a close eye on the baking time. Overbaking will lead to cookies that are too crispy. Take them out of the oven as soon as the edges are golden, but the center remains slightly soft for that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Now, you’ll be able to bake your Christmas Butter Cookies like a pro. Whether you’re making them for yourself or sharing them with friends and family, these tips will ensure your cookies come out perfect every time.

Recipe Card

Christmas Butter Cookies That Taste Like Magic

Flavor Of Recipes

Make Christmas Butter Cookies that melt in your mouth. Easy, festive, and perfect for the holidays. A buttery treat your family will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 11

Chill Time 30

Total Time 56

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 27 Cookies

Calories 95 kcal

Ingredients

1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional:

Decorations Get creative with festive toppings like sprinkles, sanding sugar, chocolate drizzles, or colorful icing.

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dough

Cream the butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix until the texture is smooth and creamy this gives your cookies that melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Add the vanilla and salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, ensuring the flavors blend evenly into the mixture.
Incorporate the flour: Gradually add the flour while mixing at a low speed. Keep mixing just until the dough comes together; avoid overmixing to preserve the soft texture of the cookies.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Form the dough into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the dough, making it easier to roll and shape.

Step 3: Roll and Cut

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
Roll out the dough: Dust a clean surface with a little flour, then roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a bit of flour on your rolling pin.
Cut into shapes: Use holiday-themed cookie cutters to make festive shapes like stars, trees, or snowflakes. Collect any scraps of dough, roll them out again, and repeat until you’ve used it all.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Arrange on baking sheets: Place your cookie cutouts onto the lined baking sheets, leaving a small gap between each one to allow for slight spreading.
Bake: Bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking for soft and tender cookies.
Cool completely: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool fully.

Step 5: Decorate Your Masterpieces

Now comes the fun part. Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them however you like. Add festive sprinkles, pipe on icing, or dust with powdered sugar for a magical finish.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 95 kcal
Fat: 6 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Cholesterol: 20 mg
Sodium: 40 mg
Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Sugar: 4 g
Protein: 1.1 g

Closing Notes

And there you have it, your very own batch of Christmas Butter Cookies that taste like magic. These delightful cookies are simple to make, versatile, and sure to bring a little extra holiday cheer to your home. Whether you’re baking them for a festive gathering, giving them as gifts, or just enjoying them with a warm drink by the fire, they’re the perfect treat for every occasion.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can make them as soft and buttery as you like or add a sprinkle of festive sugar to make them sparkle. If you want to switch things up, try adding a dash of cinnamon or almond extract for a cozy twist. The possibilities are endless.

By following these easy steps and tips, you’re not just making cookies, you’re creating lasting memories. There’s nothing like the joy of sharing homemade cookies with loved ones during the holidays. So go ahead grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready for some serious cookie magic.

Happy baking, and may your holiday season be filled with sweetness and joy.

Flavor Of Recipes