Frosted Christmas Cookies

Frosted Christmas Cookies are the highlight of many holiday celebrations. Imagine gathering in the kitchen with family, laughter filling the air, as you mix flour and sugar to create the ultimate festive treat. The aroma wafting through your home while these cookies bake is simply irresistible. Decorating them becomes a joyful activity where creativity shines, making each cookie unique and personal. With soft, chewy centers and vibrant frosting, these cookies not only taste heavenly but also look beautiful on any holiday platter. Plus, you can customize them for everyone’s taste, whether it’s adding sprinkles, edible glitter, or a dash of food coloring. So grab your apron, and let’s get started on this fun and delicious adventure!

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Why This Recipe Works

Creating the perfect Frosted Christmas Cookies involves a few key ingredients that come together beautifully. First, the mix of butter and vegetable shortening gives these cookies an amazing soft and chewy texture. When they come out of the oven, they’re not just cookies; they’re little pieces of joy. Additionally, including instant vanilla pudding mix not only adds a rich flavor but helps keep the cookies moist. This means your cookies will taste fresh for days on end, making them ideal for holiday baking and sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Frosted Christmas Cookies

These cookies are more than just treats; they embody the spirit of the holidays! Each bite resonates with warmth and joy, making them a delightful addition to any celebration. The creamy frosting serves as a blank canvas where the whole family can express their creativity. You can gather around the table and decorate together, making baking a fun activity that strengthens bonds and creates memories. With every swirl of frosting and sprinkle of decoration, you’re not just making cookies; you’re crafting holiday magic!

Ingredients

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup vegetable shortening
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 package (3.5 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 6 tablespoons heavy cream
• ¼ teaspoon salt (for frosting)
• 4 cups confectioner’s sugar
• Gel food coloring (optional)

Mixing the Dough

Cream Butter and Shortening

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the ¾ cup softened butter, ¼ cup vegetable shortening, and 1 ½ cups sugar using an electric mixer. Mix it until everything is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add in the 2 large eggs and 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract. Stir it well until everything is thoroughly incorporated. This step is where the magic begins; the mixture should feel creamy and smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Once mixed, gradually add this flour mixture to your butter mixture. Do this in batches, mixing until fully combined. It might seem a bit dry at first, but just keep mixing—it will come together nicely.

Scoop and Bake

Using a dough scoop or a tablespoon, drop the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure you space them about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re set and lightly golden brown around the edges. Your kitchen will soon smell divine!

Cool the Cookies

After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Patience is key here—waiting for them to cool will help the frosting to stick better.

Making the Frosting

Beat the Butter

In a clean mixing bowl, start by beating ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer until it’s light and fluffy. This will create a great base for your frosting.

Add Sugar and Cream

Gradually add in the 4 cups of confectioner’s sugar and the 6 tablespoons of heavy cream. Alternate adding the two while mixing until fully incorporated. It should become a smooth and velvety frosting.

Flavor and Color the Frosting

Mix in the ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon salt for that extra flavor. If you want to get festive, this is the time to add gel food coloring. Just a small amount will bring your frosting to life!

Decorate the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, frost them generously. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the decorations! Sprinkles, edible glitter, and festive designs will make each cookie a personal masterpiece.

Serving Suggestions

These beautiful Frosted Christmas Cookies are perfect to enjoy with a warm cup of cocoa or a glass of milk. They offer a cozy comfort, making each bite feel like a warm hug during the holiday season.

Tips for Success

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing. This will help achieve the best texture in your cookies.
• Keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. They can become dry if over-baked, so look for the edges to lightly brown while the centers remain soft.

Variations

Feel like switching things up? Why not try adding different extracts like almond or peppermint for a unique flavor twist? You can also experiment with various gel food colors. This allows you to match your frosting to any festive theme you might have!

Storage Tips

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for up to a week. If you want to enjoy these treats later, freeze the undecorated cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Pairing Ideas

Serve these festive cookies alongside traditional holiday goodies like gingerbread and peppermint bark. This assortment will surely impress your guests and make your dessert table a feast for the eyes.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of your cookies.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.

3. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! You can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 3 days before baking it.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream in the frosting?
You can substitute with milk or a non-dairy alternative, though keep in mind the texture may differ.

5. How can I add flavor to my frosting?
Explore adding different extracts like peppermint, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur for something festive!

Frosted Christmas Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a way to share joy and warmth during the holiday season. The process of baking and decorating them with loved ones creates cherished memories. So this year, indulge in the festive spirit and create your own batch of frosted delights!

Print