Cake-Inspired Christmas Cookies Recipe
As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing more delightful than indulging in some cake-inspired Christmas cookies. These delightful treats capture the essence of festive flavors and the warmth of home baking, making them a must-try recipe for every festive gathering.
Every year, my family gathers in the kitchen to bake these cookies, a tradition initiated by my grandmother. She would tell us stories of how her grandmother would bake similar cookies during the holidays, filling their home with the comforting scent of warm spices and sugar. Now, we continue this tradition, laughing, singing carols, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cake-inspired Christmas cookies are a fusion of moist cake textures and classic cookie flavors. They truly stand out for their unique cake-like fluffiness, making each bite a delightful surprise. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, even for novice bakers, and the result is a plateful of enchanting cookies that will impress both kids and adults alike. Perfect for holiday parties or a cozy night in, these cookies capture the joy and warmth of the season.
Ingredients Notes
The ingredients for these cookies are simple, yet each plays a crucial role in achieving that cake-like consistency. Use unsalted butter for a smoother texture, and always opt for high-quality vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. For those with dietary preferences, coconut oil can be an excellent substitute for butter. If you’re unable to find superfine sugar, regular granulated sugar works just fine, though it may slightly change the texture.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Gather all your ingredients for easy access.
Step 2
Cream together the butter and sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes of mixing with an electric mixer set on medium speed.
Step 3
Add in eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring the mixture is well-combined.
Step 4
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 5
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
Storage Options
To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them into a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, allow them to thaw at room temperature or pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
For those looking to switch things up, consider adding chocolate chips or dried cranberries to the dough. If you desire a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For a nutty twist, include a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? Yes, you can use salted butter. However, it’s advisable to reduce the additional salt in the recipe by half to maintain the right balance of flavors.
What is the best way to soften butter quickly? If you forgot to leave your butter out to soften, simply cut it into small chunks and let it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it on low power in short bursts until just softened.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours. This can actually enhance the flavor, as the ingredients have more time to meld together. Just ensure the dough is wrapped tightly in plastic before storing.
Remember it later
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Cake-Inspired Christmas Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.75 cup butter softened
- 2 large eggs room temperature
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add in the flour, mixing until just combined.
- Drop rounded spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
