Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home, especially during the festive season. Christmas Snickerdoodles are a delightful blend of soft, chewy goodness and a sprinkle of warm spices that transport you straight to holiday cheer. These cookies, coated in a cozy cinnamon-sugar mixture, have a satisfying texture that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them all to yourself, these treats make the perfect addition to your holiday festivities!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 2 cups white sugar (divided)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The warmth will set the stage for these cozy cookies!
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg, then set it aside. This step ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter with 1 1/2 cups of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The transformation will be delightful!
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, ensuring each egg is well incorporated before adding the next.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. This dough should be easy to handle but not too sticky.
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar with the cinnamon. This fragrant mixture will be your cookie coating!
- Roll the dough into 1 3/4-inch balls, then coat each ball generously in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, making sure they are well covered.
- Arrange the coated dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 3 inches of space between each cookie for room to spread.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 9-10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as you want them to be perfectly puffed and soft in the center.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the dough. If you prefer a chewier cookie, slightly underbake them for a minute or two. These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, but they’re so delicious, they probably won’t last that long!
Cooking Techniques
Creaming the butter and sugar properly is key to achieving the perfect texture. Be sure to beat them together until the mixture is fluffy and light in color. Additionally, using room-temperature ingredients will help ensure everything mixes together smoothly. Sifting the dry ingredients will not only remove lumps but also incorporate air into the flour, leading to a lighter cookie.
FAQ
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! Roll it into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to an airtight container once frozen. When you’re ready to bake, simply place them straight from the freezer into the oven, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.
What can I do with leftover cinnamon-sugar?
Leftover cinnamon-sugar is delicious sprinkled over oatmeal, pancakes, or even on top of warm buttered toast for a sweet breakfast treat!
Conclusion
These Christmas Snickerdoodles aren’t just cookies—they’re a warm hug in dessert form! With their delightful texture and burst of flavor, they are bound to become a cherished tradition in your holiday baking lineup. Gather your loved ones, bake a batch, and enjoy a sweet moment together this holiday season. Happy baking!