Name: Deliciously Soft Christmas Sprinkle Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 46 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Ensure proper measuring for best results.); 0.5 teaspoon baking soda (Ensure it's fresh for best results.); 0.5 teaspoon baking powder (Essential for fluffiness.); 0.25 teaspoon fine sea salt (Table salt is an acceptable substitute.); 0.5 cup unsalted butter (Melted.); 0.5 cup granulated sugar; 0.5 cup brown sugar (Light or dark as desired.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Vanilla bean paste is a nice alternative.); 1 large egg (Use flax egg for a vegan option.); 0.5 cup Christmas sprinkles (For festive flair.); to taste additional sprinkles (Add on top for decorative flair.)

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As I rummaged through my pantry one chilly afternoon, the sight of colorful sprinkles sparked something festive within me. That’s when the idea struck: Christmas Sprinkle Cookies! These delightful treats are not just any cookies; they are soft, chewy, and an absolute joy to make, especially when you want to brighten up those holiday gatherings. Whipping up these holiday cookies takes a mere 5 minutes of prep, making it a fun and simple baking adventure for everyone in the family. Imagine the laughter and cheer as your kitchen fills with the warm, buttery scent, beckoning loved ones to gather around. Ready to bring joy to your holiday festivities with these easy-to-make Christmas Sprinkle Cookies? Let’s dive into the colorful world of simple Christmas baking!

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What Makes Christmas Sprinkle Cookies Special?

Delightful, Festive Appeal: These cookies are a visual treat with vibrant sprinkles, making them a showstopper at any holiday gathering.
Quick and Easy: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you’ll be baking in no time. Perfect for busy holiday schedules!
Soft and Chewy: Every bite offers a delightful combination of textures that adults and kids will adore alike.
Versatile Fun: Swap in chocolate chips or nuts for a personalized twist, or try adding a dash of flavored extract for added depth. For more scrumptious ideas, check out these Peanut Butter Cookies and Homemade Samoas Cookies.
Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are bound to bring smiles and joy, making them the perfect treat to share with friends and family during the festive season!

Christmas Sprinkle Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – Provides the structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
• Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Baking powder – Essential for fluffiness; do not omit for perfect holiday cookies.
• Fine sea salt – Enhances flavor; table salt is an acceptable substitute.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness; replace with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated sugar – Contributes sweetness and aids in browning beautifully.
• Brown sugar – Adds depth of flavor and moisture; use light or dark brown sugar as desired.
• Vanilla extract – Infuses a lovely aroma and sweetness; vanilla bean paste is a nice alternative.
• Egg – Binds ingredients while adding moisture; opt for a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Christmas sprinkles – Give your cookies a festive flair; swap with chocolate chips or nuts for a fun variation.

For Extra Festiveness
• Additional sprinkles – Add on top for decorative flair just after baking, while still warm.

These Christmas Sprinkle Cookies are sure to be a hit this holiday season—let’s get baking!

Step‑by-Step Instructions for Christmas Sprinkle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of melted unsalted butter with ½ cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of brown sugar. Mix these ingredients with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Next, add one large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending until fully incorporated and the mixture is light in color.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients while stirring gently. Mix until just combined, ensuring no flour pockets remain. Finally, fold in ½ cup of Christmas sprinkles until evenly distributed throughout the dough for that festive touch.

Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This chilling step helps the flavors meld together and makes the dough easier to scoop. If you have extra time, the dough can be chilled for up to 2 days, allowing you flexibility when making your Christmas Sprinkle Cookies.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven
While your cookie dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line multiple baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking. This preheating step is crucial for even baking, so allow the oven to fully come to temperature.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake
After the dough has chilled, use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space each cookie about 3-4 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but soft.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly. Afterward, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, add extra sprinkles on top while the cookies are still warm for that festive flair.

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Christmas Sprinkle Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these festive cookies your own with these fun and easy twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for everyone.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or dairy-free margarine in place of butter for a delicious dairy-free treat. These options maintain the rich flavor and soft texture.
Nutty Delight: Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. The nutty taste complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a gooey, chocolaty variation! These chocolate-infused treats are perfect for those who crave an extra layer of indulgence.
Holiday Spice: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor that evokes holiday cheer. The aroma will fill your kitchen with festive warmth!
Colorful M&Ms: Replace sprinkles with red and green M&Ms for a vibrant twist. This fun substitution is both festive and delicious, making every bite a colorful surprise.
Flavored Extracts: Try replacing vanilla extract with almond or maple for a unique twist on the classic. Each flavor adds its own festive flair!
Crunchy Toppings: Mix in crushed pretzels or graham crackers for a sweet and salty experience that contrasts perfectly with the cookie’s softness. These variations will bring a delightful crunch to your holiday platter.

Explore these variations and let your imagination run wild in the kitchen! For more delicious cookies, check out these Browned Butter Cookies that elevate any dessert table!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sprinkle Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer, keep the cookies in the fridge for a slightly firmer texture, but consume them within 5 days for the best taste.

Freezer: For longer-term storage, freeze raw dough balls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen cookies, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 10 minutes before reheating in a warm oven for a few minutes; this restores their delightful softness.

What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Christmas Sprinkle Cookies

Pair these festive delights with charming accompaniments for a truly magical holiday experience.

Classic Milk: A glass of ice-cold milk balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating an irresistible combination that both kids and adults love.
Rich Hot Cocoa: The warmth of hot cocoa, topped with marshmallows or whipped cream, complements the soft texture of the cookies, bringing a cozy feel to your holiday gathering.
Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh berries and sliced apples provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies, adding a burst of brightness to your dessert table.
Mini Cheesecakes: Creamy, rich mini cheesecakes offer an elegant touch to your holiday spread and contrast nicely with the tender cookies.
Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea enhance the cookies’ buttery flavor, offering a warm, festive drink that pairs beautifully with every bite.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Place a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream between two cookies for a delightful twist that turns these festive treats into a fun dessert experience.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel adds a decadent touch, enhancing the cookies’ sweetness and giving a delightful chewy texture to every bite.
Nutty Biscotti: For a crunchy contrast, serve alongside almond or hazelnut biscotti. Their nutty flavors will bring depth to the overall dessert experience.
Sparkling Cider: Toast with complimentary sparkling apple or pear cider—its effervescence brings a cheerful touch to any holiday table.

Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Cookies

• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements; this ensures your cookies come out perfectly soft and chewy every time.

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined to maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough; it enhances flavor and makes it easier to scoop. A well-chilled dough is key to dreamy Christmas Sprinkle Cookies!

• Bake in Batches: For even baking, rotate the trays halfway through cooking. This will prevent some cookies from becoming overcooked while others remain soft.

• Check for Doneness: Cookies should have slightly golden edges and soft centers. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.

• Enhance Flavor: Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or almond extract for a delicious twist, elevating your Christmas Sprinkle Cookies to new festive heights!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Christmas Sprinkle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who cherish spending time with family during the holidays! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance by following the initial steps and then refrigerating the wrapped dough. This chilling process not only enhances the flavors but also makes it easier to scoop. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and proceed with scooping and baking the cookies as directed. For the best quality, make sure to keep the dough well-wrapped to prevent drying out. With this prep-ahead approach, you’ll have scrumptious cookies ready to spread cheer with minimal effort!

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Christmas Sprinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for my Christmas Sprinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, make sure your butter is unsalted and at room temperature for easy mixing. Look for eggs with clean shells and no cracks. Your vanilla extract should have a rich aroma, signaling quality. For flour, check the expiration date to ensure it’s fresh since that affects your cookie’s texture.

How should I store my Christmas Sprinkle Cookies, and how long will they last?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent sogginess. If you want to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for a firmer texture but should be consumed within that same 5-day period for optimal taste.

Can I freeze the raw dough for my Christmas Sprinkle Cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze raw dough! Start by scooping out dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them in a single layer for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply bake them from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to the baking time.

What are some common issues in baking Christmas Sprinkle Cookies?
Very! If your cookies come out overly flat, it might be due to softened butter—make sure it’s just melted and not too warm when mixing. Conversely, if they’re too puffy or cake-like, check that you are using the correct measurements and ensure your baking powder and baking soda are both fresh. Also, don’t skip the chilling step, as it helps control spreading!

What dietary considerations should I be aware of when making Christmas Sprinkle Cookies?
For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily make these cookies gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option. Ensure your sprinkles are also allergy-friendly, as some commercial varieties may contain gluten or dairy. Always check labels!

Can pets eat Christmas Sprinkle Cookies?
No, it’s advisable to keep these cookies away from pets. Ingredients like chocolate and certain artificial sweeteners (like xylitol found in some sugars) can be harmful to them. Instead, consider making pet-friendly treats if you want to include your furry friends in the fun!