Christmas Sugar Cookie

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

There’s something magical about biting into a soft, buttery Christmas sugar cookie that instantly transports you back to childhood. Whether it’s the scent of vanilla drifting from the oven or the sparkle of colored sugar on freshly baked rounds, these cookies capture the joy of the season in every bite.

This recipe is a staple in holiday baking because it’s not only incredibly easy but also endlessly versatile. Decorate with icing, sprinkles, or sanding sugar, or keep them simple and classic. Either way, they turn out delicious every time and are perfect for cookie swaps, gift boxes, or cozy nights by the fire.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Sugar Cookie

These cookies strike the ideal balance between crisp edges and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center. They hold their shape beautifully when cut with festive cookie cutters and bake evenly for that perfect golden finish. Plus, the dough can be made ahead and chilled, making it great for planning holiday treats in advance. They’re also a wonderful canvas for decorating, whether with simple sugar or intricate royal icing designs.

What Kind of Sugar Should I Use?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use granulated sugar. It creates that classic sweet flavor and gives the dough a texture that rolls out smoothly and bakes to the perfect firmness. If you plan to add a sugar coating on top before baking, sanding sugar or colored decorating sugar gives a festive, sparkling finish without melting or browning too much in the oven.

Ingredients for the Christmas Sugar Cookie

The ingredients for these cookies are likely already in your pantry, but don’t let their simplicity fool you—they come together to make a rich, buttery, and perfectly sweet dough.

• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt

Each plays a key role. Butter gives the cookies their rich flavor and soft crumb. Sugar sweetens and helps with structure. Eggs bind everything together. Vanilla brings in that warm, classic cookie note. Flour forms the body of the dough, while baking powder helps them rise just enough. Salt sharpens all the other flavors.

How To Make the Christmas Sugar Cookie

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step adds air to the dough for a tender texture.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days) so the dough becomes firm enough to roll and cut.

Step 5: Roll and Cut

Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into shapes with your favorite holiday cookie cutters.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are just beginning to turn golden.

Step 7: Decorate (Optional)

Once the cookies are cooled, decorate with royal icing, melted chocolate, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

How to Store and Serve These Cookies

These cookies are perfect for gifting, snacking, or setting out for Santa. The recipe yields about 36 cookies, depending on the size of your cutters. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze the unbaked dough discs or the finished cookies for up to 3 months—just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

They’re just as delicious days after baking, which makes them ideal for making ahead of the holidays. If decorating, allow icing to fully set before stacking or storing.

What to Serve With Christmas Sugar Cookies?

Hot Chocolate

A mug of creamy hot cocoa makes a classic and cozy companion to these sweet cookies.

Eggnog

The rich, spiced flavor of eggnog pairs beautifully with the delicate vanilla of sugar cookies.

Peppermint Mocha

The cool mint and deep chocolate notes of this festive coffee drink bring a dynamic contrast to the buttery cookies.

Warm Apple Cider

Spiced cider complements the sweetness and adds an extra layer of holiday flavor.

Cranberry Orange Tea

This tart and citrusy tea creates a bright balance to the sugary richness of the cookies.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Sandwich a scoop between two cookies for an impromptu holiday ice cream sandwich.

Fruit and Cheese Board

A spread with dried fruits and creamy cheeses is a great way to mix sweet and savory bites at any gathering.

Holiday Punch

Fruity and bubbly, a party punch with cranberries or citrus pairs nicely with cookies on a dessert table.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Christmas sugar cookies, you might want to try some of these sweet creations next:

• Canned Biscuit Sugar Donuts
• Brownie Mix Cookies
• Dr. Pepper Brownies
• Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies
• Hot Fudge Brownie Bread

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday board so you can come back to it every December.

And let me know in the comments how you decorated yours! Did you go classic with sprinkles, or get fancy with royal icing? Any fun cookie cutter shapes?

I love seeing all the variations and hearing how you make these recipes part of your family traditions.

Explore beautifully curated holiday sweets and baking inspiration on Luna Meals on Pinterest and get inspired for your next baking day: Luna Meals on Pinterest

Conclusion

A batch of Christmas sugar cookies is more than just a treat—it’s a tradition. From the moment you start rolling the dough to the final bite of a sweetly decorated cookie, you’re creating memories that last long after the season ends. Whether for gifting, decorating, or snacking straight from the tray, these cookies are a holiday must-make.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?