These delightful Mini Christmas Cookies are the perfect festive treat! With a buttery sugar cookie base and vibrant icing, they’re sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations. This recipe provides clear instructions for creating a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by home cooks of all skill levels. The combination of flavors and textures makes this a versatile option for various occasions.
The following guide includes detailed step-by-step instructions, ingredient information, and practical tips to help you achieve the best results. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe offers reliable guidance.
Recipe Information
Preparation Time: 20 min
Cooking Time: 10 min
Total Time: 30 min
Servings: 4
Required Ingredients
For optimal results, use fresh ingredients when possible. All measurements are standardized for consistency.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Assorted gel food coloring
- Assorted sprinkles for decorating
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the room temperature butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out mini shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- While the cookies cool, prepare the icing by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl, then divide into smaller bowls to tint with food coloring. Decorate the cooled cookies with icing and sprinkles as desired.
Helpful Tips and Variations
Ingredient Substitutions:
- If specific ingredients are unavailable, consider suitable alternatives with similar flavor profiles
- Seasonings can be adjusted according to personal preference
- Fresh herbs may be substituted with dried herbs using appropriate conversion ratios
Preparation Tips:
- Read through all instructions before beginning preparation
- Prepare ingredients in advance for efficient cooking
- Use appropriate kitchen tools for each task
- Monitor cooking times carefully for optimal results
Serving Suggestions:
- This dish pairs well with simple side dishes
- Consider serving with complementary sauces or condiments
- Presentation can be enhanced with appropriate garnishes
Storage and Reheating:
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality
- Reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor
Nutrition Information
Note: The following nutrition information is approximate and based on standard ingredient measurements. Actual values may vary depending on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
- Calories per serving: Approximately 300-400 calories
- Protein: 15-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
- Fat: 10-20 grams
For precise nutrition information, it is recommended to calculate values based on the exact ingredients and quantities used in your preparation.
Final Recommendations
This Mini Christmas Cookies recipe offers a balanced approach to home cooking with clear instructions and practical guidance. The combination of ingredients provides a satisfying meal option that can be adapted to various dietary preferences.
When preparing this dish, focus on proper technique and timing to achieve the best results. Remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on your specific equipment and ingredients.
