The holiday season is a time for gathering, sharing, and creating delicious memories with loved ones. One of my favorite traditions is baking festive cookies that not only fill the house with delightful aromas but also bring joy to family and friends. Among my go-to recipes, these Twisted Christmas Cookies hold a special place. Their buttery, rich dough combined with vibrant icing makes them irresistible and perfect for any holiday celebration.
Every year, I look forward to hosting a cookie exchange with my neighbors, and these cookies are always a hit. The process of twisting the dough into unique shapes allows for creativity and a personal touch. Plus, the colorful icing and sprinkles make them not just tasty but visually appealing as well. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a gift, or simply to enjoy with a warm cup of cocoa, these cookies will surely delight everyone around you.
This recipe is straightforward and manageable, even for novice bakers. With a total time of just 45 minutes, you’ll have a batch of cookies ready to share. Gather your loved ones and let the baking begin!
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 cup white sugar
- 14 oz (400g) butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
- 6 cups plain flour
For the Icing:
- 6 tbsp meringue powder
- 8 tbsp water
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 7 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- Extra water (for thinning)
- Gel food coloring (red, green, gold, white)
- Sprinkles, edible glitter, or crushed candy canes (for topping)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. (The mixture should look creamy at this point.)
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and orange zest to the mixture, mixing until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gradually add the plain flour, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out festive shapes.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
- While the cookies cool, prepare the icing by mixing meringue powder, water, and lemon juice until combined. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. Divide and tint with gel food coloring as desired.
Tips for Success
- For the best texture, ensure the butter is at room temperature before mixing.
- Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling will make it easier to handle.
- Feel free to experiment with different color combinations for the icing to make your cookies even more festive!
Recipe Science
The key to achieving a soft and tender cookie lies in the creaming method, where butter and sugar are whipped together. This process incorporates air, creating a light texture. The addition of eggs adds moisture and richness, while the flour provides structure. By chilling the dough, you allow the gluten to relax, resulting in a more manageable dough that holds its shape during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Twisted Christmas Cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering or as a sweet treat for your family. They pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or hot cocoa. For presentation, consider arranging them on a festive platter, garnished with fresh greenery or holiday-themed decorations.
Storage & Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper, and they can last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, it may affect the flavor and texture of the cookies. - What can I substitute for meringue powder?
You can use egg whites, but be aware that the icing may not hold its shape as well. - Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it has a binding agent.
