3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both sugars using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes. The mixture should be light, fluffy, and pale in color.
4. Add Eggs and Extracts
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract (and almond extract if using) and mix until smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—overworking the dough can make the cookies tough.
6. Add Milk
Add the milk gradually and mix until the dough reaches a soft, slightly sticky consistency. This extra moisture helps keep the cookies tender and soft.
7. Shape the Cookies
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. For a festive touch, gently press sprinkles or chocolate chips on top before baking.
8. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft. Remember, cookies continue to cook slightly as they cool, so avoid overbaking.
9. Cool and Decorate
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. For extra holiday magic, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted white chocolate.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Serve these soft Christmas cookies with hot cocoa, tea, or milk. They are perfect for sharing with friends, family, or leaving out for Santa on Christmas Eve. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Tips for the Softest Cookies
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened, not melted.
- Do Not Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, making cookies chewy instead of soft.
- Slightly Underbake: Remove cookies when the edges are set but centers are soft—they firm up as they cool.
- Customize: Add chocolate chunks, dried cranberries, or festive M&Ms for a personal touch.
These 🎄 Soft Christmas Cookies are a holiday classic that never goes out of style. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re sure to be the centerpiece of your festive baking traditions.
If you want, I can also make a fun, extra festive version with colored icing and holiday shapes to really wow your guests. Do you want me to do that next?
No Responses Yet