The holidays are all about togetherness, laughter and a little sugar-induced happiness. Few things capture that spirit better than baking cookies, filling the house with irresistible aromas and sharing sweet treats with neighbors, friends and family.
These festive sugar cookies are soft, chewy and covered in colorful sprinkles — perfect for gift-giving or sneaky bites straight from the cookie jar.
Ingredients
Cookies:
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2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra holiday flair)
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3 to 4 tablespoons milk
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Colored sprinkles or sanding sugar for decorating
Icing:
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2 cups powdered sugar
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2 to 3 tablespoons milk
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
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Heat oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda and baking powder.
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In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla and almond extract.
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Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until a soft dough forms.
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Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll in sprinkles. Place 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
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Flatten slightly with a glass or your hand. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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For icing, whisk powdered sugar, milk and vanilla until smooth. Divide and tint with food coloring, if desired.
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Decorate cookies as desired with icing and extra sprinkles.
Pro Tip: Use cookie cutters for stars, trees, or candy canes to make them extra festive.
Perfect for gifting in tins, wrapping in cellophane with a ribbon, or sneaking a few bites while sipping hot cocoa.
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