This recipe allows you to make four types of delicious Christmas cookies from a single dough base. Easy to prepare, it’s perfect for the holiday season, whether you’re looking to gift sweet treats or enjoy some quality time with family.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup butter, room temperature
- ¼ cup shortening
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set them aside.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to cream together the butter, shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavoring: Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and instant pudding mix. Mix until well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, a little at a time, mixing well between additions to ensure everything is combined.
- Prepare Different Cookie Varieties: Once the dough is ready, you can divide and shape it according to the types of cookies you want to make. Here are some suggestions:
- Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies: Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out festive shapes. Bake until lightly golden, then allow to cool before frosting.
- Hidden Kiss Cookies: Roll the dough into balls and place them on the baking sheet. Bake, then press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie immediately after they come out of the oven.
- Sprinkle Pudding Cookies: Mix in chocolate chips or caramel bits into the dough before shaping into balls. Roll the balls in sprinkles or sugar before baking.
- Thumbprint Cookies: Take a small ball of dough and press your thumb into the center to create a well. Fill the well with jam or caramel, then bake.
- Bake: Bake the cookies according to the specific instructions for each variety, usually about 10 to 12 minutes. Allow them to cool on a wire rack before enjoying.
These varied Christmas cookies are perfect for celebrations, gift exchanges, or simply indulging during the holiday season. Have fun personalizing each cookie type and sharing delicious moments with your loved ones!
4o mini
