Every December, my kitchen turns into a little bakery filled with the smell of butter, vanilla, and sugar. Nothing says holiday spirit quite like a batch of freshly baked Christmas sugar cookies. They’re soft in the center, slightly crisp on the edges, and perfect for decorating with colorful icing and sprinkles.
When I first started making decorated holiday cookies, I’ll admit I was nervous about rolling and cutting the dough. But the trick is to chill it just right so the shapes hold beautifully in the oven. Over the years, this has become a family tradition, rolling out stars, trees, and snowflakes, then spending the afternoon decorating together.
The best part about this sugar cookie recipe is its versatility. You can keep them simple with a dusting of sugar or go all out with royal icing and festive designs. Either way, they come out deliciously buttery and sweet, with a texture that makes them hard to resist.
If you’re new to baking, don’t worry, these are truly easy cut out cookies. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll have dough that rolls like a dream and bakes into perfect holiday shapes. Even the kids can get involved, and honestly, that’s half the fun.
And of course, no holiday season is complete without a little holiday cookie decorating. I like to set out bowls of icing in different colors, sprinkles, and candy toppings so everyone can get creative. It’s messy, yes, but it’s the kind of mess that brings laughter, joy, and sweet memories.
Christmas sugar cookies aren’t just a dessert, they’re a tradition that warms hearts and fills kitchens with joy. From the first roll of dough to the last sprinkle of sugar, every step is an opportunity to make memories with loved ones. Their simplicity, adaptability, and festive charm make them the ultimate holiday cookie. Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange, building a holiday platter, or simply creating cozy family moments, these cookies deliver both flavor and joy.
Bake a batch this season, and let these classic Christmas cookies become part of your family’s holiday story.
✅ Quick Tips: Read through the full recipe before diving in; it’s the best way to get a feel for the flow, prep time, and tools you’ll need. Think of it like scanning a map before a road trip: you’ll cook more confidently and avoid any surprises halfway through.
This Christmas Sugar Cookies recipe is a holiday baking favorite featuring buttery dough, sweet vanilla flavor, and festive decorations. Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday dessert tables, or kids cookie decorating, these cookies hold their shape beautifully and taste just as good plain as they do with icing. A true classic Christmas cookie that’s fun, delicious, and guaranteed to spread holiday cheer.
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
This step is key for achieving that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
Scrape down sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly combined.
Divide dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
This prevents spreading and makes rolling easier.
On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to ¼-inch thickness.
Use holiday cookie cutters (trees, stars, snowflakes) to cut shapes.
Let cookies cool completely before decorating.
Prepare icing by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Tint icing with food coloring and decorate using piping bags or squeeze bottles.
Let cookies cool completely before decorating.
Prepare icing by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Tint icing with food coloring and decorate using piping bags or squeeze bottles.
Servings 24
Serving Size 1 cookie
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Thank you for trying out my recipe! I hope it adds flavor and joy to your kitchen. Happy cooking!
