Christmas Sugar Cookies

If you're looking for a no-fail holiday cookie recipe that delivers on both flavor and festive vibes, these Christmas Sugar Cookies are exactly what you need. This recipe creates thick, soft, cut-out cookies that hold their shape perfectly and are ready in under 30 minutes—no dough chilling required. Whether you're baking with kids, prepping cookie platters for neighbors, or just craving something sweet and nostalgic, these cookies have it all.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients and Substitutions
• How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookies
• Expert Baking Tips
• Serving Suggestions
• Storing and Freezing
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion
• Christmas Sugar Cookies

The real magic is in their texture—pillowy-soft centers with gently crisp edges—and their ability to transform into any festive shape you like. They’re incredibly versatile and delicious even without frosting, though decorating them is half the fun. You’ll want to make these part of your annual holiday baking traditions, just like we have in our home.

this recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for the Holiday Season

These cookies are a holiday dream. The dough is easy to roll and cut, making it a great choice for cookie decorating parties or quiet evenings of solo baking. You don’t need fancy ingredients or techniques—just simple, classic components that come together beautifully.

Soft, Buttery Texture

Each bite offers a melt-in-your-mouth softness, thanks to the addition of sour cream. These aren’t dry or crumbly like some sugar cookies. Instead, they’re moist, tender, and subtly sweet. The frosting adds a creamy, buttery finish that makes them even more irresistible.

No-Chill Dough

You read that right—no need to chill the dough. This means you can mix, roll, cut, and bake all in one session. It’s ideal when you're short on time or baking with little helpers who can’t wait to decorate.

Ingredients and Substitutions

What You’ll Need

For the cookies:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ⅔ cup sour cream (full-fat preferred)
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder

For the frosting (optional):

• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup salted butter, melted
• 1–2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but enhances flavor)

Ingredient Notes

Use full-fat sour cream for the richest, softest texture. It's what gives these cookies their signature pillowy bite. Room temperature butter ensures even mixing, while pure vanilla extract adds depth and warmth to the flavor.

For flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it with a knife. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, which can pack the flour and lead to dry cookies. If you have a kitchen scale, weigh out 520 grams for best accuracy.

Substitutions

• Sour Cream: Can be replaced with plain full-fat Greek yogurt for a similar texture and taste.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
• Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with vegan margarine and use a plant-based sour cream alternative.

How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookies

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.

3. Add sour cream, egg, and vanilla. Beat until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Add dry ingredients. Mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms. If it feels sticky, add up to 4 tablespoons of extra flour a little at a time.

5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface or wax paper to ¼-inch thickness for soft cookies or ⅛ inch for crispier ones.

6. Cut out cookie shapes using your favorite cookie cutters. Gather and re-roll the dough scraps to use every bit.

7. Bake on prepared sheets for 8 to 10 minutes. The cookies should look puffed and dry but not browned. Remove them before the edges begin to color for the softest results.

8. Cool completely before frosting or decorating.

Optional Frosting

In a medium bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, melted butter, 1 tablespoon of milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust with more sugar or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Spread over cooled cookies and decorate with sprinkles while the frosting is still wet. Let the icing set for 1 to 2 hours before stacking.

Expert Baking Tips

Getting the Best Results

• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
• Flour your surface lightly. Too much flour will make the dough tough.
• Don’t overbake. These cookies are best taken out just before they look fully cooked in the center.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding too much flour leads to dry, crumbly cookies. Measure carefully.
• Overbaking makes them crisp instead of soft. Watch closely after 8 minutes.
• Frosting warm cookies causes the icing to melt and slide off. Let them cool first.

Time-Saving Tips

• Make the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freeze unbaked cookie cut-outs to bake later during busy holiday weeks.
• Prepare frosting while cookies bake to streamline your workflow.

Serving Suggestions

How to Serve These Cookies

Serve these cookies at holiday gatherings, as part of a dessert tray, or leave them out for Santa with a glass of milk. They also make a thoughtful edible gift.

Presentation Ideas

Decorate with colored frosting, sanding sugar, mini candy canes, or edible glitter. Let kids customize their own cookies with different toppings for a fun family activity.

Best Beverages to Pair

• Hot chocolate with marshmallows
• Spiced chai tea or peppermint tea
• Eggnog or a vanilla milkshake
• For adults, a glass of Riesling or sweet dessert wine

Storing and Freezing

How to Store Leftovers

Store baked and frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you live in a warmer climate or want to extend shelf life, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing Instructions

Unfrosted cookies freeze best. Layer them with wax paper in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting or serving.

You can also freeze the dough. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Customizations and Variations

Make It Vegan or Gluten-Free

To make these cookies vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based version, use a vegan sour cream, and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water).

For gluten-free cookies, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.

Flavor Upgrades

Add citrus zest for a brighter flavor, a dash of almond extract for a bakery-style twist, or a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.

Holiday-Themed Ideas

Change up your cookie cutters and decorations based on the holiday season. Hearts for Valentine’s Day, eggs for Easter, pumpkins for fall—the possibilities are endless.

Conclusion

These Christmas Sugar Cookies are the kind of recipe that checks every box—easy, festive, delicious, and completely customizable. You can keep them simple with a little vanilla frosting and sprinkles, or turn them into edible masterpieces with colored icing and creative designs.

Whether you’re baking with family, prepping for a holiday cookie swap, or simply enjoying the cozy rhythm of rolling and cutting dough, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. If you try them out, tag me on Pinterest at Bake With Lina and share your creations.

And if you're a fan of soft, sweet cookies, don't miss these other incredible recipes:

• Chewy Sugar Cookies – Soft and Fluffy
• The Best Sugar Cookies – Soft, Buttery, and Perfect for Decorating
• Bakery-Style Chocolate Chip Cookies

Let the holiday baking begin, and may your kitchen be filled with sugar, spice, and everything nice.

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