Name: Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies: 24 Soft Delights
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract; ¼ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt; 2¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt

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Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies are the ultimate treat for the festive season! These cookies are thick, tender, and have a cloud-like softness that makes them perfect for decorating or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa. With their perfectly defined shapes that stay fluffy for days, they embody the spirit of Christmas baking. Whether you’re icing them for a holiday party or gifting them to friends, these cookies promise to add a touch of warmth and sweetness to your celebrations. Let’s dive into how to make these delightful treats!

Why You’ll Love This Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies

You’ll adore the Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Second, their fluffy texture is a delightful contrast to the chewy and crunchy cookies often found during the holidays. Third, these cookies are versatile enough to be decorated in a variety of ways, allowing for creativity in presentation. You can enjoy them as soft Christmas sugar cookies or transform them into fluffy holiday sugar cookies with a touch of icing. Moreover, they are great for gifting, ensuring your loved ones receive a delicious homemade treat. Finally, these cookies are vegetarian-friendly, making them accessible for various dietary preferences. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a festive masterpiece!

Ingredients for Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies

Gather these items:

¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
2¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

How to Make Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Step 2: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream, mixing until smooth and creamy (1–2 minutes).
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt (1 minute).
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft, non-sticky dough forms (2 minutes).
Step 5: Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap well, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Step 6: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough to ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface and cut into festive shapes.
Step 7: Place cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, just until set and pale—do not let them brown.
Step 8: Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before decorating (15–20 minutes).

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies

Keep these in mind:

These cookies are perfect for icing and gifting.
They stay fluffy for days.
Store in an airtight container to maintain softness.
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough.
For a more festive look, use colored icing or sprinkles when decorating.

Best Ways to Serve Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies

These cookies are versatile for any holiday gathering. Serve them on a beautifully decorated platter alongside a cup of hot chocolate or coffee. They are also delightful when paired with fresh fruit and whipped cream for a festive dessert. For a fun twist, consider creating a cookie decorating station for kids and adults alike, allowing everyone to personalize their own chewy Christmas sugar cookies.

How to Store and Reheat Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies

To keep your Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, maintaining their fluffy texture. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds. Make sure to prepare them in advance for your holiday gatherings to save time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies?

The secret lies in the balance of ingredients and proper mixing. Ensure your butter is softened and not melted, and incorporate the dry ingredients gently to maintain the cookie’s fluffy texture.

Can I make Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance, refrigerate it, and then bake the cookies on the day of your event. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh cookies without the last-minute rush.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, measure your flour accurately and do not overmix the dough. Additionally, keep an eye on the baking time to prevent any browning, which can alter the desired fluffy texture.

Variations of Pillowy Christmas Sugar Cookies You Can Try

Experiment with these variations:

Add citrus zest for a refreshing twist.
Incorporate chocolate chips for delicious pillowy sugar cookies.
Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor.
Try using different extracts like almond or peppermint to create unique flavors.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler or Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cookies. If you’re looking for a delightful dessert, our Irresistible Peach Upside-Down Mini Cakes are a must-try!

For additional tips on baking cookies, you can visit King Arthur Baking for expert advice.