Christmas Cookies

Delicious Christmas Cookies

If you want to bring the magic of the holidays into every corner of your home, Christmas cookies are the perfect solution! These sweet and crunchy cookies are not just a treat but also an opportunity to reconnect with childhood traditions, bringing a touch of joy in every bite. Moreover, the best part is that you can involve the whole family in the cooking process, turning it into a fun activity filled with unforgettable memories.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 24 cookies

Essential ingredients:
- 125 g butter (preferably at room temperature for easy mixing)
- 125 g sugar (white or brown sugar, depending on desired taste)
- 1 egg (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or a packet of vanilla sugar (for a more intense flavor)
- 250 g flour (white flour or a combination with whole wheat for a healthier option)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder (to give the cookies a fluffy texture)
- A pinch of salt (to enhance the flavors)

Preparing the cookies:

1. Making the dough: In a large bowl, add the butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer or a spatula to combine the two ingredients until you achieve a creamy and fluffy mixture. This is the moment when the sweet aroma of sugar blends with the richness of butter, creating a delicious base for the cookies.

2. Adding wet ingredients: Continue mixing and incorporate the egg and vanilla extract. Make sure the egg is well incorporated so that the cookies have a uniform texture. The flavors will begin to reveal themselves and fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma.

3. Incorporating dry ingredients: Start adding the flour, baking powder, and salt. It’s important to use a spatula to combine the dry ingredients with the wet ones. Mix until you achieve a homogeneous dough, similar to the consistency of playdough, easy to shape. Be careful not to overmix, as the cookies may become tough.

4. Shaping the cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a sheet about 5 mm thick. If you prefer thicker cookies, you can make them up to 1 cm thick. Use festive cookie cutters to cut out various shapes - stars, Christmas trees, reindeer, or anything else that inspires your imagination.

5. Baking: Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in a preheated oven at 180°C. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until the edges become slightly golden. Remember that the cookies will continue to harden as they cool.

6. Cooling and decorating: After removing them from the oven, let them cool on a rack. This is an essential step, as the cookies will dry slightly and achieve the perfect texture. Once cooled, you can decorate them with jam, buttercream, Nutella, or add colorful sprinkles for a festive look.

Serving suggestions: Christmas cookies are perfect for breakfast or as dessert. You can serve them alongside a cup of hot tea or a glass of milk, and if you want to create a truly special atmosphere, add a spiced mulled wine!

Possible variations: You can play with flavors by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cocoa to the dough. You can also experiment with different types of sugar to achieve different taste nuances. The cookies can be dipped in melted chocolate or have surprise fillings, such as caramelized nuts or raisins.

Nutritional benefits: Although cookies are a treat, the ingredients used can offer benefits. Butter contains healthy fats, and eggs are a good source of protein. Whole wheat flour can provide fiber, and adding dried fruits or nuts can enhance the nutritional profile of the cookies.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, but the taste will be different. Butter provides a richer flavor and better texture.
- How can I keep the cookies fresh longer? You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If stored properly, they can last for several days.
- Can I freeze the cookies? Absolutely! You can freeze the cookies before or after baking. Make sure they are well wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container.

Whether you choose to share them with loved ones or indulge in a delicious portion just for yourself, Christmas cookies are a wonderful choice. Enjoy every step of the cooking process, and remember, each cookie is a little piece of happiness!