The holiday season is the perfect time to gather in the kitchen and bake something magical. These Classic Pillsbury Christmas Sugar Cookies bring ease and joy to holiday baking. With just a few simple steps, you can create cookies that are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, planning a cozy family night, or looking for a sweet addition to your cookie swap, these cookies are the answer. Their buttery flavor, tender texture, and festive decorations make them a crowd favorite. Plus, using pre-made dough means less stress and more time to enjoy the holiday cheer!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 roll (16.5 oz) Pillsbury™ refrigerated sugar cookie dough
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Red and green sprinkles, for decoration
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cookie dough with the all-purpose flour until well incorporated.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use your favorite festive cookie cutters to cut shapes from the dough. Transfer the shapes to the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Sprinkle the red and green sprinkles generously over each cookie.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 110 kcal per cookie | Servings: 24 cookies
History and Origins of Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies have been a staple in American kitchens since the 1700s, originating from Pennsylvania. These cookies were created by German settlers who introduced the concept of simple cookie dough made from sugar, butter, and flour. Over time, sugar cookies became a festive treat for holidays, especially Christmas. The ease of decorating them with sprinkles, icing, or colored sugar made them a favorite for families during the holiday season.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Sugar Cookies
- Chilling the Dough: While this recipe uses pre-made Pillsbury dough, chilling the dough after rolling it out can help retain the shapes of your cookie cutters during baking.
- Uniform Thickness: Roll out the dough evenly to ensure consistent baking. Uneven cookies may bake at different rates.
- Sprinkle Control: For a clean look, press the sprinkles lightly onto the dough before baking to ensure they stick well and stay vibrant.
- Alternative Decorations: If sprinkles aren’t your style, you can use royal icing, colored sugar, or even edible glitter for a more elegant touch.
Variations to Try
- Iced Christmas Sugar Cookies: Top the baked cookies with royal icing in festive colors and designs.
- Chocolate-Dipped Sugar Cookies: Dip one half of the cookie in melted chocolate and add crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist.
- Citrus Sugar Cookies: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing holiday flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use Pillsbury’s gluten-free cookie dough for a festive treat everyone can enjoy.
Pairing Suggestions
Sugar cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of hot chocolate, mulled cider, or a glass of cold milk. For adults, consider serving them alongside a festive cocktail like eggnog or spiced wine for a cozy holiday vibe.
Fun Facts about Christmas Sugar Cookies
- Cookie Swaps: Sugar cookies are one of the most popular choices for cookie swaps due to their versatility in shapes and decorations.
- National Cookie Day: December 4th is celebrated as National Cookie Day, making it the perfect excuse to bake a batch.
- Tradition: Leaving sugar cookies and milk out for Santa Claus is a tradition in many households, symbolizing gratitude and holiday cheer.
Why Pillsbury Sugar Cookies are Perfect for the Holidays
The Pillsbury sugar cookie dough makes holiday baking a breeze for both beginners and seasoned bakers. The pre-made dough saves time without compromising on flavor, and its versatility allows for endless creative possibilities. Whether you’re making cookies with the kids or preparing for a festive gathering, this recipe delivers consistent results every time.
These cookies are perfect for Christmas because they combine the simplicity of classic sugar cookies with the joy of decorating. With minimal effort, you can create beautiful, festive treats that capture the holiday spirit.
Healthier Swaps and Additions
While Pillsbury cookie dough is rich and indulgent, you can make small changes for a healthier twist:
- Reduce Sugar Content: Skip some of the sprinkles or replace them with finely chopped nuts for a nutty crunch.
- Boost Fiber: Roll the dough in oats or sprinkle ground flaxseeds for added texture and nutrition.
- Add Fruits: Decorate cookies with dried cranberries or raisins for a natural sweetness.
Storage and Shelf Life
One of the best things about these cookies is how well they store, making them ideal for holiday prep:
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Dough: The dough can be prepared and frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
How to Involve Kids in the Baking Process
Baking these cookies can be a fun family activity:
- Let kids choose and use their favorite cookie cutters to create fun shapes.
- Provide bowls of sprinkles, icing, or edible glitter so they can decorate their cookies after baking.
- Teach them simple tasks like rolling the dough or sprinkling toppings—it’s a great way to make memories together.
The Joy of Customizing Christmas Cookies
One of the best parts of this recipe is the ability to customize it to suit your family’s preferences or the theme of your gathering.
- Themed Designs: Use cookie cutters shaped like snowflakes, Christmas trees, or stars to match the festive season.
- Colorful Icing: Create a palette of red, green, white, and gold icing for artistic designs.
- Personalized Treats: Add names or initials with edible ink pens for a personal touch.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cookies in the oven. Remove them when the edges are lightly golden to maintain a soft texture.
- Use Cold Dough: Slightly chilled dough is easier to roll and cut into shapes.
- Uniform Baking: Bake cookies of the same size on one tray to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion
Classic Pillsbury Christmas Sugar Cookies are a festive favorite that combines ease, flavor, and fun. Perfect for any holiday gathering or family baking session, these cookies bring joy to the season with their buttery taste and creative decoration possibilities.
Gather your loved ones, preheat the oven, and enjoy the magic of holiday baking. Merry Christmas! 🎄🍪