These Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies are the epitome of festive cheer! Soft, buttery, and adorned with vibrant sprinkles, they are a delightful addition to your holiday dessert table. Perfect for cookie exchanges, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa, these cookies are sure to brighten up any celebration.
The recipe is simple to make and versatile enough for customization. Add almond extract for a hint of nutty flavor, or swap the sprinkles to match any festive theme. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or baking with kids, these cookies make the experience fun and delicious. Stack them high, decorate them with powdered sugar, and watch them disappear as soon as they hit the table!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup holiday sprinkles
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a dough forms.
- Gently fold in the holiday sprinkles, being careful not to overmix.
- Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 120 kcal per cookie | Servings: 24 cookies
Origin and Inspiration:
The Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies are inspired by the joy and warmth of holiday baking. These cookies are a modern twist on traditional butter cookies, combining a soft and buttery base with vibrant sprinkles that evoke the festive spirit. Their ease of preparation and decorative appeal make them a favorite for families looking to create cherished memories during the holiday season.
Key Tips for Baking Success:
- Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth, fluffy dough.
- Do Not Overmix: When adding the sprinkles, gently fold them into the dough to prevent bleeding colors and maintain the vibrant look.
- Chilling (Optional): For sharper cookie edges, chill the dough for 20-30 minutes before rolling.
- Flattening Tip: Use a glass dipped in sugar to flatten the cookies slightly before baking. This adds a touch of sparkle to the surface.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Variations to Try:
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a teaspoon of almond extract or a dash of cinnamon for a festive flavor boost.
- Sprinkle Customization: Use gold, silver, or themed sprinkles to match other celebrations like New Year’s Eve or birthday parties.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once the cookies cool, drizzle them with white or dark chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
Serving Suggestions:
- Holiday Platters: Include these cookies on a dessert platter alongside gingerbread men, chocolate truffles, or candy canes.
- Gift Idea: Pack these cookies in festive tins or clear bags tied with holiday ribbons for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Pairing: Serve with a warm cup of hot chocolate, spiced cider, or eggnog for the perfect holiday treat.
Nutritional Insights:
These cookies are indulgent but can be adapted for dietary preferences. Consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix for a gluten-sensitive version. For a lower-calorie option, use a sugar substitute and reduce the sprinkle quantity.
Fun Fact:
Sprinkles, also known as “jimmies” or “nonpareils” in different regions, date back to the late 18th century. They were originally created as a cake decoration and have since become a favorite way to add color and fun to baked goods.
Perfect for Family Bonding:
One of the best parts of this recipe is its simplicity, making it a fantastic activity for families. Kids will love rolling the dough and adding sprinkles, while adults can enjoy the nostalgia of holiday baking.
History and Significance:
Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies are a fun and modern take on classic holiday baking. They capture the spirit of the season with their cheerful sprinkles and buttery texture. These cookies have become a staple for holiday celebrations, often featured in cookie exchanges, dessert platters, and festive gift boxes. Their bright colors and simple preparation make them a crowd favorite, bringing joy and nostalgia to the holiday table.
Ingredient Spotlight:
- Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich, creamy base for the cookies. Using high-quality butter ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the cookies achieve their signature soft-crisp edges.
- All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure to the cookies. For a gluten-free version, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix.
- Holiday Sprinkles: The star of the show! These colorful additions not only make the cookies visually appealing but also add a slight crunch.
Baking Techniques:
- Achieving Perfect Texture: Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly to aerate the dough, resulting in light and fluffy cookies.
- Even Baking: Place the dough balls evenly apart on the baking sheet to ensure consistent baking and prevent spreading.
- Cooling: Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them set and maintain their shape.
Seasonal Customizations:
- Festive Shapes: Use cookie cutters to shape the dough into holiday-themed designs like stars or Christmas trees.
- Icing Decorations: Add a thin layer of royal icing and more sprinkles for an elevated decorative touch.
- Sprinkle Swaps: Experiment with different sprinkle colors and shapes for other celebrations, like red hearts for Valentine’s Day or pastel shades for Easter.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: Freeze the dough balls and bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time. Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Pairing Ideas:
- Hot Beverages: Pair these cookies with a cup of hot cocoa, mulled wine, or peppermint tea for a cozy holiday treat.
- Dessert Platter: Serve alongside fudge, gingerbread, and peppermint bark for a festive dessert spread.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 6g
- Sugars: 8g
Fun Activity for Families:
This recipe is perfect for involving kids in the kitchen. Let them roll the dough, sprinkle the toppings, or create unique cookie shapes. It’s a great way to bond and make holiday baking an enjoyable tradition.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies:
- Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Visually Stunning: The colorful sprinkles add an instant festive vibe.
- Versatile: Perfect for gifting, snacking, or serving at holiday parties.
Conclusion
Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat that combines simplicity, festive charm, and delightful flavor. With their buttery texture and vibrant sprinkles, they’re a joy to bake and even more enjoyable to share with loved ones. Whether you’re looking to create memorable moments with family, prepare for a holiday party, or craft thoughtful gifts, these cookies are a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability—add your own creative twists with different sprinkles, flavors, or decorations. As you bake these cookies, you’re not just making dessert; you’re creating traditions and spreading holiday cheer. Give this recipe a try, and let the magic of the season fill your kitchen!