Get ready to transform your baking game with the most delightful, Instagram-worthy gift that will make everyone's sweet tooth dance with joy! These Festive Sugar Cookies aren't just a treat; they're a stunning, layered masterpiece that combines the warmth of homemade baking with the elegance of a perfectly packaged gift. Whether you're looking to impress your friends, delight your family, or create a show-stopping holiday present, these colorful, buttery sugar cookies will become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 jar (makes about 24 cookies)
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup colored sugar for decoration
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients and tools. You will need a large mixing bowl, a whisk, a spatula, a baking sheet, parchment paper, and a jar for presentation.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking once your cookie dough is prepared.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and white sugar using a spatula or an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Once the dough is ready, use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each portion into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Before baking, sprinkle the colored sugar over the tops of the cookie dough balls for a festive touch.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cookies are cooled, you can layer them in a jar for gifting or storage. Start with a layer of cookies, then add a sprinkle of colored sugar between layers for decoration. Continue layering until all cookies are in the jar.
- Seal the jar with a lid, and you can add a festive ribbon or label for a special touch. Your Festive Sugar Cookies in a Jar are now ready to be enjoyed or gifted!
Tips
- • Room temperature ingredients are key! Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for the smoothest, most consistent dough.• Don't overmix the dough - this can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.• For perfectly uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough.• Let cookies cool completely before layering in the jar to prevent condensation and maintain their crisp texture.• Get creative with your colored sugar - mix different colors or use themed sugar for holidays and special occasions.• Store your cookie jar in a cool, dry place and consume within 5-7 days for maximum freshness.• For an extra special touch, include a small card with baking instructions or a personal message when gifting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 130kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
