The holiday season is such a magical time, and what better way to bring that magic into your home than by baking a batch of Santa Claus Cookies? These adorable and delicious treats are the perfect way to make Christmas even more special for your family. Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or just looking for a simple way to spread some holiday cheer, this recipe is easy and so much fun to make. Let me share how you can create these delightful cookies and make them a part of your family’s holiday traditions.
Why These Cookies Are a Mom’s Favorite
Santa Claus Cookies aren’t just tasty; they’re a wonderful way to celebrate the season and create cherished memories. Here’s why I love them:
Family Fun: Baking these cookies is such a joyful activity to share with the kids. They’ll love helping out and decorating the cookies to look like Santa—it’s messy, creative, and full of laughter.
Thoughtful Gifts: Homemade gifts are always special. Pack these cookies in a festive box, and you have a sweet, heartfelt present for teachers, neighbors, or friends.
Santa’s Treat: There’s nothing more magical than setting out cookies and milk for Santa on Christmas Eve. These cookies are sure to make him smile (and maybe leave an extra gift under the tree!).
With their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth goodness and festive look, Santa Claus Cookies are bound to become a beloved tradition in your home—just like they are in mine.
Ingredients
To make these festive cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Cookie Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Decorations:
- Red and white icing
- Mini marshmallows (for Santa’s beard)
- Mini chocolate chips (for eyes)
- Red candies (for the nose)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before you get started, gather the following tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters (Santa-shaped or round)
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Piping bags for icing
- Cooling rack
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Roll and Cut
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out Santa shapes or rounds.
- Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 4: Decorate
- Use red icing to create Santa’s hat and suit.
- Add mini marshmallows for the beard and trim of the hat.
- Use mini chocolate chips for the eyes and a red candy for the nose.
- Let the icing set completely before serving or storing.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Ahead: The cookie dough can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months.
- Flavor Boost: Add a touch of almond extract to the dough for a nutty twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) as substitutes.
How to Store Leftovers
- Room Temperature: Store decorated cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: If your home is warm, keep the cookies in the fridge to maintain their freshness.
- Freezing: Undecorated cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Decorate them after thawing for best results.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair your Santa Claus Cookies with:
- A classic glass of milk—Santa’s favorite!
- Hot cocoa topped with whipped cream for a cozy treat.
- A festive holiday punch or mulled wine for adult gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
Yes, store-bought sugar cookie dough can save time. However, homemade dough gives you more control over the flavor and texture.
How do I prevent the dough from sticking?
Make sure to flour your rolling pin and work surface generously. If the dough becomes too soft, pop it back in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.
Can I make these cookies without cookie cutters?
Absolutely! Use a knife to cut simple shapes or make round cookies using the rim of a glass.
What’s the best way to package these cookies as gifts?
Place them in a decorative tin or wrap them individually in cellophane bags tied with ribbon.
Join the Holiday Fun!
Santa Claus Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a way to create memories and spread holiday cheer. Whether you’re making them for your family, friends, or the big guy in red, these cookies are sure to delight.
If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more festive recipes and baking tips. Happy holidays and happy baking!
Santa Claus Cookies: A Festive Treat for the Holidays
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling Pin
- Cookie cutters (Santa-shaped or round)
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Piping bags for icing
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Decorations
- Red and white icing
- Mini marshmallows (for Santa’s beard)
- Mini chocolate chips (for eyes)
- Red candies (for the nose)
Notes
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Roll and Cut
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out Santa shapes or rounds.
- Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 4: Decorate
- Use red icing to create Santa’s hat and suit.
- Add mini marshmallows for the beard and trim of the hat.
- Use mini chocolate chips for the eyes and a red candy for the nose.
- Let the icing set completely before serving or storing.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Ahead: The cookie dough can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months.
- Flavor Boost: Add a touch of almond extract to the dough for a nutty twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) as substitutes.