Christmas Butter Cookies
When the holiday season arrives, nothing captures the warmth and nostalgia of Christmas
quite like a batch of fresh, homemade Christmas Butter Cookies.
These timeless cookies are celebrated for their rich buttery flavor, crisp edges,
and soft melt-in-your-mouth centers that practically dissolve on your tongue.
Whether shaped into elegant piped rosettes, classic spirals, or festive cut-out stars
dusted with powdered sugar, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results using simple
pantry ingredients. Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday dessert tables, or edible
gifts, these cookies are destined to become a cherished seasonal tradition.
🎄 Ingredients & Their Purpose
-
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
Provides the rich, classic buttery foundation. Softened butter whips easily,
giving the cookies their light and tender crumb. -
½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
Dissolves smoothly for a delicate, meltaway texture without graininess. -
1 large egg
Adds structure and moisture, helping the dough bind while keeping the center soft. -
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Enhances the flavor with warm, sweet notes that complement the butter beautifully. -
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
Builds structure so the cookies hold their shape when piped or cut. -
¼ cup (30g) cornstarch
The secret ingredient for an ultra-soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. -
A pinch of salt
Balances sweetness and intensifies the buttery flavor.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until
pale, light, and fluffy. This step is essential for creating a tender cookie texture.
2. Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
Avoid overmixing.
4. Shape the Cookies
Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe rosettes or swirls
onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Alternatively, chill the dough slightly and
roll out for festive cut-out shapes.
5. Chill the Dough
Refrigerate the shaped cookies for 20–30 minutes. This helps them keep their shape
and prevents spreading during baking.
6. Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until
the bottoms are lightly golden while the tops remain pale.
7. Cool and Decorate
Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar, dipping in
melted chocolate, or decorating with festive sprinkles.
❤️ Why These Christmas Butter Cookies Are Loved
- Rich, buttery flavor with a delicate meltaway texture
- Perfect for piping, cutting, and decorating
- Long shelf life — ideal for gifting
- Elegant, bakery-style appearance with minimal effort
✨ Pro Tips for Perfect Butter Cookies
- Use room-temperature butter for smooth piping
- Chill shaped cookies to prevent spreading
- Do not overbake — pale tops ensure tenderness
- Dip half the cookie in chocolate for an extra festive touch
☕ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with hot chocolate, coffee, or spiced tea
- Add to Christmas cookie platters and dessert boards
- Package in tins or gift boxes for holiday presents
🎁 Conclusion
These Christmas Butter Cookies are the essence of the holiday season—
simple, elegant, and irresistibly delicious. With their rich buttery taste and
delicate texture, they bring comfort, joy, and festive charm to every bite.
Once you try them, they’ll become a beloved Christmas tradition in your home.