If you’re looking for an easy, festive treat that brings the magic of the holidays right to your kitchen, then these Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies are exactly what you need. Perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or just enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa, these cookies are simple to prepare, visually delightful, and offer that perfect balance of buttery richness and seasonal flavors. Whether you’re a baking beginner or a seasoned pro, these Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies promise a fun and delicious way to add a homemade touch to your holiday celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation: Simply slice the dough, so no complicated shaping or piping is needed.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare your dough in advance, freezing it for whenever holiday cravings strike.
- Customizable flavors: Easily add spices, extracts, or mix-ins to tailor your cookies to your taste.
- Perfect festive look: Colorful sprinkles and shapes that brighten any holiday cookie tray.
- Universal appeal: Crisp on the outside, tender in the center—cookies everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies starts with simple, approachable ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Each one plays a role in creating the ideal cookie texture and flavor that’s rich, buttery, and festive enough to impress your friends and family.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives the cookies structure without overpowering flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Adds rich creaminess and helps the dough hold together beautifully.
- Sugar: Both granulated and powdered sugar create sweetness and influence texture.
- Egg: Binds ingredients while contributing to the cookie’s soft interior.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to your cookie’s flavor profile.
- Baking powder: A gentle lift to keep the cookies light.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall taste.
- Festive sprinkles or colored sugar: For that joyful holiday sparkle and crunch on top.
Variations for Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
One of the best things about Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with these simple tweaks to create your own signature holiday treat or cater to different dietary needs.
- Chocolate chip boost: Add mini chocolate chips into the dough for pockets of melty chocolate goodness.
- Spiced holiday twist: Incorporate cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to bring cozy holiday warmth.
- Nutty delight: Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added crunch and flavor.
- Gluten-free swap: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies friendly for gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan alternative: Replace butter with coconut oil and egg with flaxseed meal for a plant-based version.
How to Make Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the dough
Begin by creaming the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy, then beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Mix dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
Step 3: Combine everything
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything comes together into a soft, pliable dough.
Step 4: Shape the dough
Form the dough into logs about 1½ inches in diameter, then roll them gently in your choice of festive sprinkles or colored sugar for a holiday touch.
Step 5: Chill the dough
Wrap the dough logs tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to firm up, making slicing easier and ensuring perfect cookie shape.
Step 6: Slice and bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled dough into ¼-inch thick rounds, place them on a lined baking sheet, and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Pro Tips for Making Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
- Use chilled butter: Helps create a tender yet firm dough that’s easy to slice.
- Slice evenly: Use a sharp knife and steady hands to keep cookies uniform and bake evenly.
- Don’t overbake: Remove cookies when edges are golden but centers still look soft for the best texture.
- Add festive toppings last: Press sprinkles gently onto the dough before chilling so they stick well.
- Wrap dough well: Prevent freezer burn by securing the chilled logs tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
How to Serve Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies
Garnishes
Enhance your Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies with extra sprinkles, a dusting of powdered sugar, or drizzled melted white or dark chocolate for a festive finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside mugs of hot cocoa, holiday-spiced coffee, or a glass of eggnog to elevate your Christmas cookie experience and keep spirits bright.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange cookies on a decorated holiday platter, package them in clear cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbons, or stack slices in a festive tin as a cheerful gift idea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to keep them fresh and crisp.
Freezing
Freeze unbaked, shaped logs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months, or freeze fully baked cookies between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container.
Reheating
Warm cookies briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to refresh their crispness before serving.
FAQs
Can I make Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be prepared and chilled for several days or frozen for months, making these cookies a perfect make-ahead holiday treat.
What if I don’t have festive sprinkles?
No problem! You can use colored sugar, chopped nuts, or even a simple dusting of cinnamon sugar to add flavor and texture.
How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much while baking?
Chilling the dough thoroughly before slicing and baking helps maintain shape and prevents excessive spreading.
Are Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies suitable for gifting?
Absolutely! The neat cookie logs are easy to package, and they make wonderful homemade Christmas gifts that friends and family will adore.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in equal amounts, but be sure to check your blend’s instructions for best texture results.
Final Thoughts
Getting into the holiday spirit has never been tastier or simpler thanks to these delightful Slice & Bake Christmas Cookies. They combine convenience, charm, and flavor in a way that will make your festive baking a total joy. Whether you’re making cookies for a crowd or a cozy night at home, this recipe is a must-try that’s sure to spread smiles all season long.