Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies: Decorate for Holiday Fun!

Introduction to Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the joy of baking with my family. There’s something magical about creating Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies that brings everyone together. These delightful treats are not just delicious; they’re a fun way to express creativity and spread cheer. Perfect for busy moms like us, this recipe is a quick solution for festive gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange or simply want to impress your loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and laughter to your holiday celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies

These Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies are a delightful blend of ease and taste. They come together quickly, making them perfect for busy days when time is tight. The soft, buttery cookies are a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. Plus, decorating them is a fun activity that sparks creativity and laughter. You’ll love how these cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Ingredients for Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these festive treats. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookies, providing structure and a soft texture.
• Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise, giving them that perfect fluffy bite.
• Baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to ensure your cookies are light and airy.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor. Make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
• White sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their delightful texture.
• Egg: Acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together while adding moisture.
• Vanilla extract: A must-have for that warm, comforting flavor that enhances the sweetness.
• Almond extract: Just a hint adds a lovely depth of flavor, making your cookies stand out.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
• Royal icing: Essential for decorating your cookies, giving them that ugly sweater look.
• Food coloring: Use various colors to bring your ugly sweater designs to life!

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! You can substitute almond extract with more vanilla if you prefer, or even use gluten-free flour for a different twist. The possibilities are endless!

How to Make Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of festive cookies in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures your cookies bake evenly. If the oven isn’t hot enough, your cookies might spread too much or not rise properly. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is the secret to cookie perfection!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is important because it evenly distributes the leavening agents throughout the flour. A good mix here means fluffy cookies later on!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and white sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer. Creaming is key for texture; it incorporates air into the butter, making your cookies light and tender.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract into the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The egg adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together, while the extracts infuse your cookies with delightful flavor.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. I like to do this in three parts, mixing gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and nobody wants that! You want a soft dough that holds together nicely.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Now it’s time to shape your cookies! Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them on ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass. This helps them bake evenly and gives them a nice shape. Don’t worry about perfection; the uglier, the better!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Pop the cookie sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want them to be golden around the edges but still soft in the center. A little trick? If they’re slightly puffed and just starting to crack, they’re ready to come out!

Step 8: Cool and Decorate

Once baked, let the cookies cool on wire racks. This cooling time is essential; it allows them to firm up. After they’ve cooled completely, it’s time for the fun part—decorating! Use royal icing and food coloring to create your ugly sweater designs. Let your creativity shine!

Tips for Success

• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling to prevent spreading.
• Use a variety of food coloring to make your designs pop.
• Keep your royal icing at the right consistency—thick enough to hold shape but thin enough to spread.
• Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps maintain the cookie’s shape.
• Have fun! Embrace the imperfections of your ugly sweaters.

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheets: Use standard cookie sheets or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes will help with mixing ingredients.
• Hand mixer: A whisk works too, but a mixer saves time and effort.
• Cookie cutters: Optional, but they can add fun shapes to your cookies.
• Cooling racks: Essential for letting cookies cool evenly.

Variations of Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies

• Chocolate Chip Addition: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a delightful surprise in every bite.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative.
• Spiced Version: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, holiday flavor.
• Nutty Twist: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs for a plant-based version.

Serving Suggestions for Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies

• Hot Cocoa: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
• Milk: A classic glass of milk complements the sweetness perfectly.
• Festive Platter: Arrange cookies on a colorful platter with holiday decorations for a cheerful presentation.
• Cookie Exchange: Bring them to a cookie exchange for a fun and festive touch.
• Gift Boxes: Package them in cute boxes as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family.

FAQs about Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling.

How do I store leftover cookies?

To keep your Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay delicious for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!

Can I use different types of icing for decorating?

Yes! While royal icing is traditional, you can use buttercream or even store-bought icing for a quicker option. Just remember, the consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?

If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm dough or not enough flour. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape!

Can I customize the flavors of these cookies?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different extracts like peppermint or lemon for a unique twist. You can also add spices like cinnamon for a festive flavor boost!

Final Thoughts

Creating Ugly Sweater Sugar Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about making memories with loved ones. The laughter shared while decorating and the joy of presenting these whimsical treats at gatherings truly captures the spirit of the season. Each cookie tells a story, from the first roll of dough to the final splash of icing. So, gather your family, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the delightful chaos of cookie decorating. These cookies are sure to bring smiles, warmth, and a sprinkle of holiday magic to your home. Happy baking!

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