These were always referred to as “Christmas Cookies” in my house growing up.   The title of my recipe card still reads “Christmas Cookies”, although I’ve made them for many other occasions besides Christmas!  They were my family’s favorite cookie!  Never stayed around very long either.  My Mom used to frost them with – I’m sorry to say – store bought frosting!

Despite this preference, they still remained the best homemade sugar cookies I have ever had!  I could make this recipe with my eyes closed – I’ve made it so many times.  My own kids also prefer the store bought frosting, with sprinkles on them, since that’s what they had growing up as well.  Since then, the “artist” in me – prefers to take the HOURS required to decorate them with royal icing!!!  I think I’ve improved the appearance of these cookies 150%!  They come out both beautiful AND delicious!

Here is the super simple recipe for these amazing sugar cookies:
(I almost always DOUBLE this recipe!)

1/2 c unsalted butter (room temp)
1 c sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 egg

Combine in a stand mixer, with a paddle attachment.
If you want to add food coloring to color the dough, do it now!

Then add:

2 c all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Combine til well-blended.  Mixture will be firm, and form into a ball.

Roll out onto a floured surface, to about 1/4 ” thick (or maybe a little more)
Cut out desired cookie shapes, using cookie cutters.

Place onto parchment paper, on a cookie sheet.

Bake at 325 degrees, for about 8 – 10 min.

You DO NOT want to brown these cookies at all!  Keep an eye on them, and remove from oven as soon as they are slightly browned on the bottom only!
This is very important, to achieve the best texture.  This is not a “crisp” cookie, but rather a soft, chewy cookie.  And did I say they are amazing??

Here are a few of the cookie decorating ideas I have tried over the years: