1. Introduction
Christmas is a time of joy, warmth, and, of course, delightful treats! Our recipe for “Soft Sugar Cookies with the BEST Cream Cheese Frosting” is a perfect way to spread holiday cheer. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your home, coupled with the fun of cutting them into festive shapes. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises cookies so soft they melt in your mouth, topped with a lusciously creamy frosting that’s just the right amount of sweet.
2. Ingredients
Cookies:
- 2 cups of sugar
- 1 cup of butter
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 5 teaspoons of baking powder
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 6 tablespoons of softened butter
- A pinch of salt
- 1.5 teaspoons of vanilla
- 4.5 cups powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons of milk
- 6 oz softened cream cheese
3. Directions
Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- Beat together sugar, butter, eggs, and milk until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until well combined.
- On a generously floured surface, roll out the dough to 3/8 inch thick.
- Use cookie cutters to cut into shapes and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 10 minutes. Let cool before frosting.
Frosting:
- Mix softened butter and cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt.
- Gradually add milk to achieve desired consistency.
- Optionally, add food coloring.
- Frost cooled cookies and store in an airtight container.
4. How to Prepare
- Cream the butter and sugar for the cookies until light and fluffy.
- Ensure the dough is chilled for at least 30 minutes for easier handling.
- For the frosting, beat the butter and cream cheese first before adding other ingredients for a smoother texture.
5. Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes per batch
- Cooling time: 30 minutes
- Frosting time: 15 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies, depending on the size of your cookie cutters.
7. FAQs
Q: Can I freeze the dough? A: Yes, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Q: How long do these cookies stay fresh? A: Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to a week.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter? A: For the best flavor and texture, butter is recommended.
Q: Can the frosting be made ahead of time? A: Yes, it can be refrigerated for up to a week.
Q: Are these cookies suitable for decorating? A: Absolutely! They hold their shape well and are perfect for decorating.
8. Conclusion
Our “Soft Sugar Cookies with the BEST Cream Cheese Frosting” recipe is more than just a treat; it’s a festive experience. Each bite brings a burst of buttery, sugary goodness, perfectly complemented by the creamy, tangy frosting. These cookies are not just food; they’re a canvas for your Christmas creativity. Get your family together, play some holiday music, and enjoy the process of baking, frosting, and decorating. These cookies are sure to become a beloved part of your holiday traditions. Happy baking and merry Christmas! 🎄🍪