Melt-in-Your-Mouth Christmas Cookies: Buttery, Festive, and Irresistibly Soft
These delicate vanilla cookies are topped with colorful sprinkles and perfect for holiday trays and gifting
Introduction: A Holiday Classic That Never Disappoints
When the holidays roll around, nothing beats the aroma of buttery cookies baking in the oven. These Melt-in-Your-Mouth Christmas Cookies are a simple yet magical treat—soft, tender, and topped with cheerful sprinkles. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and perfect for cookie exchanges, Santa’s plate, or cozy evenings by the fire.
With just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a batch of cookies that taste like pure holiday joy.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make about 24 cookies:
Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch (makes them extra tender)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Topping:
- Festive sprinkles (red, green, gold, silver, or any holiday mix)
Optional: Add almond extract or lemon zest for a flavor twist.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl:
- Beat softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
In a separate bowl:
- Whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture.
Mix until a soft dough forms.
Tip: Chill dough for 15–20 minutes if it’s too soft to handle.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon:
- Scoop dough and roll into 1-inch balls.
Place on prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your fingers.
Top with festive sprinkles.
Optional: Use cookie stamps or press with a fork for texture.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until:
- Edges are set
- Tops are pale but firm
Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
Tip: Don’t overbake—these cookies should stay soft and tender.
Step 5: Serve & Store
Serve at room temperature.
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 1 month.
Presentation Tip: Stack in a holiday tin or wrap in cellophane with ribbon for gifting.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Holiday cookie trays
- Santa’s snack
- Winter tea parties
- Edible gifts
Pair with:
- Hot cocoa
- Spiced cider
- Peppermint mocha
- Eggnog
Variations to Try
Want to make them your own? Try these festive twists:
Chocolate-Dipped
Dip cooled cookies in melted white or dark chocolate.
Lemon Snowflakes
Add lemon zest and dust with powdered sugar.
Nutty Delight
Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough.
Vegan Version
Use plant-based butter and powdered sugar substitute.
Nutrition Notes (Per Cookie, ~1 of 24)
- Calories: ~110
- Protein: ~1g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~7g
- Sugar: ~4g
- Sodium: ~40mg
- Fiber: ~0.5g
These cookies are:
- Buttery and soft
- Kid-friendly
- Easy to make
- Perfect for sharing
Final Thoughts
These Melt-in-Your-Mouth Christmas Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of the season. Whether you’re baking with kids, hosting a cookie swap, or just indulging in a quiet moment, they’re guaranteed to bring joy.