There’s something magical about Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies! The buttery flavor melts in your mouth with each bite. I fondly remember baking with my family, and this recipe has become a staple during the holiday season.
This delightfully simple recipe combines all-purpose flour, butter, and festive sprinkles for a treat that truly embodies the holiday spirit. These cookies are not just a festive treat but also a reminder of cherished family traditions and memories of laughter and love shared in the kitchen. Let’s gather around and start creating these delicious little treasures today!

Table of Contents
Why Should You Make Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies This Season?
You should consider baking Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies for their delightful taste and simplicity.
These cookies are a classic holiday favorite that bring joy and flavor to any festive gathering. Their buttery texture and sweet, delicate flavor make them a hit with kids and adults alike. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, festive parties, or simply a cozy evening at home. Each cookie offers a piece of nostalgia, reminding us of the warmth and creativity of holiday baking. Plus, making these cookies at home allows you to personalize them to your taste, making them all the more special. In this joyful season, let’s embrace the spirit of giving with homemade treats. You can read more about the benefits of baking at Healthline.
What Are the Key Ingredients for These Delightful Cookies?
The key ingredients for Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies create a buttery and sweet flavor that’s a holiday classic.
This recipe requires just a few staple ingredients, allowing you to whip up these cookies with ease. Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Unsalted butter, softened | 1 cup |
| Powdered sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Almond extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sprinkles or colored sugar | for decorating |

Why These Ingredients Work
One of the standout ingredients in this recipe is the unsalted butter. Using unsalted butter allows you to have full control over the saltiness of your cookies, resulting in a perfectly balanced flavor.
Additionally, powdered sugar contributes to the cookies’ soft texture, making them melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Optional Lightened Swap
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could substitute a portion of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lightened version.
How Do You Make Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies Step by Step?
Making Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies is a simple process anyone can follow.
The steps are not only straightforward but also delightful as the kitchen fills with the tantalizing aroma of baking cookies.
Step 1
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for your cookies.
Step 2
Next, in a spacious bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, which leads to a lighter cookie.
Step 3
Then, stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. These extracts will enhance the cookie’s flavor, giving them a warm, inviting aroma.
Step 4
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep those cookies tender.
Step 5
Take small portions of dough and roll them into balls before placing them on your baking sheet.
Step 6
Gently flatten each ball slightly and add sprinkles or colored sugar on top for that festive touch.
Step 7
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until you see the edges turning lightly golden.
Step 8
Finally, let the cookies cool completely before serving. This ensures they set perfectly and the flavors develop fully.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Store Time: Up to one week in an airtight container
Nutritional Value (per cookie): Approx. 100 calories
Tip: When making these cookies, use parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Just imagine the joy of pulling a tray of freshly baked cookies from the oven to share with family and friends!

Can You Customize Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies in Different Ways?
Absolutely, there are many ways to customize your cookies for a unique twist!
You can easily adapt the flavor or the presentation of these cookies to cater to your personal preference or dietary needs.Diet Swap
For a gluten-free option, consider replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s designed for baking. This allows everyone to enjoy these festive treats regardless of dietary restrictions.
Flavor Variation
If you’d like to add your own twist, try mixing in finely chopped nuts or chocolate chips. You can even incorporate various extracts, such as lemon or coconut, for a unique flavor profile that’s festive and refreshing.
Serving Idea
When it’s time to serve, consider displaying these cookies on a decorative platter sprinkled with extra festive sprinkles. You could even pair them with a warm mug of hot cocoa or coffee. If you want, try serving alongside these delicious coffee recipes for a delightful pairing!
What Are Some Final Thoughts on Making Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies?
In conclusion, Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies are not only a holiday classic but also a delightful activity for family and friends to enjoy together. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of cookies baking in the oven to set a joyful atmosphere! These cookies make perfect gifts packed in a colorful tin, a sweet gesture that shows you care. Remember to store them in an airtight container to maintain their delicious softness. As you dive into baking, don’t forget to capture those moments and share them on Pinterest to inspire others. Check out my page here for more cookie inspiration: my Pinterest profile.
FAQ
How long can Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies last?
Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies can last up to a week when stored in an airtight container. Ensure they are kept in a cool, dry place. However, if you want to preserve their freshness for longer, consider freezing them, which can extend their life for several months.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time and freeze them?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and freeze it! Simply shape the dough into balls and place them in a freezer-friendly bag. When you’re ready to bake, remove the desired quantity, and let them thaw slightly before baking as per the instructions.
What is the best way to decorate these cookies?
While sprinkles are a classic choice, you can also use icing, chocolate drizzle, or edible glitter for a festive touch. Allow your creativity to shine by trying different color combinations that reflect the holiday spirit!
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you would like to use a sugar substitute, try using coconut sugar instead of powdered sugar. You can also replace the butter with a vegan alternative like coconut oil or almond butter to cater to dietary needs.
What tools do I need to make Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies?
You’ll need a mixing bowl, a baking sheet, parchment paper, and a spatula for easy handling of the cookies. A hand mixer will also make creaming the butter and sugar much easier, but you can mix by hand if necessary.
Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies
Delightful homemade butter cookies that are perfect for the holiday season. Buttery, soft, and festive.
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Sprinkles or colored sugar for decorating
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Roll small portions of dough into balls and place them on your baking sheet.
- Gently flatten each ball and add sprinkles or colored sugar on top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely before serving.
Notes
Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
