Slice Bake Christmas Cookies

This Slice Bake Christmas Cookies recipe has been my go-to for festive baking every holiday season. The simple technique of slicing pre-chilled dough makes these cookies both convenient and picture-perfect every time. They’re ideal for creating cheerful treats to share with friends and family during the holidays.

I began making these cookies a few years ago when I was short on time during holiday prep, and the ease of slicing shaped dough changed the game for me. These have since become an annual tradition my kids eagerly help with.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: Ensures structure and balance
• Baking powder: The leavening agent that keeps cookies from turning too dense
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of all the ingredients
• Unsalted butter softened: The base for a rich buttery taste
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and creates the classic crisp texture
• Brown sugar packed: Delivers a hint of softness and deep caramel flavor
• Vanilla extract: Ties all the flavors together beautifully
• Large egg: Acts as a binder and enriches the texture
• Festive sprinkles or colored sugar: For that holiday cheer and visual appeal
• Chopped nuts optional: Adds crunch and texture
• Mini chocolate chips optional: For indulgent bites of chocolate goodness

How To Make Slice Bake Christmas Cookies

Sift Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl thoroughly whisk together the flour baking powder and salt. Set this mixture aside to prevent any clumps in the dough later.

Cream Butter and Sugars:

In a large mixing bowl use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream the softened butter granulated sugar and brown sugar. Blend for about 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and pale. This step is crucial for well-aerated cookies.

Incorporate Wet Ingredients:

Mix in the vanilla extract followed by the egg. Blend until everything is well combined and smooth ensuring no streaks remain.

Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet:

Gradually add the flour mixture into the bowl of wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined without overblending. Overmixing leads to dense cookies.

Add Festive Touches:

Gently fold in the festive sprinkles. If using optional items like chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips incorporate them evenly.

Shape and Chill:

Divide the dough into two portions. Roll each into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap to preserve shape and texture then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the dough firms up.

Preheat and Prep:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.

Slice the Dough:

Unwrap the chilled dough. Using a sharp knife slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds ensuring uniformity for even cooking.

Arrange and Bake:

Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets giving them space to spread slightly. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are just golden for the perfect hint of crispness.

Cool and Enjoy:

Allow the cookies to sit on the baking sheet to cool slightly before transferring them to cooling racks where they can cool fully.

The festive sprinkles are my family’s favorite touch. We love experimenting with different color themes, making it fun for all occasions.

Storage Tips

Store baked cookies in a tightly sealed container at room temperature to keep them crisp. For longer storage freeze the sliced dough logs and bake fresh whenever desired.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have mini chocolate chips try finely chopping regular-sized ones. For added flavor substitute almond or peppermint extract for the vanilla.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies pair perfectly with a warm glass of milk or a hot cocoa. They also make lovely additions to holiday platters alongside other baked goods.

These cookies are not just a holiday treat they’re a memory in every bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you shape the cookie dough?

Divide the dough in half and shape each half into logs about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and chill until firm.

→ Can I add extras to my cookies?

Yes, you can mix in add-ins like mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or colored sprinkles to customize your cookies.

→ How thick should the slices be?

Each slice should be about 1/4-inch thick when slicing the chilled dough.

→ How long do these cookies bake?

Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

→ Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to a month before baking.