Christmas Sugar Cookie Squares

The enchanting aroma of Christmas Sugar Cookie Squares wafts through the air, filling your kitchen with sentiments of warmth and holiday cheer. This delightful recipe combines rich, creamy textures with sweet, buttery flavors, creating a treat that captures the essence of festive celebrations. With each square, you’ll experience a delightful balance of soft cookie and luscious frosting, inviting shared moments of joy amongst family and friends. Follow this step-by-step guide to craft your very own batch of festive joy, ensuring your holiday gatherings are sprinkled with sweetness!

History / Fun Fact

Sugar cookies have a long-standing tradition traced back to the early 1700s in Europe, where they were known as "Nazareth cookies," named after the town in Pennsylvania that first popularized the recipe. The modern-day adaptation of sugar cookies evolved into various forms, especially during Christmas, becoming a staple in holiday baking. These cookie squares, with their soft and chewy texture, embody the spirit of giving and celebration, often enjoyed during gatherings, Christmas parties, and cookie exchanges. Each bite offers nostalgia, transporting you back to joyful holiday memories spent with loved ones.

Ingredients

To create these magnificent Christmas Sugar Cookie Squares, you will need the following fresh and inviting ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This adds a creamy richness that forms the foundation of the cookies.
1 cup granulated sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens each bite, sparking joy and delight.
1/2 cup powdered sugar: For a melt-in-your-mouth sensation, this sugar contributes to the cookies’ lightness.
2 large eggs: These enrich the dough, providing a soft, tender texture.
1 tsp vanilla extract: This aromatic flavor enhances sweetness, evoking feelings of nostalgia.
1 tsp almond extract (optional): If used, it introduces a delicate nuttiness, making them even more special.
3 cups all-purpose flour: The base ingredient that ensures a sturdy, yet tender cookie squarish.
1/2 tsp baking powder: To achieve that perfect leavening, lending the cookies their wonderful height.
1/4 tsp salt: A touch of salt enhances sweetness and balances flavors stunningly.
For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: This crucial ingredient adds decadence to the frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: The key to a fluffy, sweet frosting that glazes the cookie base.
- 2-3 tbsp milk: For achieving the ideal consistency, making the frosting easy to spread.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: To echo the vanilla notes in the cookies.
- Food coloring (optional): Brightens up your decorations for a festive flair.
- Sprinkles for decoration: A finishing touch, these sparkly accents make your squares irresistibly festive.

Cooking Time & Tips For Christmas Sugar Cookie Squares

Crafting your Christmas Sugar Cookie Squares can be a quick undertaking or a leisurely delight—it’s completely up to you! Quick preparation means gathering your ingredients, mixing them within an hour, and baking, allowing extra time for decoration. A slow, intentional approach involves savoring each step—perhaps mingling with family, sharing laughter in the kitchen—creating lasting memories during your baking journey.

Tips for success: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature to achieve that perfect creaminess when mixing. Avoid over-mixing once the flour is added to maintain the cookies’ tender texture. Always let your cookies cool completely before frosting; this prevents the frosting from melting into a gooey puddle.

Step-by-Step Directions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for effortless removal.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. The moment you beat the ingredients, an inviting aroma fills the room, making it feel like a holiday wonderland. Next, beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), blending well until everything is well incorporated.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This is where the magic begins—these dry ingredients will transform into a deliciously soft cookie base. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense final product.
Pour your cookie dough into the prepared baking pan, gently spreading it evenly with a spatula. This is the part where your anticipation builds, knowing that deliciousness awaits!
Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. As they bake, the edges will turn lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center will come out clean. Once they’re perfectly baked, let them cool completely in the pan, allowing the flavors to settle and mingle.
Meanwhile, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until fully combined. Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency—fluffy, yet spreadable. Stir in the vanilla extract, and if using, divide the frosting to mix in colors of your choosing for a delightful finish.
Ensure your cookie base has fully cooled before spreading the frosting evenly over the top. This is where you can invite your creativity—swirl the frosting, add colors, or simply keep it classic!
Decorate with sprinkles or any festive decorations, turning these squares into a dazzling centerpiece of holiday cheer.
Finally, cut into squares and serve. Encourage your loved ones to indulge and enjoy these delightful treats together!

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

Christmas Sugar Cookie Squares are perfect for numerous occasions—think holiday parties, cookie swaps, and cozy gatherings around the fireplace. Serve them alongside hot cocoa or festive eggnog. You can even package them beautifully in seasonal tins to share with neighbors and friends. Their vibrant colors and festive decorations are sure to bring smiles and cozy warmth to every heart sharing these squares.

Common Mistakes For Christmas Sugar Cookie Squares

While preparing your Christmas Sugar Cookie Squares, keep in mind a few common pitfalls to avoid:

Not allowing the butter to soften properly can hinder the creaming process, resulting in a denser cookie.
Over-mixing after adding the flour can lead to tough cookie squares—mix just until everything is combined.
Forgetting to let the squares cool completely before adding frosting can make a melty mess, leading to disappointed faces at the table.
Cutting squares while warm can result in crumbs and a messy presentation, so patience is key!

Healthier Alternatives & Variations

If you’re looking for healthier alternatives or unique twists, there are several options! Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutritional benefits. You can also use coconut oil in place of unsalted butter for a dairy-free option. For a fun variation, consider adding festive spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to the dough for a unique flavor profile. You might even include chopped nuts for a delightful crunch!

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days prior to baking.
Can I freeze these cookie squares?
Yes! Once cut, you can freeze the squares. Just layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container.
What can I substitute for almond extract?
If almond extract isn’t available or preferred, you can simply omit it or use additional vanilla extract for flavor.
Can I use a different frosting?
Definitely! Cream cheese frosting or even a chocolate glaze can offer exciting variations to these cookie squares.
How long do these cookies last?
They can stay fresh for about 5-7 days stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I dye the frosting?
Yes, you can! Food coloring adds an extra festive touch, making these squares visually appealing for holiday festivities.

Conclusion

The moment you craft Christmas Sugar Cookie Squares, you’re not just baking; you’re creating heartfelt memories filled with warmth, laughter, and holiday joy. Each bite delivers a taste of nostalgia and sweetness that is simply irresistible. Make today the day you gather your loved ones in the kitchen and try this delightful recipe. You’ll find that baking is not just about mixing ingredients; it’s about sprinkling joy, love, and sweetness into every square! Don’t wait any longer—embrace the festive spirit and indulge in holiday bliss today!