Introduction

Few holiday treats bring as much joy as Christmas Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies. These tender, pillowy cookies topped with swirls of creamy vanilla buttercream and festive sprinkles are the kind of dessert that instantly sets the mood for the season. They remind us of childhood cookie exchanges, cozy baking days, and the simple magic of Christmas flavors.

These cookies stand out because they’re not the typical firm cutout sugar cookies. Instead, they’re ultra-soft and cake-like with a slightly chewy center—almost like the popular Lofthouse cookies but richer, fresher, and homemade. The buttercream frosting adds the perfect touch of sweetness, while the colorful sprinkles turn every cookie into a joyful little celebration.

In this long-form recipe, you’ll learn everything you need to bake flawless soft sugar cookies that don’t spread, stay tender for days, and hold their frosting beautifully. Let’s dive into the festive deliciousness!

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
• 3 1/2 cups (440 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Food coloring (optional)
• Holiday sprinkles

Preparation

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light, pale, and fluffy. This step helps create the cookie’s signature soft, airy texture.

Step 2: Add Eggs, Sour Cream & Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Blend in the sour cream and vanilla extract. The batter will look fluffy and slightly thick.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and chill for at least 1–2 hours. This prevents spreading and helps maintain a thick, soft cookie shape.

Step 5: Shape & Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Scoop the dough into 1.5-inch balls and gently flatten them with your palm or the bottom of a cup.

Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake 8–10 minutes, just until the edges are set.
Do NOT overbake—they should remain pale for the softest results.

Step 6: Cool

Let the cookies cool completely before frosting. Warm cookies will melt the frosting.

Step 7: Frost the Cookies

Prepare the frosting by beating butter until smooth, then gradually adding powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, and cream until fluffy.

Tint with food coloring if desired.

Spread a thick layer on each cookie and decorate with festive sprinkles.

Variation

🎄 1. Peppermint Frosted Sugar Cookies

Add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract to the frosting and top with crushed candy canes.

❄️ 2. Almond Sugar Cookies

Replace vanilla with almond extract for a classic bakery-style flavor.

🌟 3. Cream Cheese Frosting

Swap half the butter with cream cheese for a tangier, richer taste.

🍪 4. Cutout Version

Add 1/4 cup more flour to make the dough suitable for rolling and shaping with cookie cutters.

🎀 5. Chocolate Frosted Cookies

Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the frosting for a chocolate twist.

COOKING Note

• Chilling the dough is essential for soft, thick cookies.
• For perfectly smooth frosting, use room-temperature butter.
• Cookies should remain pale—color means dryness for this style.

Serving Suggestions

• Arrange them on a red-and-green holiday platter for parties.
• Serve with hot cocoa, eggnog, or a warm vanilla latte.
• Pack in festive tins for neighbor gifts or cookie exchanges.
• Add them to a Christmas dessert board with fudge, gingerbread, and truffles.

Tips

• Use full-fat sour cream for the best texture.
• Don’t press the cookies too thin or they’ll lose their softness.
• If frosting is too thick, add extra cream 1 teaspoon at a time.
• Let cookies rest overnight—the flavor becomes even better.
• Store with parchment between layers to avoid smudging the frosting.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)

Nutritional Information (Approx. per cookie):

Calories: ~210
Protein: ~2 g
Sodium: ~85 mg

FAQs

1. How do I keep sugar cookies soft for days?

Store them in an airtight container with wax paper between layers. Keeping them frosted helps lock in moisture.

2. Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes—freeze the cookies unfrosted. Add frosting after thawing for the freshest look.

3. Why did my cookies spread?

This usually means the dough wasn’t chilled long enough or the butter was too soft.

4. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, but choose full-fat yogurt for the closest texture.

5. How do I get vibrant frosting colors?

Use gel food coloring instead of liquid—it gives rich color without thinning.

Conclusion

Christmas Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies are the kind of holiday treat people remember long after the season passes. With their soft, pillowy texture, creamy frosting, and festive decorations, they’re truly a centerpiece cookie for Christmas baking. Whether you’re making them for family gatherings, classroom parties, or Christmas Eve traditions, these cookies deliver pure joy in every bite. Bake a batch, frost them with holiday colors, and let the festive spirit fill your kitchen!

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