Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and joy that comes from baking a batch of your favorite cookies. These Best Christmas Cookies with Nutmeg are a delightful treat that not only bring a burst of flavor to your festivities but also fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of spices. With their perfectly crispy edges and soft centers, these cookies are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Set this fragrant blend aside for later.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until you achieve a creamy, light-colored mixture.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until everything is well incorporated and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a little lumpy is perfect!
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart for room to spread.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look soft and inviting.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a festive touch that adds sweetness and a beautiful finish.
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg if you have it on hand. This will elevate the spice profile even more! Additionally, if you want to mix things up, try adding white chocolate chips or chopped nuts for a delightful twist on the classic cookie.
Cooking Techniques
These cookies come together beautifully, thanks to a few simple techniques. Be sure to cream your butter and sugar well; this incorporates air into the mixture, giving the cookies a light and tender texture. Also, letting your dough rest on the baking sheets helps them spread into perfect little rounds. Don’t rush the cooling process, as this step is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture!
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes! You can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How do I store the cookies? Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen once baked for longer storage.
Conclusion
Baking these Best Christmas Cookies with Nutmeg is more than just a festive activity; it’s a way to create sweet memories with loved ones. With each bite, you’ll taste the love and warmth of the holiday season. So gather your ingredients, turn on your favorite holiday tunes, and let the magic of baking fill your home. Happy holiday baking!