Nothing quite says holiday magic like a batch of Soft and Chewy Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies to Savor Recipe, a festive treat that brings together the perfect balance of buttery softness and that irresistible chewiness we all crave. These cookies are a joyful celebration of classic Christmas flavors and textures, studded with colorful sprinkles that add a merry crunch. Whether you’re baking to delight family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for every holiday gathering—or any time you need a cookie that feels like a warm holiday hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right makes all the difference in achieving that iconic soft and chewy texture with a hint of festive flair. Each element plays a key role, from the cream cheese that adds moisture and tenderness to the sprinkles that bring vibrant color and fun. These simple but essential ingredients combine to create a cookie that’s truly unforgettable.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that holds everything together without weighing down the softness.
- 1 tsp baking powder: A gentle leavening agent to help the cookies rise just enough for that perfect chew.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened): Brings rich creaminess and a tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness with just the right texture for that classic sugar cookie snap.
- 1 large egg (room temperature): Acts as a binder and adds moisture for softness.
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract: Essential for that warm, homey cookie flavor.
- 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional): Adds a subtle nutty complexity that makes these cookies extra special.
- 1/4 cup Christmas jimmies sprinkles: Festive pops of color baked right into the dough.
- 1 1/4 cups full-fat cream cheese (softened): The secret weapon for creamy richness and oh-so-soft texture.
- 3/4 cup salted butter (softened): For the luscious frosting, balancing sweet and salty notes.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the frosting with classic, comforting flavor.
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar (sifted): Perfectly sweet and silky for smooth frosting.
- 1/3 cup heavy cream (very cold): Whipped into the frosting for lightness and fluffiness.
- 1/4 cup Christmas sprinkles (for decorating): The finishing touch that makes each cookie a merry masterpiece.
How to Make Soft and Chewy Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies to Savor Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until evenly combined. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and pale, about 3 to 5 minutes using a mixer at medium speed. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), beating until smooth and well blended. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix, just until a soft dough forms. Gently fold in the Christmas jimmies sprinkles for that burst of holiday cheer baked right inside.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is perfectly mixed, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This chilling step is crucial for firming up the dough so your cookies keep their shape, while also allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, waiting here is worth the extra burst of flavor and better texture in the end.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Scoop out dough balls using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, placing them several inches apart to allow room for spreading. Bake for 8 to 9 minutes, just until the edges start to set but the centers remain soft—this timing guarantees that perfect soft and chewy texture. Let the cookies cool fully on the baking sheet before moving on to frosting.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and salted butter until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, then gradually sift in powdered sugar, beating well after each addition to avoid lumps. Finally, whip in the cold heavy cream until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable. This frosting is the luscious partner your cookies deserve—creamier than anything from a tub and just the right balance of sweet and tangy.
Step 5: Decorate with Sprinkles
Once your cookies have fully cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top. Don’t be shy here—the frosting is part of the joy. Finish each cookie by sprinkling the reserved Christmas sprinkles on top, adding that final festive sparkle. These finishing touches transform simple sugar cookies into holiday show-stoppers that look as delightful as they taste.
How to Serve Soft and Chewy Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies to Savor Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the colorful Christmas sprinkles, you can grab some crushed peppermint candies or a dusting of edible glitter to sprinkle over the frosting. These not only enhance the visual appeal but introduce exciting textures and seasonal flavors that pair beautifully with the soft cookie base.
Side Dishes
These cookies are perfect with a glass of cold milk, a mug of spiced hot cocoa, or even a warm cup of chai tea. The creamy, spiced drinks complement the sweetness and creaminess of the cookies, turning any snack time into a cozy holiday experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a festive platter alongside some holiday-themed candies or fresh evergreen sprigs for an inviting look. You can also stack them in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon for charming edible gifts that will wow as much for their presentation as their flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cookies fresh and soft by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Placing a slice of bread inside the container helps maintain moisture, keeping your Soft and Chewy Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies to Savor Recipe tasting just-baked even days later.
Freezing
If you want to bake ahead, the dough balls freeze beautifully. Flash freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready, bake straight from frozen with a slight increase in baking time. You can also freeze fully decorated cookies between parchment paper layers, wrapped tightly, to enjoy the holiday spirit anytime.
Reheating
To revive stored cookies, gently warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. This brings back that irresistible softness and lightly re-melts the frosting to luscious perfection, making them taste freshly baked once again.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted in the cookie dough?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid making the cookies too salty. The recipe includes a small amount of salt to enhance flavor, so keeping that balance is key.
Why is cream cheese used in a sugar cookie recipe?
Cream cheese adds moisture and richness, resulting in a softer, chewier cookie texture. It also adds a subtle tang that beautifully offsets the sweetness, making these sugar cookies more complex and delicious than traditional versions.
Are these cookies suitable for decorating with royal icing?
While you can use royal icing, the cream cheese frosting recommended in this Soft and Chewy Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies to Savor Recipe complements the soft texture better and adds a creamy element. Royal icing tends to harden, which might contrast with the cookie’s tenderness.
How do I prevent sprinkles from bleeding color during baking?
Use high-quality, baking-safe sprinkles like jimmies rather than nonpareils or chocolate-based types, as they hold their color better. Adding some sprinkles after baking, especially on the frosting, also ensures vibrant colors without bleed.
Can I substitute almond extract with another flavor?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of almond, you can use an extra teaspoon of vanilla or try a hint of lemon or orange zest to add a fresh twist without overpowering the classic sugar cookie taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something magical about the Soft and Chewy Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies to Savor Recipe. They capture all the warmth and joy of the holidays in every bite, with their tender crumb, buttery richness, and festive finishing touches. If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that’s both show-stoppingly delicious and simple enough to make year after year, these Christmas sugar cookies will become one of your dearest favorites. So gather your ingredients, turn up the holiday tunes, and savor the sweet moments this season brings with each bite of these heavenly treats.
Print
Soft and Chewy Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies to Savor Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Total Time: 34 minutes
- Yield: 15 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy these Soft and Chewy Crumbl Christmas Sugar Cookies, a festive treat perfect for holiday celebrations. These cookies feature a tender, buttery base with a hint of vanilla and almond extract, topped with creamy, luscious cream cheese frosting and colorful Christmas sprinkles to brighten any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup Christmas jimmies sprinkles
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 1/4 cups full-fat cream cheese (softened)
- 3/4 cup salted butter (softened)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1/3 cup heavy cream (very cold)
- 1/4 cup Christmas sprinkles (for decorating)
Instructions
- Prepare dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside to ensure even distribution in the dough.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-4 minutes and helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Add egg and extracts: Beat in the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until the mixture is smooth and homogenous, making sure everything is well incorporated.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- Fold in sprinkles: Gently fold in 1/4 cup of Christmas jimmies sprinkles to disperse them without breaking their shape or color.
- Chill the dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to handle and shape.
- Preheat oven and prepare trays: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- Scoop and shape cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading.
- Bake the cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-9 minutes or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking to maintain softness.
- Cool cookies: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Make cream cheese frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and salted butter together until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract, then gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating to combine. Slowly pour in the very cold heavy cream and mix until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable.
- Frost the cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting generously on top of each cookie.
- Decorate: Sprinkle additional Christmas sprinkles over the frosting for a festive finish.
- Serve and enjoy: Allow the frosting to set slightly before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing and better texture.
- If you prefer a firmer cookie, chill the dough longer before baking.
- You can substitute almond extract with more vanilla extract if desired.
- Store frosted cookies in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh, but bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
- Sprinkles can be customized to your preference or omitted if desired.
