Snowman Sugar Cookies

Looking to add festive cheer to your holiday baking? These delightful Snowman Sugar Cookies are fun to make and taste sweet and buttery! Crisp on the edges yet soft and chewy in the center, they’re the perfect charming addition to any holiday celebration. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or cozying up with family, this recipe will bring joy and creativity to your baking.

Why You’ll Love These Snowman Sugar Cookies

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy bakers needing a fast festive treat.

• Perfect for Beginners: Simple to make, even if you’re new to baking.

• Family-friendly: Kids love decorating these cute cookies.

• Customizable: Decorate however you like to match your holiday theme.

• Great Gift Idea: Package beautifully to share sweet holiday cheer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1 ½ cups white sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon almond extract

• ¾ teaspoon salt

• Icing and decorations for snowman design

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version (ensure it includes xanthan gum).

• Substitute coconut oil or vegan butter for dairy-free options.

• Store-bought or homemade icing works well for decorating.

How to Make Snowman Sugar Cookies Step-by-Step

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Pro Tip: Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
   Pro Tip: Sift flour for lighter, tender cookies.

3. Cream butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
   Pro Tip: Room-temperature butter is key for best texture.

4. Beat in egg, vanilla, and almond extracts.
   Pro Tip: Crack eggs into a bowl first to avoid shells.

5. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
   Pro Tip: Scrap the bowl sides with a spatula for even mixing.

6. Roll teaspoonfuls of dough into balls; place on baking sheets spaced apart.
   Pro Tip: Try rolling dough in colored sprinkles for festive flair!

7. Bake 8-10 minutes until edges light brown but centers still soft.
   Pro Tip: Remove early; cookies firm as they cool.

8. Cool completely on wire racks before decorating.
   Pro Tip: Decorating warm cookies causes icing to melt.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with hot cocoa, milk, or coffee for a cozy treat.

• Perfect for holiday parties or cookie exchanges.

• Present on festive plates or tins garnished with winter decor.

Storage and Reheating

• Store in airtight container up to one week in the fridge.

• Freeze in single layers on baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bag; lasts 3 months.

• Thaw at room temperature 15-20 minutes.

• Reheat 5-10 seconds in microwave to restore fresh-baked texture.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix dough—mix just until combined.

• Chill dough 30 minutes in warm kitchens to prevent spreading.

• Use parchment paper for even baking and easy cleanup.

• Let creativity flow when decorating—there’s no wrong way!

Recipe Variations

• Add cocoa powder for chocolate snowmen.

• Fold festive sprinkles or chocolate chips into dough.

• Use almond flour or GF blends for gluten-free versions.

FAQ

Q: Why are my cookies spreading too much?
A: Butter might be too warm or dough not chilled enough; chill 30 minutes before baking.

Q: How do I get my icing to harden?
A: Use royal icing and let decorated cookies dry at room temperature for 24 hours.

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Margarine works but may affect flavor and texture; prefer stick margarine over spreadable.

Q: What decorations work best?
A: Food colors, candy melts, edible glitter, or mini candies (like M&Ms) for eyes and buttons.

Q: Can I prepare dough ahead?
A: Yes! Dough keeps in the fridge up to 3 days; warm before rolling.