Description
These cookies are the heart of holiday baking—soft, buttery, and full of warmth. A touch of almond extract and bright citrus zest makes them unforgettable. Perfect for decorating with kids, gifting to neighbors, or piling high on your festive table. Let these sweet little stars be the tradition that fills your home with joy, laughter, and the irresistible smell of Christmas.
Ingredients
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7½ cups all-purpose flour
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2 tsp baking powder
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1 tsp salt
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3 cups white sugar
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2 cups (4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
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4 large eggs, room temperature
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4 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tsp almond extract (optional)
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Zest of 1 orange
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Sanding sugar or icing for decorating
Instructions
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until fluffy (3–5 min).
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Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in eggs one at a time, then vanilla, almond extract, and zest.
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Combine: Gradually fold in dry mix until just combined. Don’t overmix!
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Chill Dough: Divide into discs, wrap, and refrigerate at least 2 hours (or overnight).
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Roll & Cut: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough to ¼-inch thick, cut into shapes.
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Bake: Place on lined trays, bake 10–12 min until edges are lightly golden.
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Cool & Decorate: Rest on tray 5 min, then transfer to wire rack before decorating.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until fluffy (3–5 min).
-
Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in eggs one at a time, then vanilla, almond extract, and zest.
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Combine: Gradually fold in dry mix until just combined. Don’t overmix!
-
Chill Dough: Divide into discs, wrap, and refrigerate at least 2 hours (or overnight).
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Roll & Cut: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough to ¼-inch thick, cut into shapes.
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Bake: Place on lined trays, bake 10–12 min until edges are lightly golden.
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Cool & Decorate: Rest on tray 5 min, then transfer to wire rack before decorating.
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Notes
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Chill the dough—this prevents spreading and keeps shapes sharp.
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Use real butter for best flavor and texture.
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Roll dough evenly for cookies that bake consistently.
Nutrition
- Calories: 110 Cal per cookie, approx.
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g