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How to Make Glazed Nutcracker Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until creamy and smooth, about 3-4 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and continue to beat until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If the dough feels too soft, add a tablespoon or two of flour.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Once the dough is ready, divide it into two portions. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes.
Step 3: Roll Out and Cut the Dough
After the dough has chilled, sprinkle a clean surface with flour. Roll out one portion of dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Using a nutcracker-shaped cookie cutter (or any other holiday-themed cutter), cut out the cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
If you don’t have a nutcracker-shaped cutter, you can use any festive shapes you like—stars, trees, or even circles will work. Be sure to leave some space between the cookies on the sheet to allow for spreading.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges just begin to turn golden. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on the size of your cookies. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
While the cookies are cooling, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Start with 2 tablespoons of milk and add more if needed to reach a smooth, pourable consistency. If you’d like to color the glaze, divide it into small bowls and add a few drops of food coloring to each.
Step 6: Glaze the Cookies
Once the cookies are fully cooled, dip the tops of each cookie into the glaze, letting any excess drip off. Alternatively, you can use a spoon to drizzle the glaze over the cookies for a more controlled look.
If desired, add sprinkles or edible glitter while the glaze is still wet for an extra touch of holiday sparkle. Allow the glaze to set for about 30 minutes before serving or packaging.
Tips for Perfect Glazed Nutcracker Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the dough hold its shape during baking, ensuring that your cookies maintain their festive form.
- Decorating Fun: These cookies are a canvas for your creativity! Use different colors of glaze, sprinkle with edible glitter, or even add small candies to make the cookies your own. Consider piping on extra details, like little buttons or facial features, for extra flair.
- Make Ahead: You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the baked, unglazed cookies and add the glaze later when you’re ready to serve.
- Perfectly Soft Cookies: If you want soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, be careful not to overbake them. The edges should just start to turn golden when they’re ready to come out of the oven.
Final Thoughts
Glazed Nutcracker Cookies are the perfect holiday treat to bake, share, and enjoy with family and friends. Their festive shapes and colorful glaze make them a showstopper on any cookie platter, while their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or gifting a batch to loved ones, these cookies will surely spread joy and sweetness throughout the season.
So this holiday season, don’t forget to add Glazed Nutcracker Cookies to your baking list—they’re sure to become a cherished tradition for years to come.
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