Soft Christmas Cookies

These delicious, soft Christmas cookies are sure to become a family favorite! They're easy to make and perfect for decorating.

• Prep time:15 minutes 
• Cook time:6-8 minutes per batch
• Servings: 48

Ingredients:

• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup softened butter or margarine
• 2 eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment:

• A Large bowl and a medium bowl
• Electric mixer (optional, but recommended)
• Parchment paper or baking sheets
• Cookie cutters (various shapes)
• Rolling pin
• Plastic wrap
• Wire rack

Instructions:

Get Started:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Make the Dough:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer for faster results.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix.
5. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This step helps the cookies hold their shape.

Shape and Bake:

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
   
2. Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes (snowmen, ornaments, stars, stockings, etc.).
   
3. Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them.
   
4. Bake in batches for 6-8 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Serve:

1. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Once completely cool, enjoy your delicious Christmas cookies!

Tips for Storage and Freezing:

• Unfrosted: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Frosted: Store frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. Use wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Cream cheese frosting: Store cookies with cream cheese frosting in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: Freeze the cookie dough in flat disks before baking. Wrap in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling, cutting, and baking.

Enjoy your homemade Christmas cookies!