Christmas Butter Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer or stand mixer. Beat until the mixture is creamy and light in color (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Add the Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue to beat until fully incorporated.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together. It may seem a little crumbly at first, but keep mixing until it forms a smooth dough.
5. Chill the Dough: Once the dough is ready, divide it in half and wrap each half in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out and cut.
6. Roll and Cut the Cookies: Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thick. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut the dough into festive shapes (stars, trees, bells, etc.).
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overbaking, as they bake quickly.
8. Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Decorate (Optional): Once the cookies are completely cooled, you can decorate them as you like. Use royal icing, melted chocolate, or even colored sugar and sprinkles. For a festive touch, you can also add edible glitter for some extra sparkle!

Methods of Decoration

Here are a few fun ways to decorate your cookies:

• Royal Icing: Whisk together powdered sugar, egg whites (or meringue powder), and a little water to create a smooth, glossy icing that hardens when dried. You can pipe designs or flood the cookies for a more polished look.
• Melted Chocolate: Melt your favorite chocolate (dark, milk, or white) and drizzle or dip the cookies. For extra flair, sprinkle crushed candy canes or colored sugars on top.
• Colored Sugar/Sprinkles: If you prefer a simpler decoration, a dusting of colored sugar or sprinkles before baking adds a fun, festive touch.
• Edible Glitter: Want to make your cookies sparkle? Lightly sprinkle edible glitter on top for a magical, shimmery effect.