Twisted Christmas Cookies Holiday (Recipe for Printing)
Make twisted Christmas cookies with almond, vanilla, and orange zest for a festive December treat. Decorate with colorful icing for the holiday season. Save & click.
# What You Need:
→ Cookie Dough
01 -
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 -
1 cup granulated sugar
03 -
2 large eggs
04 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 -
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
06 -
1 tablespoon orange zest
07 -
3 cups all-purpose flour
08 -
1 tablespoon milk, as needed
→ Icing
09 -
2 tablespoons meringue powder
10 -
2 teaspoons lemon juice
11 -
1/4 cup water, plus more as needed
12 -
2 cups powdered sugar
→ Decoration
13 -
Assorted food coloring
14 -
Sprinkles, edible glitter, or crushed candy canes
# How to Make It:
01 -
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and orange zest. Mix until fully combined.
02 -
Gradually add flour to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Add milk by the tablespoon if necessary to bind the dough.
03 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two or three baking sheets with parchment paper.
04 -
Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Use festive cookie cutters to cut shapes and transfer to prepared baking sheets. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes.
05 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely.
06 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together meringue powder, lemon juice, and water until foamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until the icing is glossy and holds peaks. Thin with additional water as needed.
07 -
Divide the icing among several bowls and tint each portion with desired food coloring. Decorate cooled cookies, then finish with sprinkles, edible glitter, or crushed candy canes. Allow to set.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Ensure dough is chilled before baking to prevent excessive spreading and maintain crisp, defined edges.