As the first snowflakes begin to fall, I find myself longing for the warmth of the kitchen and the comfort of delicious baking. There’s a certain magic in mixing butter, sugar, and flour that fills the air with sweet anticipation. These Easy Snowflake Cookies don’t just look stunning; they’re a delightful fusion of soft, buttery goodness and a glossy royal icing that brings that festive cheer to life.
Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or simply indulging with loved ones, these cookies are surprisingly easy to whip up, making them a fantastic project for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re crafting these snowy delights with kids or impressing guests with your festive flair, their elegant designs and melt-in-your-mouth texture create a symphony of flavor that will surely make your celebrations even brighter. So, dust off your rolling pin and let’s create cookies that are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes!
Why are Snowflake Cookies a Must-Bake?
Delightful Dessert: These cookies pair visual appeal with incredible flavor, making them an instant crowd-pleaser.
Easy to Create: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can succeed.
Versatile Decorations: Customize with royal icing and sprinkles to match any holiday theme!
Make Ahead: Prep the dough in advance, making your holiday baking stress-free and enjoyable.
Perfect for Sharing: Their festive charm makes them ideal gifts or treats to bring to gatherings!
Fun for Kids: Involve the little ones in decorating, creating cherished memories during the holiday season.
Snowflake Cookies Ingredients
• Transform your baking with these festive snowflake cookies!
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure; use extra for dusting surfaces to prevent sticking.
- Baking powder – Leavening agent that helps the cookies rise perfectly.
- Kosher salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Butter (softened) – Adds richness and tenderness to the cookie dough.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their delightful texture.
- Pure vanilla extract – Infuses the dough with aromatic flavor.
- Milk – Moistens the dough and helps bind the ingredients together.
For the Royal Icing
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing for decorating.
- Light corn syrup – Gives the royal icing a glossy finish.
- Additional milk (for thinning) – Adjusts icing consistency for easy decorating.
- Almond or pure vanilla extract – Optional flavor enhancer for the icing.
- Blue food coloring – Add for a cheerful hue, perfect for holiday themes.
- Pearl sprinkles – Use these for a festive touch that brings your snowflake cookies to life!
How to Make Snowflake Cookies
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Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Then, blend in the vanilla extract and milk. Gradually add the dry ingredients to form a smooth dough.
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Chill Dough: Wrap the cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to roll out without sticking.
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Roll and Cut: On a well-floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. Use a snowflake cookie cutter to cut out shapes, transferring them carefully onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once baked, allow them to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes.
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Make Royal Icing: In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, corn syrup, and just enough milk to achieve a thick yet pipeable consistency. Stir in any desired flavoring and blue food coloring if you’re adding color to your icing.
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Decorate: Fill a piping bag with your royal icing and outline each cookie, then fill in with icing to create beautiful snowflake patterns. Be sure to sprinkle on pearl decorations before the icing dries for that added festive touch!
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Set Icing: Allow the decorated cookies to dry completely, which can take a few hours. This will ensure the royal icing hardens, keeping your designs intact.
Optional: For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding almond extract to your icing for a delightful twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Snowflake Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store the snowflake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft texture and flavor.
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Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container, where they will stay delicious for up to 2 weeks.
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Freezer: If you want to prepare them ahead, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
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Reheating: For freshly baked warmth, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the cookies tough.
Snowflake Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Embrace your creativity with these delightful twists that make your snowflake cookies truly unique!
- Almond Extract: Swap out vanilla for almond extract in the dough for a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness. It’s an unexpected surprise in every bite!
- Alternative Shapes: Experiment with various cookie cutters like stars or hearts to add a playful touch for different festivities. No matter the shape, they’ll still bring holiday cheer!
- Color Variations: Use red or green food coloring in your icing for a festive pop! Perfect for any holiday gathering, these colors can brighten up your dessert table.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing flavor twist. This brightens the cookies and adds a lovely aromatic quality.
- Spiced Delight: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger to the dough for a warm, spicy kick that’s perfect for the cooler months. It’s the essence of cozy baking!
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for cookies that everyone can enjoy, ensuring no one misses out on the festive fun!
- Chocolate Chip Snowflakes: Fold in mini chocolate chips to the dough before chilling for sweet surprises in each cookie. They create a decadent treat that’s hard to resist!
- Nut Topping: Top with crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts before baking for added crunch and a hearty flavor boost. This extra texture elevates the everyday cookie experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Snowflake Cookies are perfect for busy bakers who want to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before rolling out and baking. Just wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its freshness and prevent drying out. Additionally, once baked and cooled, the decorated cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy your homemade treats without the last-minute rush. When you’re ready to serve, simply present them as they are, and you’ll delight your guests with beautiful cookies that taste just as fresh as the day they were made!
Expert Tips for Snowflake Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step prevents sticking and aids in achieving that perfect cut.
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Use Proper Thickness: Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness to ensure even baking. Too thick, and they may not bake through.
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Cool Completely Before Icing: Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack before decorating. If they’re warm, the royal icing will melt and run.
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Piping Bag Precision: For best results, use a piping bag with a snipped corner for outlining. This gives you more control and creates beautiful designs.
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Adjust Icing Consistency: If your royal icing is too thick, add a few drops of milk to thin it out gradually for easier piping.
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Get Creative with Decorations: Feel free to mix and match colors and sprinkles to personalize your snowflake cookies. It’s all about making them festive!
What to Serve with Snowflake Cookies?
These festive treats are perfect for a cozy holiday gathering or a delightful afternoon snack.
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Hot Cocoa: This classic pairing creates a warm, comforting experience with rich flavors that complement the sweetness of the cookies.
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Coffee or Latte: The bitterness of coffee balances the sugary cookies, making for a sophisticated treat that adults will adore. Consider serving a flavored latte for a seasonal twist!
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Milk: A timeless duo, the creamy richness of milk enhances the cookies’ sweetness while providing a nostalgic touch to every bite.
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Festive Fruit Salad: Brighten your dessert table with a refreshing fruit salad. The vibrant colors and natural sweetness contrast beautifully with the sugar cookies’ delicate frosting.
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Cheesecake Bars: A slice of creamy cheesecake adds indulgence, while its tangy flavor perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the cookies for a balanced dessert platter.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Create a festive cookie spread combining the sweet snowflake cookies with spiced gingerbread, inviting a delightful texture and flavor contrast that holiday guests will love.
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Mulled Wine: Enjoy this warm, spiced drink alongside these cookies for an adult twist to your holiday spread, bringing cozy vibes to your gathering.
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Eggnog: This classic holiday beverage pairs remarkably well with sweet treats, adding creamy, nutmeg flavors that pair delightfully with your icy snowflakes.
Snowflake Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my Snowflake Cookies?
Absolutely! To ensure your snowflake cookies turn out perfectly, choose fresh ingredients. Look for all-purpose flour that’s unbleached and avoid any brands with dark spots. Use high-quality vanilla extract for a more aromatic flavor. The butter should be softened to room temperature for easy creaming—a good test is that it should yield to gentle pressure but still hold its shape.
How should I store my Snowflake Cookies?
Very important! Store these lovely cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’re looking to keep them fresher for a longer period, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure they’re completely cool before placing them in the fridge to avoid moisture buildup.
Can I freeze my Snowflake Cookies?
Absolutely! If you want to make these festive treats ahead of time, you can freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature; if you prefer a warm treat, gently reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.
What should I do if my royal icing is too thick?
If you find your royal icing is too thick for decorating, don’t worry! Simply add a few drops of milk to the icing as you mix it. Start with just one drop, mix thoroughly, and assess the consistency. It should be thick enough to hold shapes but thin enough to pipe smoothly. Gradually adding liquid will allow you to achieve that perfect balance for your snowflake designs.
Are there any dietary considerations for Snowflake Cookies?
Definitely! If you have allergies, be mindful of the ingredients. The cookies contain gluten from the all-purpose flour and dairy from the butter and milk. To accommodate dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour blends and non-dairy substitutes like coconut or almond milk. It’s always good to check the labels on any pre-packaged ingredients too, especially with the food coloring and sprinkles for potential allergens.
Can I make Snowflake Cookies with kids?
Very fun! Involving kids is a wonderful way to create precious memories. Just be sure to supervise when using the rolling pin and cookie cutters. Let them decorate the cooled cookies with royal icing and sprinkles. If they enjoy exploring flavors, consider letting them choose their own colors and decorations for a personalized touch!
Delightful Snowflake Cookies with Royal Icing for Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Then, blend in the vanilla extract and milk. Gradually add the dry ingredients to form a smooth dough.
- Wrap the cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
- On a well-floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. Use a snowflake cookie cutter to cut out shapes, transferring them carefully onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, corn syrup, and just enough milk to achieve a thick yet pipeable consistency. Stir in any desired flavoring and blue food coloring.
- Fill a piping bag with royal icing and outline each cookie, then fill in with icing to create beautiful snowflake patterns.
- Allow the decorated cookies to dry completely, which can take a few hours.