Christmas cookies are a time-honored tradition that date back centuries. While the origin of these sweet treats is unknown, it is believed that they were first made in Germany during the Middle Ages. Today, Christmas cookies come in all shapes, sizes, and flavors and are enjoyed by people all over the world. If you’re looking for something a little bit different this holiday season, why not try your hand at decorated traditional Christmas cookies? These cookies are a fun and festive way to show off your holiday spirit, and they’re sure to impress your friends and family.
3/4 cup Softened butter (unsalted)
1 tsp Vanilla extract
1/2 cup Sugar
1/4 tsp Salt
1 Whole Egg
2 1/4 cups White flour
1 tbsp Lemon zest
1-2 tbsp Water
Icing Ingredients:
3 Egg whites
2-3 tsp Water
1 pound Powdered sugar
Your favorite food colorings and decorations
Beat sugar and butter together in bowl using electric mixer, til fluffy and light. Add the egg, lemon zest, vanilla extract and salt, beating again. Gradually mix in the flour, until well incorporated. Add the water, a little at a time, until dough comes away from sides of bowl to form a clump. Wrap dough in clear wrap to chill in refrigerator until firm, few hours or overnight. Preheat the oven to 350F degrees. Then lightly oil or grease baking sheets. On a (lightly) floured cutting board or surface, roll dough to 1/8″ thickness. Cut into various shapes using your favorite cookie cutters. Cut small holes in dough if you wish to hang the cookies as ornaments. Bake for 11-15 min., until cookies are starting to get golden brown around the edges. Remove the cookies to wire racks, and allow to cool completely before decorating with icing.
Icing Directions:
Beat the egg whites in a bowl using an electric mixer, until they become foamy. At this point, gradually mix in the powdered sugar, mixing until creamy. Make sure to add only enough water for optimum spreading texture and consistency. Tint icing with various food colorings, if desired. Spread icing evenly over cookie tops. Decorate iced cookies with your favorite candies, sprinkles or other decorations.