Christmas Sugar Cookies

**Recipe Title: ** Christmas Sugar Cookies

**Brief Description: ** These Christmas sugar cookies are perfect for beginners looking to spread some holiday cheer with a simple and delightful treat. The soft and chewy texture combined with a hint of vanilla makes them a hit at any festive gathering.

**Servings: ** 7-8 people

**Prep Time: ** 15 minutes

**Cook Time: ** 10-12 minutes

**Total Time: ** 25-27 minutes

**Ingredients: **

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 3/4 cup granulated sugar

- 1 large egg

- 2 tablespoons milk

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions: **

1. **Preheat the Oven: ** Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. **Mix Dry Ingredients: ** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. **Cream Butter and Sugar: ** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. **Add Wet Ingredients: ** Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.

5. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients: ** Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.

6. **Roll Out the Dough: ** Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.

7. **Cut Out Shapes: ** Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes from the dough. Place the cutouts onto the prepared baking sheet.

8. **Bake: ** Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.

9. **Cool and Decorate: ** Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or leave them plain.

**Special Tips: **

- To add a festive touch, you can use Christmas-themed cookie cutters like trees, stars, or snowflakes.

- For a more indulgent treat, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies.

- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Enjoy these Christmas sugar cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or as a sweet treat during the holiday season!