As the holiday season approaches, the delightful aroma of freshly baked cookies often fills our homes, evoking cherished memories and creating new ones. One whimsical addition to your festive baking repertoire could be the Easy Christmas Gnome Cookies. These charming little treats not only bring a touch of magic to your holiday table but are also surprisingly simple to prepare. With their adorable appearance and comforting flavors, these cookies have become a beloved tradition in my family. Each year, as we gather around the kitchen table, the excitement of decorating these gnome-shaped delights brings laughter and joy. The kids adore the creative process, and the adults appreciate the delicious result. The moment these cookies are served, they become the centerpiece of our holiday celebrations, with guests marveling at their intricate designs and delightful taste.
Ingredients
To create these enchanting cookies, you’ll need a selection of ingredients that combine to form a delicious and visually appealing treat. The base of the cookie requires:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the decoration, gather:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- Food coloring (red, green, and any other festive colors you prefer)
- Edible decorations such as sprinkles, chocolate chips, or colored sugar
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together. Don’t overmix.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a gnome-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies, placing them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. Gather any scraps, re-roll, and continue cutting until all the dough is used. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cookies cool, prepare the icing by combining the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl, stirring until smooth. Divide the icing into separate bowls and add food coloring to each, stirring until the desired shades are achieved. Once the cookies are completely cool, use a piping bag or a small spoon to decorate them as desired. Allow the icing to set before serving.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe yields approximately 24 gnome cookies, with each cookie containing about 120 calories. These numbers may vary slightly depending on specific brands of ingredients and any additional decorations used. While these cookies are a delightful treat, it’s always wise to enjoy them in moderation, especially during the indulgent holiday season.
Preparation Time
The total preparation and baking time for these Easy Christmas Gnome Cookies is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes 20 minutes for mixing and rolling the dough, 10-12 minutes for baking, and about 10 minutes for decorating, with additional time for cooling in between. Planning your baking schedule can help ensure that you have ample time to enjoy the decorating process without feeling rushed.
How to Serve
These charming cookies can be served in various delightful ways to enhance your holiday festivities:
- As a centerpiece: Arrange them on a decorative platter in the center of your dining table to catch everyone’s eye.
- Gift boxes: Place a few cookies in a festive box or tin and tie it with a ribbon as a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Cookie swaps: Share them at holiday cookie exchange parties, where their unique shape and design will surely stand out.
- With hot beverages: Serve alongside a warm cup of cocoa or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
- As stocking stuffers: Individually wrap each cookie in cellophane and place them in stockings for a sweet surprise.
Additional Tips
- Chill the dough: For easier handling, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.
- Use quality ingredients: Opt for real vanilla extract and high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- Experiment with colors: Feel free to mix and match food coloring to create unique shades for your gnomes.
- Customize decorations: Get creative with the edible decorations, using whatever inspires you to bring your gnomes to life.
- Store properly: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make these cookies in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. You can also bake the cookies and freeze them undecorated, then thaw and decorate closer to your event.
Q: What if I don’t have a gnome-shaped cookie cutter?
A: No problem! You can use any festive cookie cutter you have on hand, or cut out shapes freehand with a knife for a more rustic look.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled if you’re planning to make a larger batch for a party or gift-giving.
Q: How can I ensure my cookies remain soft?
A: Be careful not to overbake them, as the edges should just be turning light golden. Additionally, storing them in an airtight container helps maintain their softness.
Q: Can I use store-bought icing?
A: Yes, if you’re short on time, store-bought icing can be a convenient option. Just transfer it to a piping bag for easier application.