The holiday season is all about twinkling lights, festive gatherings, and of course, delightful treats that make your taste buds dance. Picture this: the sweet scent of buttery cookies wafting through your kitchen while colorful sprinkles catch the light like tiny ornaments. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with these Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies! They’re not only soft and chewy but also a canvas for your creativity, waiting to be adorned with festive decorations that reflect your unique style.
I discovered this enchanting recipe while preparing for a holiday cookie swap and instantly knew it would be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to switch up your routine, these cookies are surprisingly easy to make and customizable, making them perfect for any holiday occasion. So grab your apron and let’s create some delicious memories together with this playful treat that will surely add joy to your celebrations!
Why are stacked Christmas sprinkle cookies so special?
Easy to Make: These cookies require minimal baking skills, making them fun for everyone, from novice bakers to seasoned pros.
Customizable Delight: You can personalize your cookies with different flavors and decorations, allowing your creativity to shine through!
Festive Vibes: The vibrant colors of sprinkles make these cookies a joyful addition to any holiday celebration.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether at a cookie swap or a family gathering, they’re sure to be a hit, pleasing both kids and adults alike!
Time-Saving: Whip these up in under an hour, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities. Try serving them alongside other delightful cookies for a charming platter!
Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Butter – Essential for richness and moisture; can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; brown sugar can add extra moisture and a slight caramel flavor.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture; a flaxseed mixture can be used for vegan options.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; swap for almond extract for a delightful twist.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; kosher salt or sea salt will work interchangeably.
For the Decoration
- Sprinkles – Adds vibrant color and festive cheer; use jimmies or colored sugar for softer alternatives to nonpareils.
- Buttercream Frosting – Perfect for layering and decorating; feel free to color it for additional festive fun!
How to Make Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies
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Cream Together: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This helps to incorporate air, which makes your cookies nice and tender.
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Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to include all ingredients. This adds depth to the flavor, creating a delicious base for your cookies.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough that’s easy to handle.
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Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This will help prevent excessive spreading during baking, giving you those beautifully shaped cookies.
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Form the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll small portions of dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Coat each ball with festive sprinkles and flatten them to about ¼ inch thick. For a stacked look, place a smaller plain dough disk on top of each cookie.
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Bake: Arrange the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies puff up and the edges turn slightly golden.
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Cool & Decorate: Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before decorating with buttercream frosting. Pipe or spread the frosting creatively on each cookie, adding even more festive flair!
Optional: For an extra pop of color, sprinkle additional decorations on the frosting before it sets.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Ensure your dough is well-chilled before baking. This will help prevent the cookies from spreading too much, maintaining their lovely shape.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, avoid overmixing. This keeps your cookies soft and chewy, a hallmark of delicious stacked Christmas sprinkle cookies.
- Use Festive Sprinkles: Get creative with sprinkles! Consider using color combinations or themed sprinkles to match your holiday decor, adding a personal touch.
- Check the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies in the last few minutes of baking to avoid overbaking. They should be lightly golden at the edges.
- Store Properly: To keep your cookies soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge if you want them to last longer.
Make Ahead Options
The delightful stacked Christmas sprinkle cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Simply follow the mixing instructions and then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap before chilling. Alternatively, you can form the cookies into balls, coat them with sprinkles, and freeze them for up to 3 months; just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven straight from the fridge or freezer, adding a minute or two to baking time. You’ll enjoy fresh, delicious cookies with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies?
These festive cookies are just the beginning of a joyful holiday celebration, perfectly complementing your seasonal gatherings with their vibrant colors and delectable flavors.
- Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy cup of hot cocoa enhances the sweetness of the cookies, making it a cozy pairing for winter nights.
- Eggnog: This classic holiday drink offers a creamy, spiced undertone that beautifully complements the sweetness of your cookies.
- Milk: A timeless duo! The creaminess of cold milk balances the sweet and chewy cookie texture, making every bite even more delightful.
- Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries and citrus add a refreshing touch, cutting through the sweetness while offering a splash of color.
- Cheese Board: Include a selection of mild cheeses for a savory contrast, enhancing the cookie’s festive flavors whilst creating a well-rounded dessert table.
- Frosted Cupcakes: Layer on the fun by serving with some decorated cupcakes, providing additional festive flair to your dessert spread.
- Spiced Tea: Cozy up with a cup of spiced tea, bringing warmth and aromatic spices that beautifully pierce through the cookie’s sweetness.
- Gingerbread Men: Deliciously nostalgic, these classic cookies complement the playful sprinkle layers, creating a delightful holiday cookie platter.
- Sugar Cookie Bars: For a similar but distinct treat, sugar cookie bars are soft and yield another crowd-pleasing option to keep everyone satisfied during the festivities.
Storage Tips for Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies
- Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
- Fridge: If you prefer, you can store your stacked Christmas sprinkle cookies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just ensure they’re sealed tight to prevent them from drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen cookies in the fridge and reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their soft texture.
Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your imagination run wild with these delightful variations that will bring even more cheer to your holiday baking!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive guests while keeping the cookie’s texture intact.
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Vegan: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter, and replace the egg with a flaxseed mixture to create a completely plant-based treat.
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Chocolate Lovers: Swap in cocoa powder for a portion of the flour to create a rich chocolate dough, giving your cookies a decadent twist.
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Fun Flavors: Experiment with flavored extracts like peppermint or almond to give a delicious twist to your cookie base, turning them into uniquely festive treats.
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Dipped in Chocolate: After baking and cooling, dip one half of each cookie in melted chocolate for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
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Sprinkle Swap: Use crushed candy canes instead of sprinkles for a minty holiday crunch, capturing the essence of the season in every bite.
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Filling Surprise: Add a dollop of fruit jam or a chocolate ganache between the stacked cookies for a delightful surprise when bitten into.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like pecans or almonds into the dough for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with sprinkles.
Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to choose ripe ingredients for my cookies?
Absolutely! For the butter, opt for room temperature unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture. When choosing eggs, large, fresh eggs are ideal; ensure they’re not past their expiration date. If you’re looking for a vibrant splash of color in your cookies, pick sprinkles that are fresh and vibrant without any signs of clumping or fading.
How should I store my stacked Christmas sprinkle cookies?
To keep these delicious cookies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you’d like them to stay soft and fresh for longer, place them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just remember to wrap them well to prevent drying out!
Can I freeze my stacked Christmas sprinkle cookies?
Yes, indeed! To freeze these festive treats, first allow your cookies to cool completely. Then, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm. After that, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, no worries! Simply sprinkle a little extra flour onto your hands and work surface while shaping the cookies. Another tip is to refrigerate the dough for an additional 15 to 30 minutes; this helps firm it up, making it easier to handle and shape the cookies.
Are these stacked Christmas sprinkle cookies suitable for everyone?
Very! If you’re considering dietary restrictions, you can make these cookies gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free options, margarine can replace butter without sacrificing flavor. If you or anyone you’re serving has allergies, be mindful of the sprinkles you choose, as some may contain allergens like gluten or nuts. Always double-check labels to ensure they’re safe for everyone!
Stacked Christmas Sprinkle Cookies: Festive Fun for Everyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll small portions of dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Coat with sprinkles and flatten them to about ¼ inch thick.
- Place a smaller plain dough disk on top of each cookie for a stacked look.
- Arrange the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before decorating with buttercream frosting.
- Optionally, sprinkle additional decorations on the frosting before it sets.