There’s just something magical about ringing in the New Year with a batch of freshly baked cookies! I mean, what better way to celebrate than with sweet, colorful treats that bring everyone together? These *New Year’s cookies decorated* are not just any cookies; they’re little bites of joy that sparkle with festivity. As the clock ticks down and the countdown begins, these cookies add a delightful touch to your celebration. Picture the vibrant colors of royal icing and the fun shapes that bring smiles to faces young and old. Trust me, they’re perfect for sharing with friends, family, or even just treating yourself after a long year. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create some tasty memories as we toast to new beginnings!
Ingredients List
Let’s gather everything we need to make these festive cookies! Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of our cookie dough, giving it structure and that delicious bakery-like texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: This little leavener helps the cookies rise ever so slightly, making them nice and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s room temperature for easy creaming! This adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! This gives our cookies that classic sugary goodness.
- 1 egg: This binds everything together and adds a lovely richness to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that warm, comforting flavor that makes every bite feel special.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract: A splash of this adds a unique and delightful twist that you’ll absolutely love!
- Royal icing for decoration: This is what makes our cookies look stunning! You can whip it up from scratch or buy it pre-made.
- Food coloring: Get creative with colors! This is where the fun begins when decorating your cookies.
Now that we’ve got our ingredients lined up, let’s jump into the fun part—baking these beauties!
How to Prepare New Year’s Cookies Decorated
Alright, let’s get those festive vibes going! Here’s how to whip up these delightful cookies step by step:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important to ensure our cookies bake perfectly! While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will help the cookies come off easily once they’re baked.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk them together until well blended. This little mix is crucial for the right texture in our cookies, so make sure everything’s even!
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Now, grab a large bowl and cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar. You want to beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Trust me, this step adds that dreamy texture we all love!
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, crack in 1 egg, and add 1 teaspoon each of vanilla and almond extracts to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is combined and smooth. You’ll love that sweet aroma filling your kitchen!
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mix to the wet ingredients, a little at a time. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies to remain tender!
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Time for some fun! On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Then, use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Don’t worry about perfection—each cookie will have its own charm!
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie shapes on your prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for about 8-10 minutes, just until the edges start to turn golden. Keep an eye on them; overbaking is a no-no!
Step 8: Cool and Decorate
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Make sure they’re completely cool before decorating with royal icing and food coloring. This is where the magic happens, so take your time and get creative!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk about what’s in these delicious cookies! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each cookie:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keep in mind these values are estimates, and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, who’s counting calories when you’re celebrating the New Year with these festive treats? Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
To ensure your *New Year’s cookies decorated* turn out perfectly, here are some handy tips! First off, make sure your cookies are completely cool before you start decorating; this will prevent any melting and ensure your icing looks sharp and beautiful. If you want to keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay delightful for about a week. Feeling creative? Don’t hesitate to experiment with different shapes and colors! Try mixing in festive sprinkles or using multiple colors of icing for a fun twist. And remember, practice makes perfect—your decorating skills will improve with every batch! So have fun with it, and let your imagination run wild!
Variations on New Year’s Cookies Decorated
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s get creative with some fun variations on these *New Year’s cookies decorated*! The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to share some of my favorites with you!
- Shape It Up: Instead of the classic circles, why not use cookie cutters to create stars, fireworks, or even champagne glasses? These festive shapes will truly capture the spirit of the celebration!
- Flavor Twists: Feeling adventurous? Try adding some lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy kick. Or mix in some cocoa powder for a chocolatey version that’s sure to impress!
- Fun Icing Techniques: Experiment with different icing techniques! Try using a piping bag for intricate designs or a simple drizzle for a modern look. You could also use edible glitter or sprinkles to make them sparkle even more!
- Stuffed Cookies: Want to take it up a notch? Consider stuffing your cookies with a bit of jam or Nutella before baking. Just be sure to seal the edges well; the surprise filling will delight everyone!
- Color Explosion: Go wild with colors! Use multiple shades of icing and create a rainbow effect or even ombre designs. You can let your creativity flow freely—there’s no wrong way to decorate!
These variations not only make your cookies stand out but also allow you to tailor them to your taste and the celebration itself. So, grab your supplies and let your imagination run wild while you whip up these delightful treats!
FAQ About New Year’s Cookies Decorated
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before rolling it out, as it will be easier to work with when slightly softened.
What’s the best way to store decorated cookies?
After decorating, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh and prevents the royal icing from getting sticky. Just be careful not to stack them too high, or the decorations might get smudged!
Can I use other types of icing instead of royal icing?
Sure thing! While royal icing is fantastic for decorating because it dries hard, you can use buttercream or even glaze if you prefer. Just keep in mind that these options may not set as firmly, so they require a little more care when stacking or storing.
What if my royal icing is too runny?
If your royal icing is too runny, don’t stress! Just add a bit more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. You want it to be thick enough to hold its shape but still spreadable for decorating.
Can I freeze the cookies after baking?
Yes, you can! Once the cookies are completely cool, place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before decorating and serving!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Fun: These *New Year’s cookies decorated* bring a burst of color and joy to your celebrations, making every gathering feel special.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up a batch of these delightful cookies!
- Creative Expression: You can let your imagination run wild with decorations—mix colors, try unique shapes, and experiment with flavors!
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are not just delicious; they’re also a wonderful way to spread joy and sweet treats among friends and family.
- Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared in advance, making it easy to enjoy freshly baked cookies whenever the mood strikes!
Trust me, you’ll find that baking and decorating these cookies is not just a recipe; it’s a festive experience that brings everyone together as you celebrate new beginnings!
Print
New Year’s Cookies Decorated: 7 Festive Treats to Savor
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously decorated cookies for New Year’s celebration.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- Royal icing for decoration
- Food coloring
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients.
- Roll out the dough and cut into desired shapes.
- Place cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes.
- Let cookies cool completely before decorating.
- Use royal icing and food coloring to decorate as desired.
Notes
- Ensure cookies are completely cool before icing.
- Store decorated cookies in an airtight container.
- Experiment with different shapes and colors for decoration.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: New Year's cookies, decorated cookies, festive cookies
