The holiday season is a magical time filled with festive cheer, family gatherings, and, of course, decadent treats. When it comes to holiday baking, one cookie that stands out is the Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookie. These delightful cookies are not only a feast for the eyes with their vibrant sprinkles but also a treat for the taste buds. With a soft, chewy texture and a punch of flavor, they are perfect for sharing at holiday parties, giving as gifts, or simply enjoying with a cup of cocoa on a chilly winter evening.
Why We Love This Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies Recipe
There’s something universally appealing about cookies that break traditional molds while still embracing the joys of holiday baking. Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies manage to offer that and so much more. The secret to their fluffy and soft texture lies in the addition of instant pudding mix, which enhances moisture and flavor. The result is a cookie that melts in your mouth and brings a burst of sweetness with every delightful sprinkle.
These cookies are versatile; you can easily adapt them to fit your taste or the preferences of your loved ones. Whether you prefer classic holiday flavors or want to mix in some creative twists, the options are endless. Moreover, the bright and cheerful appearance makes them a joy to serve at any holiday gathering.
Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the world of Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies, and discover how you can create these little bites of joy in your kitchen.
Ingredients about Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies
Every great recipe begins with high-quality ingredients. For these Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies, you will need a mix of standard baking staples and some seasonal sprinkles to bring that festive flair. Here’s what you will need:
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup shortening
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 box (3.4 ounces) instant pudding mix (vanilla works wonderfully)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Christmas sprinkles
These ingredients come together to create a delicious cookie dough that will have everyone begging for the recipe. Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best results, and don’t forget to measure accurately for perfect cookies.
How to Make Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies Directions
Baking Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies is not only easy but also a joyful experience that you can share with family and friends. Follow these straightforward steps to create your batch:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are.
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure they bake evenly.
- Cream the Butter and Shortening: In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter and shortening. Use an electric mixer to cream them together with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla and the instant pudding mix until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour.
- Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed, allowing each addition to blend in fully before adding more. The dough should come together easily, forming a thick consistency.
- Add Sprinkles: To finish off your dough, fold in Christmas sprinkles. This will give your cookies that festive appearance and delightful crunch.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Next, place the sprinkles in a small bowl and roll each ball in the sprinkles to coat them evenly.
- Arrange on Baking Sheets: Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to set and turn lightly golden, while the centers remain soft.
- Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential as it allows for the cookies to firm up and achieve the perfect texture.
Now that your kitchen is filled with the delightful scent of freshly baked cookies, your family and friends will soon gather, eager to enjoy these tasty treats!
How to Serve Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies
When it comes to serving your Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies, presentation is key. Here are some creative ways to serve these cookies, enhancing their visual appeal and making them even more festive.
- Cookie Platters: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter. Consider adding other holiday treats, such as peppermint bark, gingerbread men, or holiday candies, to create a beautiful spread.
- Gift Bags: These cookies make for a perfect gift! Place them in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons. This not only showcases the vibrant sprinkles but also adds a personal touch to your holiday gifts.
- Dessert Table: If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, create a dessert table featuring your Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies. Decorate the table with festive linens, holiday ornaments, and candles to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Milk and Cookies: For a classic touch, serve your cookies with cold milk or a warm cup of cocoa. This comforting combination evokes childhood memories and makes for an enjoyable experience for all ages.
- With Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This delicious dessert will surely please everyone at your gathering.
Ultimately, the way you serve these cookies can enhance your holiday festivities, bringing joy to those lucky enough to enjoy them!
Expert Tips: Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies
To ensure you achieve the best results with your Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies, consider these expert tips:
- Proper Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is at room temperature when creaming with the sugar. This allows for better incorporation of air, resulting in a lighter cookie.
- Measuring Flour: Be cautious not to pack the flour when measuring. Instead, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off for accurate measurements. Too much flour can lead to a dry cookie.
- Chill the Dough: If time permits, chilling the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies retain their shape and improve their texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. It’s better to underbake slightly than overbake. The cookies should look soft in the center when you take them out; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Experiment with Sprinkles: Get creative with your sprinkles! While classic holiday colors are festive, consider using themed sprinkles for different occasions throughout the year.
How to Store Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies
Storing your Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies properly will help maintain their delightful texture and flavor long after they have been baked. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Airtight Container: Allow the cookies to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. This will help prevent the cookies from becoming soggy or losing their signature softness.
- Room Temperature Storage: Store the container at room temperature away from direct sunlight. If stored properly, these cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
- Freezing for Long-Term Storage: If you wish to enjoy your cookies later, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes.
By following these storage tips, you can savor the joy of Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies well beyond the holidays!
Variation of Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies
If you want to add a personal twist to your Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies, there are countless variations you can try. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Flavor Variations: Swap the vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty flavor, or add peppermint extract for a refreshing winter twist. You could even use flavored pudding mixes, like chocolate or butterscotch, for a different taste profile.
- Add-Ins: Feel free to incorporate more mix-ins into your cookie dough. Consider adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
- Holiday Themes: Change the sprinkles according to different holidays! Use pastel colors for Easter, red, white, and blue for Independence Day, or orange and black for Halloween—endless options!
- Current Trends: For an on-trend dessert, try sandwiching your cookies with a layer of frosting or frosting in between, creating a cookie sandwich. Use festive colors or themed frosting for seasonal fun.
Isn’t it wonderful how versatile cookies can be? You can make each batch a little different to surprise and delight your friends and family!
FAQ about Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies
What makes Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies different from regular cookies?
The addition of instant pudding mix gives these cookies a soft, chewy texture and enhances their flavor. This unique ingredient sets them apart from standard cookie recipes.
How do I keep my cookies soft?
To maintain softness, ensure you don’t overbake the cookies. Remove them from the oven when they appear set but still soft in the center.
Can I use flavored pudding mix?
Absolutely! Using a flavored pudding mix can alter the base flavor of your cookies, allowing for a fun twist on the classic. Vanilla is a traditional choice, but feel free to experiment with chocolate or butterscotch.
How long can I store these cookies?
When stored in an airtight container, your Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies can last up to 5 days at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, these cookies can be made ahead of time. You can freeze the dough or baked cookies, making them perfect for holiday preparations or last-minute gatherings.
Christmas Sprinkle Pudding Cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature Make sure the butter is softened for easier mixing.
- 1/4 cup shortening Use to help achieve a soft texture.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature Bringing eggs to room temperature helps them mix evenly.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Be careful not to pack the flour when measuring.
- 1 box instant pudding mix (3.4 ounces) Vanilla flavor works best for this recipe.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Christmas sprinkles
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and shortening with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 4-5 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla and instant pudding mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture and mix until fully combined.
- Fold in the Christmas sprinkles until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough, roll into balls, and coat each ball in extra sprinkles.
- Arrange the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Baking
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are set and lightly golden.
- Remove cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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