## Snowflake-Shaped Sugar Cookies Recipe: A Must-Try Treat This Winter
### Introduction
Imagine a winter wonderland resting at the tip of your fingers. The feeling is magical, exciting and yes, delicious too! A perfect blend of tradition and creativity in every bite, the Snowflake-Shaped Sugar Cookies are a delight to the senses. If you’re seeking a sweet, buttery treat that is fun to make – you have come to the right place!
### Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a winter staple for all the right reasons. It not only brings the family together during holiday preparation, but is also a great way to spark creativity among kids while decorating these lovely snowflake-shaped delights. Plus, who could say no to the sweet and gentle flavor these sugar cookies bring to your palates!
### How to Make Snowflake-Shaped Sugar Cookies
Let’s begin the interesting journey of transforming the simple ingredients into special holiday treats.
#### Ingredients for Snowflake-Shaped Sugar Cookies:
– 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp of baking soda
– 1/2 tsp of baking powder
– 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp of vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp of almond extract
– 1/4 tsp of salt
– Icing and sprinkles to decorate
#### Directions to Make Snowflake-Shaped Sugar Cookies:
1. Mix dry ingredients together that includes flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
2. Cream both butter and sugar until they are light and fluffy in a large bowl. Then mix in egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter and sugar. Stir occasionally.
4. Chill the mixed dough in the refrigerator for an hour.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Roll out the chilled dough and cut it into snowflake shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes until they are lightly browned on the edges.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. After they have cooled down, decorate them with icing and colorful sprinkles.
Voila! The delicious snowflake-shaped sugar cookies are ready to delight your taste buds.
### How to Serve Snowflake-Shaped Sugar Cookies
Place the beautifully decorated sugar cookies on a festive plate or in a cookie box layered with parchment paper. They can be served as is or paired with a warm glass of milk or hot chocolate.
### How to Store Snowflake-Shaped Sugar Cookies
The sugar cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They tend to remain fresh for about a week. But if you want to bake ahead, you can always freeze the unbaked cut-out cookies.
### Tips to Make Snowflake-Shaped Sugar Cookies
Remember to chill the dough well before rolling and cutting it. This step is crucial to prevent the cookies from spreading in the oven and losing their beautiful snowflake shape.
### Variations
Decorating these cookies is where you can truly let your creativity shine. Use royal icing for delicate and intricate designs or colored sugar for a sparkling effect.
### FAQs
**1. Can I use a different type of sugar instead of granulated?**
– Yes, you can use caster sugar or powdered sugar, but the cookies’ texture may vary.
**2. Is there any alternative to almond extract?**
– If you’re allergic to almonds or simply don’t like the flavor, you can use the same quantity of vanilla extract instead.
**3. Can I make the dough ahead?**
– Absolutely! You can make it and store it in the fridge up to three days ahead or freeze it for up to three months.
Brighten the winter season with these lovely Snowflake-Shaped Sugar Cookies, a festive treat that is sure to impress. Happy baking!