Easy Festive Cookies: A Sweet Holiday Treat

There’s something magical about the holiday season, and nothing brings that magic to life quite like the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home. With this easy recipe for festive cookies, you’ll have colorful, delicious treats that are sure to brighten any holiday gathering. Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, this straightforward recipe will make you feel like a pro.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Festive Cookies

The beauty of these cookies lies in their simplicity. Using a boxed cake mix as the base, you can whip up a batch of festive red and green cookies with minimal effort. They’re soft, chewy, and coated in powdered sugar for that perfect holiday touch. Best of all, you can customize them to be gluten-free if needed, making them a hit for everyone.

Ingredients for Easy Festive Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to create these vibrant holiday cookies:

Ingredient	Quantity
White cake mix	1 box (13.25 oz)
Eggs	2
Olive oil	1/3 cup
Powdered sugar	1/3 cup
Red food coloring	As needed
Green food coloring	As needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your cookies to perfection:

1. Preheat Your Oven
   Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
   
2. Mix the Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and olive oil. Stir until the dough is smooth and well combined.
   
3. Divide and Add Color
   Split the dough evenly into two bowls. Add red food coloring to one bowl and green food coloring to the other. Mix each bowl until the colors are evenly distributed.
   
4. Shape the Cookies
   Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to form 1.5-tablespoon-sized balls of dough. Roll each ball in powdered sugar, ensuring a generous coating.
   
5. Bake
   Place the dough balls on the lined baking sheet, spacing them 1.5 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 9-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft in the center.
   
6. Cool and Enjoy
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once cooled, they’re ready to serve!
   

Expert Tips for Perfect Festive Cookies

• Consistency is Key: Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes, ensuring even baking.
• Color Intensity: Add food coloring a few drops at a time until you reach your desired shade. Gel food coloring works best for vibrant colors.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the regular cake mix for a gluten-free alternative, adjusting the measurements slightly if needed.
• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimate for one cookie (assuming a yield of 24 cookies):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	110
Carbohydrates	15g
Fat	4g
Protein	1g
Sugar	8g

How to Customize Your Easy Festive Cookies

• Add Sprinkles: Sprinkle a few colorful nonpareils on top before baking for extra flair.
• Flavor Boost: Mix in a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for added depth.
• Festive Shapes: Use cookie cutters to shape the dough before rolling in powdered sugar.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Cookies Spread Too Much: Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape.
2. Dough Too Sticky: Dust your hands with powdered sugar or flour when rolling the dough.
3. Uneven Coloring: Mix thoroughly and scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure even distribution of food coloring.

FAQs About Easy Festive Cookies

1. Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor. Use the same measurement.

2. How do I make the cookies more colorful?
Use gel-based food coloring instead of liquid for more vibrant hues.

3. Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Once cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to three months.

4. What other colors can I use?
Feel free to experiment with other festive colors like blue, gold, or white for different occasions.

5. Do I need to use powdered sugar?
While powdered sugar adds a beautiful crinkle effect, you can skip it if preferred.

6. How many cookies does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies, depending on the size of your dough balls.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays

These easy festive cookies are not just a treat; they’re a memory in the making. Baking them is a fun activity for kids and adults alike, filling your home with warmth and joy. Whether you’re hosting a party, sharing with neighbors, or simply indulging with a cup of hot cocoa, these cookies are sure to delight.

Conclusion: Bake, Share, Enjoy

There’s no better way to spread holiday cheer than with a plate of these colorful, delicious cookies. They’re quick to make, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get baking—you’re about to create something magical.

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