You know those Christmas sugar cookies that look gorgeous but turn rock-hard a day later? These Christmas Sugar Cookies stay soft and tender for days, so you can bake and decorate ahead without sacrificing that melt‑in‑your‑mouth texture. You cream real butter with sugar, add a splash of milk or sour cream for extra moisture, and bake just until set for cut‑out cookies that hold their shape and still feel pillowy when you bite in.
Why these cookies stay soft for days
The dough uses plenty of butter, a touch of baking powder, and just enough liquid to keep the crumb moist without turning cakey. Milk or sour cream not only adds tenderness but also a subtle richness that echoes old‑fashioned sour cream sugar cookies known for staying soft on the counter. Chilling the dough ensures the cookies don’t spread too much, which helps maintain thickness—thicker cookies plus a light bake equal a soft center that doesn’t dry out.