As the holiday spirit fills the air, there’s something truly magical about rustic kitchen aromas wafting from the oven. This season, I’m excited to share my festive twist on a classic favorite: Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots. These delightful mini cookie cups boast a delectable combination of buttery sweetness and your choice of holiday beverages, making them the perfect party pleaser. What I love most is that they’re not only beginner-friendly—allowing anyone to join in the fun—but also quick to whip up using simple pantry staples. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a festive treat to share with friends, these edible shot glasses are sure to bring smiles all around. Curious to see how you can create this enchanting dessert? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Cookie Shots So Special?
Festive Fun: These Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots are perfect for celebrating the season with a joyful twist on tradition.
Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need to be a pro baker to impress your guests; the straightforward steps are suitable for all skill levels.
Customizable Fillings: Choose from a delightful array of fillings like Baileys, eggnog, or flavored milk, making each batch uniquely yours.
Gorgeous Presentation: With their colorful sprinkles and sweet dusting of powdered sugar, they’re not just delicious but also visually stunning.
Quick Prep: Whip up these festive treats in no time—ideal for busy holiday schedules. Add a touch of joy to your dessert table alongside Pumpkin Maple Cookies or Peanut Butter Cookies for a delightful spread!
Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots Ingredients
For the Cookie Shell
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and promotes tenderness in cookies; ensure it’s softened for easy creaming.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to the structure of the cookie; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
• Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; for a vegan option, substitute with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water).
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor with aromatic sweetness; use pure vanilla for the best taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Main structure component for the cookie shell; substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free needs.
• Baking Powder – Leavening agent that helps cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for proper lift.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; can be omitted if using salted butter.
For the Decoration
• Powdered Sugar – For dusting, adds sweetness and a festive touch; can be substituted with coconut powdered sugar.
• Red and Green Sprinkles – Decorative element that adds a pop of color for the holidays.
For the Filling
• Filling (e.g., Baileys, eggnog, flavored milk) – Customizes shots for adults or kids; offer a range of options for variety, perfectly complementing your Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven warms up, grab a mini muffin or shot glass pan and grease it lightly. This ensures that when your delightful Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots are baked, they release easily from the pan and maintain their perfect shape.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This creamy blend provides the ideal base for your cookie shots, contributing to their tender texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla
Add in one egg and the aromatic vanilla extract to the fluffy butter and sugar mixture. Beat this combination until it is fully incorporated and smooth, which should take about another minute. You’ll want a homogeneous mixture that enhances the flavor of your Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are well combined, as this will help in creating a light and airy cookie shell. Sifting can also be done if you prefer a finer texture in your cookies.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, using a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this could toughen your cookie shells. You want the dough to be cohesive and slightly sticky, perfect for forming your cookie cups.
Step 6: Shape the Cookie Dough
Take small portions of the cookie dough and press them firmly into the cavities of your greased mini muffin pan. Aim for about ¼-inch thickness around the edges to create a sturdy cup that will hold your fillings later. Your Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots are taking shape, so ensure they are evenly spread!
Step 7: Bake the Cookie Shells
Place the filled muffin pan in your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them and look for a light golden color around the edges. Once baked, they should appear slightly puffed and firm to the touch, a beautiful start to your festive cookie shots.
Step 8: Cool the Cookie Cups
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This allows the cookie shells to set, making them easier to handle. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack so they can cool completely. Cooling is vital to maintain the structure of your Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots.
Step 9: Fill and Decorate
Once the cookie shells are completely cool, fill each one with your choice of delightful liquid, such as Baileys, eggnog, or flavored milk. After filling, dust the tops with powdered sugar and sprinkle with red and green sprinkles for a festive touch. This decoration enhances both the presentation and the holiday spirit of your treats.
Step 10: Serve Immediately
Your vibrant Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots are now ready to be served! Present them on a festive platter, ensuring they are enjoyed while fresh. This will keep the cookie shells crisp and the filling delicious, providing your guests with a merry treat that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cookie shells up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the instructions for baking, then cool the shells completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh and crisp. When you’re ready to serve, fill the cookie cups with your favorite liquid, like Baileys or flavored milk, and decorate them with powdered sugar and sprinkles just before presenting. This way, you’ll ensure that your Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots are just as delicious and inviting as they are fresh!
Storage Tips for Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots
Room Temperature: Store unfilled cookie shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them crispy and fresh.
Refrigerator: If your cookie shots are filled, keep them in the fridge and consume within 1-2 days for the best texture and flavor, as they may soften over time.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled cookie shells for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Let them thaw at room temperature before filling to maintain their delightful crunch.
Reheating: If you wish to refresh filled cookie shots, gently warm them in the microwave for 5-10 seconds; enjoy immediately for the best experience with your Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots!
Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots Variations
Customizing your cookie shots is a fantastic way to make them truly your own; let’s explore some delightful twists together!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Chocolate Variation: Mix cocoa powder into the dough for a rich chocolatey twist that complements sweet fillings beautifully.
- Minty Freshness: Add peppermint extract to the dough for a refreshing holiday flavor; crushed candy canes can add texture and visual appeal too.
For a unique flavor experience, try experimenting with various creative fillings. Imagine the surprise of friends when they discover Baileys alongside a festive eggnog filling.
- Different Sprinkles: Swap out the classic red and green sprinkles for pastel hues or metallic ones, adding a whimsical touch to your presentation.
- Dairy-Free: Use your favorite plant-based milk instead of traditional dairy options for a comforting yet inclusive treat everyone will cherish.
- Fruity Bliss: Try filling your cookie shots with fruit-flavored milk, like strawberry or mango, for a refreshing take that’s perfect for those who love a fruity twist.
Mixing in exciting ingredients like mini chocolate chips or crushed nuts into the dough can elevate your cookie shell’s flavor and texture. This little addition provides a delightful surprise with each bite!
As you create these festive masterpieces, don’t forget to pair them alongside your other holiday favorites such as Zombie Brain Shots or Chocolate Oat Cookies to complete your dessert table!
What to Serve with Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots
As you gather around the festive table, consider these delicious pairings that elevate your holiday treats and spread joy through every flavorful bite.
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Rich Eggnog: The creamy, spiced flavor of eggnog complements the sweet cookie shots perfectly, enhancing the overall festive cheer.
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Peppermint Hot Chocolate: This creamy, minty drink offers a delightful contrast to the buttery sweetness of the cookie cups, perfect for a winter celebration.
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Christmas Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a bright, fruity note that balances the decadent sweetness of your cookie shots.
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Spiced Mulled Wine: Warm, spiced mulled wine creates a cozy and comforting atmosphere, aligning wonderfully with the holiday spirit radiating from your dessert.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Complement the cookie shots with traditional gingerbread for a whimsical cookie platter, allowing guests to mix and match flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the cookie shots for a luscious dessert experience that satisfies all tastes without overwhelming them.
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Mini Cheesecakes: Bite-sized cheesecakes offer a cheesecake variation that adds richness and indulgence, enhancing your dessert spread beautifully.
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Hot Apple Cider: The warm, spiced aroma of hot apple cider is a perfect addition to your holiday gathering, providing a comforting drink alongside sweet treats.
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Sparkling Water with Citrus: For a refreshing and palate-cleansing option, serve sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime to keep the festivities light and fruity.
Expert Tips for Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots
• Creaming Matters: Ensure your butter and sugar are well creamed for a light texture; this step is crucial for soft, delicious cookie shots.
• Mix Gently: Avoid over-mixing the dough; combine until just blended to keep your cookie shots tender and melt-in-your-mouth.
• Cool Completely: Allow your cookie cups to cool fully before filling; this helps maintain their shape and prevents sogginess.
• Fill Just Before Serving: For the best experience with your Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots, fill them just before serving to ensure they stay crispy and delightful.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix and match fillings; try diverse liquids and customize your cookie shots to suit all taste buds!
Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots Recipe FAQs
What ingredients should I look for when selecting my butter for the cookie shots?
Absolutely! When choosing your unsalted butter, look for a brand that emphasizes freshness and quality. It should be soft enough to cream easily, but not overly warm or melted. Stick to butter with a creamy texture and a clean, buttery smell for the best results in your Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots.
How should I store the cookie shells after baking?
After your cookie shots have cooled, store the unfilled cookie shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them crispy and fresh, perfect for filling later. Just remember, only fill them just before serving to maintain that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze the cookie shells for later use?
Certainly! To freeze your unfilled cookie shells, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, ensuring they are well-sealed. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature, and then fill them with your chosen liquids.
What common troubleshooting tips should I consider during baking?
Very! If your cookie shells puff up too much or lose their shape, check that you didn’t over-mix the dough or use too much flour. For best results, ensure you’re measuring flour properly. If they seem too dry, adding a touch of milk can help bring the dough together without compromising texture. Finally, always allow your cookie cups to cool completely before filling to prevent sogginess.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! For those with gluten sensitivities, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This ensures everyone can enjoy your delightful Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots. Additionally, for a vegan option, swap the egg with a flaxseed egg—a mix of 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water, allowing it to sit for a few minutes until it gels.
What should I do if my filled cookie shots become soggy?
Very importantly, to avoid sogginess in your filled cookie shots, I recommend filling them just before serving. If you need to prepare ahead of time, consider filling and storing them in the fridge for no longer than 1-2 days, so they maintain their integrity and do not become too soft.
Delightful Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots for Festive Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin or shot glass pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add in one egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding until just combined.
- Press small portions of the dough into the cavities of the greased muffin pan.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden, then let cool for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the cookie cups to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cool, fill each cup with your chosen filling and dust with powdered sugar and sprinkles.
- Serve immediately on a festive platter.
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