Sparkling Holiday Star Cookies Recipe to Brighten Your Season

There’s something truly magical about homemade cookies during the holiday season! These Sparkling Holiday Star Cookies are not only delicious but also bring that festive sparkle to any gathering. Perfect for cookie swaps, holiday parties, or cozy nights in with loved ones, these cookies are bound to bring joy to everyone who tries them.

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Why You’ll Love These Sparkling Holiday Star Cookies

Imagine a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie with a hint of almond and vanilla, decorated with vibrant colors and a sprinkle of sparkle. These cookies are:

• Deliciously Buttery: Soft and crumbly with the perfect level of sweetness.
• Festive and Fun to Make: With vibrant holiday colors and glitter, they’re as fun to look at as they are to eat!
• Versatile: Decorate them with a variety of colors and toppings to match any holiday theme.

The Taste and Texture of Sparkling Holiday Star Cookies

These cookies taste as amazing as they look! They’re buttery with a hint of vanilla and almond, giving them a warm, nutty sweetness. The texture is soft yet sturdy enough to hold the icing and decorations without breaking. With each bite, you’ll taste the richness of butter and the gentle flavors of the extracts—perfectly complemented by the sweet royal icing on top. And that edible glitter? It adds a bit of crunch and sparkle, making these cookies truly shine!

Benefits of Making Sparkling Holiday Star Cookies

Beyond their delicious flavor and festive look, these cookies are also a great way to:

• Create Lasting Memories: Decorating cookies with family and friends is a timeless holiday tradition.
• Spread Joy: Perfect as gifts for neighbors, teachers, or coworkers.
• Show Off Your Baking Skills: These cookies look bakery-worthy but are simple to make at home!

Ingredients for Sparkling Holiday Star Cookies

Cookie Dough

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp almond extract (optional, for added flavor)
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt

Royal Icing

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
• Food coloring in vibrant holiday colors
• Edible glitter or star-shaped sprinkles for decoration

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls: One for dry ingredients, one for creaming butter and sugar.
• Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer): For creaming butter and sugar.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough.
• Star-shaped cookie cutters: The star of the show—literally!
• Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and no sticking.
• Cooling rack: Helps cookies cool evenly before decorating.
• Piping bags (optional): For easier icing application.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sparkling Holiday Star Cookies

Prepare the Dough

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to roll out.

Shape and Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
3. Cut Out Stars: Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out as many stars as possible.
4. Bake the Cookies: Place stars on the lined baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
5. Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before decorating.

Decorate the Cookies

1. Prepare the Royal Icing: In a bowl, mix powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
2. Divide and Color the Icing: Separate the icing into smaller bowls and add a few drops of different food colors to each. Stir well to combine.
3. Decorate and Add Sparkle: Ice the cookies using a piping bag or a small spoon, then sprinkle edible glitter or star-shaped sprinkles immediately, while the icing is still wet, for best adhesion.

Tips for Perfect Sparkling Holiday Star Cookies

1. Chill the Dough: This step is essential for maintaining the cookie shape and reducing spread while baking.
2. Adjust Icing Consistency: If the icing is too thick, add a little milk. If it’s too runny, add more powdered sugar until you reach the perfect consistency.
3. Add Decorations Quickly: To ensure the sprinkles or glitter stick well, add them immediately after applying the icing.
4. Store Carefully: Keep these cookies in a single layer or with parchment between layers to preserve decorations.

Decoration Ideas for Your Holiday Star Cookies

• Starburst Sparkle: Add edible stars or a dusting of edible glitter for a celestial, magical touch.
• Color Contrast: Try combining contrasting icing colors, like red with green or gold with purple, to create a lively holiday scene.
• Holiday Centerpiece: Arrange these cookies around a candle centerpiece for a sparkling addition to any table setting!

Storage Instructions

Once decorated, store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to layer them, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to protect the icing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes! Freeze undecorated cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Decorate once thawed.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. The dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Just let it soften slightly at room temperature before rolling.

What other shapes can I use?

While stars are festive, you can use any holiday-shaped cutter you prefer—think snowflakes, trees, or even candy canes!

How can I make the icing dry faster?

Place the cookies in a cool, dry area. You can also use a fan to help the icing set more quickly.

Conclusion: Spark Joy with Every Bite!

These Sparkling Holiday Star Cookies are truly a joy to make and share. From their delicious buttery base to the enchanting decorations, they bring warmth and magic to any occasion. Perfect for gifting, holiday gatherings, or just because, these cookies are bound to be a hit with everyone who tastes them.

Love this recipe? Don’t forget to try our Christmas Stocking Sugar Cookies for another festive cookie treat, our Gingerbread Cake for a cozy holiday dessert, or our Christmas Cake for a show-stopping celebration centerpiece.

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