Foolproof New Years Cookies Recipe: Deliciously Easy

As I’m getting ready to bake, one thing’s for sure: new years cookies just *have* to make an appearance. I mean, is it even a celebration without a little bit of sugary goodness? I’m Lisa Raymond, by the way! And I am all about embracing the simple joys in the kitchen. So this year, I’m skipping the fancy stuff and sticking to what I know best: a super easy, totally delicious new years cookies recipe that anyone can pull off. Forget complicated techniques, we’re going for maximum flavor with minimum fuss. Trust me; these festive treats will be the star of your New Year’s Eve bash! It’s my go-to recipe for a sweet touch to any celebration.

Why You’ll Love These New Years Cookies

Okay, so why *these* new years cookies? Well, let me tell you, they’re kinda magical! They’re the perfect way to ring in the new year, and here’s why you absolutely *need* them in your life:

• Easy peasy: Seriously, if I can make them, you can make them. No complicated steps, I promise!
• Super festive: Grab your sprinkles and icing! These cookies are just begging to be decorated for the holiday.

• Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves a good sugar cookie, right? These are always a hit, no matter the crowd.
• Seriously delicious: Buttery, sweet, and perfectly soft. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Your New Years Cookies

Alright, let’s gather our goodies! I always say, having everything prepped and ready to go makes baking so much smoother. So, here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these festive new years cookies:

• 1 cup butter, softened (this is key – trust me!)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (for that perfect sweetness)
• 2 large eggs (they bind everything together, like little edible glue!)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (my secret weapon for extra flavor!)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (the base of our cookie masterpiece)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (gives them a little lift, you know?)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (just a pinch to balance the sweetness)
• Assorted sprinkles and icing for decoration (the fun part! Get creative!)

How to Make New Years Cookies: Step-by-Step

Okay, let’s get baking! Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfect new years cookies in no time. Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through it. I believe in you!

1. Preheat, Preheat, Preheat! Seriously, don’t skip this! Crank up your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is *super* important to get right. You don’t want to put your cookies into a cold oven!
2. Cream that Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl – and I mean *large*, you need the space – cream together the softened butter and sugar. Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes a few minutes. I like to use a mixer, but you can totally do it by hand if you’re feeling strong!
3. Eggs and Vanilla Time: Beat in the eggs one at a time. Make sure each one is fully mixed in before adding the next. Then, stir in that yummy vanilla extract. Mmm, can you smell it already?
4. Dry Meets Wet (Gently!): In a *separate* bowl – don’t skip this step, folks! – whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This makes sure everything is evenly distributed. Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until *just* combined. Don’t overmix! Overmixing leads to tough cookies, and nobody wants that!
5. Chill Out, Cookie Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. I know, I know, it’s hard to wait! But trust me, chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. You’ll thank me later!
6. Roll ‘Em Out: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes for the new year! Stars, champagne glasses, little clocks… get creative!
7. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the cut-out cookies on ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are *lightly* golden. Keep a close eye on them, as oven times can vary!
8. Cool Down: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking.
9. Decorate Like a Pro: Now for the best part! Decorate with sprinkles and icing. I like to use store-bought icing for convenience, but you can totally make your own if you’re feeling ambitious. There are tons of tutorials online!

Tips for the Best New Years Cookies

Want your new years cookies to be *amazing*? Of course, you do! Here are my top tips and tricks for cookie perfection. Trust me, these make a difference!

• Chill that dough! Seriously, don’t skip the chilling step. It prevents spreading and makes the dough easier to work with.
• Don’t overbake! Slightly underbaked cookies are way better than dry, crumbly ones. Keep a close eye on them in the oven.
• Decorate with a light hand. It’s tempting to pile on the sprinkles, I get it! But sometimes, less is more. A simple dusting of powdered sugar is also gorgeous!
• Let them cool completely! I know it’s hard to resist, but cookies need to cool completely before decorating, or your icing will melt.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for New Years Cookies

Okay, let’s talk ingredients! I know sometimes you gotta make do with what you have on hand. So, here are a few notes and swaps you can make for these new years cookies. Don’t stress too much; it’s all about having fun!

• Butter: Unsalted butter gives you more control over the flavor. But salted works in a pinch; just reduce the added salt a bit.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar is classic, but feel free to experiment with light brown sugar for a slightly more caramel-y vibe.
• Flour: All-purpose flour is the way to go for these. I haven’t tested it with gluten-free flours, but let me know if you try!
• Vanilla Extract: Almond extract is also lovely for new years cookies! It brings such a warm flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips for New Years Cookies

Want to get ahead of the game? Smart move! You can totally make the dough for these new years cookies a day or two in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften slightly.

Baked cookies will keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before freezing! I like to put them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag.

New Years Cookies FAQ

Got questions about making these new years cookies? Don’t worry, I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions I get asked. And if I don’t answer yours, just leave a comment below!

Can I make these new years cookies easy gluten-free?

That’s a great question! I haven’t personally tried it with this exact recipe, but you can definitely experiment! Look for a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Keep in mind that gluten-free flours can sometimes be a bit drier, so you might need to add a little extra liquid to the dough. Start with a tablespoon of milk or water and see how it goes!

What are some good new years cookies ideas for decorating?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! I personally love using edible glitter for a sparkly, festive touch. You could also try making royal icing for more detailed designs. Or, keep it simple with some colorful sprinkles and a drizzle of melted chocolate. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

How can I make sure my new years cookies recipe doesn’t spread too much in the oven?

Spreading can be frustrating, I know! The key is to make sure your butter is properly softened, but not melted. Chilling the dough is *essential* as well. Also, avoid overmixing the dough, and make sure your oven temperature is accurate. If all else fails, try adding a tablespoon or two of extra flour to the dough.

Estimated Nutritional Information for New Years Cookies

Okay, so everyone always asks about the nutrition stuff. Here’s the deal: I’m not a nutritionist, and honestly, it’s super hard to give an *exact* number for these new years cookies. It will depend on the specific ingredients you use (brands can vary!), and how heavy-handed you are with the sprinkles (no judgment here!).

So, take this as a *very* rough estimate, okay? Don’t come yelling at me if your cookies have slightly more or slightly less sugar! Just enjoy them in moderation, and have a happy New Year!

Enjoy and Share Your New Years Cookies

Woo-hoo! You did it! I really hope you enjoyed making these new years cookies as much as I do. Now, the best part: devouring them! If you loved this recipe, please give it a rating and leave a comment below – I love hearing from you! And don’t forget to share your cookie creations on social media. Happy baking, and Happy New Year!

Print