These Festive Star-Shaped Cookies are perfect for celebrating the holidays or adding a touch of cheer to any occasion. With a buttery texture and a simple, sweet flavor, they are sure to be loved by both kids and adults. Top them with colorful sprinkles for a fun, decorative finish.

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sprinkles for decoration

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set the mixture aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use star-shaped cookie cutters to cut out star shapes.
Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and decorate them with sprinkles.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add a Glaze: After baking, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cookies for a shiny, sweet finish.
Colorful Sprinkles: Use holiday-themed sprinkles like red and green for Christmas or pastel colors for Easter.
Lemon Flavor: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus twist.
Cut-out Shapes: If you don’t have a star cutter, you can use any shape you like, from hearts to circles.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep them fresh longer, consider layering parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing: The dough can be wrapped in plastic wrap and frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, let the dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with rolling and cutting.
Reheating: These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature. If you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

10 FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
It’s best to use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the recipe. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! Once baked and cooled, these cookies freeze well for up to 3 months. Store them in an airtight container.
Can I use a different type of flour?
You can try using gluten-free flour, but the texture and taste may differ slightly from the original recipe.
How can I make these cookies extra festive?
Use colored sugar, edible glitter, or icing in different designs to make these cookies even more festive.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before rolling it out.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
You can chill the dough if you prefer a firmer dough for rolling, but it’s not necessary.
Can I add flavorings like almond or cinnamon?
Yes, you can experiment with other extracts like almond extract or a pinch of cinnamon for a different flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges turn light golden. Don’t overbake them as they will continue to firm up while cooling.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure the dough is well chilled before baking, and avoid overmixing the dough when adding the dry ingredients.

Conclusion

These Festive Star-Shaped Cookies are not only a fun and easy holiday treat but also a versatile base for creative decorating. Whether you’re baking them for a festive celebration or just because, their simple, sweet flavor and light texture make them a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy the process of baking and decorating them as a family activity, and delight in the tasty results!