Crispy Chewy Christmas Powdered Sugar Cookies – A Grandmother’s Holiday Treasure

Every year during the holidays, my grandmother baked a cookie so irresistible that it left everyone guessing how she created such magic. These weren’t the typical snowball, Mexican wedding cookie, or butterball. Instead, they were a beautiful mix of **crispy edges**, **chewy centers**, and a **tender, moist bite** all wrapped in a cloud of **powdered sugar**.
For years, I searched endlessly through her recipe binder, flipping page after page, always passing it without noticing. But when I finally found it—and made it myself—I knew without a doubt: **this recipe made the Christmas cookies I cherished every season**.

Ingredients & Their Purpose

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Creates a tender, rich base and helps achieve both crisp and chewy texture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and ensures proper caramelization for crispy edges.
• 2 large eggs – Bind the dough and keep the centers soft and moist.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Infuses deep holiday warmth and enhances every flavor.
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the cookie light and soft.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Gives lift for that perfect chewy–crispy balance.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Adds subtle extra puff for a tender bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and sharpens flavor.
• Powdered sugar (for coating) – Creates the nostalgic snowy finish that makes these cookies unforgettable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for even baking.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures crisp edges and a smooth texture.
3. Add eggs and vanilla: Mix in one egg at a time, then add vanilla. Beat until fully combined.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
5. Form the dough: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined—overmixing can make the cookies tough.
6. Shape: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them lightly between your palms.
7. Bake: Place on baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still appear soft.
8. Coat in powdered sugar: Allow cookies to cool for 2 minutes. While still warm, roll each one generously in powdered sugar. Let them cool completely, then roll again for a thicker, snowy coating.

Why Everyone Loves These Cookies

These cookies strike the perfect harmony of **crispy**, **chewy**, and **tender**—a texture combination that keeps people coming back for “just one more.” The buttery interior stays moist, while the powdered sugar adds a festive finish reminiscent of snowy Christmas mornings. They’re nostalgic, comforting, and unbelievably delicious.

Pro Tips for Perfecting This Recipe

• Do not overbake: The cookies should look soft in the center when you remove them—they firm up as they cool.
• Double-coat in powdered sugar: Rolling once while warm and again when cool creates the perfect frosted finish.
• Chill the dough for 20 minutes if you want thicker, puffier cookies.
• Use real butter: Margarine won’t provide the same rich flavor or texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies alongside a mug of **hot cocoa**, **holiday spiced tea**, or a classic **glass of cold milk**. They also make an excellent addition to Christmas cookie trays, edible gift boxes, or festive dessert spreads.

Conclusion

These **Crispy Chewy Christmas Powdered Sugar Cookies** are a celebration of family, memory, and timeless flavor. They’re incredibly simple to make, yet taste like something straight from a holiday bakery. With their perfect texture and nostalgic sweetness, they are guaranteed to become a cherished favorite in your own home—just as they were in mine.
Make a batch this year and watch them disappear as fast as you set them down!