During the festive season, nothing brings more joy to a home than the sweet aroma of freshly baked treats. In the heart of Mexican Christmas traditions lies a delightful recipe for Galletas Navideñas, also known as Christmas cookies. These cookies are not just a delicious sweet treat but a symbol of love and togetherness shared with family and friends during the holidays. With hints of cinnamon and sweetness, these cookies are perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere in your home. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the warmth of Mexican Christmas into your kitchen.
**Galletas Navideñas Christmas Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly without sticking to the pan.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set this aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a perfectly textured cookie.
4. **Incorporate Wet Ingredients:** Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, and beat until well combined. The vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma that complements the cinnamon in the cookies.
5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in tough cookies.
6. **Roll Out the Dough:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the cookie dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use holiday-themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes like stars, Christmas trees, and bells.
7. **Bake the Cookies:** Place the cut-out cookie shapes on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. **Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar:** Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a festive finish that adds a touch of sweetness.
9. **Enjoy the Warmth of Festive Flavors:** Serve these Galletas Navideñas Christmas cookies with a mug of hot chocolate or a glass of milk for a cozy holiday treat. Share the joy by gifting these homemade cookies to loved ones or enjoy them by the fireplace with your family.
Embrace the spirit of Christmas with these mouthwatering Galletas Navideñas Christmas cookies. May the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of homemade goodness fill your home with joy and create lasting memories this holiday season.
