The festive season is upon us, and there’s something magical about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing laughter, and indulging in delectable desserts. Among the many delights, one stands out that sparks joy and reminisces tenderness: Twinkling Treats. As I reflect on my childhood, I remember the twinkling lights and the sweet aromas wafting through my grandma’s kitchen, signaling the start of our family’s holiday traditions. Each year, her signature dessert would capture not just our taste buds but our hearts, creating unforgettable memories around the holiday season.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into these Twinkling Treats, a collection of delightful desserts perfect for any holiday celebration. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or simply indulge in a sweet escape, this comprehensive guide will ensure your holiday gatherings are filled with joy, warmth, and excellent flavors.
Beyond the taste, these desserts bring an element of nostalgia and togetherness. They are simple to make, affordable, and versatile for different occasions, making them the perfect addition to your holiday festivities. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s make this holiday season extra special!
Recipe Metadata
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients
For the Cookie Base:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Icing:
3 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Decoration:
Sprinkles or edible glitter
Fresh fruit for garnishing (optional)
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Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help our Twinkling Treats bake evenly and prevent sticking.
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In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside, letting these dry ingredients mingle for a while.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial; it creates the base for the delightful texture of your Twinkling Treats.
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Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This is where the magic begins—a rich, creamy mix full of flavor.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined. Your dough should be moist and slightly tacky.
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Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
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Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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For the icing, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a bit more milk, a teaspoon at a time.
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Once the cookies are completely cool, dip the tops in the icing and sprinkle with colored sprinkles or edible glitter while the icing is still wet for that twinkling touch!
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Allow the icing to set for at least 30 minutes before serving, giving your Twinkling Treats that eye-catching sparkle.
Pro Tips
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Chill Your Dough: If you find your dough too sticky to handle, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes to make rolling easier.
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Add Flavor: Experiment with zest from oranges or lemons in the dough for a festive twist.
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Storage: Keep your Twinkling Treats in an airtight container for freshness. They can last up to a week—if they last that long!
Variations
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Chocolate Lovers: Add 1-2 cups of chocolate chips to your dough for a deliciously rich chocolate experience.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans into the mix for added texture and flavor.
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Vegan Version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a plant-based twist!
These Twinkling Treats shine brightly at any gathering, whether it be holiday parties, family get-togethers, or even cozy evenings at home. My grandmother always emphasized, “The best desserts are the ones shared,” and these will undoubtedly create a sparkle in the eyes of everyone you serve them to.
Conclusion
This holiday season, embrace the spirit of togetherness with these delightful Twinkling Treats. They not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also serve as the centerpiece for making new memories with your loved ones. Their preparation is straightforward, affordable, and customizable for everyone’s taste—what’s not to love?
So, gather your ingredients, involve your family in the cooking process, and sprinkle some love into each bite. Are you excited to make these Twinkling Treats this holiday season? Don’t forget to share your creations with us, and indulge in the twinkly joy these desserts bring to your table!
Frequently Asked Questions About Twinkling Treats
What are Twinkling Treats?
Twinkling Treats are delightful holiday desserts that bring joy and spark to celebrations, typically incorporating a soft cookie base topped with icing and sprinkles.
Can I prepare Twinkling Treats ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cookie base a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. Ice them the day you plan to serve for the best appearance.
How should I store my Twinkling Treats?
Store your Twinkling Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can refrigerate them for longer freshness but allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Can I freeze Twinkling Treats?
Yes! Once baked, you can freeze the cookies without icing. To enjoy later, simply thaw them, ice, and decorate them as needed.
What if my icing is too thick?
If your icing is too thick, add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency. It should be smooth and easy to dip.
Are there any substitutes for ingredients in Twinkling Treats?
For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil in place of butter and almond milk instead of regular milk.
Can I add flavor to the icing?
Definitely! You can infuse the icing with flavors like almond extract or peppermint extract for added holiday spirit.
How do I avoid spreading cookies too much while baking?
Ensure your dough is well-chilled before baking and don’t skip the baking powder, as this helps maintain structure.
This Twinkling Treats blog post is designed not only to guide you in your baking journey but to inspire you to make wonderful memories during the holiday season. Indulge, share, and brighten your holidays with these delicious delights!