Oh my goodness, I can’t tell you how excited I get when it’s time to whip up some fun *kids Christmas treats*! The kitchen transforms into a magical wonderland filled with sweet smells and colorful sprinkles. I remember when I was little, my mom would set everything up, and my siblings and I would dive into the flour and sugar like it was a treasure hunt! Making these treats is not just about baking; it’s about laughter, creativity, and creating memories with the little ones. The joy on their faces when they decorate cookies or watch them rise in the oven is just priceless. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like spending quality time in the kitchen, making festive treats together that will bring happiness to everyone during the holidays!

Ingredients List

• 1 cup sugar: This is the sweet base of our cookies, giving them that delightful sugary goodness.
• 1/2 cup butter (softened): Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. It adds richness and a lovely texture!
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The main structure of your cookies. I love using all-purpose flour because it works perfectly for this recipe.
• 1 tsp baking powder: This little ingredient helps the cookies rise and become fluffy. Don’t skip it!
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: For that warm, comforting flavor that makes everything better. Trust me, it’s a must!
• 1/2 cup sprinkles: The fun part! Use your favorite colorful sprinkles to make these treats festive and exciting for the kids.

How to Prepare *Kids Christmas Treats*

Getting started on these *kids Christmas treats* is super easy and oh-so-fun! Here’s how to bring that festive spirit into your kitchen:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key to making sure your cookies bake evenly and beautifully!
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together your sugar and softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer. Oh, the smell is divine!
3. Now, gently add in the flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. It should look nice and doughy.
4. Time for the fun part! Carefully fold in the sprinkles. Kids love helping with this step, and it makes the dough look so festive!
5. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop generous spoonfuls of the dough onto a lined baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between them so they have room to spread.
6. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them after the 10-minute mark to avoid overbaking!
7. Once they’re done, take them out and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is where the patience comes in—trust me, the wait is worth it!

And just like that, you’ll have a batch of delicious, festive cookies ready to share (or keep all to yourself!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to whip up—perfect for busy holiday schedules!
• Fun for kids to help with, making it a delightful family activity.
• Bright and colorful, these treats are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
• Customizable with different sprinkles or add-ins, so you can get creative!
• Soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth—everyone will be going back for seconds!

Tips for Success

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your *kids Christmas treats* turn out perfectly every time:

• Use quality ingredients: Fresh butter and good-quality vanilla extract make all the difference in flavor, so don’t skimp here!
• Keep an eye on baking: Every oven is different, so check your cookies a minute or two before the timer goes off. You want them golden, not burnt!
• Cool completely: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack to keep them from getting soggy—trust me, they’ll taste so much better!
• Store properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Following these tips will give you the best chance of success while making these festive goodies!

Variations of *Kids Christmas Treats*

If you want to switch things up and get a bit creative with your *kids Christmas treats*, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! Try using different types of sprinkles—think holiday-themed shapes or even chocolate sprinkles for a festive twist. You can also add chocolate chips or candy cane pieces into the dough for an extra sweet surprise. For a burst of flavor, consider mixing in some pumpkin spice or a dash of peppermint extract for those cozy winter vibes. Each variation brings its own special touch, making your treats even more delightful for the kids!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your *kids Christmas treats* fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay tasty for up to a week—if they last that long! If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cookies. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before popping them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours. No need to reheat—just enjoy them as they are, soft and sweet!

Nutritional Information

Each cookie is approximately 100 calories, making them a delightful treat without too much guilt! Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Calories: 100
• Fat: 4g
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 50mg

These values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re indulging in. Enjoy your baking!

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of sprinkles? Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your sprinkles. Holiday-themed shapes, chocolate sprinkles, or even edible glitter can make these *kids Christmas treats* extra special.

What if I don’t have butter? No worries! You can substitute the butter with an equal amount of coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Just make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.

How do I know when the cookies are done? Keep an eye on them! They should be golden around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before baking.

Are these cookies suitable for parties? Definitely! These colorful *kids Christmas treats* are perfect for holiday gatherings and will be a hit with both kids and adults alike!