Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (227g) salted butter, softened
  • 0.5 cup (60g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 0.25 tsp fine sea salt
  • 0.25 cup (50g) Christmas sprinkles or sanding sugar

Instructions:

  1. The Creaming Phase: In a large bowl using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sifted powdered sugar. Start on low speed, then increase to medium-high for 3 minutes until the mixture is pale, voluminous, and resembles heavy whipped cream.
  2. Emulsifying the Aromatics: Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat for an additional 60 seconds until fully integrated to prevent dough separation.
  3. Folding the Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and sea salt directly into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula to fold the dough by hand until just combined; do not overmix.
  4. Forming and Decorating: Scoop dough into rounds. Apply Christmas sprinkles or sanding sugar to the tops.
  5. Baking: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 10 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown.