The Best Recipe for Holly and Berry Sugar Cookies

Holly and Berry Sugar Cookies bring joy and color to your holiday cookie tray. These soft sugar cookies are decorated with vibrant icing and festive sprinkles to resemble holly leaves and berries. This lighter version keeps the traditional sweetness and charm while using smarter ingredients—perfect for celebrating without overindulging.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive and Fun: Perfect for decorating with kids or for a holiday party tray.
Lower in Sugar: Made with a sugar substitute that still satisfies the sweet tooth.
Soft and Buttery: Classic cookie texture with a healthier twist.
Customizable Decor: Use icing, sprinkles, or candy to create your own festive designs.

Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookie Dough

• 1 3/4 cups white whole wheat flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup light butter, softened
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar substitute
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)

For the Icing and Decoration

• 1 cup powdered sugar substitute
• 2–3 tsp unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
• Natural green food coloring
• Red sprinkles or mini red candies for “berries”
• Leaf-shaped cookie cutter (optional)

Instructions

Make the Dough

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
• In a separate bowl, cream butter, applesauce, and sugar substitute until smooth.
• Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
• Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
• Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Roll and Cut

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
• Cut into holly leaf shapes or other festive shapes and place on the baking sheet.

Bake

• Bake cookies for 8–10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
• Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Decorate

• Mix powdered sugar substitute with milk until a thick but spreadable icing forms.
• Add green food coloring and mix until desired color is reached.
• Use a small spoon or piping bag to decorate cookies as holly leaves.
• Add red sprinkles or mini candies as berries.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie, Approximate)

Calories: 85 | Carbs: 10g | Fat: 3g | Protein: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Chill the Dough: Essential for clean cookie shapes and a soft texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove when edges are just golden for a tender cookie.
• Customize Decorations: Use natural dyes or melted dark chocolate for added detail.
• Store Smart: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze undecorated cookies for longer storage.

Why This Recipe Works

• Healthier Ingredients: Applesauce and sugar substitute reduce the calorie load without compromising taste.
• Holiday Charm: The classic shape and decoration bring seasonal cheer to every bite.
• Soft Yet Sturdy: Perfect texture for decorating without crumbling.
• Perfect for Sharing: Festive and adorable, they make a great edible gift or party offering.

These Holly and Berry Sugar Cookies are a festive favorite that brings seasonal magic without the overload of traditional treats. With a perfectly soft texture, just-sweet-enough flavor, and fun decorating potential, they’re a delicious way to celebrate the holidays—colorful, charming, and smartly lightened up for everyday indulgence.