Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Frosted sugar cookies are a delightful treat that you can easily make at home. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating the holidays, a birthday, or just want something sweet.

You’ll love how these cookies turn out soft and flavorful with each bite. With a range of frosting options, from creamy cream cheese to colorful buttercream, you can customize these cookies to fit any theme. Making them is simple, so even beginners can achieve delicious results.

So grab your mixing bowl, some sprinkles, and your favorite frosting recipe. You’re about to discover how fun and rewarding baking frosted sugar cookies can be!

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

When making frosted sugar cookies, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Each one plays a role in giving the cookies their soft texture and delicious flavor.

Ingredients:

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  Butter: Use unsalted butter at room temperature. If you don’t have unsalted, reduce the added salt in your recipe.

  
  
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  Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard. You can use superfine sugar for a smoother texture.

  
  
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  Flour: All-purpose flour is typical. You could try cake flour for a lighter cookie.

  
  
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  Baking Powder: This helps the cookies rise. Ensure it’s fresh for the best results.

  
  
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  Salt: A small amount enhances flavor. If using salted butter, adjust or omit additional salt.

  
  
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  Eggs: Large eggs are the norm. If you have smaller or larger eggs, adjust accordingly.

  
  
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  Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract gives the best flavor. Imitation vanilla works in a pinch but won’t taste as rich.

  
  

Possible Substitutes:

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  Butter: Substitute with equal parts margarine or vegetable shortening. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter.

  
  
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  Sugar: Swap granulated sugar with an equal amount of brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Use coconut sugar for a refined, sugar-free alternative.

  
  
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  Flour: For gluten-free cookies, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

  
  
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  Eggs: Use flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) as a vegan substitute. You can also use unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) as an alternative.

  
  
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  Vanilla Extract: Substitute with almond extract for a different flavor profile. Use equal amounts of other extracts like lemon or peppermint to change things up.

  
  

These ingredients and their substitutes can help you customize your frosted sugar cookies to suit your dietary needs or taste preferences.

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Gather all your ingredients: butter, oil, sugars, egg, vanilla and almond extracts, flour, baking powder, and salt.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
Use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer. Beat the butter, oil, and sugars on medium-high speed for about 4 minutes until they are well combined and creamy.

3. Add Wet Ingredients:
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Continue beating until everything is mixed together.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating on low speed until just combined.

5. Form the Dough:
Use your hands to bring the dough together into one mass. Transfer it to a piece of parchment or wax paper, cover with a second piece, and roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thick.

6. Chill the Dough:
Refrigerate the dough, still covered with the paper, for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to cut and keep the shapes.

7. Preheat Oven:
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 325°F (if using convection) or 350°F (if using a regular oven).

8. Cut the Dough:
After chilling, cut the dough into desired shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

9. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for around 8-10 minutes or until you see a light brown hue around the edges.

10. Cool:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

11. Frost and Enjoy:
Once cooled, frost the cookies with your favorite frosting. Decorate with sprinkles if desired. Enjoy your frosted sugar cookies!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

To keep your frosted sugar cookies fresh and delicious, follow these simple steps.

Tips for Baking:

• Chill the Dough: Chilling makes the dough easier to roll and helps cookies hold their shape.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Decorating Tricks:

• Let the Icing Set: Allow the frosting to dry completely before storing to avoid smudging.
• Layering: If you need to stack cookies, place a sheet of wax paper between layers.

Storing Methods:

• Room Temperature: Place in a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Add a few marshmallows to keep them soft. Best for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Good for longer storage. Place in airtight containers.
• Freezing: Arrange cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for months.

Handy Tricks:

• Pre-Roll Dough: Roll cookie dough into balls and freeze for easy baking later.
• Seal Tightly: Ensure containers are fully sealed to maintain freshness.

Follow these steps to enjoy your frosted sugar cookies anytime!

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

You can get creative with frosted sugar cookies in many ways. Here are some fun ideas:

Recipe Variations

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   Flavors
   Add different extracts like almond or lemon to the dough for a unique taste. You can also mix in some cocoa powder for chocolate-flavored cookies.

   
   
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   Colors
   Use food coloring to give your frosting a vibrant look. You can make a variety of colors for holidays or special occasions.

   
   
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   Shapes
   Use different cookie cutters to create shapes that match your theme. Hearts, stars, and animals are always fun.

   
   
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   Toppings
   Add extra toppings like sprinkles, coconut flakes, or crushed nuts to your frosting for extra texture and flavor.

   
   

Serving Suggestions

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   Holiday Themes
   Serve these cookies at holiday parties. Use colors and shapes that fit the season, like green and red for Christmas or orange and black for Halloween.

   
   
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   Gift Ideas
   Frosted sugar cookies make great gifts. Decorate them nicely, pack in a cute tin, and you have a sweet present.

   
   
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   Cookie Platter
   Arrange different shapes and colors on a platter for a visually appealing treat table. This is perfect for birthday parties or other celebrations.

   
   
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   Fancy Desserts
   Serve frosted sugar cookies with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a more indulgent dessert.

   
   

Enjoy experimenting with these ideas!