Funfetti Sugar Cookie Cups with Vanilla Frosting
There’s something undeniably joyful about Funfetti Sugar Cookie Cups with Vanilla Frosting. These delightful treats are not just visually appealing, but they also pack a punch when it comes to flavor and texture. Imagine buttery sugar cookies that are soft and chewy, filled with colorful sprinkles, and crowned with a luscious vanilla frosting. They’re perfect for birthday celebrations, holiday gatherings, or simply indulging yourself on a cozy afternoon. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, these cookie cups are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Top Reasons to Make Funfetti Sugar Cookie Cups with Vanilla Frosting
- Vibrant and Fun: The colorful sprinkles make these cookie cups a cheerful addition to any dessert table.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Customizable: You can play around with different frosting flavors or add additional toppings.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a treat for yourself, these cookie cups fit the bill.
- Deliciously Soft and Chewy: The texture is perfectly soft with a slight crunch on the edges.
Ingredient List
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 and ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup funfetti sprinkles
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3 to 3.5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 Tablespoon heavy whipping cream (see note)
Setup & Equipment
- Baking Sheet: For baking the cookie cups.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients.
- Electric Mixer: To cream the butter and sugar together.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient amounts.
- Muffin Tin: The perfect shape for the cookie cups.
- Cooling Rack: To cool the cookie cups before frosting.
How to Prepare Funfetti Sugar Cookie Cups with Vanilla Frosting
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie cups bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with muffin liners. This will help the cookie cups release easily once baked.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add in the large egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Step 6: Fold in Funfetti
Gently fold in the funfetti sprinkles, being careful not to overmix.
Step 7: Fill the Muffin Tin
Scoop the cookie dough into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. This allows room for the cookies to spread while baking.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; they will continue to set as they cool.
Step 9: Cool the Cookie Cups
Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Make the Vanilla Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing well. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of heavy whipping cream. Beat until smooth and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a little more cream to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 11: Frost the Cookie Cups
Once the cookie cups have cooled completely, use a piping bag or offset spatula to generously frost each cup with the vanilla frosting.
Step 12: Decorate (Optional)
For an extra festive touch, sprinkle additional funfetti on top of the frosting. This adds a pop of color and makes your treats even more appealing.
Allergy-Friendly Swaps
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and a dairy-free heavy cream alternative for the frosting.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it’s a 1:1 replacement.
- Egg-Free: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute for the egg.
- Lower Sugar: Consider using a sugar substitute that can be swapped cup-for-cup with granulated sugar.
Pro Perspective
These Funfetti Sugar Cookie Cups with Vanilla Frosting are a game changer in the world of cookies! The cookie itself is simple yet delicious, and the addition of sprinkles elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary. For a fun twist, try adding different flavored extracts to the frosting, such as almond or lemon. The key to a perfect cookie cup is to avoid overbaking; you want them to be soft and chewy right out of the oven. Trust me, the texture is everything!
Save for Later: Storage Tips
These cookie cups can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them; they can last up to a week in the fridge. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. If you want to freeze them, make sure they are completely cooled and then store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Helpful Q&A
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
What can I use if I don’t have heavy whipping cream?
If you don’t have heavy whipping cream, you can substitute it with milk or even a dairy-free creamer. Just use a bit less to maintain the frosting’s consistency.
Can I use different types of sprinkles?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with your sprinkles. You can use chocolate sprinkles, star-shaped sprinkles, or even themed sprinkles for various holidays.
How can I make the frosting less sweet?
If you find the frosting too sweet for your taste, try adding a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice to balance the sweetness. You can also reduce the amount of powdered sugar.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Zesty Lemon Bars
- Decadent Brownie Bites
Before You Go
Baking Funfetti Sugar Cookie Cups with Vanilla Frosting is not just about the end product; it’s about the joy of creating something wonderful. These cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends or family to join in the fun, and whip up a batch of these delightful cookie cups. They are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire! Enjoy the process, savor every bite, and remember that the best memories are made around the kitchen. Happy baking!
Funfetti Sugar Cookie Cups with Vanilla Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with muffin liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add in the large egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Gently fold in the funfetti sprinkles, being careful not to overmix.
- Scoop the cookie dough into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing well. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of heavy whipping cream. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Once the cookie cups have cooled completely, frost each cup with the vanilla frosting.
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkle additional funfetti on top of the frosting.
Notes
- Store cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
- These cookie cups can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
