Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Recipe
There’s something truly magical about a freshly baked soft sugar cookie, especially when it’s frosted and adorned with colorful sprinkles. This Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Recipe is a delightful treat that melts in your mouth, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a holiday, or simply wanting to indulge your sweet tooth, this recipe is bound to impress your family and friends.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen for several reasons. First, the combination of butter and sugar creates an unbelievably soft texture that is hard to resist. Second, the frosting is creamy, sweet, and perfectly complements the subtle vanilla flavor of the cookies. Finally, these cookies are incredibly versatile; you can customize them with different colors of frosting and sprinkles to match any celebration!
Ingredients at a Glance
To create these soft, frosted sugar cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups (339g) butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups (297g) granulated sugar
- 3 large (150g) eggs, room temperature
- 1 1/2 tablespoons (21g) vanilla extract
- 4 1/2 cups (540g) all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons (16g) baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon (1g) kosher salt
- 1 cup (226g) butter, softened (for frosting)
- 3 cups (341g) confectioners sugar, sifted
- 1 tablespoon (15g) vanilla bean paste
- 3 tablespoons (43g) half and half, divided
- Sprinkles, optional
Must-Have Equipment
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
- Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
- Electric mixer: To easily cream the butter and sugar together.
- Baking sheets: For placing your cookies while they bake.
- Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- Cookie cutter (optional): If you want to create fun shapes.
- Cooling rack: To let your cookies cool properly.
Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create your delectable frosted soft sugar cookies:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the room temperature eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and blend until incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. These cookies will spread a little while baking, so give them some room to grow!
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will look slightly underbaked, but don’t worry; they will continue to cook on the baking sheet after removing them from the oven.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
While the cookies are cooling, make the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the sifted confectioners sugar, mixing on low until combined. Then, add the vanilla bean paste and half and half, and beat on medium speed until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
Step 9: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on each cookie. If desired, sprinkle with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch!
Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps
If you’re looking to make a vegan version of these frosted soft sugar cookies, consider the following substitutions:
- Butter: Use a plant-based butter or coconut oil.
- Eggs: Replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce.
- Milk: Substitute half and half with almond milk or any other plant-based milk.
Errors to Dodge
Baking can sometimes be tricky, but avoiding these common mistakes can help ensure your cookies turn out perfectly:
- Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies; mix just until the flour is incorporated.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for best results.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Frosting warm cookies can lead to a melty mess instead of a beautiful finish.
- Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can affect the texture of your dough.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
If you want to get a head start on your baking, here are some tips for making these cookies ahead of time:
You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping and baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Simply scoop the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag, and when you’re ready to bake, simply add a couple of minutes to the baking time.
Ask & Learn
Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is best for this recipe, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend if needed. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 substitute designed for baking.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store your frosted soft sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cookies and frost them when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I make these cookies without frosting?
Absolutely! These cookies are delicious on their own. If you prefer a less sweet treat, enjoy them plain or dusted with powdered sugar.
What other flavors can I add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add lemon zest, almond extract, or even a touch of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate version. The possibilities are endless!
Don’t Miss These
If you love this Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Recipe, you’ll definitely want to check out these other delightful treats:
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Chewy Chocolate Cookies
- Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies
- The Best Brownies
Bring It to the Table
Now that you’ve mastered this Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Recipe, it’s time to share your creations with loved ones! Whether you’re serving them at a gathering, giving them as gifts, or simply enjoying them at home, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. They are not just a treat; they are a sweet reminder of the joy that comes from baking and sharing with others. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the room temperature eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and blend until incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will look slightly underbaked.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Beat the softened butter for the frosting until creamy. Gradually add the sifted confectioners sugar, mixing on low. Then add the vanilla bean paste and half and half, beating until fluffy.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, spread frosting on each cookie and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles if desired.
Notes
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.
- Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements of ingredients.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.
