Easy Buttery Sugar Cookies with Festive Sprinkles
Introduction
Sugar cookies are a timeless treat cherished for their simplicity, buttery flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether for Christmas, birthdays, or casual snacking, these cookies are easy to make, versatile, and fun to decorate. The colorful sugar sprinkles add a festive touch, making them a hit among kids and adults alike. This recipe guides you through creating the perfect batch of sugar cookies from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Decoration:
• Colored sugar sprinkles (red, green, or any desired colors)
• Optional: sanding sugar for extra sparkle
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the baking sheet 2 inches apart.
3. Use a fork to gently press each dough ball to flatten slightly, creating a crisscross pattern.
Step 3: Add Sprinkles
1. Sprinkle colored sugar (red, green, or your preferred colors) generously over each cookie.
2. For a festive look, alternate between colors or mix them together.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Methods
• Creaming Method: Properly creaming the butter and sugar creates light, fluffy cookies.
• Shaping: Rolling the dough into balls ensures uniform cookies that bake evenly.
• Baking: Monitoring baking time is essential to avoid overbaking and maintain a soft texture.
History of Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies originated in the 1700s in Pennsylvania, where German settlers created a simple, buttery, and sweet dough known as the “Nazareth Cookie.” The recipe spread across the world, gaining popularity due to its ease of preparation and adaptability for different holidays and celebrations. Today, sugar cookies are a staple in many households, especially during Christmas.
Benefits
1. Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this a beginner-friendly recipe.
2. Customizable: Can be decorated with sprinkles, icing, or chocolate to suit any occasion.
3. Perfect for Gifting: A homemade treat that’s great for sharing with family and friends.
4. Family-Friendly: A fun baking activity for children to enjoy decorating.
Formation
These cookies combine:
• Soft Butter: Gives a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Flour and Baking Powder: Provides structure while keeping the cookies tender.
• Sugar Sprinkles: Adds color, sweetness, and a festive touch to the cookies.
The process of rolling, pressing, and sprinkling makes these cookies both visually appealing and enjoyable to prepare.
Nutrition (Per Cookie)
• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 6g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 40mg
Conclusion
These buttery sugar cookies with festive sprinkles are a delightful combination of simplicity, flavor, and charm. Perfect for holidays, parties, or an afternoon treat, they bring smiles to all who taste them. Their versatility in decoration makes them a creative and fun addition to any dessert table.
Lovers of These Cookies
• Kids: Love decorating them with colorful sprinkles.
• Bakers: Appreciate their easy preparation and beautiful presentation.
• Everyone: Enjoys their soft, buttery texture and sweet taste, making them an all-time favorite treat.
Final Note
Baking these cookies is not just about creating a dessert—it’s about creating memories. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these sugar cookies are sure to bring joy.