Easy Frosted Sugar Cookies

There’s something magical about a beautifully frosted sugar cookie. These Easy Frosted Sugar Cookies are not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies will surely bring a smile to your face. With a soft, chewy texture and a delightful frosting, they are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why This Easy Frosted Sugar Cookies Stands Out

What sets these Easy Frosted Sugar Cookies apart? It’s all in the balance of flavors and textures. The combination of butter and oil gives the cookies a unique tenderness that is hard to resist. Meanwhile, the addition of almond extract elevates the flavor profile, making them more than just your average sugar cookies. Plus, the vibrant frosting adds a pop of color and sweetness, making them visually appealing. They are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them with your favorite sprinkles or decorations!

Shopping List

To get started on your baking adventure, here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil
• 3/4 cup granulated white sugar, divided
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature (for frosting)
• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted (for frosting)
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (for frosting)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 3/4 teaspoon almond extract (for frosting)
• Sprinkles for decorating, optional

Tools of the Trade

Before you dive into baking, make sure you have these essential tools ready:

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients easily.
• Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key in baking.
• Whisk or electric mixer – for achieving the perfect creamy texture.
• Baking sheets – where the magic happens!
• Parchment paper – to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
• Cooling rack – to let your cookies cool down without steaming.

Step-by-Step: Easy Frosted Sugar Cookies

Making these Easy Frosted Sugar Cookies is a breeze! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and kosher salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and vegetable oil together until creamy. Gradually add in 1/2 cup of the granulated white sugar, beating until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg and Extracts

Add the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture. Mix until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form small balls of dough and place them about 2 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten them slightly with your hand.

Step 7: Bake

Spray the tops of the cookies lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Bake in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter (3/4 cup) until creamy. Gradually add in the sifted powdered sugar, mixing well. Pour in the heavy cream or milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and beat until smooth and spreadable.

Step 9: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of frosting on each cookie. Add sprinkles on top, if desired.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Dig in and enjoy your delicious Easy Frosted Sugar Cookies! Share them with friends or keep them all to yourself—no judgment here.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

These Easy Frosted Sugar Cookies are incredibly versatile. Here are some fun ways to adapt them throughout the year:

• For Halloween, use orange and black sprinkles and add a touch of pumpkin spice to the dough.
• During Christmas, use festive red and green sprinkles, and incorporate peppermint extract into the frosting.
• In the spring, decorate with pastel-colored frosting and edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.
• For birthdays, customize with colored frosting and themed sprinkles to match any celebration.

Missteps & Fixes

Even the best bakers make mistakes sometimes! Here are a few common missteps to watch out for and how to fix them:

• If your cookies spread too much, make sure your butter is at the right temperature and that you’re not overmixing.
• If the dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
• If your frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency.
• If you find your cookies are too hard, they may have been overbaked; keep an eye on them next time!

Prep Ahead & Store

These Easy Frosted Sugar Cookies can be prepared ahead of time, making them a great option for busy bakers:

To prep ahead, you can make the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just let it soften a bit before scooping and baking. The cookies can also be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze them for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap them tightly! Frost them after thawing for the best results.

Questions People Ask

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute, but the texture may vary slightly.

How can I make these cookies less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cookie dough or use less frosting. A simple glaze instead of frosting can also cut down on sweetness.

What can I use instead of almond extract?

If you prefer, you can substitute with more vanilla extract or use other extracts like coconut or lemon for different flavor profiles.

Can I decorate these cookies with royal icing instead?

Absolutely! Royal icing can add a beautiful finish and is perfect for detailed decorations.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed these Easy Frosted Sugar Cookies, you might also like these delicious treats:

• Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Soft Butter Cookies
• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Lemon Sugar Cookies

The Takeaway

Making Easy Frosted Sugar Cookies is a delightful experience that combines simple ingredients with a touch of creativity. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress. With their soft texture and delicious frosting, they are a treat that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to whip up a batch of these delightful cookies!