Sugar cookies are not only a tasty treat, but they also make delightful decorations that brighten any occasion. Whether you’ll serve them at a party or adorn them as festive centerpieces, these recipes will inspire your creativity. Let’s explore 12 stunning sugar cookie recipes that you can whip up and showcase!
Classic Sugar Cookies
Crisp edges and a buttery flavor define this delightful classic.
Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Process:
- Cream butter and sugar; add egg and vanilla.
- Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt. Chill dough for 1 hour.
- Roll out, cut shapes, and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
Make it Unique:
- Add lemon zest for a citrus twist.
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor.
Royal Icing Decorated Cookies
Elevate your sugar cookies with vibrant royal icing designs.
Ingredients:
- Classic Sugar Cookie dough (see above)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Food coloring
Process:
- Prepare classic sugar cookies and let them cool.
- Beat egg white with powdered sugar and lemon until smooth. Add color.
- Decorate cooled cookies with royal icing and let dry.
Make it Unique:
- Add edible glitter for sparkle.
- Use stencils to create patterns.
Chocolate-Dipped Sugar Cookies
A chocolate lover’s dream come true!
Ingredients:
- Classic Sugar Cookies
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- Sprinkles (optional)
Process:
- Bake classic sugar cookies and allow to cool.
- Melt chocolate chips, dip one half of each cookie and let set.
- Sprinkle with festive toppings if desired.
Make it Unique:
- Use white chocolate instead of dark.
- Add crushed nuts for extra texture.
Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Cozy flavors for those chilly days!
Ingredients:
- Classic Sugar Cookie dough
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
Process:
- Prepare classic sugar cookies and let them chill.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon; roll cookies in the mixture before baking.
- Bake as directed.
Make it Unique:
- Incorporate a dash of nutmeg for additional warmth.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce after baking.
Lemon Zest Sugar Cookies
Zesty and refreshing, perfect for summer!
Ingredients:
- Classic Sugar Cookie dough
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Process:
- Add lemon zest and juice to the classic dough.
- Chill, roll out, and cut into shapes.
- Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
Make it Unique:
- Top with a lemon glaze after baking.
- Add poppy seeds for crunch.
Spritz Cookies
Delicate and buttery, these cookies are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Process:
- Beat butter and sugar; add egg and vanilla.
- Gradually mix in flour and salt.
- Use a cookie press to shape and bake at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.
Make it Unique:
- Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut.
- Sprinkle colored sugar on top before baking.
M&M Sugar Cookies
Fun and festive, perfect for kids of all ages!
Ingredients:
- Classic Sugar Cookie dough
- 1 cup M&Ms (or similar candies)
Process:
- Prepare classic dough and roll into balls.
- Press M&Ms into the top of each dough ball before baking.
- Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
Make it Unique:
- Use chocolate candies for a more chocolatey flavor.
- Incorporate mini chocolate chips in the dough.
Almond Sugar Cookies
A nutty twist on a classic cookie!
Ingredients:
- Classic Sugar Cookie dough
- 1 tsp almond extract
- Slivered almonds for topping
Process:
- Replace vanilla with almond extract in the classic dough.
- Shape cookies and sprinkle slivered almonds on top before baking.
- Bake as directed.
Make it Unique:
- Pair with a raspberry jam filling.
- Dip in white chocolate for an extra treat.
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies
Perfect for those cozy fall days!
Ingredients:
- Classic Sugar Cookie dough
- 1 tsp pumpkin spice
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
Process:
- Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the classic dough.
- Roll out and cut into pumpkin shapes.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
Make it Unique:
- Top with cream cheese frosting.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before serving.
Nutella-Stuffed Sugar Cookies
For the chocolate lovers who crave gooey treats!
Ingredients:
- Classic Sugar Cookie dough
- ½ cup Nutella
Process:
- Take a small ball of dough, flatten it, and place a dollop of Nutella in the center. Cover with another dough ball.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
- Let cool before enjoying.
Make it Unique:
- Sandwich two cookies around Nutella for a cookie sandwich.
- Add crushed hazelnuts for a crunch.
Coconut Sugar Cookies
A tropical breeze in every bite!
Ingredients:
- Classic Sugar Cookie dough
- 1 cup shredded coconut
Process:
- Incorporate shredded coconut into classic dough.
- Roll dough balls in additional coconut before baking.
- Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
Make it Unique:
- Drizzle with chocolate for a delicious contrast.
- Experiment with different flavored extracts like pineapple.
No matter which recipe you choose, you’re bound to create mouth-watering treats that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Try one or all of these stunning sugar cookies and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and festive decor they bring to your celebrations! Happy baking!