Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked sugar cookies wafting through your home. These mini sugar cookies are the perfect little sweet treat to make any occasion special. They are light, fluffy, and delightfully sweet, making them ideal for parties, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon at home. With a shimmering topping of sprinkles or colored sugar, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious — perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- Optional: sprinkles or colored sugar for topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy, delivering a delightful texture.
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until everything is beautifully incorporated. You’ll love the sweet aroma that fills the air!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking powder, salt, and all-purpose flour. This step ensures your cookies will rise perfectly.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, combining until a soft dough forms that is simple to work with.
- Roll the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they have a couple of inches of space between them to allow for spreading.
- Optional: If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle the tops with colored sugar or sprinkles just before baking for an extra pop of fun!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and just beginning to crisp.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This finishing touch will make them even more perfect!
Notes or Tips
These mini sugar cookies are incredibly versatile! Feel free to add in your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a twist. If you’re baking for a special occasion, consider using holiday-themed sprinkles to match the festivities. Make sure to store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious for days to come.
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugar, beat until it’s light and fluffy; this incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies a delightful texture. Also, be careful not to overmix your dough once the flour is added, as this can make your cookies tough instead of tender. And don’t skip the cooling step; letting them rest on the baking sheets first helps set their shape.
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes! You can wrap the dough in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze baked cookies for longer storage.
Conclusion
These mini sugar cookies are a classic, and once you taste them, you’ll understand why they’re such a beloved treat. Simple to make and delightful to eat, they’re perfect for any occasion or just as a sweet snack any day of the week. Gather your loved ones, bake a batch, and create some sweet memories together!