When it comes to baking up something that appeals to everyone, soft sugar cookies with icing are at the top of the list. These delicate, sweet bites capture the essence of fun-filled gatherings, holiday celebrations, and everyday indulgences. Whether you’re whipping them up for a birthday party, a bake sale, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies never disappoint. They are soft, fluffy, and the buttery icing makes every bite even more delightful. Let’s dive into this delectable world of soft sugar cookies with icing!
Why We Love This Soft Sugar Cookies with Icing Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about soft sugar cookies. They are simple yet magical, allowing room for creativity while retaining their classic appeal. One of the main reasons we adore this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavors and decorations to suit any occasion or personal preference, making them perfect for festive gatherings or casual afternoons.
Moreover, the texture of these cookies is simply outstanding. They bake to fluffy perfection and have a delightful chewiness that keeps you reaching for more. The icing adds a beautiful finish, reminiscent of professionally baked treats you find at bakeries, but you’ll be happy knowing that you made them yourself.
Ingredients about Soft Sugar Cookies with Icing
To create these delightful soft sugar cookies with icing, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon table salt
- 1 1/2 cups butter (at room temperature)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 5 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 5 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1/3 cup butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 7-8 tablespoons milk (plus more as needed)
- Pink food coloring (optional)
- Rainbow sprinkles (optional)
How to Make Soft Sugar Cookies with Icing Directions
Creating the perfect batch of soft sugar cookies with icing requires a step-by-step approach. But don’t worry, it’s quite simple, and the results are worth every moment spent in the kitchen.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: Start by taking a large bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: Next, in the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat them together on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture becomes soft and fluffy.
- Add the Eggs: With the mixer running, add the eggs one at a time. Make sure to mix thoroughly after adding each egg to ensure even incorporation. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Incorporate the Vanilla: Add the vanilla extract to the wet ingredients and mix until everything is just combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies, which we want to avoid for that soft texture.
- Chill the Dough: Once properly mixed, cover the dough with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about an hour. This not only helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to scoop, but also improves the flavor.
- Preheat Your Oven: After chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop out portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls. Gently flatten each ball and place them on the prepared cookie sheets, leaving some space between each cookie for expansion during baking.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’re looking for a light golden brown color on the edges – the centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheets after you take them out.
- Cool Down: Allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Icing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. If you desire a thicker icing, add more powdered sugar; for a thinner icing, add more milk.
- Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread the icing on top. For a fun touch, add pink food coloring to your icing and mix well. Decorate with rainbow sprinkles if you like.
- Let Set: Allow the frosting to set for at least 2 hours before storing your cookies in an airtight container.
How to Serve Soft Sugar Cookies with Icing
When it comes to serving your delightful soft sugar cookies, the options are endless. These cookies shine brightest at gatherings, so consider making a large batch for birthdays, holidays, or family reunions. Arrange them on a colorful platter and watch them disappear!
You can serve them as they are or elevate the experience with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or milk. They are also a fantastic treat for kids’ parties where the colorful icing and sprinkles will not only appeal to their taste buds but also to their sense of fun.
For a more casual setting, enjoy them with a light dessert after a cozy dinner. Their sweetness complements a variety of meals, and their soft, buttery texture makes them a comforting end to any day.
Expert Tips: Soft Sugar Cookies with Icing
To ensure your soft sugar cookies turn out perfect every single time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Always make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This allows for better mixing, resulting in a smoother cookie dough.
- Accurate Measuring: Baking is a science. Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring your flour—spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping straight from the bag.
- Chilling the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker, softer cookies.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they’re in the oven. Due to variations in ovens, baking times can differ. Start checking for doneness at the lower end of the time range.
- Frosting Consistency: Adjust the consistency of your frosting. If you’d like a thicker frosting for spreading, add more powdered sugar. For a drizzle effect, add more milk to thin it out.
How to Store Soft Sugar Cookies with Icing
Storing your soft sugar cookies with icing properly will keep them fresher for longer. Once the cookies have cooled and the icing is set, stack them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They can typically last for up to one week at room temperature.
If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften.
Variation of Soft Sugar Cookies with Icing
Experimenting with variations of this basic soft sugar cookie recipe is a great way to personalize it and keep things exciting. Here are a few ideas:
- Flavor Enhancements: Besides the classic vanilla, try adding almond extract or citrus zest to the dough for a unique twist.
- Decorative Icing: Instead of just a simple icing glaze, try making royal icing for more intricate designs. This will allow you to create detailed decorations that are perfect for themed events.
- Chocolate Version: For a chocolatey delight, substitute some of the flour with cocoa powder for chocolate sugar cookies. Frosting with a chocolate glaze can create a double chocolate treat!
- Seasonal Sprinkles: Change the sprinkles based on the season or occasion—red and green for Christmas, pastel colors for Easter, or even themed colors for birthdays.
FAQ: Soft Sugar Cookies with Icing
What makes soft sugar cookies different from regular sugar cookies?
Soft sugar cookies have a tender texture due to the balance of fat, sugar, and the inclusion of baking powder. This contrasts with crisp sugar cookies, which usually contain higher ratios of flour and fewer leavening agents.
Can I freeze soft sugar cookies with icing?
Yes, you can freeze them! Make sure the icing has set completely before placing the cookies in a freezer-safe container. They can be enjoyed later after a simple thawing process.
What can I substitute for butter in the frosting?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. Just ensure you use a solid version for the best consistency.
How do I achieve the best texture with my soft sugar cookies?
Make sure to accurately measure your ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter. Chilling the dough is key in ensuring the cookies maintain their light texture when baked.
Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour gives the best results for soft sugar cookies, you can experiment with alternatives like whole wheat flour, but be aware that it may change the texture and taste slightly.
Soft Sugar Cookies with Icing
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Electric Mixer
- Baking Sheets
- Parchment Paper
- Wire Rack
Ingredients
- 4 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
- 4 tsp Baking Powder
- ¾ tsp Table Salt
- 1 ½ cups Butter At room temperature.
- 1 ½ cups Granulated Sugar
- 3 large Eggs At room temperature.
- 5 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 5 cups Powdered Sugar Sifted.
- ⅓ cup Butter Melted (for icing).
- 1 Tbsp Vanilla Extract For icing.
- 7-8 Tbsp Milk Plus more as needed.
- Pink Food Coloring Optional
- Rainbow Sprinkles Optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop portions of chilled dough, roll into balls, and gently flatten each ball before placing them on the prepared sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Centers may look underbaked.
- Cool on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the icing, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
- Spread icing over cooled cookies, adding food coloring and sprinkles if desired.
- Let the icing set for at least 2 hours before storing in an airtight container.
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