Soft Sugar Cookies with Colored Decorating Sugar Recipe
I’m so excited to share this Soft Sugar Cookies with Colored Decorating Sugar Recipe because it’s one of those classic recipes that never fails to bring a smile to people’s faces. These cookies are perfectly soft and tender, and that sprinkling of colored decorating sugar adds such a whimsical, festive touch. Whether it’s a holiday party, a casual get-together, or just a lazy weekend afternoon treat, these cookies hit the sweet spot every time.
One thing I love about this Soft Sugar Cookies with Colored Decorating Sugar Recipe is how easy it is to make yet it looks so delicate and dreamy when they’re done. The texture is soft but still sturdy enough to hold that pretty sprinkle of colored sugar on top without it melting away. Plus, they’re not too sweet, so you can enjoy a couple (or a dozen!) without feeling overwhelmed. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in making the cookies soft, flavorful, and perfectly decorated. I always recommend using fresh ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, for the best results. Shopping tip: use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level perfectly.
- Colored Decorating Sugar: This adds a delightful pop of color and a subtle crunch on top—don’t skimp on it because it elevates the cookies from ordinary to festive.
- Shortening: Helps keep these cookies super soft and tender; it’s the secret ingredient that makes the texture just right.
- Unsalted Butter: I find softened butter blends better and provides a lovely buttery flavor without adding extra salt.
- White Sugar: Balances the richness and gives sweetness without overwhelming the cookies.
- Eggs: Key for structure and moisture—be sure they’re large eggs at room temperature for best mixing.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla makes a huge difference here, giving the cookies a warm, fragrant flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure—make sure to measure accurately by spooning into your measuring cup and leveling off.
- Baking Powder: A touch of leavening helps these cookies stay light and soft, not dense.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Variations
I love how versatile this Soft Sugar Cookies with Colored Decorating Sugar Recipe is because you can easily tweak it to match your mood or occasion. Don’t hesitate to make it your own—sometimes I add a little lemon zest for a fresh twist or swap in some almond extract for a nutty undertone.
- Gluten-Free Variation: I tried this once with a gluten-free flour blend, and the cookies still came out soft and delicious—great option if you want to keep everyone happy.
- Seasonal Flavors: Adding cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice in fall makes these cookies feel cozy and festive.
- Colored Sugars Mix: Mix red and green decorating sugars around Christmas, or pastels for Easter—so fun to match the season!
- Reduced Sugar: I’ve cut back on the sugar a bit and the cookies still stayed tender, perfect for when you want just a hint of sweetness.
How to Make Soft Sugar Cookies with Colored Decorating Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Shortening
Start by combining the softened unsalted butter and shortening in a large bowl. Use a mixer on medium speed to cream them together until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is key for creating that soft, tender crumb in the cookies. If you rush it or don’t get it creamy enough, your cookies might end up a bit dense.
Step 2: Add Sugar and Eggs
Next, gradually add the white sugar while continuing to beat the mixture. Once it’s well incorporated and creamy, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. This part makes your dough rich and fragrant—if you skip letting ingredients come to room temperature beforehand, the dough might look curdled, so patience here really helps!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or folding by hand until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—you want tender cookies, not tough. The dough should be soft but manageable, not sticky.
Step 4: Scoop, Coat with Colored Sugar, and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop dough balls and roll them lightly in the colored decorating sugar to coat completely. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look soft—this ensures that melt-in-your-mouth texture I adore. Let them cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
How to Serve Soft Sugar Cookies with Colored Decorating Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
While the colored decorating sugar on top is my favorite garnish, you can really get creative! I’ve dipped the edges in melted chocolate or added a small dollop of frosting with sprinkles for birthday parties. These little touches make the cookies feel extra special without complicating the recipe.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of tea. I especially enjoy them with vanilla chai or peppermint tea around the holidays. For adults, a mild coffee or even a dessert wine brings out the buttery flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
When I’ve brought these cookies to parties, I love arranging them on tiered platters with a variety of colored sugars for a rainbow effect—it’s such a conversation starter! You can also wrap them in cellophane tied with ribbon for cute homemade gifts. Adding edible flowers or tiny fresh herbs like mint sprigs makes for a charming display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover Soft Sugar Cookies with Colored Decorating Sugar Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They usually stay soft and fresh for about 4-5 days, but if you want to keep that just-baked feel longer, layer them between sheets of parchment paper. I’ve found they hold up better this way without sticking together.
Freezing
Freezing is a lifesaver! You can freeze the cookie dough balls rolled in colored sugar on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready, just bake them straight from frozen—add an extra minute or two to baking time. This trick lets me enjoy fresh cookies anytime without starting from scratch.
Reheating
If you want to warm up leftover cookies, I pop them in a preheated 300°F oven for 5 minutes. This refreshes the texture and brings back that just-baked softness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the sugar topping soggy or the cookie rubbery.
FAQs
-
Can I use butter instead of shortening in this recipe?
Yes, you can use all butter if you prefer, but keep in mind that shortening helps keep the cookies softer for longer. Using only butter might make the cookies spread more and be slightly crispier around the edges.
-
Why is my colored decorating sugar melting on the cookies?
This can happen if the cookies are baked too hot or while still too warm when adding sugar. To avoid this, roll the dough balls in colored sugar before baking. Also, make sure to let them cool slightly before stacking or storing.
-
Can I make these cookies vegan?
To make a vegan version, you’ll need to substitute the eggs and butter. Applesauce or flax eggs can work as egg replacements, and use vegan margarine instead of butter. The texture might differ slightly but still delicious.
-
How do I prevent my sugar cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter and shortening are properly softened but not melted, chill the dough before baking, and measure flour accurately. These steps help the cookies hold their shape and remain soft.
-
What’s the best way to measure flour for sugar cookies?
Use a spoon to lightly fluff the flour, then spoon it into your measuring cup and level off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly with the cup, which packs the flour and can make the dough too dry.
Final Thoughts
I really hope you give this Soft Sugar Cookies with Colored Decorating Sugar Recipe a try because it truly is one of my favorites that always delivers a soft, tasty, and beautiful cookie every time. It’s the kind of recipe you can pass down or share with loved ones and watch little faces light up with delight. Once you master these soft sugar cookies, you’ll have a wonderful baking staple that’s just as much fun to make as it is to eat.
Print
Soft Sugar Cookies with Colored Decorating Sugar Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 36 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Soft Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat featuring a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a perfect balance of sweetness. Enhanced with vanilla and topped with colorful decorating sugar, they are ideal for any occasion or celebration.
Ingredients
Decorative Topping
- ⅓ cup colored decorating sugar
Wet Ingredients
- ⅔ cup shortening
- ⅔ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure a consistent baking temperature for even cooking.
- Cream Fats and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the shortening, softened unsalted butter, and white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This helps to incorporate air into the dough for a tender cookie.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition to fully combine all ingredients.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to distribute the leavening and seasoning evenly throughout the dough.
- Make the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape and Decorate: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Roll the balls in the colored decorating sugar to coat fully, then place them spaced apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the centers look slightly underbaked to maintain softness.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For softer cookies, do not overbake; slight underbaking in the center helps maintain softness.
- Using room temperature butter allows for better mixing when creaming with shortening.
- Colored decorating sugar adds a festive touch but can be substituted with plain sugar or sprinkles according to preference.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft for several days.
Keywords: Soft Sugar Cookies, Sugar Cookies recipe, Soft Cookies, Vanilla Sugar Cookies, Holiday Cookies
