Perfect Buttercream Sugar Cookies

Buttercream sugar cookies are a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday gathering, or just looking for a sweet indulgence, these cookies are sure to please everyone. They are soft, buttery, and can be decorated in countless colorful ways, making them a fun project for both kids and adults! Plus, the simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make this recipe beginner-friendly and exciting to try. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of buttercream sugar cookies! 🍪✨

why make this recipe

Making buttercream sugar cookies is a fantastic way to enjoy baking, especially during festive seasons. The buttery flavor and sweet buttercream on top create a perfect combination for cookie lovers. These cookies are not only delicious but also offer a delightful canvas for creativity. You can let your imagination run wild with different shapes and colors for decorating! Plus, the joy of sharing homemade cookies with loved ones adds a special touch to any gathering.

⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including cooling)
• Servings: About 24 cookies

how to make Buttercream Sugar Cookies

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (375g)
• 2 teaspoons aluminum-free baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (226g)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (226g)
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar (480g)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pure almond extract
• ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
• Pinch of salt

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

« This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free. »

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper
• Rolling pin

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour (3 cups/375g) and aluminum-free baking powder (2 teaspoons) using a whisk. Set it aside.
2. In another bowl, beat the butter (1 cup/226g) and kosher salt (½ teaspoon) on medium speed until blended, about 1 minute. 🥄
3. Add the granulated sugar (1 cup/200g) and mix until smooth, about 1½ minutes.
4. Scrape the bowl and add one large egg and the vanilla extract (2 teaspoons). Mix until well combined, about 1 minute.
5. With the mixer on low, gradually add the flour mixture until the dough starts to form. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
6. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and flatten it into a 1-inch thick disk. Chill for at least 30 minutes to up to three days. If chilled for a longer time, let it sit for about 20 minutes before rolling. ❄️
7. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking sheets.
8. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thick. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
9. Place cookies on the baking sheets, about 1 inch apart. If the dough gets warm, chill in the freezer for about 10 minutes to prevent spreading.
10. Bake in the middle of the oven for 7-8 minutes until puffy. Let cool for 2 minutes on the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. 💨
11. Decorate your cookies however you’d like! If you prefer a glaze instead of buttercream, please see notes below.

For the Buttercream:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the butter (1 cup/226g) on medium-high until smooth and creamy, about 4-5 minutes.
2. Scrape the bowl and add the confectioners’ sugar (480g), vanilla extract (1 teaspoon), almond extract (1 teaspoon), and heavy cream (¼ cup). Mix on low speed until incorporated.
3. Increase the speed to medium-high and whip for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed. Add a pinch of salt if it’s too sweet. 🎨

how to serve Buttercream Sugar Cookies

Serve these delicious buttercream sugar cookies on a colorful platter at your next gathering or party. Stack them high for a stunning display and watch as your friends and family enjoy these sweet treats. You can even personalize them with names or initials for special occasions! 🍰

how to store Buttercream Sugar Cookies

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re storing decorated cookies, make sure they are completely cooled before stacking them. You can also freeze the dough for future baking or the already baked cookies for a quick sweet fix later on! Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper.

💡 Pro Tips

• Chill Time Is Key: Don’t skip chilling the dough; this helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Color It Up: Use gel-based food coloring for vibrant buttercream shades that won’t alter the consistency.
• Adjust Sweetness: If your buttercream is too sweet, a pinch of salt can help balance the flavors.
• Fix Sticking: Use flour or parchment paper when rolling out the dough to prevent it from sticking.

variation

For a twist, try adding chocolate chips or sprinkle some colorful nonpareils on top of the buttercream for extra fun! You can also experiment by changing the extracts in the buttercream to suit your taste!

FAQs

1. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
2. Yes! Wrap the dough well and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and cutting.
3. Can I use a different flavor for buttercream?
4. Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other extracts, such as lemon or peppermint for unique flavors.
5. What if I don’t have almond extract?
6. If you don’t have almond extract, you can skip it or substitute with additional vanilla extract or even a splash of orange zest for a fruity touch.

Enjoy baking and decorating these scrumptious buttercream sugar cookies! 🍪✨