Frosted Sugar Cookies

Frosted sugar cookies are a timeless treat that brings joy to any occasion. Whether it’s for a holiday, a special celebration, or just a sweet craving, these cookies are always a hit. What makes them even better is the soft, chewy texture paired with a smooth, creamy frosting. I remember baking these with my mom as a child, the kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies and the excitement of decorating them together. This recipe gives you the perfect balance of sweetness, a light lemon zing (if you add it), and that melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone loves.

Frosted Sugar Cookies

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• Author: Grace Parker
• Total Time: 23 mins
• Yield: 36 cookies

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Description

These swig-style frosted sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and topped with creamy frosting—just like your favorite soda shop treat! With a crisp edge and melt-in-your-mouth center, they’re the perfect make-ahead snack. No drive-thru lines needed!

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Ingredients

5 ½ cups all-purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ baking powder

1 cup butter (softened to room temperature)

1 ¼ cups granulated sugar (plus 1/4 cup for rolling)

3/4 cup powdered sugar

3/4 cup oil (I prefer a avocado oil which has a more nuteral flavor)

2 Tablespoons sour cream

zest of 1 lemon (optional but yummy)

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

frosting of choice (I like cream cheese frosting)

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two cookie sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper.
• Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
• Cream the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and oil on low speed for about 1 minute until fully combined.
• Add the wet ingredients: Mix in the sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) to the butter mixture. Beat on low for another minute, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
• Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low until the dough just comes together. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
• Shape the dough: Scoop the dough into 2-3 tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart.
• Flatten the cookies: Spray the bottom of a flat glass with baking spray, dip it into the remaining ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and gently press each cookie to about ½ inch thick.
• Bake: Bake the cookies for 8 minutes until they are set but not browned. They will firm up as they cool.
• Cool the cookies: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

The calorie count refers to the cookies alone.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 8 mins
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

What Makes Frosted Sugar Cookies So Special?

Frosted sugar cookies have a unique appeal that makes them a favorite for many. From their soft, chewy texture to their sugary sweetness and the ability to personalize with any frosting or decorations, they’re a delightful treat for all ages. But what exactly makes frosted sugar cookies stand out compared to other cookies? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures.

The Perfect Cookie Texture

The magic behind frosted sugar cookies lies in their soft, yet slightly crisp edges. The dough is tender without being overly crumbly, thanks to the combination of butter, oil, and sour cream in the recipe. These ingredients work together to create a cookie that is both light and substantial, providing the perfect base for the sweet frosting that follows. The subtle tang from the sour cream adds a layer of depth to the flavor, while the lemon zest (if you choose to add it) offers a refreshing burst of citrus that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.

Endless Frosting Possibilities

Another reason frosted sugar cookies are so special is the variety of frosting options you can choose from. Whether you go with classic buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even a royal icing for intricate decorations, the possibilities are endless. My personal favorite is cream cheese frosting, which gives the cookies a soft and tangy complement to the sweetness of the cookie itself. The smoothness of the frosting also makes it easy to spread and perfect for decorating.

Ingredients for Frosted Sugar Cookies

The key to making perfect frosted sugar cookies lies in using the right ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in giving the cookies their soft texture, sweet flavor, and the perfect base for frosting. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for the dough and frosting:

Essential Ingredients for the Cookie Dough

• 5 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The main structure of the dough, providing stability and texture. Be sure to measure carefully to avoid dense cookies.
• ¾ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cookie.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon baking powder: These leavening agents give the cookies their light, airy texture. They help the cookies rise slightly without becoming too fluffy.
• 1 cup butter (softened to room temperature): Butter is the backbone of the flavor, adding richness and moisture to the cookies.
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar: The sweetness for the dough, giving the cookies a slightly crisp exterior when baked.
• ¾ cup powdered sugar: This sugar adds a smoother, softer texture to the cookie dough and a more tender crumb.
• ¾ cup oil (avocado oil is a great option): Oil helps keep the cookies soft while also contributing to their chewy texture.
• 2 Tablespoons sour cream: Adds a tangy flavor that enhances the sweetness of the cookie, as well as moisture to keep them soft.
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional but adds a lovely freshness): The zest adds a hint of citrus, brightening the cookies’ flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture, binding the dough together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor and adds a warm, aromatic sweetness.

Frosting of Choice

For frosting, you can use whatever you prefer, but I highly recommend cream cheese frosting for the ultimate flavor pairing. The tangy and creamy texture complements the soft cookie, making each bite irresistible. You can also opt for buttercream or royal icing if you’re looking for different textures or planning to decorate the cookies in a more intricate way.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Frosted Sugar Cookies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the easy steps to make these delicious frosted sugar cookies. From mixing the dough to baking the cookies and spreading the frosting, each step is simple, ensuring you end up with perfect cookies every time.

Preparing the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two cookie sheets with silicone baking mats or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder until well combined. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
3. Cream the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter, 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and oil. Beat on low speed for about 1 minute or until everything is fully combined. The mixture should look slightly grainy, which is completely normal at this stage.
4. Add the wet ingredients: Add the sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed for another minute, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. Combine dry and wet ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low until the dough just comes together. It should be soft but not sticky. Avoid overmixing to prevent dense cookies.

Shaping and Baking the Cookies

1. Shape the dough: Scoop the dough into 2-3 tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart.
2. Flatten the cookies: Spray the bottom of a flat glass with baking spray, dip it into the remaining ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and gently press each cookie until it’s about ½ inch thick. This will help the cookies bake evenly and develop that classic slightly crisp edge.
3. Bake: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake the cookies for 8 minutes. They should look set but not browned. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
4. Cool the cookies: Let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps the cookies firm up before frosting.

Frosting, Decorating, and Storing Your Sugar Cookies

Once your frosted sugar cookies have cooled, it’s time for the fun part—frosting and decorating! Whether you prefer a simple frosted look or want to get creative with your designs, this is the stage where you can really make these cookies your own.

Frosting the Cookies

1. Prepare the frosting: If you’re using cream cheese frosting, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. You can also add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. If you’re using a different frosting like buttercream, ensure it’s soft enough to spread easily. You want a smooth, thick consistency that won’t run off the edges.
2. Spread the frosting: Once your cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on each cookie using an offset spatula or a butter knife. Be sure to cover the entire cookie, creating a smooth, even layer.
3. Add decorations: If you’re feeling creative, now is the time to decorate! You can add sprinkles, colored sugar, or even small edible decorations. For a festive look, consider using different colored frostings or piping intricate designs like flowers, hearts, or holiday shapes.

Storing the Frosted Sugar Cookies

Once your cookies are frosted and decorated, it’s important to store them properly to keep them fresh.

1. Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you live in a warmer climate or want to keep the frosting fresh for longer, refrigerating the cookies is a great option. Just make sure they’re in a sealed container to avoid drying out.
2. Freezing: You can also freeze these frosted sugar cookies for longer storage. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frosted sugar cookies are a classic treat that never goes out of style. Whether you’re baking them for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because you love them, they’re sure to please everyone who takes a bite. With a soft, chewy base and a smooth, creamy frosting, these cookies are perfect for decorating and sharing. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let’s get baking!

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