Soft frosted sugar cookies with vanilla buttercream are a delightful treat that evokes nostalgia and brings joy to any occasion. These cookies are not only visually appealing but are also incredibly soft and tender, making them a favorite among both children and adults. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, the step-by-step process of making these cookies, and some tips for perfecting your frosting technique.
Ingredients for Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies
To make soft frosted sugar cookies, you’ll need a selection of basic ingredients. Here’s a list of what you will need:
For the Sugar Cookies
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
Step-by-Step Process to Make Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of making these delicious cookies.
Making the Sugar Cookies
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Add egg and extracts: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until fully combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape the cookies: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form small balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten them slightly for an even bake.
- Bake the cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should look slightly underbaked.
- Cool the cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
While your cookies are cooling, it’s time to prepare the delicious vanilla buttercream frosting.
Steps to Prepare the Frosting
- Cream the butter: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
- Add powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated. This helps to avoid a sugar cloud.
- Add cream and vanilla: Once the sugar is mixed in, add the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the frosting is fluffy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Adjust consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a little more cream, one teaspoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- Add food coloring: If you want to color your frosting, divide it into bowls and add a few drops of food coloring, mixing until you achieve the desired shade.
Frosting the Cookies
Once your cookies are completely cool and your frosting is ready, it’s time to frost them!
Frosting Techniques
- Spread method: Use a spatula or a butter knife to spread a generous amount of frosting on each cookie, creating a smooth top.
- Piping method: Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a round tip for a more decorative look. Pipe swirls or rosettes on top of the cookies.
- Sprinkles: For added fun, sprinkle some colorful sprinkles or edible glitter on top of the frosting before it sets.
Tips for the Perfect Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies
To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
Chill the Dough
Chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in thicker, softer cookies.
Use Quality Ingredients
Using high-quality butter and vanilla extract can make a significant difference in the flavor of your cookies. Always opt for unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness of your dough.
Don’t Overbake
Overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Remove them from the oven when the edges are set, but the centers still look slightly soft.
Conclusion
Soft frosted sugar cookies with vanilla buttercream are a delightful treat that is perfect for any celebration or just a sweet indulgence. With their soft texture and sweet frosting, these cookies are sure to please everyone. By following the steps outlined in this article and keeping in mind the helpful tips, you can create delicious cookies that will become a family favorite. Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful treats!