Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Frosting

INTRODUCTION

Sugar cookies are a classic treat loved by many. Their soft texture and sweet flavor make them a favorite for all ages. Adding vanilla frosting only makes them more delightful. This recipe for Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Frosting is simple and easy to follow. With these cookies, you can create beautiful shapes for any occasion, making them perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just a treat for yourself. Let’s learn how to make these tasty cookies from scratch!

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love this sugar cookie recipe. First, sugar cookies are incredibly versatile. You can make them in various shapes and sizes, depending on the occasion. Second, the dough is easy to handle and doesn’t require any complicated steps. Even if you are a beginner, you can make these cookies without any worries. Finally, the fluffy vanilla frosting adds an extra sweetness that makes these cookies even more enjoyable. These cookies can also be decorated, making them fun to present at parties or family gatherings.

HOW TO MAKE Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Frosting

Making sugar cookies with vanilla frosting is a fun and rewarding process. You’ll create a delicious and beautiful treat with just a few simple steps. Below, we will walk through the entire process from start to finish.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools. Here is a list of equipment you’ll need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric stand mixer with a paddle attachment
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack
• Mixing bowl for frosting
• Spatula or knife for spreading frosting

Ingredients You’ll Need:

To make Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Frosting, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup sour cream (full fat)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp almond extract

For the frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 3 Tbsp half and half (more as needed)
• 3/4 tsp vanilla extract

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for 20 seconds. Once well mixed, set aside.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until blended and fluffy.

3. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the large egg until combined. Then, blend in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract until everything is well blended.

4. Combine with Dry Ingredients: With the mixer set on low speed, slowly add in the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

5. Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into 2 equal portions. Place each portion on a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape each portion into a round disk about 6 inches in diameter. Wrap them with the plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until fairly firm.

6. Preheat Oven: During the last 20 minutes of chilling, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

7. Roll Out the Dough: Dust a work surface with flour. Remove one portion of cookie dough from the refrigerator. Unwrap it and place it on the floured surface. Dust the top of the dough with flour and roll it out to a 1/4-inch thickness.

8. Cut Out Shapes: Use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into rounds about 2 3/4 inches in size, or you can use heart shapes if you wish. Transfer the cut cookies to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

9. Re-roll Scraps: Gather any scraps, shake off excess flour, press them back together, re-roll, and cut out more shapes.

10. Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the cookies are nearly set but not browned.

11. Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for several minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

12. Make the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, blend together the softened butter, powdered sugar, half and half, and vanilla extract until well combined and fluffy. If needed, add more half and half, one teaspoon at a time, to reach the desired consistency.

13. Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe the vanilla frosting on top. Store the frosted cookies in an airtight container in a single layer.

HOW TO SERVE Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Frosting

Sugar cookies with vanilla frosting can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve them with a glass of milk or your favorite coffee or tea. They are perfect for packing in lunchboxes or taking to gatherings. These cookies also look lovely arranged on a platter, decorated with sprinkles or edible glitter for an extra pop of color.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Frosting

You can store sugar cookies at room temperature in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, place cooled, frosted cookies in a single layer in an airtight container. You can also freeze the cookie dough itself. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw it in the refrigerator and proceed with the rolling and cutting steps.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

These sugar cookies are versatile. Here are some ideas for serving:

• Decorate with colorful sprinkles for holidays or celebrations.
• Add different flavor extracts to the frosting to mix things up, such as lemon or almond.
• Serve them at birthday parties alongside cupcakes.
• Offer them at holiday cookie exchanges or potlucks.

VARIATIONS

Feel free to customize your sugar cookies. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookies: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a sweet twist.
• Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add lemon zest and juice to both the dough and frosting for a refreshing flavor.
• Nutty Sugar Cookies: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the dough before chilling.
• Spiced Cookies: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the cookies may have a slightly different taste and texture.

2. How should I store the cookies?
Store frosted sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last up to one week.

3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies. Make sure they are cooled and frosted first. Place them in a single layer in a container and freeze for up to three months.

4. Can I skip the frosting?
Yes, you can enjoy these cookies plain without frosting, or you can dust them with powdered sugar for a light touch.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Frosting

You can prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time to save time later. Here are some tips:

• Prepare the cookie dough: You can make the dough and freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it until you’re ready to bake.
• Make the frosting ahead: You can prepare the frosting in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before spreading it on the cookies.
• Bake the cookies ahead of time: You can bake the cookies a few days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature until you are ready to frost them.

Enjoy making these Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Frosting! They are sure to bring a smile to anyone who tastes them.

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