Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. These Mini Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that will fill your home with warmth and sweetness. Each bite is a testament to classic homemade goodness, with a touch of fluffiness and just the right amount of sweetness. Perfect for festive occasions or simply to satisfy that sweet craving, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- Sprinkles or colored sugar, for decoration
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 mini cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, setting the stage for your sweet creation.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This simple step helps ensure your cookies rise beautifully.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air, making for softer cookies!
- Add the egg, along with the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using), to the butter mixture and mix until everything is combined nicely.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until a dough forms. Don’t overmix; just bring it together!
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into little balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, allowing about 2 inches of space between each dough ball.
- With the palm of your hand, gently flatten each ball slightly to give your cookies a lovely shape.
- Top each cookie with a sprinkle of colorful sprinkles or sugar, adding a fun touch of decoration!
- Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delightful mini treats!
Notes or Tips
If you’re feeling creative, the addition of almond extract gives these cookies a lovely depth of flavor. Plus, feel free to swap the sprinkles with chocolate chips or nuts for different variations. These cookies also freeze beautifully—just store in an airtight container for those moments when you need a quick sweet fix!
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in the creaming process, where you beat the butter and sugar together until fluffy. This not only helps in leavening the cookies but also ensures a tender crumb. Make sure to check the cookies in the oven a minute or two before the timer goes off; every oven behaves differently, and you want to catch them right when they turn golden!
FAQ
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free version of these delicious cookies.
How should I store the cookies?
Store the mini sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Conclusion
These Mini Sugar Cookies are not just a dessert; they’re a little bite of happiness that can brighten any day. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, using them as festive decorations, or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and enjoy every sweet moment!