Mini sugar cookies are a delightful treat that never fails to bring smiles. These little bites of sweetness are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a cozy afternoon snack. With years of experience baking these cookies for friends and family, I can confidently say they’re a hit every time!
Why Make This Recipe
- Taste: These mini sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet, making them a perfect indulgence.
- Versatile: They fit seamlessly into any occasion—be it festive holidays, tea parties, or casual get-togethers.
- Convenience: The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and time, making cookie-making accessible for everyone.
- Fun for Kids: Making these cookies is a great way to involve children in the kitchen, from mixing dough to decorating.
- My Personal Favorite: I love this recipe because it reminds me of baking with my grandmother. It brings back warm memories and fills my home with a delicious aroma.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: About 24 mini cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cooking Method: Baking
In this recipe, the dough is simple to whip up and the cookies come together quickly in the oven, resulting in deliciously soft cookies that are ready to enjoy in no time.
My Experience Making This Recipe
I’ve made these mini sugar cookies countless times, and I can assure you they are nearly foolproof. The only challenge I faced was ensuring they didn’t overbake; keeping an eye on the edges as they turn lightly golden became my key to perfect cookies.
How to Make Mini Sugar Cookies
Start by creaming together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, leading to tender cookies. Next, you stir in the egg and vanilla, blending until smooth before adding the dry ingredients. Once combined, scoop the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet, allowing room for spreading. Bake until just set, then cool on a rack.
Expert Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and better cookie texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to avoid tough cookies; overmixing can lead to gluten development.
- Chill the Dough: For a thicker cookie, chill your dough for 20-30 minutes before baking. This step can help prevent excessive spreading.
- Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie release and clean-up.
- Rotate the Baking Sheet: Halfway through baking, rotate your baking sheet for even browning.
How to Serve Mini Sugar Cookies
These mini sugar cookies can be served as they are, or you can enhance them with simple icing or sprinkles for a festive look. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or milk. For gatherings, consider arranging them on a decorative platter or packaging them in cellophane bags for a thoughtful gift.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Store your mini sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in a 300°F (150°C) oven.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for those with dietary restrictions.
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with a non-dairy butter alternative to make it lactose-free.
- Flavor Twist: Add almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor profile.
- Add-Ins: Mix in mini chocolate chips or colored sprinkles for added fun and flavor.
Nutritional Highlights
These mini sugar cookies are a delightful treat that offers the comfort of home baking. While they do contain sugar and butter, you can control portion sizes. Each cookie can be around 60 calories, making them a manageable sweet indulgence. They do contain gluten, dairy, and eggs.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Cookies Spread Too Much: If your cookies spread excessively, your butter might have been too warm. Try chilling the dough before baking.
- Too Dry or Crumbly: If the cookies come out dry, ensure that you didn’t add too much flour. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
- Undercooked Centers: If centers seem undercooked, return them to the oven in small increments. Remember, they will continue to set as they cool.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales well. Just double the ingredients and be sure to bake in batches to keep an eye on baking times. -
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for edges that are lightly golden and centers that appear set. They will firm up as they cool. -
Can I decorate these cookies?
Absolutely! Use royal icing, buttercream, or simple powdered sugar glaze to make them festive for any occasion. -
What do I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough turns out too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape.
Enjoy baking these mini sugar cookies, knowing they will be a cherished addition to your recipe collection!
Mini Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 24 mini cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful mini sugar cookies that are soft, buttery, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla, blending until smooth.
- Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Scoop dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until just set, about 10 minutes.
- Cool on a rack before serving.
Notes
For thicker cookies, chill dough for 20-30 minutes before baking. Use parchment paper to line baking sheets for easy cleanup.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg