Print

Soft Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Frosting and Sprinkles Recipe

4.7 from 50 reviews

These Soft Sugar Cookies are delightfully tender and fluffy, perfect for any occasion. Made with a classic dough enriched with butter and vanilla, they are baked to a light golden finish and topped with a creamy, sweet vanilla frosting. Customize them with food coloring and sprinkles for a fun and festive treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookies

  • 1½ cups butter (3 sticks), softened
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 5 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 4½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 4½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¾ teaspoon salt

Frosting

  • 5 cups powdered sugar
  • ⅓ cup melted butter (5⅓ tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 78 tablespoons milk
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture in your cookies.
  2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, thoroughly mixing after each addition and scraping down the sides to ensure even blending. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to distribute the leavening agents evenly.
  4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir just until combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can make cookies tough.
  5. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This helps the dough firm up, making it easier to shape and improving the final texture.
  6. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper if desired for easy cleanup.
  7. Shape the Cookies: Scoop scant ¼-cup portions of the chilled dough, roll them into balls, then flatten slightly. Place them on the prepared baking sheets spaced 2-3 inches apart to allow for spreading.
  8. Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and their edges just begin to turn golden brown. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.
  9. Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking pan for 4-5 minutes so they set further, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
  10. Make the Frosting: In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and 7 tablespoons of milk. Stir until smooth and well combined. Add more milk, a teaspoon at a time, if the frosting is too thick.
  11. Color and Frost: If desired, tint the frosting with food coloring. Spread the frosting over the cooled cookies and decorate with sprinkles to your liking.

Notes

  • Refrigerating the dough is essential for maintaining shape and texture during baking.
  • Do not overbake the cookies; they should be set but soft for the best texture.
  • Customize frosting colors with gel or liquid food coloring for vibrant effects.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  • The frosting consistency can be adjusted by adding milk incrementally to achieve your preferred spreadability.

Keywords: soft sugar cookies, vanilla sugar cookies, frosted sugar cookies, classic sugar cookies, easy cookie recipe