Name: Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); 2 tablespoons cornstarch (keeps the cookies soft); 1 teaspoon baking powder (ensure it is fresh); 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (room temperature); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (pure vanilla is best); Buttercream frosting (amount as needed to frost cookies); Rainbow sprinkles (for topping)

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If you have a sweet tooth and love the comforting taste of classic cookies, you are going to adore this Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe. These cookies boast a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s perfectly complemented by a creamy, dreamy buttercream frosting. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because, this recipe delivers that nostalgic joy with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view shows a woman's hands with red nail polish using a small round metal cutter to cut circles from light beige dough rolled thin on a white marbled surface. One woman's hand presses down on the cutter, while the other holds a wooden rolling pin resting on the dough beside a few cut circles. Flour is scattered lightly around, adding texture to the white marbled background. The background shows a blurred kitchen setting with soft daylight coming from a window. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe calls for simple pantry staples that come together beautifully, each ingredient playing a crucial role in creating those soft, flavorful cookies you’ll crave. From the flour that forms the structure to the cornstarch which keeps things tender, every element matters.

3 cups all-purpose flour: This is the foundation of the cookie dough, providing structure and a tender crumb.
2 tablespoons cornstarch: A secret weapon for softness that keeps your cookies delightfully tender.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Makes sure your cookies rise just enough to stay light and fluffy, so freshness is key.
1 cup unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature for easy mixing and rich flavor.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances perfectly without overpowering the cookie’s buttery notes.
1 large egg: Adds moisture and helps bind everything together while contributing to the cookie’s structure.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract infuses the dough with warmth and depth of flavor.

How to Make Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder in a medium bowl. This mix of dry ingredients not only ensures even distribution but also guarantees the perfect texture for your cookies.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale, fluffy, and light. This creaming step is key for that cloud-like softness you want in your sugar cookies.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything combines into a smooth, fragrant batter. The vanilla unlocks the flavor, and the egg brings the dough together for structure and moisture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients on a low speed. Mix just until everything is combined, being careful not to overmix, which could toughen the dough.

Step 5: Roll and Cut

Roll the dough out to about one-quarter inch thick on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out shapes. This thickness helps keep your cookies soft and tender after baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes. Remove them from the oven just before the edges start to turn brown to keep them extra soft.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Once completely cooled, generously frost each cookie with your favorite buttercream frosting and top with colorful rainbow sprinkles for a cheerful touch that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

How to Serve Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe

A close-up view of several round sugar cookies arranged on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has one thick layer of creamy white frosting spread on top with a slightly uneven texture. The frosting is decorated with small, bright, multicolored sprinkles scattered over the surface. One cookie near the center has a bite taken out of it, showing the soft, light beige inside of the cookie. Extra sprinkles are scattered loosely around the cookies on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The classic rainbow sprinkles are a perfect, playful garnish that add just the right amount of crunch and color. You can also sprinkle finely chopped nuts or edible glitter to elevate presentation for special events.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk, a cup of hot tea, or coffee for the ultimate cozy snack experience. They also accompany fruit salads or creamy dessert dips wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the cookies with layers of frosting in between to make mini cookie sandwiches. Alternatively, package them in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbons to give as delightful homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your soft frosted sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and soft, preserving that tender texture you love.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw fully before frosting to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

If you want to freshen up your cookies, warm them in a low oven (about 300°F) for 3 to 5 minutes. This softens the cookie and slightly melts the frosting, creating an irresistible treat.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce or omit any additional salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the final flavor.

What is the purpose of cornstarch in this cookie recipe?

Cornstarch helps keep the cookies soft and tender by interfering with gluten development. It contributes to that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all crave in sugar cookies.

Can I use a different flavor extract?

Absolutely! While vanilla is classic and comforting, almond or lemon extract can add a fun twist. Just use the same amount so the cookie dough stays balanced.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and roll the dough to the recommended thickness. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can also help keep the shapes from spreading.

Is it necessary to frost all the cookies?

Not at all! These sugar cookies are delicious plain or dusted with powdered sugar if you prefer a simpler treat. Frosting adds sweetness and visual appeal but is optional based on your taste.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have this wonderful Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe in your collection, you’re ready to delight family and friends with a truly special treat. These cookies are not only deliciously soft and flavorful but also incredibly fun to make. Gather your ingredients, and enjoy every moment baking and sharing these joyful bites!