Mini Sugar Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering, these Mini Sugar Cookies are just the thing! They have a crunchy exterior and a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth center that will make you want to reach for just one more. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a family event, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

What I love about these tiny cookies is how versatile they are. You can nibble on them as an afternoon snack or dress them up for special occasions. Plus, they’re super easy to make, which is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick dessert that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike can’t resist these little bites of happiness.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them in advance and store them for any occasion.
• Customizable: Add your favorite sprinkles or decorations to make them even more fun!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Mini Sugar Cookies is a breeze with just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Most of them are pantry staples you probably already have on hand!

For the Cookie Dough

• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter (softened but still cool to the touch)
• ½ cup (115g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
• ½ cup (108g) canola or vegetable oil
• 1¼ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract
• 1 large egg
• 2⅓ cups (291g) all purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ½ teaspoon salt

For Rolling and Sprinkling

• ¾ cup (173g) granulated sugar, divided

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! The beauty of Mini Sugar Cookies is their flexibility; you can easily tweak the flavors or add fun twists.

• Add Citrus Zest: Incorporate some lemon or orange zest for a refreshing citrus kick.
• Chocolate Chip Delight: Stir in mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolaty treat.
• Sprinkle Fest: Top with colorful sprinkles before baking for a festive look.
• Nutty Flavor: Mix in chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for added crunch.

How to Make Mini Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. While you’re at it, line three baking sheets with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until creamy. Then add the oil and mix until well combined. Don’t worry if it looks slightly curdled when you add the egg and extracts; that’s totally normal! This mixture forms the base of your delicious cookie dough.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Adding these dry ingredients separately helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the dough. Gradually mix this flour combination into your wet ingredients until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Prepare for Rolling

Set aside ¼ cup of sugar to sprinkle on top of your baked cookies later on. In another container, pour in ½ cup of granulated sugar where you’ll toss your dough balls. Using something wide and flat makes it easy to coat each ball evenly.

Step 5: Shape the Dough Balls

Scoop out heaping portions of dough—about 2 teaspoons each—and drop them into your sugar container. Shake gently or use your hands to coat each dough ball completely in sugar. This adds extra sweetness and creates that lovely crunch once baked!

Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheets

Place each coated dough ball a couple of inches apart on your prepared baking sheets—aim for about 30 per sheet so they have room to spread while baking. Flatten each one slightly using a cookie stamp or the bottom of a glass; this gives them that classic cookie shape we all love.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake your cookies for about 9-12 minutes until they puff up and start setting around the edges—they’ll crisp up as they cool! Once out of the oven, sprinkle some reserved sugar on top while they’re still warm. Allow them to cool completely on wire racks before storing them away (if they last that long!).

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Mini Sugar Cookies!

Pro Tips for Making Mini Sugar Cookies

Baking these delightful mini sugar cookies can be a breeze with just a few handy tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use softened butter: This helps create that wonderful, creamy texture in your dough, leading to cookies that are both crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.
• Measure flour accurately: Spoon and level your flour when measuring to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to a dry texture, while too little may cause them to spread too much.
• Chill the dough if needed: If your dough feels too soft or sticky, a brief chill in the fridge can help it firm up, making it easier to scoop and shape into perfect little balls.
• Don’t skip the sugar coating: Rolling your cookie dough balls in granulated sugar not only adds sweetness but also creates a lovely texture on the surface once baked.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different! Start checking your cookies at the lower end of the baking time range to prevent overbaking and ensure they remain tender and delicious.

How to Serve Mini Sugar Cookies

These mini sugar cookies are not just tasty; they’re also visually appealing and versatile! Here are some fun ideas on how to present them beautifully for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Sprinkles: Adding colorful sprinkles before baking can make these cookies pop with festive cheer—perfect for holiday gatherings or celebrations!
• Drizzle of icing: A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and water can add a sweet finish. Just drizzle lightly over cooled cookies for a touch of elegance.
• Citrus zest: Grating a bit of lemon or orange zest over the top can introduce a refreshing twist that complements the sweetness perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit platter: A selection of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and sliced oranges provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
• Tea or coffee: Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee elevates their enjoyment, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or cozy evenings.
• Milkshake: For a fun twist, serve mini sugar cookies alongside mini milkshakes. The creamy flavor pairs wonderfully with the crunchiness of the cookies!
• Cheese platter: A mild cheese like brie or cream cheese can balance out the sweetness. Consider adding some honey or nuts for extra flavor variety!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with your delicious mini sugar cookies. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mini Sugar Cookies are not just delicious; they are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch ahead of time, making them a fantastic treat to have on hand whenever a cookie craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.
• For longer shelf life, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to two weeks.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to three months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Mini Sugar Cookies that might help you along the way!

Can I substitute ingredients in Mini Sugar Cookies?

Yes! You can replace unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. For the egg, try using ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).

How do I make Mini Sugar Cookies less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, you can cut down on the granulated sugar slightly while maintaining the balance of other ingredients. Adjusting the powdered sugar used in rolling is also an option.

What makes these Mini Sugar Cookies so special?

These cookies offer a delightful crunch while being buttery and light. Their small size makes them perfect for sharing or enjoying as a quick treat without feeling guilty!

Can I decorate Mini Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely! These cookies are a wonderful canvas for decoration. Use icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter to personalize your treats for any occasion.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make these Mini Sugar Cookies as I am! They are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying with their crunchy yet melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself (no judgment here!), these little delights are sure to bring joy. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!