Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Frosting

Introduction

Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Frosting are the ultimate classic treat—soft, buttery cookies topped with creamy, sweet frosting that can be decorated for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for Christmas, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or just as a weekend baking project, these cookies are a delightful blend of comfort and creativity. Their tender crumb and rich frosting make them loved by both kids and adults, while the decorating possibilities make them as fun as they are delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the kind of treat that brings out both creativity and comfort. The cookies are soft, buttery, and delicately sweet on their own, but when topped with creamy buttercream frosting, they transform into something truly special. The contrast of textures—tender cookie and smooth, melt-in-your-mouth frosting—makes every bite irresistible.

Another reason I love these cookies is how fun and personal they are to make. Decorating them with colorful frosting and sprinkles is not just baking—it’s a joyful activity that can be shared with family and friends. Every cookie can be unique, making them as beautiful as they are delicious.

I also love that they’re timeless and versatile. They work for any occasion—whether it’s the holidays, birthdays, or just a cozy weekend at home. Every time I make them, they spark a little nostalgia and bring back memories of festive gatherings and laughter in the kitchen.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Frosting are a must-try because they bring together the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence. The cookies themselves are buttery, tender, and lightly sweet, providing a soft base that melts in your mouth. The buttercream frosting adds richness, creaminess, and just the right amount of sweetness, making each bite irresistible.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and creativity. With different cookie cutter shapes, frosting colors, and sprinkles, these cookies can be customized for any season or celebration—Christmas trees and snowflakes in winter, hearts for Valentine’s Day, or pastel flowers for spring parties.

They’re also a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Kids love decorating (and eating!) them, while adults appreciate the nostalgic, homemade flavor that no store-bought cookie can match. Plus, they’re easy to bake in large batches, making them perfect for holiday platters, bake sales, and gifting.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
• Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes per batch
• Total Time: ~1 hour 40 minutes
• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: ~220 kcal (with frosting)

Cuisine, Cooking Method & Course

• Cuisine: American
• Cooking Method: Baking
• Course: Dessert / Snack

Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookies:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp milk (if dough needs softening)

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)
• Sprinkles (optional for decorating)

Directions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing until a dough forms.
5. If dough is too dry, add 1–2 tbsp milk.
6. Divide dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
3. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
4. Place cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets.
5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until edges are just turning golden.
6. Cool completely before frosting.

Step 3: Make the Buttercream Frosting

1. Beat butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time.
3. Add vanilla and 2 tbsp cream; beat until fluffy.
4. Adjust consistency with more sugar (thicker) or cream (softer).
5. Tint with food coloring if desired.

Step 4: Decorate

1. Spread or pipe frosting on cooled cookies.
2. Add sprinkles or other decorations.
3. Allow frosting to set slightly before storing or serving.

How to Serve

• Serve on a holiday cookie platter.
• Pair with hot chocolate, coffee, or milk.
• Wrap individually in plastic or place in festive tins for gifts.

Additional Tips & Variations

• Flavor Boost: Add almond extract or lemon zest to the dough.
• Frosting Variations: Try cream cheese frosting for tanginess.
• Make Ahead: Prepare dough and refrigerate up to 2 days before baking.
• Holiday Themes: Use seasonal cookie cutters and food coloring to match the occasion.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Store frosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge.
• Freezing Dough: Freeze unbaked cookie dough discs for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before rolling.
• Freezing Cookies: Baked unfrosted cookies freeze well for up to 2 months. Frost after thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Piping bags (optional, for decorative frosting)

Conclusion

Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Frosting are a festive, customizable, and delicious classic. With their soft, buttery base and creamy frosting, they’re perfect for holidays, birthdays, or anytime you want a fun baking project. Easy to decorate and always a hit, they bring joy, sweetness, and creativity to the table.