Mini Sugar Cookies

Tiny delights that melt in your mouth, these Mini Sugar Cookies are pure joy in every bite. Perfectly sweet and wonderfully soft, they are simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to bake up a batch of these adorable, buttery treats!

Why You’ll Love These Mini Sugar Cookies

These bite-sized wonders are more than just a cookie; they’re a ticket to effortless baking and delightful snacking. Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:

• Ready in Just 30 Minutes: From mixing bowl to cooling rack, these speedy treats are perfect for last-minute cravings.
• Kid-Friendly & Fun: Shaping the small balls is an engaging activity for little helpers in the kitchen.
• Classic Flavor Profile: Enjoy that timeless, comforting sugar cookie taste that everyone adores.
• Perfectly Portioned: Each miniature cookie is a delightful single serving, ideal for parties or a controlled sweet indulgence.
• Versatile & Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with various extracts or sprinkles for any occasion.
• Irresistibly Soft Texture: Achieve soft, chewy cookies with a lightly crisp, sugary exterior every single time.
• Budget-Friendly Ingredients: You likely have all the essential components in your pantry right now!

Ingredients Needed for Your Mini Sugar Cookies

Crafting these delectable mini sugar cookies requires a handful of common pantry staples. Selecting quality ingredients ensures the best flavor and texture, resulting in perfectly tender and sweet treats. For instance, always opt for fresh, room-temperature butter to achieve that light and fluffy creamed base.

• 2 cups (400g) all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for your cookies.
• 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened: Contributes richness and tenderness.
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar: For sweetness and that signature crisp edge.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• 2 teaspoons (10ml) vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile with its aromatic warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly and achieve a soft texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• For rolling: 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar: Creates a beautiful, sparkling crust.

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Essential Equipment

You don’t need a gourmet kitchen to whip up these fantastic treats, but a few key tools will certainly streamline the process. Having the right equipment makes baking these mini sugar cookies an absolute breeze!

• • Large Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
  • Electric Mixer (Stand or Handheld): Crucial for creaming butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Whisk: Perfect for combining dry ingredients evenly.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements, which is key in baking.
  • Baking Sheets: You’ll need at least two to bake in batches.

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• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
• Wire Rack: Necessary for cooling your cookies completely and preventing sogginess.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 48 cookies
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating these delightful mini sugar cookies is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to bake perfect, golden-edged treats.

Prepare Your Workspace

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, carefully line your baking sheets with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined. Set this dry mixture aside.

Mix the Dough

3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer. Beat vigorously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture appears light and wonderfully fluffy. This step incorporates air, contributing to the cookies’ soft texture.
4. Next, beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until they are thoroughly combined into the creamy butter mixture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.
5. Gradually add the whisked flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are just combined and a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Shape and Bake

6. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands. This small size makes them perfect “mini” treats. Roll each ball in the reserved granulated sugar to coat it completely, creating a lovely sparkling exterior.
7. Place the sugar-coated balls onto your prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for proper spreading.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set. Keep a close eye on them, as mini cookies bake quickly! If your oven has hot spots, rotate the trays halfway through.
9. Cool the cookies on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy and helps them firm up perfectly.

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Tips for Success

Achieving perfectly tender and flavorful mini sugar cookies is simple with these expert tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and egg are at room temperature for a smooth, homogenous dough that creams beautifully.
• Do Not Overmix: Mix the flour into the wet ingredients only until just combined. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tougher cookies.
• Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended): If your kitchen is warm or the dough is sticky, chill it for 15-30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and prevents excessive spreading.
• Even Ball Size: Use a small scoop or your hands to make uniform 1-inch balls for consistent baking.
• Watch Your Oven: Ovens vary, so start checking for doneness at 8 minutes. You want lightly golden edges, not deeply browned.

Variations & Substitutions

These mini sugar cookies are a fantastic canvas for your creativity! Try these twists to make them uniquely yours:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum).
• Dairy-Free: Use a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative.
• Flavor Boost: Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla for a richer, nutty flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon or orange zest into the dough for a bright, zesty cookie.
• Sprinkle Fun: Instead of plain granulated sugar, roll the dough balls in colorful sprinkles before baking for a festive look.

Serving Suggestions

These delightful mini sugar cookies are perfect on their own, but they also shine when paired with complementary flavors and beverages.

• Afternoon Tea: Serve alongside a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
• Milk & Cookies: A classic pairing! Offer with a tall glass of cold milk, dairy or non-dairy.
• Dessert Platter: Arrange them on a platter with fresh berries, chocolate-covered strawberries, or other small pastries.
• Ice Cream Topping: Crumble them over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added texture and sweetness.
• Hot Cocoa Bar: Pair with a rich hot cocoa or warm spiced apple cider during colder months.

Health Benefits

While these mini sugar cookies are a delicious treat, understanding their nutritional contribution is part of a balanced diet.

• Energy Boost: The carbohydrates and sugars provide quick energy, perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
• Moderate Portions: Their small size naturally encourages portion control, making it easier to enjoy a sweet indulgence responsibly.

Storage & Reheating

Keep your mini sugar cookies fresh and delicious for longer with proper storage techniques:

• Countertop (Room Temperature): Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked and completely cooled cookies in a freezer-safe airtight container or bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before enjoying. Reheating is not typically necessary for these cookies; they are best enjoyed thawed.
• Dough Storage: You can also freeze the unbaked dough balls (sugar-coated) on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about baking these tiny treasures? We’ve got answers to help you bake with confidence.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it, tightly wrapped, for up to 2-3 days. Let it come to room temperature slightly before shaping.

Why are my mini sugar cookies spreading too much?

This can happen if your butter was too soft, your oven isn’t hot enough, or if you didn’t measure your flour correctly. Chilling the dough can also help prevent spreading.

Can I add frosting to these?

Yes, you can! Once cooled, these mini sugar cookies are perfect for a thin layer of buttercream or a simple glaze. Consider a lemon or almond glaze for extra flavor.

How many cookies does this recipe yield?

This recipe typically yields about 48 mini sugar cookies, depending on how uniformly you shape your 1-inch balls.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

You can lightly grease your baking sheets, but parchment paper is highly recommended for easy release and consistent results without over-browning the bottoms.

Are these cookies chewy or crispy?

These mini sugar cookies are designed to be wonderfully soft and chewy in the center with a delicate, lightly crisp, sugary exterior.

More Delicious Dishes

If you loved these delightful mini sugar cookies, you’ll certainly want to explore more of our irresistible sweet treats!

• Chocolate Peppermint Swirl Cookies – A festive cookie with a cool minty twist, perfect for holidays or any time you need a special treat.
• Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies – Brighten your day with these zesty, soft cookies bursting with fresh lemon flavor.
• Jam Thumbprint Cookies with the Perfect Buttery Crumble – Indulge in classic buttery cookies filled with your favorite fruit preserves.

Conclusion

Baking these mini sugar cookies brings simple, homemade happiness to your kitchen. They are truly the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion, promising smiles all around. Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more delightful recipes!

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