These mini sugar cookies are soft, sweet, and oh-so-fun to make! They’re the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion, and kids love decorating them!
Honestly, I can’t resist their charming little size! I like to sprinkle some colorful sugar on top before baking for a friendly touch. Perfect with a glass of milk! 🥛
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: The base of these cookies! I love using unsalted butter to control the salt level. If you’re dairy-free, use vegan butter or coconut oil as a great substitute.
Granulated Sugar: This gives the cookies their sweet flavor. For a healthier option, try coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia. Just keep in mind that the texture may change a bit.
Egg: This ingredient helps bind everything together. If you’re looking for an egg-free alternative, use 1/4 cup of applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
Vanilla Extract: It adds depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, almond extract works nicely, but use it sparingly as it’s stronger.
All-Purpose Flour: The main structure in the cookies. If you need gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead.
How Do You Make Sure Your Mini Sugar Cookies Are Soft and Tender?
To achieve that perfect soft texture, there are a few key techniques:
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Softened butter creates a creamy mixture that’s crucial.
- Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the flour. Just mix until combined; this helps keep the cookies fluffy.
- Roll the dough into small balls and gently flatten them. Don’t press too hard; you want them to stay soft.
- Watch your baking time closely. Take them out just as the edges start to turn golden for that soft center.
By following these tips, you’ll have delicious mini sugar cookies that everyone will love! Enjoy with your favorite drink for the perfect treat!
Mini Sugar Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: colored sugar sprinkles or sanding sugar for decoration
- Optional: icing or melted white chocolate for decorating
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 8-10 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to let your cookies cool for about 5 minutes before moving them to a rack. It’s quick, fun, and the results are simply delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab some baking sheets and line them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats, making your cleanup a breeze!
2. Cream Together Butter and Sugar:
Take a large bowl and add your softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream these together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes, and it’s a crucial step for fluffy cookies!
3. Add the Egg and Vanilla:
Now, crack in the egg and pour the vanilla extract into the bowl. Beat everything together until well combined and smooth. The aroma of vanilla will fill your kitchen—it’s heavenly!
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and ensures your cookies rise beautifully.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Use your mixer on low speed to combine everything until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as we want to keep those cookies tender!
6. Shape the Dough:
Now it’s time to have some fun! Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. This size is perfect for bite-sized treats!
7. Place on Baking Sheets:
Lay the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave about 2 inches of space between them. They will spread a little while baking!
8. Flatten the Dough:
Using the bottom of a glass or a fork, gently press down on each dough ball. This flattens them slightly and creates a cute crosshatch design, kind of like a little waffle!
9. Sprinkle Some Color:
If you’d like, sprinkle some colored sugar or sanding sugar on top of the cookies for a festive touch. They’ll look cheerful and add a little crunch!
10. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking sheets in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should just start turning golden at the edges. The centers will remain soft, which is exactly what you want!
11. Cooling Time:
Once they are done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Decorate (Optional):
When the cookies are fully cool, feel free to decorate them with icing or melted white chocolate. Add some colorful sprinkles if you like for extra fun!
13. Enjoy!
Your mini sugar cookies are ready to be devoured! Enjoy them with a glass of milk or your favorite warm beverage. They’re perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!
These delightful bite-sized cookies have a soft and tender texture with a gentle sweetness. Their charming appearance makes them a great addition to any gathering or a fun project for kids!
Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?
Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for unsalted butter, but keep in mind that it may slightly change the flavor and texture of the cookies. For best results, choose a quality margarine that mimics butter closely.
What Can I Use Instead of an Egg?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using 1/4 cup of applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) to maintain the right consistency and moisture in your cookies!
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, shape it into balls, and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before baking. Just let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking!
