Growing up in the bustling, windy city of Chicago, my childhood was a tapestry of rich Polish traditions and the comforting aroma of home-baked goods. My babcia, with her apron perpetually dusted in flour, was the queen of the kitchen, and I was her eager little helper. One of my fondest memories is the sweet scent of buttercream sugar cookies wafting through the house, a treat that was as much a staple at family gatherings as my grandmother Elizabeth’s famous apple cake. These cookies, with their delicate crumb and luxurious buttercream frosting, were more than just a dessert—they were a symbol of love and togetherness. Now, as a mom to Ella and Peter, I find myself recreating these delightful cookies, infusing them with a touch of modern flair while preserving the nostalgia of my childhood.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Buttercream sugar cookies are the epitome of comfort and indulgence. These cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply craving a sweet treat. The cookies are soft and tender, with a buttery richness that pairs perfectly with the creamy, sweet frosting. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be decorated for any season or celebration. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both simple and satisfying, these buttercream sugar cookies are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for buttercream)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (for buttercream)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (for buttercream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for buttercream)
- Food coloring (optional, for buttercream)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the buttercream, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.
- If desired, divide the buttercream into separate bowls and tint with food coloring.
- Frost the cooled cookies with the buttercream using a spatula or piping bag.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
For perfectly soft and tender buttercream sugar cookies, be sure to measure your flour accurately using the spoon and level method. Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies, so mix just until the ingredients are combined. When making the buttercream, ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy texture. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more cream until you reach the desired consistency. Lastly, if you’re decorating with food coloring, start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve the perfect hue.
Cooking Tools
When I make this recipe, a few simple tools always make prep faster and cleaner. My go-to tool is the Silicone Utensils Set for mixing the dough and spreading the buttercream. The MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife is perfect for slicing butter and other ingredients with precision. And for a smooth and even buttercream, I rely on the Electric Knife Sharpener to keep my tools in top shape.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these buttercream sugar cookies! You can add a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty twist or sprinkle the frosted cookies with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. You can also experiment with different buttercream flavors by adding cocoa powder for chocolate frosting or a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing kick.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a fun dessert platter, serve them alongside fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, which complement the buttery sweetness of the cookies. They also make a charming addition to any holiday cookie exchange or as a thoughtful homemade gift, beautifully packaged in a decorative tin.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking.
How do I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’ve frosted them, you may want to refrigerate them to keep the buttercream fresh.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature and frost just before serving.
Final Thoughts
These buttercream sugar cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a cherished family tradition that I love sharing with you. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do, and that they bring a touch of warmth and happiness to your home. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family, and remember, the best ingredient is always love.
👉 I hope you loved making these buttercream sugar cookies—they’re like a hug in cookie form! If you’re in the mood for more sweet treats, check out my recipes for Chocolate Chip Cookies, Lemon Bars, or Peanut Butter Blondies. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group—and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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Buttercream Sugar Cookies: 5 Tips for Perfection
Deliciously soft sugar cookies topped with creamy buttercream frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on a wire rack.