Sugar Cookie Cups

Sugar Cookie Cups are delightful, bite-sized treats that combine the sweet, buttery goodness of traditional sugar cookies with a creamy, decadent frosting. Perfect for any occasion, these cookie cups make a charming dessert at parties, family gatherings, or just as a sweet treat to brighten your day. I’ve often made these with my family, filling our kitchen with laughter and delightful aromas. What makes them extra special is their customizable nature—you can decorate them with sprinkles, enjoy the frosting in a variety of colors, or even add unique flavors. Each bite is pure bliss!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly simple to whip up—perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick and satisfying project. The ingredients are budget-friendly and easily available, making it a feasible option any time you want a sweet treat. Plus, these Sugar Cookie Cups are ideal for holidays, birthdays, or even as a delightful gift, allowing you to showcase your culinary skills without spending all day in the kitchen.

“These cookie cups are not just adorable; they taste AMAZING! My kids loved decorating them with sprinkles, and they were gone in minutes!”

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Sugar Cookie Cups is straightforward and divided into fun, simple steps. Start by preheating your oven and preparing muffin pans. After that, you’ll mix your butter and sugar until fluffy, incorporate the wet ingredients, and combine with the dry mix. Press the dough into the muffin pans, bake, cool, and fill them with frosting made from softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. It’s as easy as that!

What You’ll Need

To whip up these delicious treats, you will need the following ingredients:

• 3/4 cup salted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Sprinkles (for decoration)
• 2 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pink or red food coloring gel (optional)

Feel free to switch up the extracts or even use a gluten-free flour blend if you’re looking for dietary adjustments!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two regular muffin pans with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to over-mix.
6. Press about 2 tablespoons of the cookie dough into the bottom of each muffin cup, pushing the dough halfway up the sides.
7. Bake for 12 minutes, then allow them to cool for at least 15 minutes. To create the cup shape, gently press the back of a tablespoon or a round spice jar into the center of each cookie while they’re still warm. Let cool completely.
8. Meanwhile, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you achieve the desired frosting consistency. Adjust with more milk or powdered sugar as necessary.
9. If desired, add food coloring gel until you reach your preferred shade.
10. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag and swirl it into each cooled cookie cup or spoon it in. Top with sprinkles, and enjoy!

Best Way to Serve

Sugar Cookie Cups make for an excellent centerpiece at any dessert table. You might consider serving them alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors. These cookies are particularly charming when presented on a decorative platter, making them a delightful addition to any gathering or celebration.

Storage Tips

To keep your Sugar Cookie Cups fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you need to store them for a longer duration, consider refrigerating them. Just be sure to allow the frosting to firm up before stacking them to prevent sticking. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookie cups without frosting. Thaw and then frost them before serving.

Pro Chef Tips

1. Don’t Over-Mix: Over-mixing can lead to tough cookie cups. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture in your frosting, ensure that both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature.
3. Experiment with Flavors: Try substituting the vanilla extract with other flavors like lemon or coconut for a unique twist.

Creative Twists

While the classic recipe is delightful, feel free to get creative! Consider filling your cookie cups with fruity jam, chocolate ganache, or even a salted caramel drizzle. You could also experiment with different types of frosting—think chocolate or peanut butter. Additionally, for a festive touch, consider incorporating seasonal sprinkles or toppings that align with holidays.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare these cookie cups?

Preparation takes about 20 minutes, followed by a baking time of 12 minutes (plus cooling time). Overall, expect around 45-50 minutes from start to finish.

Can I make these cookie cups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie cups a day in advance, store them without frosting, and frost them the day you plan to serve.

How do I prevent my cookie cups from sticking to the muffin pan?

Make sure to grease the muffin pan well with nonstick cooking spray. You can also line the pans with parchment paper to add an extra layer of protection against sticking.

These Sugar Cookie Cups are sure to become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire. With their sweet flavors and adorably inviting shape, they bring a sprinkle of joy to any occasion!

Sugar Cookie Cups

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• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookie cups 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful bite-sized treats that combine the sweetness of traditional sugar cookies with creamy frosting, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3/4 cup salted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Sprinkles (for decoration)
• 2 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pink or red food coloring gel (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two regular muffin pans with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to over-mix.
6. Press about 2 tablespoons of the cookie dough into the bottom of each muffin cup, pushing the dough halfway up the sides.
7. Bake for 12 minutes, then allow them to cool for at least 15 minutes. To create the cup shape, gently press the back of a tablespoon or a round spice jar into the center of each cookie while they’re still warm. Let cool completely.
8. Meanwhile, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you achieve the desired frosting consistency. Adjust with more milk or powdered sugar as necessary.
9. If desired, add food coloring gel until you reach your preferred shade.
10. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag and swirl it into each cooled cookie cup or spoon it in. Top with sprinkles, and enjoy!

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Refrigerate for longer storage but allow frosting to firm up before stacking.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie cup
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: sugar cookies, dessert, cookie cups, easy baking, festive treats