Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite treat: Sugar Cookie Cups! These delightful little cookies are not only easy to make but also a fun twist on traditional sugar cookies. Each cup is perfectly tender, with a buttery flavor that melts in your mouth, and is filled to the brim with frosting and festive sprinkles. Imagine a bite of sweetness that gives you all the warm and fuzzy feelings, making them ideal for celebrations, holidays, or simply as a sweet indulgence during the week. Let’s dive in and create these adorable treats together!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup frosting of choice
- Sprinkles (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookie cups
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin to ensure easy removal of the cookie cups.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a luxurious texture.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined and aromatic.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, letting the dry ingredients mingle before they join the wet ones.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that soft, tender quality!
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough into each muffin cup, gently pressing down to form a cup shape, which will cradle all the delicious frosting.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 5 minutes in the pan before transferring the cookie cups to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, fill each sugar cookie cup with your favorite frosting and beautifully top with sprinkles as desired. Get creative!
Notes or Tips
For a fun twist, try using different flavored frostings or even homemade frosting to customize these cookie cups for any occasion. If you’re in a pinch for time, store-bought frosting works wonderfully too! Keep an eye on the baking time; you don’t want to overbake them, as they should remain soft in the center.
Cooking Techniques
Using the creaming method helps in incorporating air into the butter and sugar, which gives these cookie cups their distinctive light texture. Remember, the key to rich flavor is to not skip on the butter—unsalted is best to allow you to control the seasoning. Make sure to let your cookie cups cool completely before adding frosting; this will prevent the frosting from melting!
FAQ
Can I make these cookie cups ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, bake the cups and frost them the day before serving.
What other toppings can I use?
The possibilities are endless! Try crushed candies, chocolate chips, or even fruit for a fresh twist. Customize according to your mood or the occasion!
Conclusion
These Sugar Cookie Cups are not only adorable but are bound to bring joy and smiles to those who enjoy them. Their delightful combination of buttery cookie and sweet, colorful frosting makes them an irresistible treat for all ages. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these cookie cups are a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire. Happy baking!