Introduction
Welcome to the sweet world of baking! Today, we’re diving into a delightful treat that is sure to bring smiles to faces young and old—Sugar Cookie Cups! These charming little cookie cups are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for filling with your favorite frosting. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging yourself, these cookie cups are a crowd-pleaser that are oh-so-easy to make!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup frosting (store-bought or homemade)
- Sprinkles for decorating
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookie cups
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin to ensure easy removal of your cookie cups.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until they are well incorporated, creating a sweet base for your cookies.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, ensuring an even mix of dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if there are a few flour streaks!
- Scoop the cookie dough into the greased muffin tin, filling each cup about halfway to give them room to spread.
- Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to create a small well in the center of each cookie cup, which will hold your delicious frosting later.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, filling your home with the mouthwatering scent of freshly baked cookies.
- Remove the cookie cups from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, generously fill each cookie cup with frosting and finish with a sprinkle of colorful decorations to make them pop!
Notes or Tips
- To make these cookie cups even more special, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the dough before baking.
- If you’re feeling creative, try different flavors of frosting such as cream cheese or chocolate for a unique twist!
- These cookie cups can be stored in an airtight container for several days—if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
Creaming butter and sugar together is a crucial step in baking that helps incorporate air into the mixture, giving your cookies that fluffy texture. Be sure to use softened butter for the best results! Also, when it comes to making the wells for the frosting, a gentle touch will help maintain the structure of the cup while providing ample space for your sweet filling.
FAQ
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but it may alter the flavor slightly. Unsalted butter is recommended for the best taste. - Can these cookie cups be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie cups without frosting and frost them when ready to enjoy. - What type of frosting works best?
It’s up to your taste! Classic buttercream works wonderfully, but don’t hesitate to try whipped cream or a chocolate ganache for a decadent treat.
Conclusion
Sugar Cookie Cups are not only easy to make, but they’re also a wonderfully versatile treat that can bring joy to any occasion. The combination of a buttery cookie with sweet frosting and festive sprinkles makes for a delightful party favor or a cozy dessert for a family gathering. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress everyone with this delightful bake!