Name: Small-batch Frosted Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (measured by weight or using the spoon and sweep method); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/3 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg white; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup powdered sugar (optional for rolling); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened); 3/4 cup powdered sugar (sifted); 1-2 teaspoons milk or cream (divided to reach desired consistency); 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting); A pinch of salt (to balance sweetness); Food coloring (optional for customizing frosting); Sprinkles (optional for decoration)

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There’s something utterly charming about a batch of freshly baked sugar cookies, especially when they are adorned with a luscious layer of frosting. These Small-batch Frosted Sugar Cookies are perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet but don’t want a full dozen sitting around. They are soft, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet, making them a delightful treat for any occasion—or no occasion at all!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Small-batch Frosted Sugar Cookies recipe is a keeper because it combines simplicity with deliciousness. It’s quick to whip up, requires minimal ingredients, and is perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth without overwhelming you with leftovers. Plus, the frosting is customizable! You can make it as colorful or as simple as you like, ensuring that it fits any occasion or mood.

The Ingredient Lineup

3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons (105g) all-purpose flour: Measured by weight or using the spoon and sweep method. This forms the base of your cookies.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Makes your cookies rise and gives them that perfect texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the cookies.
1/3 cup (76g) unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a rich flavor.
1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons (75g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough perfectly.
1 large egg white: Provides structure and moisture to the cookies.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor.
1/3 cup (40g) powdered sugar (optional for rolling): For a sweet finish before baking.
3 tablespoons (1.5oz) unsalted butter (for frosting): Softened for a creamy consistency.
3/4 cup (90g) powdered sugar (for frosting): Sifted to ensure a smooth frosting.
1-2 teaspoons milk or cream (divided): To achieve the desired frosting consistency.
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): To enhance the flavor of the frosting.
A pinch of salt: To balance the sweetness of the frosting.
Food coloring (optional): To customize the frosting.
Sprinkles (optional): For a festive touch!

Essential Tools for Success

Handheld electric mixer (optional but helpful): Makes mixing the dough and frosting a breeze.
Baking sheet: A flat, sturdy surface for baking your cookies.
Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Cooling rack: To cool your cookies after baking.

Directions: Small-batch Frosted Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate mixing bowl, using a handheld electric mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the egg white and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined.

Step 5: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form small balls of dough (about 1 tablespoon each). If desired, roll the balls in powdered sugar for added sweetness and texture.

Step 7: Bake

Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sifted powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of milk or cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy, adding more milk or cream as needed to reach your desired frosting consistency.

Step 9: Decorate

Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them generously with your prepared frosting. If desired, add food coloring to customize your frosting and top with sprinkles for a fun touch.

Quick Replacement Ideas

Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free cookie.
Use aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) instead of egg white for a vegan option.
Substitute almond extract for vanilla for a different flavor profile.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Cookies are too hard: This may be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as the edges start to turn golden.
Dough is too sticky: If your dough is sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before shaping and baking.
Frosting is too runny: Add more sifted powdered sugar to thicken it up. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more milk or cream.
Cookies spread too much: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Cold dough can help prevent excessive spreading.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Your Small-batch Frosted Sugar Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Quick Q&A

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar. This will give your cookies a richer flavor and a slightly chewier texture.

What can I use instead of an egg white?

You can use aquafaba, which is the liquid from canned chickpeas, as a great egg white substitute in this recipe.

How thick should the frosting be?

The frosting should be spreadable but not runny. It should hold its shape when piped or spread on the cookies.

Can I decorate these cookies with royal icing instead of frosting?

Absolutely! You can use royal icing for a more polished look. Just make sure the cookies are completely cool before decorating.

Next Up in Your Queue

Make It Tonight

If you’re ready to indulge in some Small-batch Frosted Sugar Cookies, gather your ingredients and get started! This delightful recipe is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just treating yourself, you’ll love the sweet, buttery goodness of these cookies. So put on your apron and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen!

With every bite of these Small-batch Frosted Sugar Cookies, you’ll find yourself smiling at the pure joy of homemade treats. Enjoy your baking adventure and the delicious cookies that await!

Small-batch Frosted Sugar Cookies

These Small-batch Frosted Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without a full dozen!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

3/4 cup all-purpose flour measured by weight or using the spoon and sweep method
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg white
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup powdered sugar optional for rolling

For the Frosting:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar sifted
1-2 teaspoons milk or cream divided to reach desired consistency
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting
A pinch of salt to balance sweetness
Food coloring optional for customizing frosting
Sprinkles optional for decoration

Equipment

Handheld electric mixer
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooling rack

Method

Directions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate mixing bowl, using a handheld electric mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the egg white and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined.
Step 5: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form small balls of dough (about 1 tablespoon each). If desired, roll the balls in powdered sugar for added sweetness and texture.
Step 7: Bake
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sifted powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of milk or cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy, adding more milk or cream as needed to reach your desired frosting consistency.
Step 9: Decorate
Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them generously with your prepared frosting. If desired, add food coloring to customize your frosting and top with sprinkles for a fun touch.