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Homemade Small-batch Frosted Sugar Cookies photo

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!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
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:
  1. Step 1: Preheat the Oven
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
    Add the egg white and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.

Notes

  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze cookies for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
  • Use coconut oil for a dairy-free version or aquafaba for a vegan option.