Sprinkle Sugar Cookies: Soft, Chewy, and Perfectly Festive

Sprinkle Sugar Cookies are a classic treat that brings joy to every occasion. Soft, chewy, and adorned with colorful sprinkles, these cookies are perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just an everyday sweet craving. This Sprinkle Sugar Cookies recipe is easy to make, uses simple ingredients you likely already have, and yields cookies that are crisp on the edges yet soft and tender in the center.

From the first bite, you’ll notice the buttery flavor and delicate sweetness that pairs perfectly with a splash of vanilla. The sprinkles not only make these cookies fun to look at but also add a little crunchy texture that enhances the overall bite. Whether you’re baking with kids, preparing treats for a party, or just craving homemade cookies, this recipe is designed to deliver consistent, delicious results every time.

With step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and variations, you’ll discover how simple it is to create bakery-quality Sprinkle Sugar Cookies right in your own kitchen. Get ready to fill your home with the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies that everyone will love.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 10-12 minutes | Total time: 27 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: 24 cookies

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What Makes These Sprinkle Sugar Cookies Special?

• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are perfectly tender in the middle with slightly crisp edges.

• Vibrant Sprinkles: Colorful sprinkles make every bite festive and fun, ideal for celebrations.

• Simple Ingredients: No fancy pantry items needed—everything is easy to find.

• Quick and Easy: From mixing to baking, you can have these cookies ready in under 30 minutes.

• Customizable: Easily add your favorite flavors, swap sprinkles, or make them gluten-free.

Try this recipe because it’s straightforward, reliable, and yields cookies that look and taste like they came from a bakery. Quick tips like chilling the dough slightly can make shaping easier and help the cookies bake evenly.

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Ingredient Notes

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure. You can substitute half with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

• Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly, giving them a soft, tender texture.

• Salt: Enhances the flavor of the butter and sugar.

• Unsalted butter: Softened butter gives richness and tenderness. Can use salted butter, but reduce added salt by 1/4 teaspoon.

• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and creates a slight crunch on the edges. Brown sugar can be added for extra chewiness.

• Egg: Binds ingredients and adds moisture.

• Vanilla extract: Enhances the cookie’s flavor. Almond extract can be used for a different twist.

• Sprinkles: Adds color and texture. Nonpareils or jimmies work well; avoid ones that melt too much.

• Optional tools: Mixing bowls, hand mixer or stand mixer, cookie sheets, parchment paper, cooling rack.

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How To Make Sprinkle Sugar Cookies

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened butter with 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

3. Add egg and vanilla: Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

4. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt.

5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until a soft dough forms. (Tip: Don’t overmix—cookies stay tender.)

6. Shape cookies: Scoop 1 ½ tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and gently press into sprinkles.

7. Bake: Place cookies 2 inches apart and bake 10-12 minutes, until edges are slightly golden but centers remain soft.

8. Cool: Let cookies rest on the sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro tip: Chilling the dough 15-20 minutes before baking can prevent spreading and enhance flavor.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Refrigeration: Keep cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies up to 3 months. Freeze dough balls for up to 2 months and bake from frozen (add 1-2 minutes to baking time).

• Reheating: Warm in the microwave 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore softness.

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Variations and Substitutions

1. Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

2. Vegan: Replace butter with vegan margarine and egg with flax egg.

3. Chocolate Sprinkle Cookies: Mix in mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder for chocolate-flavored cookies.

4. Seasonal Sprinkles: Use holiday-themed sprinkles (red & green for Christmas, pastel for Easter).

5. Flavor Twist: Add citrus zest or almond extract for unique flavor combinations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Bake fresh when ready.

• Why are my cookies spreading too much? Chill the dough slightly and avoid over-creasing with butter at room temperature.

• Can I use salted butter? Yes, but reduce the added salt by ¼ teaspoon.

• How do I make them softer? Slightly underbake and store in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain moisture.

• Can I freeze the dough? Absolutely. Freeze balls of dough on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two.

• What sprinkles work best? Use sturdy sprinkles like jimmies or nonpareils. Avoid very soft or candy-coated sprinkles that melt.

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Warm Conclusion

Sprinkle Sugar Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a fun, colorful way to make any moment sweeter. Whether baking for kids, friends, or yourself, this recipe is approachable, quick, and absolutely delightful. Give it a try, get creative with sprinkles and flavors, and don’t forget to share your delicious results. There’s nothing quite like homemade cookies fresh from the oven to brighten anyone’s day.

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