Sugar Star Cookies

Short Description

Sugar Star Cookies are a festive and delicious treat perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion. These buttery, soft sugar cookies are cut into star shapes and decorated with icing or sprinkles, making them a beautiful and tasty addition to dessert tables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Perfect for decorating with icing, sprinkles, or sugar dusting
• Great for holiday celebrations and gift-giving
• Can be made ahead and stored for later
• Fun to bake with kids

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Almond extract (optional for extra flavor)
• Powdered sugar (for icing, if desired)
• Milk or water (for icing)
• Food coloring and sprinkles (optional for decoration)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. Cream butter and sugar in a separate bowl until light and fluffy.
4. Add egg and vanilla extract (and almond extract if using) and mix until combined.
5. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
7. Cut into star shapes using cookie cutters and place on baking sheets.
8. Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool completely before decorating with icing or sprinkles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes (for firmer dough)
• Bake Time: 8–10 minutes
• Total Time: 45–55 minutes

Variations

• Glazed Stars: Brush with a simple powdered sugar glaze for a shiny finish.
• Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for a gourmet touch.
• Lemon Zest Flavor: Add lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Roll the cookies in cinnamon sugar before baking.
• Royal Icing Decoration: Use royal icing to pipe detailed designs.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Refrigeration: Keep decorated cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and decorate when needed.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Wrap the dough tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the cut-out dough for 10–15 minutes before baking.

Can I use different shapes instead of stars?

Absolutely! Use any cookie cutter shape you like.

What’s the best icing for decorating?

Royal icing or a simple powdered sugar glaze works well for detailed designs.

Can I make these cookies without a rolling pin?

Yes, you can press the dough flat with your hands or a smooth glass.

How can I make them softer or crispier?

For softer cookies, bake for less time; for crispier cookies, bake a minute or two longer.

What’s the best way to package these for gifts?

Place cookies in decorative tins or clear cellophane bags with ribbon.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but it may change the texture slightly; try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose.

How do I get vibrant icing colors?

Use gel food coloring instead of liquid for richer colors.

Can I add sprinkles before baking?

Yes! Press sprinkles into the dough before baking for a baked-in decoration.

Conclusion

Sugar Star Cookies are a fun and festive treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them plain, decorated with icing, or dipped in chocolate, they’re a delightful addition to your holiday baking. Try different variations and share them with friends and family!

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