Introduction
Nothing says “I love you” quite like a freshly baked batch of soft and chewy sprinkle sugar cookies! Perfectly sweet with a delightful buttery flavor, these cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Adorned with vibrant, colorful sprinkles, they bring a bit of joy and whimsy to any occasion—especially Valentine’s Day. They’re great for gifting or simply enjoying at home with your loved ones. So, grab your mixing bowls, and let’s get started on these delightful treats!
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- ½ cup colorful sprinkles
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies release easily.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This will be your dry mixture—set it aside for now.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, beating until everything is well combined, and the mixture is smooth.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your cookies soft and tender.
- Gently fold in the colorful sprinkles, creating that delightful burst of color without overworking the dough.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving ample space for them to spread while baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, signaling that they are perfectly soft on the inside.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of festivity, feel free to mix in seasonal sprinkles or even a touch of food coloring into the dough for a vibrant twist! Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best creaming results, and store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Cooking Techniques
Creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy is one of the keys to achieving that tender, chewy texture that makes these cookies irresistible. Also, remember that baking times may vary by oven, so keep an eye on your cookies, especially on the first batch, to get them just right!
FAQ
Can I use margarine instead of butter? While it’s best to use unsalted butter for flavor, margarine can work in a pinch, though it may alter the texture slightly.
What can I do with leftover dough? You can refrigerate the dough for up to a week or freeze it for later baking. Just thaw it in the fridge and bake as you normally would!
Conclusion
These soft and chewy Valentine’s sprinkle sugar cookies are sure to become a beloved addition to your baking repertoire! With their delightful taste and cheerful appearance, they’ll put a smile on anyone’s face. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply for the love of baking, these cookies bring a sprinkle of joy to your kitchen. Enjoy every delicious bite!