Sugar Cookie Cups

Name: Sugar Cookie Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup 1 – 3/4 cup salted butter (softened) (Use room temperature butter for easy creaming.); 3/4 cup 3/4 cup granulated sugar (This will give your cookies a sweet and crispy edge.); 1 large 1 large egg (Brings moisture and binding to the dough.); 1.5 teaspoon 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (For that classic cookie flavor.); 0.5 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (Adds a lovely, nutty aroma.); 2 cups 2 cups all-purpose flour (The foundation of your cookie dough.); 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon baking powder (Helps the cookies rise.); 0.5 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (Produces a fluffy texture.); 2 ounces 2 ounces cream cheese (softened) (Provides a creamy frosting base.); 3 cups 3 cups powdered sugar (Sweetens and thickens the frosting.); 1/4 cup 1/4 cup butter (Adds richness to your frosting.); 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons milk (Adjusts frosting consistency.); 0.25 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances frosting flavor.); to taste Pink or red food coloring gel (optional) (For a pop of color.); as needed Sprinkles (For a festive touch!)

Introduction
Sugar Cookie Cups are a delightful treat that combines the classic taste of sugar cookies with a fun, filled center! This recipe is perfect for busy home cooks. It’s simple and quick, making it a go-to choice for any occasion. With just a few easy steps, you can have these delicious cookie cups ready to enjoy. Plus, they’re customizable with your favorite frosting and sprinkles, adding a festive touch.

Emma Hale Story
Growing up, I loved baking with my family. One of our favorites was making cookies for special occasions. Sugar Cookie Cups became a staple, especially during the holidays. They were always a hit! The joy of filling those little cups with frosting was magical. Today, I still bake them with loved ones, creating sweet memories and tasty treats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love these Sugar Cookie Cups for their sweet flavor and fun presentation. They are soft, buttery, and bursting with frosting goodness. Plus, they’re super versatile! You can use different extracts or food colors to match any holiday or occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party or just a cozy family dessert night, these cookie cups are sure to impress. They also look beautiful on any dessert table, making them perfect for Pinterest boards. Everyone will want to save this recipe for gatherings and celebrations!

Ingredients
1 – 3/4 cup salted butter (softened) – Use room temperature butter for easy creaming.
2 – 3/4 cup granulated sugar – This will give your cookies a sweet and crispy edge.
3 – 1 large egg – Brings moisture and binding to the dough.
4 – 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract – For that classic cookie flavor.
5 – 1/2 teaspoon almond extract – Adds a lovely, nutty aroma.
6 – 2 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of your cookie dough.
7 – 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookies rise.
8 – 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Produces a fluffy texture.
9 – Sprinkles – For a festive touch!
10 – 2 ounces cream cheese (softened) – Provides a creamy frosting base.
11 – 3 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
12 – 1/4 cup butter – Adds richness to your frosting.
13 – 2 tablespoons milk – Adjusts frosting consistency.
14 – 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances frosting flavor.
15 – Pink or red food coloring gel (optional) – For a pop of color.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cups
1 – Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two regular muffin pans.
2 – In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
3 – Add in the egg and extracts; mix until smooth.
4 – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
5 – Combine the flour mixture with the wet mixture and stir until a dough forms. Don’t over-mix!
6 – Press 2 tablespoons of dough into the bottom of each muffin cup, pushing it halfway up the sides.
7 – Bake for 12 minutes, then cool for 15 minutes. Form the cup shape using a spoon.
8 – Prepare the frosting by mixing the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Adjust the consistency as needed with food coloring.
9 – Pipe or spoon the frosting into each cookie cup and top with sprinkles if desired!

How to Serve
These Sugar Cookie Cups shine on their own! But you can elevate the experience. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert combo. Pair with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, arrange them on a colorful platter with other treats during holidays or parties. And don’t forget a nice cup of milk or coffee to wash it all down!

How to Perfect This Recipe
To make the best Sugar Cookie Cups, remember a few tips. Measure your ingredients carefully for consistent results. Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing. Avoid over-mixing the dough to keep your cookie cups soft. Press the dough firmly into the muffin cups to create nice edges. If you want to customize the flavors, feel free to experiment with different extracts or colorings for the frosting.

Common Mistakes

Over-mixing the dough + Results in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
Not pressing the dough properly + Cookies may not hold their shape. Press firmly.
Using cold butter + Results in a less fluffy texture. Always use softened butter.

Storage and Reheating
You can keep your Sugar Cookie Cups fresh! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze well. Place them in a container with parchment paper between layers. They can last up to three months in the freezer! When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature and add fresh frosting if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookie cups gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
What can I use instead of cream cheese for frosting?
You can use buttercream or whipped cream as a delightful alternative.
How can I make these healthier?
Consider using less sugar or subbing brown sugar for a richer flavor.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to two days before baking.

Conclusion
Give these Sugar Cookie Cups a try! They’re easy to make and sure to delight everyone. Perfect for any gathering or just a fun treat for yourself. Happy baking!