Save Discover the delight of golden, buttery sugar cookies that melt in your mouth, topped with a sweet and colorful icing drizzle that transforms every bite into a celebration. This easy American dessert recipe is perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying as a cheerful treat at home.
Save From soft dough to crisp edges, these sugar cookies offer the perfect texture contrast. The vibrant icing drizzle adds a festive touch, making them an irresistible treat for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- For the Sugar Cookies
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ¾ cups (345 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- For the Icing Drizzle
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Step 3
- Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
- Step 4
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Step 5
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Flatten slightly with your hand or the bottom of a glass.
- Step 6
- Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until edges are just golden. Cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 7
- For the icing, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. If desired, divide and tint with food coloring.
- Step 8
- Once cookies are cool, drizzle icing over the tops using a spoon or piping bag. Allow icing to set before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an added zing, try mixing a pinch of lemon zest into the icing before drizzling. This delicate citrus note brightens the sweetness and adds a refreshing twist.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To accommodate gluten sensitivities, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For extra color and fun, decorate the cookies with sprinkles before the icing fully sets.
Serviervorschläge
These sugar cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or milk. Present them on a festive plate for parties or gift them in a decorated tin to share the joy.
Save 
Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade sugar cookies with an easy icing drizzle that adds charm and sweetness to every bite. Whether for celebrations or a cozy day in, these cookies deliver smiles with every batch.
Your Questions Answered
- → What is the best way to achieve soft sugar cookies?
Using softened butter and not overmixing the dough helps create tender, soft cookies. Baking until edges are just golden preserves moisture inside.
- → How can I make the icing drizzle colorful?
Add food coloring to the icing mixture after blending powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for vibrant hues before drizzling.
- → Can I substitute ingredients for dietary needs?
Yes, gluten-free flour blends can replace all-purpose flour, and dairy-free milk alternatives work in the icing to suit specific diets.
- → How long should I let the icing set before serving?
Allow the icing to set at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes to ensure it firms up properly on the cookies.
- → Is it possible to add extra flavor to the icing?
Yes, a pinch of lemon zest or a dash of almond extract in the icing adds a subtle, delightful flavor twist.