Bring out the kid in you with these easy and delicious Frosted Sugar Cookies. They’re fun to make with little ones on a rainy afternoon!
One of my favorite nostalgic treats comes from the grocery store. You likely already know what I’m going to say: those pillowy sugar cookies with the thick frosting and sprinkles on top. They were a staple of my ’90s childhood, and now, as an adult, I try not to bring them home very often because I have a hard time eating just one once the package is open.
When the craving hits, however, I sometimes like to make a semi-homemade version of those thick, frosted cookies with store-bought cookie dough. It has similar vibes without the added work that comes from baking a whole batch from scratch, which also makes it perfect for kids to help out with. I like to customize the frosting with a touch of almond extract for a mellow, bakery-worthy quality that adds a little refinement to these simple cookies. So, take a trip down memory lane and let your inner child come out for this one. Nostalgia always tastes so sweet!
A cookie for every occasion
Need a cookie to bring to a holiday party? Planning a birthday celebration for one of your kids? Having friends over and just need something quick, simple, and sweet to set out on the table? These cookies are jacks of all trades.
The flavor of the cookie will remain consistent, but you can switch up the frosting—either in flavor or in aesthetics—to match the spirit or theme of the occasion. For example, a dash of peppermint extract in the frosting would make them a great Christmas cookie, perhaps with crushed candy cane sprinkled on top. Heart-shaped sprinkles would be adorable for Valentine’s Day. A little food coloring can tint the frosting to your favorite team’s colors if you’re watching the big game. The sky’s the limit, so embrace your inner creative!
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cookies in a single layer or with parchment between layers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container once the frosting is firm. Enjoy them within 2 months.
Serving suggestions
These frosted sugar cookies pair perfectly with a glass of ice-cold milk, hot coffee, or a mug of tea. Want to enjoy even more nostalgic sweet treats? Try whipping up a batch of Chocolate-Peanut Butter Cookies, Butter Pecan Cookies, or Iced Oatmeal Cookies.
Frosted Sugar Cookies
Ingredients Â
- 1 roll refrigerated sugar cookie dough (16 1/2 ounces)
- 4 ounces cream cheese room temperature
- 1/2 cup butter room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- Food coloring optional
- Assorted sprinkles optional
InstructionsÂ
- Bake the cookies according to package directions. Cool completely (this takes approximately 30 minutes).
- To make the frosting, cream together cream cheese and butter.
- Slowly add powdered sugar.
- Add heavy cream and almond extract, and beat for 5 minutes until very light and fluffy.
- Add food coloring if desired.
- Spread 1 heaping tablespoon of frosting onto each cookie, and decorate with sprinkles, if desired.
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