These Mini Sugar Cookies are delightful little treats that bring joy to any occasion. Their crunchy, buttery texture makes them a perfect addition to holiday platters, gifts, or simply for snacking at home. With their melt-in-your-mouth quality and sweet flavor, these cookies are bound to be a hit with everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These mini cookies are great for parties, holidays, or just because. They fit perfectly on any dessert table.
- Versatile Flavor Options: While the basic recipe shines, you can easily customize your cookies with different extracts or toppings.
- Fun for All Ages: Making these cookies is a fun activity for families or friends to enjoy together. Kids love to help roll and sprinkle!
- Great for Gifting: Package them in cute tins or bags for a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will appreciate.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Mini Sugar Cookies, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Electric mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
- Wire racks
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures your butter and sugars blend perfectly for a light texture.
- Baking sheets: Use these to ensure even baking. Lining them with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Ingredients
These tiny cookies are crunchy and buttery with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. They are perfect for the holidays – put them on your cookie platter, give them as a gift, or place them in a bowl for nonstop nibbling.
For the Cookies
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter (softened but still cool to the touch)
- ½ cup (115g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
- ½ cup (108g) canola or vegetable oil
- 1¼ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 1 large egg
- 2⅓ cups (291g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (173g) granulated sugar, divided (for rolling and sprinkling)
How to Make Mini Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line three baking sheets with parchment paper. Read the notes below before proceeding with the recipe.
Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until creamy.
Add the canola oil while continuing to mix until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl if needed. Then add the egg along with both vanilla and almond extracts. Don’t worry if it looks slightly curdled at this stage; it’s normal.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while beating on low speed until just combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 4: Prepare for Rolling
Set aside ¼ cup of sugar for topping the baked cookies later. In a separate container wide enough for tossing dough balls, place ½ cup of sugar.
Step 5: Form Dough Balls
Scoop out dough into approximately 2-teaspoon portions using a cookie scoop. Drop these portions into the container with sugar; do this in batches of about 8–10 at a time. Shake gently or roll each ball in sugar until well-coated.
Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheets
Place dough balls about two inches apart on prepared baking sheets—aim for around 30 per sheet. Use a cookie stamp or the bottom of a glass to flatten each dough ball slightly.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Bake in preheated oven for about 9–12 minutes until they puff up slightly and begin setting around the edges; they will crisp up as they cool. Remove pans from oven, sprinkle reserved sugar over tops while still warm, then transfer cookies to wire racks to cool completely before storing.
How to Serve Mini Sugar Cookies
Mini sugar cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their small size and sweet flavor make them perfect for sharing and serving at different gatherings.
On a Festive Cookie Platter
- Arrange mini sugar cookies on a colorful platter alongside other favorite cookies for a festive touch.
As Party Favors
- Package the cookies in small bags or boxes with ribbons. These make great gifts for guests to take home after a celebration.
With Hot Beverages
- Serve mini sugar cookies with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy snack during chilly days.
In Gift Baskets
- Include these cookies in homemade gift baskets for holidays or special occasions. Pair them with other goodies like jams or chocolates.
At Playdates
- Offer mini sugar cookies as a fun treat during playdates. Kids love their bite-sized nature, making them easy to enjoy while playing.
How to Perfect Mini Sugar Cookies
Perfecting your mini sugar cookies is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips to ensure delicious results every time.
- Use Cool Butter: Softened but cool butter helps achieve the right texture without making the dough too greasy.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents dense cookies due to excess flour.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding flour to prevent tough cookies. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a chewy texture instead of the desired crunchiness.
- Chill Dough Before Baking: If time allows, chill the dough for 30 minutes before scooping. This helps the cookies hold their shape better while baking.
Best Side Dishes for Mini Sugar Cookies
Mini sugar cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement their sweetness without overwhelming it.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Offer mild cheeses like brie or gouda; their creaminess pairs nicely with crunchy cookies.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that adds texture and flavor contrast.
- Milkshakes: Serve mini sugar cookies alongside indulgent milkshakes for a fun dessert experience.
- Coffee Cake: A slice of light coffee cake adds richness and makes for an elegant brunch offering with the cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip their mini sugar cookies into warm chocolate for added decadence.
- Nut Mixes: Offer savory nut mixes as an accompaniment; they provide a nice contrast to the sweet flavors of the cookies.
- Ice Cream Cups: Mini ice cream cups topped with whipped cream make an exciting serving suggestion alongside these delightful treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking Mini Sugar Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Bold phrase: Using Warm Butter – Starting with warm butter can lead to cookies that spread too much. Always use butter that is softened but still cool to the touch for the best texture.
- Bold phrase: Not Measuring Flour Correctly – Using too much flour can result in dry cookies. Make sure to spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.
- Bold phrase: Overmixing the Dough – Mixing the dough too much can cause tough cookies. Mix just until combined to maintain a tender texture.
- Bold phrase: Skipping Parchment Paper – Baking directly on a pan can lead to sticking. Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Bold phrase: Not Allowing Cookies to Cool – Skipping the cooling time can lead to crumbly cookies. Let them cool completely on wire racks before storing.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Mini Sugar Cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
- Place wax paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing Mini Sugar Cookies
- Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Mini Sugar Cookies
- Bold phrase: Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the cookies for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft again.
- Bold phrase: Microwave – Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat!
- Bold phrase: Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for just a couple of minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Mini Sugar Cookies so special?
Mini Sugar Cookies are adored for their crunchy yet buttery texture, making them perfect for all occasions, especially during holidays.
Can I customize my Mini Sugar Cookies?
Yes! You can add chocolate chips, sprinkles, or even use different extracts like lemon or coconut for unique flavors.
How do I store leftover Mini Sugar Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them as described above.
Why did my Mini Sugar Cookies spread too much?
This could be due to using warm butter or not measuring your flour correctly. Ensure you follow the recipe closely for best results.
Final Thoughts
These Mini Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! They suit any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual snacking. Feel free to experiment with flavors and toppings, making each batch uniquely yours. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful treats!
Mini Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: About 30 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Mini Sugar Cookies, where every bite offers a perfect blend of crunchy and buttery goodness. These charming treats are ideal for any occasion, from festive holiday platters to cozy family gatherings. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet flavor profile, they are sure to become a favorite among friends and family. Plus, their versatility makes them easy to customize with your favorite extracts or toppings. Whether you’re baking with kids or looking for a thoughtful gift, these mini cookies are simple to make and guaranteed to bring joy.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup canola oil
- 1 large egg
- 2⅓ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until creamy. Add canola oil and egg, then stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Gradually add this mix to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Scoop dough into small balls (about 2 teaspoons) and roll in sugar before placing on prepared baking sheets.
- Flatten slightly with a cookie stamp or glass bottom and bake for 9–12 minutes until edges are golden.
- Let cool on wire racks before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Chill dough for 30 minutes before baking for better shape retention. Customize with chocolate chips or sprinkles for added flair.