Name: Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup sugar (coconut sugar or white); 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 egg, room temperature; 2 1/2 cups flour (1:1 gluten free or all purpose); 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1/4 tsp salt; 3 tsp baking powder; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 4 tbsp (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar; Sprinkles for topping

Jump to Recipe·4 from 63 reviews

There is something truly delightful about a classic cookie with a creamy twist that brings everyone to the table with smiles. This Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe offers just that—a heavenly combination of soft, buttery sugar cookies topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, making every bite a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a party, or just craving a comforting treat, these cookies will quickly become your new go-to favorite, impressing friends and family alike with their irresistible flavor and charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A flat lay of baking ingredients on a white marbled surface, featuring a white bowl filled with flour at the top center, two sticks of unsalted butter with orange labels on the upper left, a smaller white bowl with a white powder, a round white bowl filled with granulated sugar below the flour, and a small round bowl of white creamy substance to the right of the sugar. Two brown eggs are placed near the bottom right, close to three measuring spoons with white powders, a small glass salt shaker, a brown bottle labeled

The beauty of this Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each component plays a vital role—from the richness of butter to the gentle lift from baking powder, plus the creamy tang of the frosting that elevates these cookies into something truly special.

Unsalted butter (1 cup or 2 sticks): Softened to create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie base.

Sugar (1 cup): Coconut sugar or white sugar works perfectly to sweeten without overpowering.
Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Adds warm, aromatic notes for depth in flavor.
Egg (1, room temperature): Binds ingredients and contributes to the cookie’s chewy texture.

Flour (2 1/2 cups): Choose all-purpose or a 1:1 gluten-free blend to provide structure.
Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Keeps the cookies soft and tender, preventing toughness.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances sweetness and balances all the flavors beautifully.

Baking powder (3 tsp): Gives the cookies that perfect little rise and fluffiness.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The star of the frosting that brings creamy richness and slight tang.
Butter for frosting (4 tbsp or 1/2 stick, softened): Adds silkiness and smooth texture to the icing.
Powdered sugar (2 1/2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to spreadable perfection.
Sprinkles: Optional, but they bring playful color and extra fun for any occasion.

How to Make Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready to go when the dough is shaped. Then, with a hand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar for about four minutes until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, making your cookies tender and slightly airy.

Step 2: Add Vanilla and Egg

Slowly pour in the vanilla extract and the egg while continuing to mix. The vanilla infuses the dough with warmth and depth, while the egg helps hold everything together, giving structure without losing softness.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Form Dough

Now it’s time to add the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt all at once. Mix on low speed until the dough starts coming together and forms a ball. You want to make sure everything is just combined without overworking it, which keeps your cookies tender and fluffy.

Step 4: Roll Out and Cut Cookies

Lightly dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking, then gently knead the dough a few times. Roll the dough out evenly to about 1/4 inch thick—it’s the perfect thickness for baking. Use your favorite cookie cutter or a mason jar rim to cut out circular shapes; this simple touch adds an inviting charm to your cookies.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Place the cut cookies on a greased and lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for 7 to 9 minutes until they are just starting to turn golden at the edges. Remove them and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, which is important before frosting so the icing doesn’t melt.

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies cool, whip up the frosting by combining softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Use a hand or stand mixer until the frosting is creamy, smooth, and spreadable. This luscious frosting is what truly sets this Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe apart.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Once cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting onto each cookie. Sprinkle your favorite colorful sprinkles on top to add a little festive sparkle or keep it classic with no toppings—the choice is yours!

How to Serve Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe

The image shows a sequence of four photos of dough being prepared on a white marbled surface. The top left photo has a mixing bowl with dough inside, partly mixed and slightly rough. The top right photo shows the dough in the same bowl, now smoother and more combined, with a red spatula resting inside. The bottom left photo has two pale dough rounds wrapped in plastic placed on a wooden board. The bottom right photo shows a woman's hand holding a round cutter pressing into a floured dough sheet, with several round shapes already cut out on the white marbled surface, alongside a rolling pin. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkles are an obvious winner for brightening these cookies, but you can also get creative with grated lemon zest for a citrusy lift or a light dusting of edible glitter for celebrations. A delicate drizzle of melted chocolate can add elegance without overpowering the cream cheese flavor.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm mug of chai tea or rich hot chocolate, elevating your snack into a cozy experience. For parties, serve alongside fresh fruit platters or light cheese plates to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the cookies with frosting spread between for an impromptu cookie sandwich, perfect for sharing or packing in lunches. Another fun idea is to arrange them in a festive pattern on a platter, making an inviting centerpiece for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness and softness. Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking and smudging of frosting.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Freeze the baked, unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Once ready, thaw completely and frost as usual for fresh-tasting treats.

Reheating

Because these cookies are best enjoyed soft, avoid microwaving, which can make them tough. Instead, allow them to come to room temperature naturally after freezing for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use regular granulated sugar instead of coconut sugar?

Absolutely! Both coconut sugar and white granulated sugar work beautifully in this Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe. The choice will slightly affect the flavor and color, with coconut sugar adding a warm caramel note.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour will give you delicious gluten-free cookies without sacrificing texture or taste.

How thick should I roll out the cookie dough?

Rolling the dough to about 1/4 inch thick ensures the cookies bake evenly and stay soft yet sturdy enough to hold the frosting without crumbling.

Can I substitute the cream cheese in the frosting?

Cream cheese is key for that tangy richness, but if needed, you could try mascarpone cheese for a milder flavor or a thick vanilla buttercream for a different twist, though it won’t be quite the same.

What’s the best way to decorate these cookies for holidays?

Keep the frosting neutral and use holiday-themed sprinkles or edible colored sugars to fit the season. You can also pipe simple designs with colored frosting for personalized touches.

Final Thoughts

These Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe truly embodies comfort, charm, and flavor all in one bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, they bring warmth and smiles every time. So grab your mixing bowl, invite a friend or loved one to join you, and create a batch of these sweet, creamy delights that will brighten any day.