There’s nothing quite like the cheerful surprise of Sugar Cookie Cups at a gathering. The first bite—an explosion of chewy cookie paired with rich, creamy buttercream—will leave you craving more. I often whip these up to showcase at parties, and they never fail to elicit whispers of delight. With their adorable bite-sized shape, these treats can be dressed up in an array of colors and sprinkles, making them perfect for any celebration, from holidays to casual get-togethers.
What I love about this recipe is its incredible versatility; you can opt for the joy of homemade goodness or the convenience of store-bought cookie dough for those busy days. In just a few easy steps, you’ll create a delightful dessert that’s just as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making these delightful Sugar Cookie Cups that are destined to become a new favorite!
Why are Sugar Cookie Cups so special?
Delightful Treats: These Sugar Cookie Cups are not only a sweet indulgence but also a feast for the eyes, allowing you to showcase your creativity with colors and toppings.
Easy Versatility: Whether you choose homemade dough or opt for store-bought options, the preparation is simple and stress-free.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From festive holidays to casual gatherings, these cookie cups bring cheer to every event, making them crowd-pleasers.
Endless Flavor Combinations: Customize each cup with different frostings, extracts, and sprinkles, offering a unique twist every time you make them.
Fun to Make: Involve the whole family in the decorating process, turning dessert-making into an enjoyable bonding experience.
Once you’ve mastered these versatile treats, you might also enjoy trying other creative ideas like our delicious cookie sandwiches!
Sugar Cookie Cups Ingredients
For the Cookie Cups
• Salted Butter (3/4 cup) – Adds richness and moisture; use unsalted if you prefer a less salty taste.
• Sugar (3/4 cup) – Sweetens the cookie; granulated sugar is best for achieving that classic sugar cookie flavor.
• Egg (1) – Binds all ingredients together; no substitutions necessary for this key ingredient.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Provides delicious flavor; substitute with almond extract for a unique twist.
• Almond Extract (1/4 tsp, optional) – Enhances the overall taste; omit if you have allergies or prefer simplicity.
• Baking Powder (1/2 tsp) – Acts as a leavening agent to give the cookies a light, fluffy rise.
• Flour (2 cups) – The backbone of the cookie; all-purpose flour works best, but gluten-free flour can also be used.
For the Buttercream Frosting
• Powdered Sugar (1 1/3 cups) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; essential for that classic frosting texture.
• Milk or Heavy Cream (1 tbsp) – Adjusts frosting consistency; add more for a thinner mix if desired.
• Food Coloring (optional) – Adds flair to your frosting; opt for gel food coloring for vibrant results.
• Sprinkles (optional) – Decorative topping that adds a festive touch to your finished Sugar Cookie Cups.
How to Make Sugar Cookie Cups
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare 36 mini muffin cups by greasing them generously with cooking spray to ensure easy removal after baking.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, combine 3/4 cup of softened salted butter with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 2-3 minutes.
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Mix the Wet Ingredients: Add 1 egg along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of optional almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until fully blended and smooth.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder and 2 cups of flour. Mix until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
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Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, place rounded tablespoons of dough into the prepared muffin cups. Flatten the dough slightly without creating a cup shape; they will form during baking.
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Bake to Perfection: Pop the muffin tin into the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as they bake quickly!
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Form the Cups: As soon as they come out of the oven, use a bottle cap to gently press the center of each cookie to create a “cup” shape.
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Cool Down: Allow your cookie cups to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Once they are set, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Prepare the Frosting: In a clean mixing bowl, beat softened butter until smooth. Gradually mix in 1 1/3 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
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Adjust Consistency: Pour in 1 tablespoon of milk or heavy cream and mix until you reach your desired frosting consistency. Add food coloring as desired.
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Frost and Decorate: Pipe the creamy frosting into the cooled cookie cups and finish with a sprinkle of your favorite colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
Optional: Try using different flavors of frosting to create a variety of Sugar Cookie Cups!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sugar Cookie Cups?
These delightful treats make for an irresistible sweet ending to any meal, and pairing them can elevate your dessert experience to a whole new level.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly, balancing the sweetness of the cookie cups with a cool, smooth texture. The contrast of temperatures makes each bite exciting!
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Fresh Berries: Consider serving a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries. Their tartness complements the sweet cookie cups while adding a refreshing burst of flavor.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea can create a cozy atmosphere, making these cookie cups an ideal choice for afternoon gatherings or cozy evenings in. The warmth of the drink enhances the sugariness of the cookies.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling melted chocolate over your cookie cups will add an indulgent touch, turning them into a decadent delight. Pairing the rich chocolate with the vanilla-flavored frosting is a match made in heaven.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light and fluffy element while balancing the textures of the cookies and frosting. It’s an easy yet elegant addition!
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Nutty Toppings: Toasted almonds or crushed walnuts sprinkled on top can give an unexpected crunch, enhancing the overall experience with a delightful contrast to the softness.
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Milk: A classic pairing, offering a glass of cold milk to sip alongside can enhance the nostalgia of enjoying cookie cups just like your childhood treats!
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Fruit Sorbet: A zesty raspberry or lemon sorbet serves as a refreshing counterpoint to the rich buttercream frosting, adding a delightful fruity twist to your dessert spread.
Let your creativity soar by mixing and matching these accompaniments, making your Sugar Cookie Cups the star of any dessert table!
Expert Tips for Sugar Cookie Cups
• Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake; they can quickly go from perfect to overdone.
• Grease Wisely: Use a generous amount of cooking spray on the muffin tin to ensure easy removal of your Sugar Cookie Cups.
• Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour; it should be soft but manageable when scooping.
• Cup Formation: Press the centers gently but firmly to create the cup shape, being careful not to break the edges.
• Frosting Flexibility: You can experiment with flavors in the frosting, like chocolate or lemon, for a different twist on your Sugar Cookie Cups.
Make Ahead Options
These adorable Sugar Cookie Cups are exceptional for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie cups up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial baking steps and storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. Additionally, you can make the buttercream frosting and refrigerate it for up to 3 days—just give it a good stir before piping it into the cooled cups. When you’re ready to delight your guests, simply frost the cookie cups and top them with sprinkles before serving. This method ensures your treats remain just as delicious while saving precious time for your busy weeknights!
Sugar Cookie Cups Variations
Ready to make these Sugar Cookie Cups truly your own? Let your creativity flow and enhance their deliciousness with these fun and customizable ideas!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and non-dairy milk to create a deliciously rich, dairy-free option.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for an equally delightful treat that everyone can enjoy!
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Flavorful Extracts: Swap vanilla for different extracts like lemon or hazelnut for a unique taste twist that elevates your cookie cups.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the frosted cups for an extra layer of sweetness and sophistication.
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Nutty Goodness: Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to the dough for a delightful crunch and flavor variations.
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Colorful Themes: Use seasonal food colorings and themed sprinkles, turning your cookie cups into perfect treats for holidays and celebrations.
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Spiced Up: Mix in a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon into the dough for a warm, spiced flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness.
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Layered Delight: Fill your cookie cups with fruit preserves or whipped cream before adding frosting for a fun surprise with every delightful bite.
How to Store and Freeze Sugar Cookie Cups
Room Temperature: Store your Sugar Cookie Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and softness.
Fridge: For longer storage, these cookie cups can be kept in the fridge for up to a week, though the texture may change slightly.
Freezer: Freeze fully assembled Sugar Cookie Cups by placing them on a sheet pan. Freeze for about 2 hours before transferring to a freezer bag; they’ll keep for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh taste of these delightful treats.
Sugar Cookie Cups Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right butter for my Sugar Cookie Cups?
Absolutely! You can use either salted or unsalted butter for your Sugar Cookie Cups. I often recommend using salted butter as it adds richness and flavor, but if you are watching your sodium intake or want more control over salt levels, unsalted butter works perfectly fine. Just remember to adjust the salt in your recipe if you choose unsalted!
What is the best way to store Sugar Cookie Cups?
These sweet delights can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy them a bit longer, pop them in the fridge for up to a week. Just be mindful that refrigeration might slightly change their texture. To keep them even longer, freeze them! Simply freeze fully assembled cookie cups on a sheet pan for about 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months!
Can I freeze Sugar Cookie Cups?
Certainly! To freeze your Sugar Cookie Cups, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for around 2 hours until they’re firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container for future enjoyment. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a delightful warm treat.
What can I do if my cookie cups are too puffy after baking?
No worries at all! If you find that your cookie cups come out too puffy, you can gently press the centers while they are still warm using the bottom of a glass or a bottle cap. Just be careful to apply just enough pressure to form the cup without breaking the edges. If this happens consistently, you might want to check your oven temperature or slightly reduce the baking powder in your next batch.
Are there any allergy considerations for Sugar Cookie Cups?
Good question! For those with allergies, I recommend substituting the wheat flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookie cups friendly for those with gluten sensitivities. As for the almond extract, it’s optional. If someone is allergic, simply omit it and stick with vanilla extract for a classic flavor. Always be sure to check the labels of your store-bought ingredients to avoid any allergens.
Can pets safely share Sugar Cookie Cups with me?
It’s best to keep Sugar Cookie Cups away from your furry friends. Ingredients like sugar and vanilla extract aren’t suitable for pets, especially dogs. While a tiny crumb won’t harm them, keeping human treats to yourself is the safest choice. Instead, why not surprise them with some pet-friendly treats instead?
Irresistible Sugar Cookie Cups with Easy Frosting Recipes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare 36 mini muffin cups by greasing them generously with cooking spray.
- In a stand mixer, combine 3/4 cup of softened salted butter with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of optional almond extract. Mix until fully blended and smooth.
- Gradually stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder and 2 cups of flour. Mix until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, place rounded tablespoons of dough into the prepared muffin cups, flattening slightly.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as they bake quickly!
- As soon as they come out of the oven, use a bottle cap to gently press the center of each cookie to create a “cup” shape.
- Allow your cookie cups to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat softened butter until smooth. Gradually mix in 1 1/3 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Pour in 1 tablespoon of milk or heavy cream and mix until you reach your desired frosting consistency. Add food coloring as desired.
- Pipe the creamy frosting into the cooled cookie cups and finish with a sprinkle of colorful sprinkles.