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Frosted Sugar Cookies

Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 510

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)
  • 2–3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
  • Food coloring and sprinkles, as desired

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Beat butter and sugar until fluffy, then mix in egg, vanilla, and sour cream. Gradually add dry ingredients just until combined.
  2. Cover and chill the dough at least 1 hour.
  3. Scoop 2-tablespoon portions, roll into balls, and place 2 inches apart on sheets. Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are set and centers are puffy. Cool 5 minutes on the sheet, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
  4. Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and almond extract. Mix in milk 1 tablespoon at a time until thick and spreadable.
  5. Spread frosting on completely cooled cookies and top with sprinkles if using. Let set 30 minutes before stacking.

Notes

Chilling the dough is not counted in the prep time, but it is essential for thick, soft cookies. These freeze well unfrosted for up to 2 months; just frost after thawing.