Sugar Cookie Cups are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of sugar cookies with creamy frosting. These little cups are perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to holiday gatherings. Their unique shape and delicious flavor make them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple steps make these cookie cups a breeze to prepare, even for beginner bakers.
• Customizable: You can easily change the frosting colors and toppings to suit any celebration or theme.
• Perfect Portion Size: Made in a muffin pan, these cups are just the right size for satisfying your sweet tooth without overindulging.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The combination of buttery sugar cookies and rich cream cheese buttercream is simply irresistible.
• Great for Sharing: With 19 servings, these treats are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Sugar Cookie Cups, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin pan
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin pan: Provides the perfect shape for your cookie cups, ensuring they bake evenly and hold their form.
• Electric mixer or stand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar effortless, resulting in a light and fluffy mixture.
• Rubber spatula: Essential for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl to incorporate all ingredients well.

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Ingredients

For these delightful Sugar Cookie Cups, you will need:

For the Cookie Cups

• 3/4 cup salted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the Frosting

• 2 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• pink or red food coloring gel (optional)

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cups

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease two regular muffin pans with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about a few minutes. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure an even mix.

Step 3: Add Egg and Extracts

Add in one large egg along with both vanilla and almond extracts. Beat again until smooth, ensuring everything is well combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together two cups of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon of baking powder, and half a teaspoon of baking soda until well blended.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet mixture. Mix until a dough forms but be careful not to over-mix as this can lead to tough cookie cups.

Step 6: Shape Cookie Dough in Muffin Pan

Take two tablespoons of cookie dough and press it into the bottom of each muffin cup. Use your fingers to press it halfway up the sides to create room for frosting later on.

Step 7: Bake Cookie Cups

Place the muffin pans in the preheated oven and bake for 12 minutes. Once done, allow them to cool for at least 15 minutes. To create a cup shape, gently press down in the center using a tablespoon or round spice jar top while still warm. Let them cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and milk while continuing to mix until you achieve your desired frosting consistency. If needed, adjust thickness by adding more milk or powdered sugar.

Step 9: Frost Your Cookie Cups

Scoop frosting into a piping bag fitted with a star tip or use a spoon if you prefer. Swirl frosting into each cooled cookie cup generously. Top with sprinkles if desired.

Enjoy your delightful Sugar Cookie Cups!

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cups

Sugar Cookie Cups are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect for parties, special occasions, or simply as a sweet snack. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

For Celebrations

• Themed Sprinkles: Use colored sprinkles that match the occasion, such as red and pink for Valentine’s Day or pastel colors for spring celebrations.
• Gift Boxes: Arrange Sugar Cookie Cups in decorative boxes as gifts for friends and family during holidays.

With Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Top each cookie cup with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist that balances the sweetness.
• Citrus Zest: Add a sprinkle of lemon or orange zest on top of the frosting to brighten the flavors.

As Dessert Platters

• Mix and Match: Serve alongside other desserts like brownies and cupcakes on a dessert platter for a variety of choices.
• Ice Cream Pairing: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or fruit-flavored ice cream for an indulgent treat.

For Kids’ Parties

• Decorate Together: Set up a decorating station where kids can add their own toppings like candies and chocolate chips.
• Mini Size Options: Make mini versions using a mini muffin pan for smaller bites that are easy to handle.

How to Perfect Sugar Cookie Cups

To ensure your Sugar Cookie Cups turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Butter Temperature: Use softened butter at room temperature, which helps create a fluffy texture when creamed with sugar.
• Bold Dough Consistency: Avoid over-mixing the dough; mix until just combined to keep the cookie cups tender.
• Bold Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; slightly underbaking will yield softer cups that hold their shape better.
• Bold Cooling Method: Allow the cookie cups to cool completely before adding frosting to prevent melting and ensure proper decoration.
• Bold Frosting Texture: Adjust consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar until you achieve stiff peaks in your frosting.

Best Side Dishes for Sugar Cookie Cups

Sugar Cookie Cups can be paired with several side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookie cups.
2. Cheese Platter: Serve assorted cheeses alongside crackers for a savory contrast that enhances the dessert experience.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits to create a light side dish that pairs well with the rich frosting.
4. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels coated in chocolate offers a delightful contrast to sugary treats.
5. Nut Mixes: A selection of roasted nuts adds crunch and is a great counterbalance to the softness of Sugar Cookie Cups.
6. Ice Cream Floats: Combine soda and ice cream for fun drinks that make dessert even more enjoyable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sugar Cookie Cups, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results!

• Bold mixing errors: Over-mixing the dough can lead to tough cookie cups. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Bold neglecting cooling time: Not allowing the cookie cups to cool properly may cause them to crumble. Ensure they cool for at least 15 minutes before shaping.
• Bold incorrect measuring: Using too much flour can result in dry cookie cups. Always measure accurately using the spoon and level method.
• Bold skipping the greasing step: Failing to grease the muffin pan can lead to sticking. Ensure you use nonstick cooking spray generously.
• Bold ignoring frosting consistency: If your frosting is too thin, it won’t hold its shape. Adjust with more powdered sugar until you achieve stiff peaks.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Sugar Cookie Cups in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Sugar Cookie Cups

• Place cooled cookie cups in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Sugar Cookie Cups

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place cookie cups on a baking sheet, and warm for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Sugar Cookie Cups, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different extracts in Sugar Cookie Cups?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other extracts like coconut or lemon for unique flavor profiles.

How should I decorate my Sugar Cookie Cups?

You can use various toppings like chocolate shavings, nuts, or seasonal sprinkles based on your theme or occasion.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

You can use whipped coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different twist.

How do I ensure my Sugar Cookie Cups turn out perfectly every time?

Follow the recipe closely and pay attention to measurement accuracy and mixing techniques for consistent results.

Final Thoughts

Sugar Cookie Cups are delightful, versatile treats perfect for any occasion. Their customizable nature allows you to tailor decorations and flavors as you wish. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these deliciously sweet bites!

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Sugar Cookie Cups

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 19 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful world of Sugar Cookie Cups, a charming dessert that combines the buttery goodness of sugar cookies with a luscious cream cheese frosting. These cookie cups, baked in a muffin pan, create the perfect vessel for sweet toppings and are ideal for any occasion—from birthday celebrations to festive gatherings. With their customizable nature, you can easily adjust frosting colors and add fun toppings to match any theme. Each bite offers a satisfying sweetness without overwhelming your palate, making them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3/4 cup salted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• pink or red food coloring gel (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two regular muffin pans.
2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and extracts, mixing until smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually combine with the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
4. Press two tablespoons of dough into each muffin cup, shaping it halfway up the sides.
5. Bake for 12 minutes; cool for at least 15 minutes before pressing down in the center to shape.
6. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar along with milk and vanilla until desired consistency is reached.
7. Frost cooled cookie cups generously and add sprinkles if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie cup (30g)
• Calories: 140
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Experiment with different extracts or food coloring to customize flavors and appearance. For added fun, let kids decorate their own cookie cups with various toppings like fresh fruit or candies.