Mini Sugar Cookies

These Mini Sugar Cookies are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Their crunchy, buttery texture and melt-in-your-mouth goodness make them an irresistible snack for holidays, parties, or just a cozy evening at home. With their delightful sweetness and versatile appeal, these tiny cookies are sure to bring joy to any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Flavors: The combination of vanilla and almond extracts adds a unique twist that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 90 mini cookies per batch, you’ll have plenty to share with friends and family or to save for yourself!
• Ideal for Any Occasion: These cookies are perfect for the holidays, cookie exchanges, or as a simple snack.
• Fun to Decorate: You can easily personalize them with sprinkles or icing for special events.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Mini Sugar Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment ensures your baking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop
• Wire racks

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric Mixer: This tool makes it easy to achieve a creamy texture when combining butter and sugars.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep your ingredients organized as you prepare the dough.
• Baking Sheets: A good baking sheet allows even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
• Wire Racks: These are essential for cooling cookies quickly without getting soggy.

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Ingredients

To create these delightful Mini Sugar Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 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 your oven to 350°F. Line three baking sheets with parchment paper. This step is crucial to ensure your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, using an electric mixer:
1. Beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Add in the canola oil, beating until combined while scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Incorporate the egg along with both extracts; it may look curdled, but don’t worry!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
2. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing until fully combined.

Step 4: Prepare Sugar Coating

Set aside ¼ cup of granulated sugar for topping your cookies later. Place another ½ cup of sugar in a wide container suitable for tossing dough balls.

Step 5: Shape Dough Balls

1. Scoop out dough into portions of about two teaspoons each using a cookie scoop.
2. Drop these dough balls into your container filled with sugar and gently shake or use your fingers to coat them well.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

1. Place the coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheets a couple of inches apart.
2. Flatten each ball lightly using a cookie stamp or the bottom of a glass.
3. Bake in preheated oven for about 9-12 minutes until puffed up and just starting to set around edges.

Step 7: Cool & Enjoy!

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and transfer pans onto wire racks.
2. Immediately sprinkle reserved sugar on top of warm cookies.
3. Allow cookies to cool completely before storing them away in an airtight container.

Enjoy these delightful Mini Sugar Cookies at your next event or simply as a sweet treat at home!

How to Serve Mini Sugar Cookies

Mini Sugar Cookies are versatile treats that can brighten any occasion. Whether you are hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or simply enjoying an afternoon snack, there are many creative ways to serve these delightful cookies.

With a Hot Beverage

• Pair with coffee or tea for a comforting treat during chilly days.
• Serve alongside hot chocolate for a festive touch during the holidays.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange on a decorative platter for gatherings or celebrations.
• Mix with other cookie varieties for an inviting dessert spread.

Gift Packaging

• Place in decorative bags or boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
• Add a personalized tag to make your gift extra special.

Dessert Bar

• Set up a mini dessert station at parties where guests can choose their favorites.
• Include toppings like sprinkles or frosting for added fun.

As Party Favors

• Wrap in clear plastic bags and tie with ribbons as party favors.
• A perfect memento to thank guests for attending special events.

How to Perfect Mini Sugar Cookies

To ensure your Mini Sugar Cookies are perfectly crunchy and buttery, follow these simple tips.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Measure flour accurately: Spoon flour into measuring cups and level off to avoid dense cookies.
• Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep cookies tender and light.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to come to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on cookies towards the end of baking to achieve the perfect golden edge without overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Sugar Cookies

Mini Sugar Cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their delightful flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance.
2. Creamy Yogurt Dip – Serve with flavored yogurt for guests who enjoy dipping their cookies.
3. Cheese Plate – Pair with mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory contrast.
4. Nut Assortment – Offer mixed nuts for crunchiness that contrasts nicely with cookie softness.
5. Chocolate Fondue – Set up a fondue pot where guests can dip cookies into melted chocolate.
6. Ice Cream Scoops – Serve alongside scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mini sugar cookies can be simple, but a few mistakes can affect your results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is softened but still cool. If it’s too warm, it may affect the texture of your cookies.
• Skipping the Sugar Coating: Rolling the dough balls in sugar is crucial for flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step!
• Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. A properly heated oven helps achieve that perfect crunch.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing activates gluten, leading to dense cookies.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Let your cookies cool on wire racks. This helps them firm up and enhances texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store mini sugar cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing Mini Sugar Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mini Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F and warm for about 5-7 minutes until slightly soft.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making mini sugar cookies:

Can I use whole wheat flour for Mini Sugar Cookies?

Yes, you can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will give a nuttier flavor and denser texture.

How do I make these Mini Sugar Cookies gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum as a binding agent. This will help maintain the structure of the cookies.

What variations can I try with Mini Sugar Cookies?

You can add chocolate chips, sprinkles, or citrus zest to customize your mini sugar cookies for different flavors!

How should I store leftover Mini Sugar Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I freeze dough for Mini Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Just scoop and shape into balls, then freeze until solid.

Final Thoughts

Mini sugar cookies are delightful bites that make any occasion special. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors and mix-ins based on your preferences. Whether you’re stacking them on a cookie platter or gifting them, these cookies are sure to please everyone. Try making them today!