Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream

Name: Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream: A Sweet Delight!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups white sugar; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Posted on October 22, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked sugar cookies wafting through the house. These delightful Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream are not just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a plate! Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule or looking to impress your loved ones, this recipe is your go-to solution. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch that will bring smiles to faces young and old. Trust me, once you try these cookies, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream

These Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. They’re quick to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The taste? Absolutely divine! The buttery cookies paired with creamy frosting create a delightful balance that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family gathering. You’ll love how easy they are to whip up!

Ingredients for Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookies, providing structure and a soft texture.
Baking soda: This helps the cookies rise and gives them a light, fluffy feel.
Baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to ensure your cookies don’t fall flat.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor; using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness.
White sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their lovely crisp edges.
Egg: Acts as a binding agent, helping to hold everything together while adding moisture.

Vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, sweet flavor that’s essential for classic sugar cookies.
Almond extract: A little goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Powdered sugar: The star of the frosting, creating that smooth, creamy texture we all love.

Milk: Helps achieve the perfect consistency for your buttercream frosting.

For those looking to get creative, consider adding sprinkles on top of the frosting for a festive touch! You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to cookie bliss.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures your cookies bake evenly. If you skip this step, you might end up with cookies that are too soft or burnt on the edges. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is your best friend in baking!

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Whisk them well to combine. This step is important because it evenly distributes the leavening agents, ensuring your cookies rise perfectly. No one wants flat cookies, right?

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The goal here is to incorporate air into the butter, which helps create a tender cookie. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and creamy!

Step 4: Add the Egg and Extracts

Next, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. The egg adds moisture and binds everything together, while the extracts bring that classic sugar cookie flavor. Don’t rush this step; mix until everything is well combined. You want those flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. I like to do this in batches to avoid a flour explosion! Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. You want a soft dough that holds together but isn’t overly sticky.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Now it’s time to shape your cookies! Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them on ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten each ball gently with the bottom of a glass. This helps them bake evenly and gives them that classic cookie shape. Plus, it’s a fun step for kids to help with!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Pop the cookie sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want them to be golden around the edges but still soft in the center. A good tip is to take them out when they look slightly underbaked; they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Make the Vanilla Buttercream

While the cookies cool, let’s whip up that dreamy vanilla buttercream! In a bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. You want a creamy consistency that’s easy to spread. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk; too thin? Just add a bit more powdered sugar!

Step 9: Frost the Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cool, it’s time to frost them! Use a knife or a piping bag to spread the vanilla buttercream on top. Get creative! You can swirl it, pipe it, or even sprinkle some fun toppings on for a festive touch. Your Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream are now ready to impress!

Tips for Success

Always use room temperature butter for easier creaming.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you prefer thicker cookies.
Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s key for even baking.

Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
Let cookies cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy; you can use any large bowl if needed.

Whisk: Essential for mixing dry ingredients; a fork works in a pinch.
Cookie sheets: Use ungreased sheets or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key; use any standard measuring tools.

Spatula: Great for scraping bowls; a wooden spoon can also do the trick.

Variations of Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream

Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookies: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a safe treat.

Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing flavor boost.
Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Spiced Sugar Cookies: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy taste.

Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.

Serving Suggestions for Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream

Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

Present them on a colorful platter, garnished with fresh fruit for a pop of color.
For special occasions, add festive sprinkles or edible glitter on top of the frosting.

FAQs about Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream

Can I freeze Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookies before frosting them. Just place them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw and then frost them for a delicious treat!

What can I use instead of almond extract?

If you’re not a fan of almond extract or have allergies, you can simply omit it. Vanilla extract works beautifully on its own, or you can use a splash of coconut extract for a tropical twist!

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store your Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, but let them come to room temperature before serving.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for a bit before shaping and baking.

What’s the best way to frost the cookies?

For a smooth finish, use a knife or an offset spatula to spread the frosting. If you want to get fancy, a piping bag with a decorative tip can create beautiful swirls and designs. Don’t forget to add sprinkles for that extra flair!

Final Thoughts

Making these Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in your kitchen. The joy of rolling the dough, the delightful aroma filling your home, and the smiles on your loved ones’ faces when they take that first bite are priceless. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy night in, these cookies bring warmth and happiness. So, gather your ingredients, invite your family to join in, and let the magic of baking fill your home with love and laughter. You won’t regret it!