Description
Soft, buttery, and topped with luscious buttercream frosting, these Heavenly Vanilla Celebration Cookies are the perfect treat for birthdays, holidays, or any sweet occasion. With a rich vanilla flavor and a tender crumb, these cookies are as fun to decorate as they are to eat. Add a splash of color with food gel and a sprinkle of joy for the ultimate celebration treat!
Ingredients
Scale
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup full-fat sour cream
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttercream frosting (homemade or store-bought)
- Gel food coloring (for tinting buttercream)
- Sprinkles (for decoration)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Mix in Wet Ingredients:
- Add the egg, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Shape and Bake:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely before decorating.
Prepare the Frosting:
- If using homemade buttercream, whip it until smooth. Add food coloring if desired.
Decorate and Serve:
- Spread or pipe frosting onto the cooled cookies. Add sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Let the frosting set before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor variation, try replacing vanilla extract with almond extract.
- If you prefer a lighter frosting, whip in a bit of cream cheese for a tangy twist.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Let refrigerated cookie dough sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American