Description
Sparkling Sugar Cookie Stars are delightful, buttery cut-out cookies perfect for holidays and special occasions. These classic American sugar cookies are soft with slightly crisp edges and decorated with sparkling sugar for an extra festive touch. Easy to prepare and fun to decorate, they make excellent treats for gifting or sharing.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Decoration
- Sparkling sugar or coarse sanding sugar, for decorating
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or by hand until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This step incorporates air into the dough for a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Mix in the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until everything is fully combined. This adds flavor and moisture to the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until the dough comes together, avoiding overmixing to keep cookies tender.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and cut.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Roll and Cut Cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use star-shaped cookie cutters to cut out the cookies, then place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets to allow for slight spreading.
- Decorate: Generously sprinkle sparkling sugar over the top of each star-shaped cookie to create a festive, glittering effect.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden brown. Keep a close eye to prevent overbaking.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and ensures crisp edges.
Notes
- For extra sparkle and a slight sheen, brush the tops of the cookies lightly with egg white before sprinkling with sparkling sugar.
- These cookies hold their shape well during baking, making them ideal for decorating with icing or other embellishments if desired.
- Perfect treats for holiday gifting or festive parties.
