Small Batch Sugar Cookies

This easy small batch sugar cookies recipe makes soft, buttery cookies topped with creamy frosting. Perfect for baking at home, these cookies are simple to make with common ingredients like flour, butter, sugar, and vanilla. The frosting can be customized with food coloring and sprinkles, making them ideal for parties, holidays, or everyday treats. Quick to prepare and bake, this recipe yields a small batch, reducing waste while still creating a classic cookie everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ⅛ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons salted butter, softened to room temperature
• 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 large egg

For the Frosting

• 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons salted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2–3 tablespoons milk
• 3–4 drops food coloring (optional)
• Sprinkles (optional)

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Instructions

Make the Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, beat softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes, until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and egg, mixing until fully combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed, mixing just until combined. Cover the dough and refrigerate for 45 minutes.
5. Scoop about 1/4 cup of dough and roll into a ball. Place on the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten with your fingers or a spatula. Repeat, spacing cookies 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until cookies are just set. Let cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, and milk until smooth and creamy. Add more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, if frosting is too thick.
2. Add 3–4 drops of food coloring if desired and mix until evenly blended.
3. Spread frosting on cooled cookies using a knife or offset spatula. Decorate with sprinkles if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make, perfect for small batches.
• Soft, buttery cookies with sweet, creamy frosting.
• Customizable with colors, sprinkles, and flavors for any occasion.

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Tips

• Chill the dough to prevent spreading and maintain soft, thick cookies.
• Use room-temperature butter for a smoother, creamier dough.
• Flatten the dough slightly before baking to ensure even cooking.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Butter: Use unsalted butter and adjust the salt in the recipe.
• Flavor: Add almond extract or lemon zest for a different flavor twist.
• Frosting: Swap milk for cream or half-and-half for richer frosting.
• Sweeteners: Substitute sugar with coconut sugar for a subtle caramel flavor.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Yes, bake the cookies and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Frost just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: How do I make frosting more colorful or decorative?
A: Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors and piping bags for detailed designs.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with milk, coffee, or tea for a classic treat.
• Decorate for holidays or themed parties with colored frosting and sprinkles.
• Serve on a dessert platter for gatherings or as homemade gifts.