These sprinkle cookies are a colorful treat that makes everyone smile! Soft and chewy, they’re packed with sweet sprinkles in every bite, making them perfect for any occasion.
Who can resist a cookie that looks like a party? I love baking them with my kids; it’s fun to see how many sprinkles we can add without going overboard! 🎉
Making these cookies is super easy—just mix, scoop, and bake! They’re ready in no time and are always a hit at gatherings. Enjoy with a glass of milk for a classic combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness of your cookies. If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute it with coconut oil or vegan butter. I’ve had great success with both!
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps achieve that lovely texture. If you want a deeper flavor, consider using brown sugar instead. It will make the cookies a bit softer and chewier, which I personally love.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder. If you want a vegan option, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup). Both work well!
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard here, but you can substitute half with whole wheat flour for added nutrition—or use gluten-free flour blends if needed.
Rainbow Sprinkles: Use any color of sprinkles you like! If you want a more natural option, look for brands using plant-based dyes. You can also swap sprinkles for mini chocolate chips for a different flavor.
How Do I Cream Butter and Sugar Properly?
Creaming butter and sugar is key to achieving fluffy, tender cookies. This step incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies lift. Here’s how to get it right:
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature—it should be soft but not melty.
- Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat butter and sugar together. Start slowly to avoid a sugar cloud!
- Cream for about 3–5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. If you see it turning pale, you’re on the right track.
Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically so everything gets mixed in evenly. With a good creaming, your cookies will turn out soft and delightful!
Delicious Sprinkle Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles (plus extra for rolling)
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and mixing, plus 10–12 minutes for baking. After baking, allow an additional 5 minutes of cooling on the baking sheet. Altogether, expect around 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare Baking Sheets:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This step is key for getting those soft cookies!
3. Add Egg and Vanilla:
Next, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well blended. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the baking powder and salt throughout the dough.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir it all together until just combined. Don’t overmix, as it could make the cookies tough.
6. Fold in the Sprinkles:
Gently fold in 1/2 cup of rainbow sprinkles into the dough. This is what gives your cookies that fun, colorful appearance!
7. Shape the Cookies:
Scoop out about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls using your hands. It’s great fun—get the kids involved in this part!
8. Roll in Extra Sprinkles:
On a small plate, pour some extra sprinkles. Roll each dough ball in the sprinkles to coat the surface, creating a cheerful cookie exterior.
9. Prepare for Baking:
Place the sprinkled dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Lightly flatten each ball with your hand or a glass to help them spread evenly while baking.
10. Bake and Cool:
Bake in your preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden and the centers have set. Be careful not to overbake, as you want them soft!
11. Transfer and Finish Cooling:
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This keeps them soft and chewy!
12. Enjoy!
Your delicious sprinkle cookies are now ready! Serve them warm or store them in an airtight container. They go perfectly with a glass of milk!
These cookies are a delightful treat, bursting with sweetness and colors, making them perfect for any occasion or just to brighten someone’s day!
Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for unsalted butter if you prefer. Just make sure to use a stick variety for the best results, and the texture might vary slightly, but they will still be delicious!
Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Many blends work well for cookies, but be sure to check if it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum, which helps with texture.
How to Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months!
Why Did My Cookies Spread Too Much?
Excessive spreading can happen if the dough is too warm when it goes into the oven or if there isn’t enough flour. Make sure to measure your ingredients correctly and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if your kitchen is hot.
