Birthday Sugar Cookies

Birthday Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery, and filled with festive sprinkles—perfect for celebrating any occasion. These cheerful cookies are easy to make, beautifully colorful, and have that classic melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookie texture that everyone loves. Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday, or just because, these cookies bring joy to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Chewy Texture – Perfectly tender with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Fun and Festive – Colorful sprinkles make these cookies feel like a celebration.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.
• Great for Gifting – They package beautifully for party favors or gifts.
• Freezer-Friendly – Make ahead and bake fresh when needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Rainbow sprinkles (jimmies style work best)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
6. Gently fold in the sprinkles.
7. Scoop dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are soft.
9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Frosted Version – Add a layer of buttercream or royal icing on top.
• Lemon Sugar Cookies – Add lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice.
• Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookies – Fold in mini chocolate chips along with the sprinkles.
• Holiday Twist – Use seasonal-colored sprinkles for different holidays.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Dough: Scoop dough balls and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Cool completely and freeze in layers separated by parchment for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Let frozen cookies come to room temperature or warm in the microwave for 10 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.

What kind of sprinkles should I use?

Use jimmies (the long, rod-shaped sprinkles); avoid nonpareils as they can bleed color.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Do not overbake them and store in an airtight container.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just be sure to mix thoroughly and bake in batches.

Are these cookies good for decorating?

Yes, especially if you add a layer of frosting or glaze.

Can I use almond extract instead of vanilla?

Yes, almond extract adds a delicious twist—use half the amount.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

Make sure the butter isn’t too warm and chill the dough if needed.

Can I color the dough?

Yes! Divide and add food coloring for a marbled or rainbow effect.

What’s the best way to scoop the dough?

Use a cookie scoop for even sizing and uniform baking.

Can kids help with this recipe?

Definitely! It’s a fun, kid-friendly baking project.

Conclusion

Birthday Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that brings happiness to any celebration. With their soft texture, colorful appearance, and simple prep, they’re an instant crowd-pleaser. Bake up a batch for your next party or just to brighten someone’s day—you won’t regret it!

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