Sugar Cookie Cups with Buttercream Frosting Recipe

If you have a soft spot for cookies and frosting, wait until you try this delightful Sugar Cookie Cups with Buttercream Frosting Recipe. These charming little treats transform classic sugar cookies into edible little cups, perfectly filled with smooth, creamy buttercream frosting. Every bite offers a wonderful contrast between the buttery, tender cookie and the rich frosting atop it, making them irresistibly fun for any party, family gathering, or sweet craving moment. They are as beautiful as they are delicious and sure to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Sugar Cookie Cups with Buttercream Frosting Recipe are wonderfully straightforward, showcasing simple pantry staples that each play a crucial role. From the soft, salted butter that gives richness to the cookies and frosting, to the smooth vanilla that elevates the flavor profile, every item is essential to creating texture, taste, and that perfect balance of sweetness.

• 3/4 cup salted butter, softened: Provides a creamy base and tender crumb for the cookie dough.
• 3/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the dough evenly, giving the cookies their classic sugary flavor.
• 1 egg: Bonds the dough together, adding moisture and structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with warm, sweet, aromatic notes.
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional): Adds a delicate, nutty undertone for extra depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cookies a light rise and fluffiness.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that shapes the cookie’s texture and form.
• 1/4 cup salted butter, softened (for frosting): Creates the luscious, rich base of the buttercream frosting.
• 1 1/3 cups powdered sugar: Ensures the frosting is sweet and silky smooth.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Infuses the frosting with classic vanilla flavor.
• 1 tablespoon milk or heavy whipping cream: Adjusts frosting consistency for the perfect piping texture.
• Food coloring (optional): Spruces up the frosting with vibrant hues for festive occasions.
• Sprinkles (optional): Adds a fun pop of color and texture on top.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cups with Buttercream Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, make sure to grease your 36 mini muffin cups well — this is key to prevent sticking and to help your sugar cookie cups come out clean and intact. Cooking spray works like a charm here, making the removal smoother.

Step 2: Mix Cookie Dough Base

Using a stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it creates the perfect airy base that gives the cookie that melt-in-your-mouth texture you’ll adore in every bite.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Now, add the egg, vanilla extract, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of almond extract. Beat these into the butter-sugar mixture until everything blends into a smooth, unified dough that smells heavenly.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the baking powder and all-purpose flour into your wet ingredients. Mix gently until the dough comes together evenly without overworking it. This balance ensures a tender, not tough, cookie base for your cups.

Step 5: Shape Dough in Muffin Tin

Here’s where the magic starts to take shape — scoop rounded tablespoons of dough, about an inch in diameter, roll them into balls, and place one into each greased mini muffin cup. Don’t try to create the cup shape now; just press the balls flat so they fit nicely.

Step 6: Bake the Cookie Bases

Bake your cookie dough balls for about 10 minutes or until the edges are a lovely golden brown. This subtle color change signals that your cookie cups are ready for the next step — shaping!

Step 7: Form Cookie Cups

While the cookies are still warm, use a bottle cap to gently press into the center of each cookie, shaping them into little cups. This part feels like child’s play but makes such a huge difference, crafting the perfect little vessel for your frosting.

Step 8: Cool Cookie Cups

Let those beautiful cookie cups cool for about 5 minutes in the muffin tin before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This chilling time helps the cups keep their shape and avoids frosting mishaps.

Step 9: Prepare Frosting

Clean your mixer bowl and beat the softened butter until it’s silky smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy and sweet. This frosting will be the silky, irresistible topper your cookie cups deserve.

Step 10: Adjust Frosting Consistency

Add the milk or heavy whipping cream carefully while beating to reach a smooth, pipeable consistency. If you want to brighten them up, mix in some food coloring for that cheerful finish — it’s all about having fun!

Step 11: Pipe Frosting into Cookie Cups

Spoon your luscious buttercream into a piping bag (or a resealable plastic bag with the tip snipped) and fill each cooled cookie cup evenly. The contrast of creamy frosting tucked inside delicate cookie cups is simply heavenly.

Step 12: Add Sprinkles

If you’re in the mood for extra sparkle, sprinkle colorful sprinkles atop each frosted cup. They add a festive touch and a slight crunch that lifts the entire experience.

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cups with Buttercream Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

These cookie cups are a blank canvas begging for creative garnishes. Try fresh berries, edible flowers, or crushed nuts sprinkled on top for bursts of flavor and texture. Each little crown of decoration makes them look as delightful as they taste.

Side Dishes

Serve your Sugar Cookie Cups with Buttercream Frosting Recipe alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light cup of tea. The sweet richness makes a perfect partner to tangy or refreshing sides that balance sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, arrange the cookie cups on a tiered cake stand or inside a decorative box lined with parchment paper. You can also create mini dessert towers stacking them with berries or mini flowers in between for a charming display that beckons everyone to grab one (or two).

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to three days, maintaining their delightful texture and flavor.

Freezing

Want to keep these little delights longer? Freeze the cookie cups unfilled for up to two months. Once you’re ready, thaw them completely before adding the buttercream frosting for best taste and texture.

Reheating

Since these are best enjoyed fresh or at cool room temperature, reheating isn’t typically recommended. If you do warm them slightly, do so in a low oven for just a few minutes to avoid softening the shape.

FAQs

Can I use all butter instead of salted butter?

Absolutely! If you prefer unsalted butter, just be sure to add a small pinch of salt to your dough to balance the flavors perfectly in your Sugar Cookie Cups with Buttercream Frosting Recipe.

What’s the best way to shape cookie cups if I don’t have a bottle cap?

A small round object like a tablespoon handle or mini measuring cup can work just as well to gently press the warm cookies into cup shapes. Just be sure the cookie is still warm to avoid cracking.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes! Buttercream frosting can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Before piping, just bring it back to room temperature and beat briefly to restore that creamy texture.

Is it okay to add food coloring to the frosting?

Definitely! Food coloring is an optional but fun way to customize your frosting, making these sugar cookie cups perfect for holidays, birthdays, or themed parties.

How do I prevent the cookie cups from cracking?

Press into the cookies while they’re still warm, as this makes the dough pliable. Also, avoid overbaking; pull them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden to keep them soft enough to shape.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a charming, tasty treat that brings smiles and happy fingers, this Sugar Cookie Cups with Buttercream Frosting Recipe is your new go-to. The joyful blend of buttery cookie and luscious frosting fills every bite with warmth and delight. I promise once you try them, they’ll become an instant favorite for holidays, celebrations, or just because moments that deserve a little sweetness. Grab your mixer and muffin tin, and get ready to make some magic!

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