Happiness is a batch of freshly baked funfetti cookies, and today, we’re making that joy a reality. These cookies are not just treats; they’re a celebration in every bite, perfect for any occasion or just because. Let’s dive into the magic of funfetti!
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of butter and sugar creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s irresistibly soft yet slightly crisp on the edges.
- Using both vanilla extract and almond extract enhances the flavor profile, giving these cookies a depth that’s hard to resist.
- The rainbow sprinkles not only add a pop of color but also a slight crunch, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Chilling the dough before baking ensures the cookies maintain their perfect shape and don’t spread too thin.
- This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it a hit among both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup rainbow sprinkles
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes on medium speed. The key here is to ensure the butter is properly softened to achieve that perfect creamy texture.
Step 2: Add the Eggs and Extracts
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla and almond extracts. The almond extract is optional, but it adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the vanilla beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as the flour disappears.
Step 4: Fold in the Sprinkles
Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. For the best results, use jimmies-style sprinkles as they hold their color better during baking.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking. If you’re in a hurry, 30 minutes in the freezer can work in a pinch.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls, placing them 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Tips and Tricks
For cookies that are uniformly sized, use a cookie scoop. If you don’t have one, a tablespoon measure works well too. To keep your sprinkles from bleeding color into the dough, add them at the very end and mix just until combined. For an extra festive touch, roll the dough balls in additional sprinkles before baking. If you prefer a softer cookie, reduce the baking time by 1-2 minutes. And remember, the cookies will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven, so don’t overbake them.
Recipe Variations
- For a chocolate twist, add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and use chocolate sprinkles.
- Make them gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
- Add a cup of white chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
- For a citrusy zing, add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough.
- Turn them into sandwich cookies by spreading a layer of vanilla frosting between two cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can use margarine, butter is recommended for its superior flavor and texture. Margarine may alter the taste and consistency of your cookies, making them less rich and potentially more spread out.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
This could be due to several factors: the butter was too soft, the dough wasn’t chilled sufficiently, or there’s too much sugar in the recipe. Ensuring your dough is properly chilled and your ingredients are measured accurately can help prevent this issue.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just form it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. You can bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Summary
These funfetti cookies are a vibrant, joyful treat that’s perfect for any celebration or just to brighten your day. With their soft texture, rich flavor, and colorful sprinkles, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Follow the tips and variations to make them your own!