How to Make Awesome Easter Cookies: Fun and Festive Treats
Let it be known throughout the land! Chris and I declare it is never too early to get baking tasty Easter treats.
Celebrating Easter is all about joy, family, and of course, delicious treats! These Easter cookies are not only fun to make but also a delight to decorate and eat. With vibrant colours and playful shapes, they bring the spirit of spring to your table and are perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Whether you’re hosting an Easter egg hunt or just looking to add a sweet touch to your holiday festivities, these cookies are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this exciting recipe!
Visual Appeal
- Colourful icing and sprinkles make these cookies a feast for the eyes.
- Cookie shapes like bunnies, eggs, and flowers add to the Easter charm.
Perfect Pairing
- Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Pair with milk for a nostalgic treat that kids will love.
Occasions to Serve
- Easter celebrations
- Spring parties
- Family gatherings
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling)
- Calories: Approximately 150 calories per cookie
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients List
For the Cookies
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Food colouring (optional)
For the Icing
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food colouring and sprinkles for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts and wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This will make rolling easier.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll and Cut: On a floured surface, roll out one dough portion to about ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out various shapes (bunnies, eggs, flowers). Place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the Icing: In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Divide into smaller bowls and add food colouring as desired.
- Decorate: Once cookies are completely cooled, use a piping bag or a knife to ice the cookies. Add sprinkles for a festive touch.
Tips for Baking Success
- Keep Dough Chilled: If the dough becomes too soft while rolling, refrigerate for a few more minutes.
- Use Parchment Paper: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding almond extract or lemon zest for a twist on the traditional flavour.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Cookies Spread Too Much: Ensure your dough is well-chilled before baking. If they still spread, reduce the butter slightly next time.
- Icing is Too Runny: Add more powdered sugar to thicken it up. You want a consistency that holds its shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, but the texture may vary slightly.
- How should I store the cookies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Can I freeze the cookies? Yes, you can freeze baked cookies for up to three months. Just make sure they are fully cooled before wrapping.
- What kind of food colouring works best? Gel food colouring provides vibrant colours without altering the icing’s consistency.
Easter Cookies
So yeah, it’s never too early for Easter treats! Making awesome Easter cookies is a delightful way to celebrate the holiday. With their colourful icing and playful shapes, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone around the table. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let the cookie decorating fun begin!