Pink sugar cookies are a delightful and whimsical treat that bring a splash of color and a touch of sweetness to any occasion. These cookies are soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet, with a beautiful pink hue that makes them ideal for celebrations like birthdays, baby showers, or holidays. Simple to make and visually appealing, pink sugar cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this pink sugar cookie recipe because it combines the classic taste of traditional sugar cookies with a fun and festive pink twist. These cookies are soft, tender, and buttery, with just the right amount of sweetness. The dough is easy to work with, making it perfect for cutting into shapes or rolling into balls. Plus, the pink color can be customized to suit any occasion, adding a cheerful and decorative touch to your dessert table.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant and even color without altering the dough’s consistency.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Roll the dough to an even thickness to ensure uniform baking.
- Use a light touch when mixing the dough to avoid overworking it, which can result in tough cookies.
- Decorate the cookies with pink sanding sugar or sprinkles before baking for an extra festive touch.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- Add a few drops of pink flavoring, such as strawberry or raspberry, to enhance the pink theme.
- Use different colors of food coloring for a variety of pastel or bright-colored cookies.
- Mix in white chocolate chips or confetti sprinkles for added texture and fun.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve these pink sugar cookies with a cold glass of milk or a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a bowl of fresh berries. These cookies make a charming addition to dessert platters and are perfect for gifting during holidays and special occasions.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- To refresh slightly stale cookies, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use liquid food coloring? Yes, but gel food coloring is recommended for a more vibrant color and to avoid adding extra liquid to the dough.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much? Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking and do not overwork the dough.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours or frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.
Are these cookies suitable for decorating? Absolutely, they can be decorated with royal icing, buttercream, or sprinkles for added fun and personalization.
Pink Sugar Cookies
Whip up these delightful Pink Sugar Cookies in just 30 minutes for a perfect treat that combines sweetness with a hint of vanilla. Ideal for parties, these easy-to-make cookies are sure to impress with their vibrant color and soft, chewy texture.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar (to activate baking soda)
- 3-4 drops of pink food coloring (or until desired color is reached)
- Additional white sugar for rolling cookies
- Optional: Sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Egg and Flavorings: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined. Mix in the pink food coloring until the desired color is achieved.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Shape Cookies: Roll rounded teaspoons of dough into balls, and then roll in sugar. Place on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden but still soft. Let them rest on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate (Optional): Once cooled, decorate with sprinkles or colored sugar if desired.
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 24 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 180Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 28mgSodium: 115mgCarbohydrates: 25gFiber: 0gSugar: 13gProtein: 2g
