Name: Sprinkle Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature); 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 large egg yolk (room temperature); 1 Tbsp. whole milk; 2 tsp. vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp. almond extract (optional for classic sugar cookie vibes); 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 ½ tsp. baking powder; 3/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 cup red and green jimmies sprinkles (plus more as desired); ~1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling and garnishing)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 62 reviews

If you’re searching for a delightful treat that brings a burst of color and a nostalgic crunch, look no further than this Sprinkle Sugar Cookies Recipe. These cookies are soft yet slightly crisp at the edges, with just the right amount of sweetness and a fun pop from those festive sprinkles. Perfect for any occasion, bake these charming cookies to bring smiles, warmth, and a sprinkle of magic into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl with light yellow butter and sugar mixed at the bottom layer, topped by two bright yellow raw eggs and a small pool of dark brown vanilla extract at the center. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with two cracked brown eggshells to the right and a small glass bowl with flour on the left edge. A white towel with red stripes is partially visible in the top left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Sprinkle Sugar Cookies Recipe comes together using simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in crafting the perfect cookie. From the creamy butter that gives richness to the subtle almond extract adding a cozy depth, every component matters.

Unsalted Butter: Using room temperature butter helps create a tender, flaky texture by blending smoothly with the sugar.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and adds a slight crispiness to the edges when baked.
Large Egg & Egg Yolk: These provide moisture, richness, and structure.
Whole Milk: Adds just enough liquid for a soft dough without making it sticky.
Vanilla Extract: Elevates the flavor with classic warmth.
Almond Extract (optional): A small addition that brings a cozy, traditional sugar cookie aroma.
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for the dough’s soft chew and structure.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Together, they help the cookies rise properly while remaining tender.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Red and Green Jimmies Sprinkles: These little bursts of color and texture turn each cookie into a festive delight.
Granulated Sugar (for rolling): Adds an extra sparkle and a little crunch on the cookie surface.

How to Make Sprinkle Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Begin by beating the unsalted butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is vital because it aerates the dough, resulting in a tender cookie with the perfect bite. Be patient and don’t rush it – this is the base of your delightful treats!

Step 2: Add Eggs and Extracts

Next, mix in the large egg and egg yolk, followed by the whole milk, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract. These ingredients add moisture, richness, and that characteristic sugar cookie flavor that feels like a warm hug.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents so your cookies rise perfectly without any bitterness.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing at this stage can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as the dough comes together beautifully.

Step 5: Fold in the Sprinkles

Carefully fold in the red and green jimmies sprinkles for that festive pop of color. Mixing them in gently prevents the colors from bleeding into the dough while distributing them evenly for bites bursting with joyful crunch.

Step 6: Shape, Roll, and Sprinkle with Sugar

Scoop out portions of dough and roll into balls, then gently roll each ball in granulated sugar. This adds a delicate sparkle and a light crunch to the cookie surface, making them even more tempting.

Step 7: Bake Until Lightly Golden

Place the dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until edges are just turning golden. The cookies will look slightly soft in the centers – that’s perfect, as they firm up while cooling.

How to Serve Sprinkle Sugar Cookies Recipe

A close-up top view of a pile of round sugar cookies with red and green sprinkles spread all over the cookies, creating small colorful spots on the light golden cookie surface. The cookies have slightly cracked, soft texture and gently raised edges. They are placed on a white marbled texture with a red and white striped cloth partially visible in the corner. The cookies look soft and thick, stacked loosely in no special order. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These cookies shine on their own, but feel free to add a simple glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. A few extra sprinkles on top right after baking can enhance the festive look and add extra crunch.

Side Dishes

Pair these sprinkle sugar cookies with classic sides like a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of tea or coffee. Their sweet crunch creates a comforting contrast when enjoyed alongside your favorite hot beverages.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or holiday gift, arrange the cookies in decorative tins layered with parchment paper. Alternatively, spritz some edible glitter over the top or sandwich two cookies together with a swirl of buttercream or jam for a creative twist everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your sugar cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead treat to enjoy anytime.

Freezing

You can freeze these sprinkle sugar cookies for longer storage! Place baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy frozen cookies, allow them to thaw at room temperature. For that just-baked softness and aroma, reheat briefly in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes, warming them without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I substitute the almond extract in the Sprinkle Sugar Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Almond extract is optional and adds a classic touch, but if you prefer, simply leave it out or replace it with a little extra vanilla extract for a milder flavor.

Why do the sprinkles sometimes bleed color in the dough?

Jimmies or sprinkle types vary in how much color they release. Folding them in gently and chilling the dough slightly before baking helps keep their colors vibrant and separate from the dough.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Unsalted butter is recommended to control the saltiness perfectly; however, if using salted butter, reduce or omit additional salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty cookie.

How thick should I make the cookies before baking?

Rolling the dough into balls as directed creates a nicely thick cookie that bakes evenly. Flattening too thin can lead to crispy or brittle cookies instead of that soft and chewy texture you want.

Can I decorate these sugar cookies with icing instead of sprinkles?

Definitely! While the sprinkle sugar cookies recipe celebrates colorful jimmies, royal icing or buttercream can make fun designs and personalize your cookies beautifully for any occasion.

Final Thoughts

This Sprinkle Sugar Cookies Recipe is truly a joy to bake and share, offering a wonderful balance of tender sweetness paired with colorful, festive sprinkles. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting to friends, these cookies never fail to brighten the day. I hope you’ll dive into making this recipe soon and create delicious memories one sprinkle at a time!