These festive sugar cookies are inspired by the classic Grinch story. Featuring a soft and chewy texture, vibrant green color, and a signature red heart sprinkle, they’re perfect for spreading holiday cheer!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Green gel food coloring
For the Decoration:
- Red heart sprinkles (available in the baking aisle or online)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (optional for light dusting)
- White or green icing (optional for detailing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).
- Gradually add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.
- Add green gel food coloring a little at a time, mixing well until you achieve the desired Grinch-green shade.
- Chill the Dough:
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and prevents spreading during baking.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Roll the chilled dough into 1 ½-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Gently press down on each ball to flatten slightly, creating a round cookie shape.
- Add the Heart:
- Press one red heart sprinkle onto the top of each cookie before baking.
- Bake:
- Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly undercooked. They will continue to set as they cool.
- Cool the Cookies:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Decoration:
- Dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a snowy effect or use white icing to add decorative swirls around the heart.
Tips for Success:
- Food Coloring: Use gel food coloring for a vibrant green hue without adding too much liquid to the dough.
- Heart Placement: Ensure the heart sprinkle is gently pressed into the dough to avoid it falling off after baking.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. These cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
With their adorable Grinchy appearance and soft, buttery flavor, these cookies will steal the hearts of everyone at your holiday gathering! 💚❤️