Description
Experience the ultimate melt-away texture with these soft, cake-like sugar cookies that perfectly replicate the iconic store-bought favorites. Topped with a rich, whipped buttercream and a hint of almond, they offer a sophisticated yet nostalgic treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 270g all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 113g unsalted butter, softened
- 200g granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp almond extract
- 60g sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Food coloring and sprinkles
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cornstarch to aerate the dry ingredients.
- Cream the 113g of butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed for 3-5 minutes until pale and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract, then gently fold in the sour cream until a smooth emulsion is formed.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on the lowest speed, mixing only until just combined to avoid over-working the gluten.
- Wrap the dough in plastic and chill for at least one hour to hydrate the flour and firm up the fats.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and roll the dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut into rounds and bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 8-9 minutes; the cookies should remain pale without browning.
- Whisk the frosting butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and airy, then spread onto cooled cookies and add sprinkles.
Notes
To maintain the signature ‘pale’ look and soft crumb, do not wait for the cookies to brown in the oven; they are finished when the edges are just set. Using a digital scale to measure exactly 270 grams of flour is the most effective way to prevent the cookies from becoming dry or heavy.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American