Cookies are one of the most beloved treats in the world. They are easy to make, delicious, and can be customized in so many ways. One of the most fun aspects of baking cookies is creating unique and beautiful designs. Whether you are making cookies for a special occasion or just for fun, adding a creative design can make them even more special. In this article, we will explore some of the best cookie designs and give you tips on how to create them at home.
Ingredients
Before we start talking about the different designs, let’s go over the ingredients you will need. These are the basic ingredients for making sugar cookies: - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 tsp baking powder - 1/2 tsp salt - 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1 large egg - 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. 2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. 3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. 4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. 5. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape into disks. 6. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. 7. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to 1/4-inch thickness. 9. Cut out desired shapes using cookie cutters. 10. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. 11. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cookie Designs
Now that you have your basic sugar cookie recipe, it’s time to get creative with the designs. Here are some of our favorite cookie designs:
1. Sprinkle Cookies
Sprinkle cookies are a fun and easy way to add some color to your cookies. To make sprinkle cookies, simply roll the dough into balls and then roll them in sprinkles before baking. You can use any type of sprinkles you like, from colorful jimmies to sparkly sugar crystals. The result is a fun and festive cookie that everyone will love.
2. Stamped Cookies
Stamped cookies are a great way to add some texture and personality to your cookies. To make stamped cookies, simply press a cookie stamp into the dough before baking. You can use any type of cookie stamp you like, from simple geometric shapes to intricate designs. The result is a beautiful and unique cookie that is sure to impress.
3. Stained Glass Cookies
Stained glass cookies are a beautiful and colorful treat that are perfect for the holidays. To make stained glass cookies, cut out your desired shape using a cookie cutter. Then, use a smaller cookie cutter to cut out the center of the cookie. Fill the center with crushed hard candies in various colors. When the cookies are baked, the candy melts and creates a beautiful stained glass effect.
4. Marbled Cookies
Marbled cookies are a stunning and unique treat that are sure to impress. To make marbled cookies, divide the dough into two portions and color each portion with food coloring. Roll each portion into a long rope and then twist the ropes together. Roll the twisted dough into a ball and then flatten it into a disk. Cut out your desired shape and bake as usual. The result is a beautiful and colorful marbled cookie.
5. Iced Cookies
Iced cookies are a classic treat that are perfect for any occasion. To make iced cookies, simply mix powdered sugar with a little bit of milk and food coloring to create a thick icing. Spread the icing over the cooled cookies and then add any decorations you like, such as sprinkles, candy, or edible glitter. The result is a beautiful and delicious cookie that is sure to be a hit.
Nutrition
While cookies are certainly delicious, they are also high in sugar and calories. One sugar cookie (based on the above recipe) contains approximately 120 calories, 6 grams of fat, 14 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of protein. If you are watching your calorie intake, it’s important to enjoy cookies in moderation.
Conclusion
Creating beautiful and delicious cookie designs is a fun and rewarding activity. Whether you are making cookies for a special occasion or just for fun, adding a creative design can make them even more special. With the right ingredients, instructions, and tips, you can create stunning and unique cookies that will impress everyone who tries them. So get baking and start creating your own cookie designs today!