Description
Delight in these colorful pastel candy-centered butter cookies that combine a classic buttery texture with vibrant candy-coated chocolates for a fun and festive treat. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are easy to make and bring a burst of color and sweetness to your dessert table.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Decoration
- 1/2 cup pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates (such as M&Ms or similar)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will ensure tender cookies.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to evenly distribute leavening and seasonings.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms, careful not to overmix.
- Shape Cookies: Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading.
- Add Candy Toppings: Gently press a few pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates into the top of each dough ball for decorative flair and sweetness.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden, signaling they are perfectly baked.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, preserving texture and preventing breakage.
Notes
- For softer cookies, reduce baking time by a minute or two and monitor closely.
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better texture.
- Substitute pastel candies with any candy-coated chocolates of your choice to customize colors.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week.
- Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract for a flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
