special occasion Sugar Cookies (Crumbl Copycat)

These special occasion Sugar Cookies (Crumbl Copycat) are the ultimate festive treat that adds cheer to any holiday gathering. Soft, chewy, and dotted with vibrant red and green sprinkles, these cookies are a delightful addition to your special occasion cookie platter. Topped with a lightly sweetened cream cheese frosting, they not only look great but taste incredible too! Perfect for family baking sessions, gifting, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these delicious cookies in no time.
• Festive Flavors: The combination of vanilla and almond extracts makes these cookies wonderfully aromatic and flavorful.
• Customizable: Feel free to change up the sprinkles or frosting to suit your style and occasion.
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in decorative boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift during the holidays.
• Family-Friendly: Involve kids in the baking process for a fun family activity that creates lasting memories.

Tools and Preparation

To make these special occasion Sugar Cookies successfully, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: These tools save time and effort when mixing dough and frosting, ensuring a fluffy texture.
• Mixing Bowls: Having several bowls helps keep your workspace organized while preparing different ingredients.
• Baking Sheets: Sturdy baking sheets ensure even cooking and prevent warping in the oven.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

These special occasion Sugar Cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with red and green holiday sprinkles. Topped with lightly sweetened cream cheese frosting and a festive sprinkle finish, they’re perfect for holiday celebrations, family baking, and gifting. We hope you have as much fun making these as we do!

For the Cookies

• 270 g (2¼ cups) all-purpose flour
• 4 g (1 tsp) baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 170 g (1½ sticks / ¾ cup) unsalted butter, softened (68-72°F)
• 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp almond extract (optional)
• 54 g (⅓ cup)special occasion jimmies sprinkles

For the Frosting

• 283 g (1¼ bricks / 10 oz) full-fat cream cheese, softened (68-72°F)
• 184 g (13 Tbsp) salted butter, softened (68-72°F)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ⅛ tsp salt
• 150 g (1¼ cups) powdered sugar, sifted
• 80 ml (⅓ cup) heavy cream, very cold
• 40 g (¼ cup)special occasion sprinkles (jimmies, nonpareils, trees, etc.)

How to Make special occasion Sugar Cookies (Crumbl Copycat)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two to three baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy for about 1–2 minutes.
2. Pause occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 4: Add Egg and Extracts

Add:
1. The egg along with vanilla extract into the butter mixture.
2. Beat on medium-low speed until fully combined—this should take about 30 seconds.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add:
1. The dry ingredient mixture into the butter mixture in two parts while mixing on low speed.
2. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Add Sprinkles

Gently fold:
1. In the special occasion jimmies sprinkles using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop Dough

Use a cookie scoop:
1. Portion out dough balls weighing about 48–50 grams each.

Step 8: Shape Cookies

Roll each portion into a ball:
1. Place them on prepared baking sheets about two inches apart.
2. Slightly flatten each ball keeping them at least half an inch thick.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven:
1. For about 9–11 minutes or until edges are set but tops remain soft without browning.

Step 10: Shape Cookies

Remove from oven:
1. Immediately use a cookie cutter or glass larger than cookies to gently shape them into perfect circles.

Step 11: Cool Cookies

Let cool:
1. Allow cookies to rest on baking sheets for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 12: Make Frosting

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with whisk attachment:
1. Beat cream cheese and salted butter on low speed until smooth—about 1–2 minutes.

Add:
2. Vanilla extract and salt; beat just until combined.

Gradually incorporate:
3. Sifted powdered sugar in three parts while beating on low speed—about ten seconds each time.

Drizzle in:
4. Cold heavy cream slowly while whisking on low speed until stiff peaks form—this takes about one to one-and-a-half minutes.

Step 13: Frost Cookies

Pipe frosting onto cooled cookies using a piping tip in spiral patterns starting from center outwards or spread it using a spatula for decorative swirls.

Step 14: Decorate

Before serving:
Top decorated cookies with additional special occasion sprinkles for an extra festive touch!

Enjoy your delightful special occasion Sugar Cookies as part of your holiday festivities!

How to Serve special occasion Sugar Cookies (Crumbl Copycat)

These festive special occasion Sugar Cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or bringing treats to share, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange cookies on a large platter and garnish with fresh mint leaves or holly for a touch of elegance.

Gift Boxes

• Pack cookies in decorative gift boxes tied with ribbons for a sweet homemade gift that friends and family will love.

Cookie Bar

• Set up a cookie bar with various toppings like additional sprinkles, edible glitter, and chocolate chips, allowing guests to customize their own cookies.

Holiday Dessert Table

• Include these cookies on a holiday dessert table alongside cakes, pies, and other sweets to create an inviting spread that everyone can enjoy.

Hot Beverage Pairing

• Serve warm cookies with hot chocolate, coffee, or tea to enhance the cozy holiday atmosphere.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This adds a fun twist to the classic cookie experience.

How to Perfect special occasion Sugar Cookies (Crumbl Copycat)

To make sure your special occasion Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation and texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
• Chill the dough: If time allows, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. It helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
• Watch the baking time: Remove cookies from the oven when they are still soft; they will continue to set as they cool.
• Shape before cooling: Use a cookie cutter or glass right after baking to shape them while they’re still warm for perfect edges.
• Store properly: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for special occasion Sugar Cookies (Crumbl Copycat)

Serving side dishes alongside your special occasion Sugar Cookies can enhance the festive experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: Offer an assortment of cheeses paired with crackers and nuts for a savory contrast.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate accompanied by fruits, marshmallows, and pretzels creates a fun dipping experience.
4. Mini Quiches: These savory bites can provide variety and complement the sweetness of cookies nicely.
5. Veggie Tray: Crisp vegetables paired with hummus or ranch dressing add color and crunch to your table.
6. Pecan Pie Bars: These rich bars bring another sweet treat that pairs well with sugar cookies.
7. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider can be served alongside cookies for a comforting drink option.
8. Gingerbread Men: Add more holiday spirit with these traditional treats that pair well with sugar cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking special occasion Sugar Cookies can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls that could affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing and texture. Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting.
• Overmixing the dough: This can make your cookies tough. Mix until just combined to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
• Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can result in dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for precise measurements.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet prevents them from becoming overly soft. Let them sit for at least 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
• Neglecting frosting consistency: If your frosting is too runny, it won’t hold its shape. Be sure to beat until stiff peaks form for the perfect texture.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store yourspecial occasion Sugar Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing special occasion Sugar Cookies (Crumbl Copycat)

• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating special occasion Sugar Cookies (Crumbl Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F and heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, covered, to warm through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making these delightful special occasion Sugar Cookies.

How do I make special occasion Sugar Cookies (Crumbl Copycat) softer?

To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking and ensure you store them properly in an airtight container.

Can I use different sprinkles for decoration?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with any festive sprinkles you prefer, such as chocolate chips or colored sugar.

What can I substitute if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to achieve a similar creamy texture in your frosting.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, special occasion Sugar Cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These special occasion Sugar Cookies (Crumbl Copycat) are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any holiday gathering. You can customize them with different sprinkles or even add flavors like lemon zest or orange extract. Give this recipe a try and enjoy baking these festive treats with family and friends!