Introduction

Sugar Cookie Cups are a fun and delicious twist on classic sugar cookies, baked in muffin tins to create adorable edible cups. Filled with smooth cream cheese buttercream frosting and topped with sprinkles, they make a perfect treat for any occasion.

The image shows several small cookie cups arranged on a white plate, each about two layers: the first layer is a golden brown, crumbly cookie cup base with a rough texture, and the second layer is a swirl of light brown creamy frosting on top. The frosting is decorated with tiny red, green, and white round sprinkles scattered both on the frosting and around the plate. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3/4 cup salted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Sprinkles (optional)

Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting

2 ounces cream cheese, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup butter
2 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pink or red food coloring gel (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two regular muffin pans with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about a few minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
Step 3: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture and beat until smooth and combined.
Step 4: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until the dough forms. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 6: Press approximately 2 tablespoons of cookie dough into the bottom of each muffin cup. Press the dough halfway up the sides of the cups with your fingers to create a bowl shape.
Step 7: Bake the cookie cups for 12 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 15 minutes.
Step 8: Once slightly cooled, gently press the back of a tablespoon or the top of a round spice jar into the center of each cup to reinforce the cup shape. Allow the cookie cups to cool completely before filling.
Step 9: While the cups cool, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth using an electric mixer.
Step 10: Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to the cream cheese mixture. Continue to beat until well combined. If using, add food coloring gel until you reach the desired color and consistency. Adjust with more milk if too thick or more powdered sugar if too thin. The frosting should be thick enough to hold stiff peaks.
Step 11: Transfer the frosting into a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe swirls into each cooled cookie cup. Alternatively, spoon the frosting into the cups.
Step 12: Sprinkle with sprinkles if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use a round spice jar or spoon handle to shape the cups gently without breaking the cookie.
If you prefer, substitute almond extract with more vanilla extract for a simpler flavor.
Try different food coloring gels to match holiday themes or celebrations.
Add mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the cookie dough for extra texture.
For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives.

Storage

Store the assembled cookie cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. The cookie cups can also be stored separately from the frosting at room temperature for up to 2 days and frosted just before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows small, round cookie cups arranged on a white plate with a white marbled surface in the background. Each cup has a light golden-brown base with a crumbly texture, filled with a swirl of light beige creamy frosting on top. The frosting is decorated with tiny red, white, and green round sprinkles, adding a festive touch. The cookie cups are evenly spaced, with some sprinkles scattered loosely around them on the plate. The overall look is bright and soft, with a focus on the creamy frosting and colorful sprinkles. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the cookie cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cookie cups a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost the cups just before serving to keep the frosting fresh.

What can I use if I don’t have a piping bag?

If you don’t have a piping bag, you can simply spoon the frosting into the cookie cups. Alternatively, use a resealable plastic bag and cut a small corner to pipe the frosting.