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Perfect Frosted Back to School Sugar Cookies

frosted back to school sugar cookies - featured image

Soft, tender sugar cookies with a creamy cream cheese buttercream frosting, perfect for back-to-school treats and kid-friendly snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ¾ cups (345 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • 23 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and mix just until combined.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until dough forms. Do not overmix.
  6. Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.
  7. Lightly flour your surface and rolling pin. Roll dough about ¼ inch (6 mm) thick. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters and place them 1 inch apart on baking sheets.
  8. Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes until edges just begin to turn golden but centers remain soft.
  9. Transfer cookies to wire racks and let cool completely before frosting, about 20-30 minutes.
  10. To make frosting, beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla extract. Add milk or cream to reach desired consistency.
  11. Spread frosting evenly over cooled cookies. Add sprinkles or decorations if desired.

Notes

Use softened, not melted butter for best texture. Chill dough for at least 1 hour to prevent spreading. Frost only when cookies are completely cool to avoid melting. For dairy-free or gluten-free options, substitute ingredients accordingly. Sift powdered sugar before mixing frosting to avoid lumps.

Nutrition

Keywords: sugar cookies, back to school, frosted cookies, easy cookies, homemade cookies, kid-friendly, cream cheese frosting