Jelly Bean Sugar Cookies

These Jelly Bean Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery, and a fun twist on traditional sugar cookies. With only nine ingredients, these cookies are easy to make, and adding jelly beans gives them a pop of color and a festive touch. Perfect for holiday celebrations, springtime, or any special occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love these Jelly Bean Sugar Cookies for their perfect balance of softness and sweetness. The dough is easy to prepare, and the process is simple—just chill the dough, shape the cookies, and bake. The jelly beans add a fun and colorful pop on top, making these cookies as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just indulging in a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to impress!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 and 1/2 cups (188g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 1 large egg, at room temperature

• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 bag jelly beans

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

2. In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to beat the butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed until creamy (about 1 minute).

3. Add the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat on high until combined (about 1 minute). Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, then beat again if needed to combine.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low until the dough comes together. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.

5. Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into balls. Arrange the dough balls on a large plate or lined baking sheet.

6. Cover and chill the dough balls in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours (up to 4 days).

7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

8. Place the chilled dough balls 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the sides of the cookies are lightly browned. The centers should still look soft.

9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 3 minutes. While still warm, press a few jelly beans into the center of each cookie.

10. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

• Cook time: 11 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour, 45 minutes

• Yield: 30 cookies

Variations

• Different flavors: Swap the almond extract for lemon or orange extract for a citrus twist.

• Jelly bean alternatives: Use other candies like M&Ms or chocolate chips for a different flavor and look.

• Sugar crystals: Roll the dough balls in sugar before chilling them for a sweet, sparkly finish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

• Freezing: The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, add an extra minute to the baking time and do not thaw the dough.

• Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, heat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I skip chilling the dough?

Chilling the dough is important to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking. Skipping this step may result in thinner, crispier cookies.

2. What if I don’t have jelly beans?

Feel free to use any candy you like, such as M&Ms, chocolate chips, or Skittles. Just press them into the cookies while they’re still warm.

3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

4. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure the dough is properly chilled. If you find your dough is too sticky, you can add a bit more flour to the mixture before chilling.

5. How should I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to 1 week.

6. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter is preferred for its flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute if needed. The cookies may have a slightly different texture but should still be delicious.

7. Can I make these cookies without almond extract?

Yes, if you don’t like almond extract or don’t have it on hand, you can substitute it with more vanilla extract or another flavoring of your choice.

8. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden brown, and the centers still appear soft. They will continue to set as they cool.

9. Can I add nuts or dried fruit to these cookies?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or dried fruit like raisins or cranberries can be added to the dough for extra flavor and texture.

10. How do I press the jelly beans into the cookies without them melting?

Allow the cookies to cool for 3 minutes after baking. This is the ideal time for pressing the jelly beans into the warm cookies while ensuring they don’t melt completely.

Conclusion

Jelly Bean Sugar Cookies are a fun and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their soft texture, paired with the colorful jelly beans, makes them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, party, or just a sweet craving, this recipe is a sure hit. Enjoy the simplicity of the dough and the festive flair these cookies bring to your table!