Frosted Cookies are a delightful treat that combines soft and chewy cookies with a creamy and sweet frosting on top. These cookies are a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a favorite among cookie enthusiasts of all ages. With their soft and buttery base, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and colorful sprinkles, Frosted Cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table, special occasion, or even as a sweet indulgence on ordinary days.

The concept of frosted cookies dates back to ancient times, where early civilizations used honey and sugar-based icings to glaze baked goods. However, the modern version of Frosted Cookies, as we know them today, gained popularity during the 20th century when baking and confectionery techniques evolved.

The practice of frosting cookies gained immense popularity during holiday seasons when bakers would create festive and decorative cookies for various celebrations. Over the years, creative bakers experimented with different types of frostings and toppings, adding a touch of personalization to each cookie. Cream cheese frosting, known for its rich and creamy texture, soon became a favorite choice for Frosted Cookies due to its luscious flavor and spreadability.

Today, Frosted Cookies are cherished for their soft cookie base, complemented by the smooth and velvety cream cheese frosting. The addition of colorful sprinkles adds a fun and vibrant element, making Frosted Cookies not only delicious but also visually appealing.

INGREDIENTS

COOKIES:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons cream
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

FROSTING:

• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (half of 1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• Sprinkles, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

COOKIES:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is creamed and well combined, taking about 3 to 4 minutes.
2. Stop the mixer, scrape down the sides of the bowl, and add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.
3. Again, stop the mixer, scrape down the sides of the bowl, and add the cream. Beat on medium-high speed for about 1 minute until well combined.
4. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, and add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Beat on low speed until just combined, taking about 1 minute.
5. Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop or your hands, form approximately 15 equal-sized mounds of dough. As the dough is soft, a cookie scoop works best. Place the mounds on a large plate or tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, up to 5 days. After chilling, flatten each mound to about half of its original height.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with a Silpat or spray it with cooking spray. Place the dough mounds on the baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart, and bake for about 8 minutes. The edges should have set, and the tops should be just set, even if slightly undercooked and glossy in the center. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before frosting.

FROSTING:

1. In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed until fluffy, which should take about 2 minutes.
2. Add the confectioners’ sugar and salt, and beat until smooth and well incorporated, which should take about 2 minutes.
3. Add about 2 to 3 tablespoons of frosting to each cookie, and spread it into a smooth and flat layer using a knife, leaving a bare 1/4-inch perimeter around the edges.
4. Add sprinkles to each frosted cookie according to taste, adding a fun and decorative touch to the finished treats.

Enjoy the delightful experience of Frosted Cookies, where the creamy frosting harmoniously complements the soft and chewy cookie base. Share these sweet delights with loved ones, and celebrate the joy of indulging in the perfect balance of flavors and textures that Frosted Cookies offer.